In Exodus chapter twenty, verse eight, the fourth commandment in the Bible is to remember the sabbath day. The Old testament sabbath was the seventh day of the week. To keep the day holy meant setting it apart from other days by ceasing from labor to rest, serving God, and concentrating on the things concerning eternity, spiritual life, and honor. The Israelites were to model their conduct after the work of God in creation. The sabbath was a sign that they belonged to God and reminded them of their deliverance from slavery in Egypt.
To remember the sabbath day is pertinent to remark that this command is introduced differently from any other by the word remember. However, we cannot conclude that the sabbath was a primitive institution, which the Israelites were bound to have held in perpetual remembrance since the reference may be mere to the injunction recently given in connection with the gathering of the manna. The sabbath has been at that time solemnly instituted, if not earlier. Take note that the rest of the sabbath was to be a “holy rest.” For the most part, the Law insists on abstinence from labor as the main element of sabbath observance, and it can scarcely be said to prescribe anything positive concerning the religious employment of the day.
The sabbath day is celebrated in many ways by denominations and people. Christians from different countries do things differently. Some follow customs they adopt through their environment, and some believers follow according to how the Bible states it. However, the sabbath is for God, to honor Him and do things accordingly to keep in mind that this day is for Him. When it is the birthday of someone we know on that day, the approach for the day may be slightly different. We remember throughout the day honoring that person and may take time to celebrate and support the person on that day.
Our approach towards the sabbath day should be far more than how we handle a birthday. We should do our best for God on His day because He created us, which no person or any other deity could do. The least we can do for Him is reflect and give thanks with praise, worship, and reading His Holy Word.