Slow Down! Part 2

Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is — his good, pleasing and perfect will. Romans 12:2

Our high-tech society is producing stressed-out people. Next year we will have even less time because statistically for every hour technology saves you, it consumes two more. Author Keri Wyatt Kent writes: ‘Every time you say “yes” to something, you’re saying “no” to other options. Activity cloaked in “Christian window-dressing”, is still activity. Don’t copy the behavior…of this world; our world is hurried. Take time to listen and care. The hallmark of a Christian is love, and you can’t love in a hurry.’ So to slow down you need to: 1) Simplify your life. ‘Don’t fuss about what’s on the table…or whether [your] clothes…are in fashion’ (Matthew 6:25). Put God first and everything else will follow. When Marlene Eissens decided to switch careers, she set out for the university with only the stuff she could fit in her car. Today she’s in ministry. She has a house, but resists filling it, and anything she hasn’t used for six months goes to charity. She says, ‘I feel real freedom because with less stuff I’m free to focus on God.’ 2) Keep the Sabbath. Todd Gitlin says, ‘We’re a nerve-wracked society. We have difficulty sitting back and thinking of the purpose of what we do.’ Set aside at least one day a week to rest, spend time with your loved ones, and fellowship with your church family. 3) ‘Be satisfied with…[what you have]’ (Hebrews 13:5). You’ll still be tempted to hurry and wish for more or nicer stuff, but you’ll grow closer to God by making more space in your life for Him. As J.I. Packer says, ‘We dishonor God when we proclaim a Savior who satisfies and then go around discontent.’

Prayer

Heavenly Father, help me to simplify my life so I am not as consumed with things I do not need, so I can spend time with people I do need. In Jesus’ Name, Amen