“The language of Scripture, in all the places where allusion is made to the Sabbath, presents the idea that the day should be one of serene and holy enjoyment. The mind, as far as possible, is to be emptied of the thoughts that belong to the cares and pleasures of the world, and occupied with those which belong to God and eternity.

A larger portion of time should be spent in the closet, in prayer and meditation, than can be redeemed from worldly business on other days. By this service the mind is prepared for the delightful services of the sanctuary, and soul ascends with the anthems of praise, bows with humility in confession of sin, and joins the general supplication for needed blessings with stronger faith. The word of God falls with peculiar power and sweetness, and convincing efficacy, upon the prepared mind.” — William S. Potts, The Sabbath: The Original Institution; Change to the First Day of the Week; Advantages, and Mode of Sanctification: Being the Substance of Two Discourses, Delivered in the Second Presbyterian Church, of Saint Louis, August 26, and September 2, 1849 (1850), p. 32