It Just Happens
Do you not know that in a race all the runners run, but only one gets the prize? Run in such a way as to get the prize. Everyone who competes in the games goes into strict training. They do it to get a crown that will not last, but we do it to get a crown that will last forever. Therefore I do not run like someone running aimlessly; I do not fight like a boxer beating the air. No, I strike a blow to my body and make it my slave so that after I have preached to others, I myself will not be disqualified for the prize. 1 Corinthians 9:24-27
Insight
When considering our relationship with God, our beliefs might not pose the most significant threat to our faith. This doesn't negate the importance of our beliefs, as they indeed hold substantial significance. However, if these beliefs fail to influence our words and actions, another issue arises. Our beliefs transition from being a strong foundation to a mere novel concept. Instead of convictions, they remain intentions.
It's widely understood that certain aspects hold more significance than others. Many of us acknowledge the importance of our relationship with God, especially due to our awareness of His existence and His concern for our hearts. We also readily agree that dedicating time to family and investing in others holds weight. We grasp the advantages of contributing to a greater good and comprehend how creating beauty and expressions can bring joy to the world. Each of us, whether explicitly stated or not, harbors a set of priorities, things we consider essential. Regrettably, we don't always allocate our time accordingly to these priorities.
A counteracting force is at play. We don't deliberately set out to race through life, yet it occurs unintentionally. Time slips away from us. The tempo of our lives often becomes frenetic due to mounting pressures, ultimately overwhelming us. While "hurried" characterizes our state of being, "rushed" depicts the consequence. It's the subtle push from behind propelling us swiftly into the future.
We find ourselves rushing without a clear sense of direction or purpose. We become reactive rather than strategic. Our lives resemble a constant shift from one task to another, making impulsive decisions and responding to the loudest demands. Misconceptions drive us to push ourselves and push us into a state of "now or never" crisis.
Nonetheless, this need not be our perpetual reality. We possess the power to influence our pace. We can either live our days feeling coerced and pressured or learn to embrace the pace we were naturally designed for. One path leads to anxiety, fear, frustration, and a sense of futility. The alternative pathway fosters intimacy, purpose, perspective, and personal growth.
By embracing the spiritual discipline of stillness, we exhibit our trust in Christ and His intentions for our lives. Engaging in moments of withdrawal and pausing doesn't entail escape; rather, it aligns our hearts with His purpose. To understand God's actions, we must observe them, and this doesn't occur in the midst of a hurried rush. To gain a fresh perspective, we must live in a different manner. We must create a space that allows us to establish our pace.
Reflection
We don’t set out to run so fast, it just happens. How has this statement played out in your life?
How can you create space this week to set your pace?
Prayer
God, rather than rush, may I rest. Allow me to hit pause and take a step back in order to gain perspective on how You are moving in my life. Open my eyes to situations I’m trying to force things to happen. Make it clear to me where I need to slow down and pay attention. Help me to trust and walk in Your ways. In Your name, Jesus. Amen.