The fourth commandment uniquely begins with "Remember the Sabbath day, to keep it holy," distinguishing it from the other commandments. God charges His people to remember the Sabbath, emphasizing that remembrance must lead to observing the day as holy. The Hebrew word zākar, meaning to remember, think of, or commemorate, blends mental activity with external action, implying that a proper understanding of the Sabbath compels reverence and observance. God's remembrance often ties to covenantal promises, as seen when He remembered Noah during the Flood and acted to ensure survival by sending a wind to dry the earth. Similarly, He remembers covenants with Abraham, Israel, and others, acting to fulfill His promises. In this light, "Remember the Sabbath day" in the fourth commandment reflects a covenantal duty. God reinforces this in Exodus 31:16, declaring the Sabbath a perpetual covenant within the larger covenant, a sign between Him and His people that they may know He is the Lord who sanctifies them. Keeping the Sabbath holy ensures sanctification, setting God's people apart and providing a day to meet with Him in holy convocation to grow in holiness and righteousness. Failing to observe His day risks losing understanding of godliness and slipping back into the world. As God's chosen, remembering and observing the Sabbath is a solemn responsibility under the covenant made with Him, vital to attaining the hope of the Kingdom of God.