“They don’t know my peace. They run around doing, doing, doing and don’t take or make time to experience what I have for them. They haven’t left room in their lives for me. They are full to capacity and don’t realize how that hurts them. They are afraid to sit still and listen for me. They are stressed, but at the same time content in their busy stressful lives. All I want is for them to put me on their calendar. Pencil in time with me each day. They can still do all of the things that they have on their plate, just add me in. Make time with me just as important as work and all of the other appointments and activities. I want them to learn to be still with me.”
We are all busy people.
Within my circle of friends, I can’t think of one that isn’t. In today’s world we wear “busy” like a badge of honor. Think about that. What is your typical response to the question, “How have you been?” Our immediate response is “good” followed by “busy.” Then we begin to list all of the things keeping us busy.
I mean are we really gaining credibility by how long our list of activities is?Is it an unspoken competition?
Honestly, what would you do if you asked a friend, “What have you been up to lately?” and she answered, “Great! I have been resting so much. I am enjoying down time every day. The stillness is so refreshing!”
WHAT?!?!?!?!
Rest? Down time? Stillness?
What is that?
Don’t get me wrong. I live by my calendar! Thank you, God, for giving Steve Jobs the inspiration for the iPhone. I wouldn’t be anywhere on time without it! But why do we feel we need to fill our days to overflowing?
What are we afraid of in the empty spaces? What do we think will happen in the silence?
"Be still before the Lord and wait patiently for him."
Now, I have a tough question for you. In all of your busyness, how much time are you putting on your schedule for Jesus?
We all know we should pray every day. And sure, you can fit it in here and there. I have had some of the most amazing conversations with Jesus on my drive into work. After I started working from home, I realized I was missing out on the prayer and worship time. I decided I needed to actually schedule my prayer time because I can easily let the busyness of my day get away from me. I can quickly slip into busy leaving only the last few moments of my day for Jesus – just before I fall asleep.
You know what I am talking about. “Dear God, thank you for a good day. Watch over us tonight as we sleep and keep us……..” [begin snoring]
My challenge to you is to make your time with Jesus just as important as planning lunch with your co-workers. Set an appointment in your calendar and allow yourself time to be still, pray and listen.
Be intentional.
My mission is to encourage women to trust in themselves in life and in business. With love and faith I lead women business owners to find freedom in their God-given identity so they can live out their purpose with confidence. By helping you set expectations that lead to action, your dreams become a reality!
Stephanie Ferrara
Coach, Speaker, Freedom Fighter
P.S. Be sure to join my Freedom Insiders online community! It is a safe place for women just like you who are ready to bravely break through barriers so you can connect with your soulfully authentic self for success in life and business. It’s free. Join Here