Hurry Up and Slow Down!

Having just finished reading John Mark Comer’s Ruthless Elimination of Hurry, I was deep in thought, pondering the need to slow down. Suddenly, I heard the microwave beeping and in my rush to turn it off, I stubbed my toe. Think about it. As I thought about slowing down, I rushed and hurt myself, causing me to stop and slow. God has a funny way of drilling home his lessons at times.

My word for 2026 is REST. God placed a desire for rest in my heart about six months ago. Not only am I reading about rest, but I am also writing about the importance of Sabbath. God is teaching me so much about himself and about his will for my life. This is so counterintuitive for me. My daughter learned to say “Go” long before she learned to say “Mama.” I am sure this is due to my constant saying, “Let’s go.” My grandmother always teased me that “Go” was my middle name. I thrive in busyness — at least that is what I always thought. I am learning that I was not meant to burn the candle at both ends. God created me to glorify him and to enjoy him forever. Do I slow down long enough to actually enjoy the journey? I am learning, albeit slowly, to do so.

This year I will share tidbits God teaches me along the way as I learn what it means to rest. I am eager to learn — so much so I find myself wanting to hurry up and slow down. I want this lesson to stick so I am making small changes. No social media or emails on Sundays. Asking myself just because I can do something, should I do it? Is this pleasing to God? Is this life giving to me or to someone else?

I am curious. What strides have you made to slow down and enjoy life? Pray for me as I wrestle my way to stillness.

Photo from a moment when I slowed down to take in the beauty of the moment.