"The researchers found that allowing stores to open on Sundays was linked with a decline in church attendance among white women, which led to a subsequent decline in happiness. Among black women, the repeal of the blue laws had no measurable effect, although that may be because the sample size was too small to draw any statistically meaningful conclusions.I can't say this surprises me. God gave us the ten commandments for our own good...the Sabbath is the day of rest. When the temptation of shopping hangs out there like a giant lure, Sunday can become like any other day; a day to pick up groceries, make those last minute purchases, or just hang out in the mall. It may affect women more than men because shopping is more of a draw for women.
Notably, the finding was true only for women. For men, the repeal of blue laws didn’t seem to influence church attendance or levels of happiness."
In our culture of constant busyness, the 24/7 mentality makes us like those hamsters in a wheel, constantly on the move. The blue laws at least forced us to slow down. Now we have to make a conscious decision to block out the activities that compete with the Sabbath and to create our own down time. And when we do, we're going against the tide and can get flack for it. It takes a lot of determination to resist the popular culture. But, it's funny how making time for God never seems to give you less time in your day. In fact, keeping God at the forefront usually has the effect of putting order and tranquility into the day.
Just remember, when God said "Keep holy the Sabbath", he didn't add "..unless there's a good sale at Macy's."
