In a world constantly pushing us to go, go, go – to do more, achieve more, and be more – it's easy to fall into the trap of believing that busyness equals worth. We wear our packed schedules like a badge of honor, convinced that productivity is the pathway to purpose. But if we're honest, all that hurry often leaves us feeling drained, anxious, and surprisingly joyless. It's a paradox, isn't it?
The more we strive, the less fulfilled we often feel.
Lately, I've been thinking about what it truly means to cultivate a life of rest. And I'm not just talking about getting more sleep. I mean a deep, spiritual rest for our souls – the kind that calms the hurried thoughts and settles the anxious heart. It's about making conscious, often counter-cultural, choices to slow down, to be present, and to create sacred space for what truly matters for eternity.
John Mark Comer, in his book The Ruthless Elimination of Hurry, argues that hurry is incompatible with love. I believe it's also incompatible with genuine joy.
When we're constantly rushing from one thing to the next, we miss the quiet voice of God, the beauty in the ordinary, and the opportunity to simply be with Him.
This isn't about laziness or checking out; it's about intentional living. It's recognizing that authentic joy isn't found in a frantic pace, but in a settled heart that deeply trusts God's timing and provision. It’s about releasing the pressure to perform and instead, simply resting in His presence. It's in those moments of stillness that joy finds room to breathe and truly flourish. Our joy, of course, ultimately comes from the Lord Himself. But it is in the quiet, unhurried spaces that our hearts become truly receptive to His overflowing gladness.
Maybe you're feeling the pull of the world's demands, the endless to-do lists, and the pressure to always be "on." Friend, consider this an invitation to pause.
Living an unhurried life isn't about an overnight transformation, but rather a series of intentional, gentle shifts.
Here are a few ways you can begin to invite more stillness into your days, creating space for the true joy that comes from the Lord:
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Practice Sabbath. Set aside one day each week – or even a half day – to truly unplug. Turn off the technology, banish the to-do list, and simply be. This is a precious opportunity to be with God, with your family, or just with yourself. Curl up with a good book, enjoy a board game, or take a slow, aimless walk. This practice creates a sacred rhythm of rest that nourishes your soul.
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Declutter Your Space, Declutter Your Mind. Our physical surroundings often reflect our internal state. Starting to get rid of things in your home can be incredibly freeing. Begin small – maybe with that overflowing junk drawer, or a single kitchen cabinet. Consider your closet: what haven't you worn in a year? As you free up your space, you'll find your mind also feels lighter. Plus, the less stuff you have, the less time you'll spend caring for it, organizing it, or moving it around, leaving you more time for what truly matters.
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Create "White Space" in Your Schedule. This might be the most counter-cultural step. Begin to clear up your schedule by intentionally leaving gaps – "white space." Only say "yes" to activities that genuinely bring you joy, align with your values, or move you closer to the unhurried life you desire. Say "yes" to a peaceful Saturday morning walk with a friend and "no" to volunteering for yet another event. Say "yes" to daily family dinners and "no" to signing your child up for every single extracurricular activity (they will still make friends and graduate college, I promise!). Your time is a precious gift; guard it for what truly feeds your soul.
As you seek to cultivate a life of rest, remember that it's a journey, not a destination. Each small step toward stillness is a step closer to a heart overflowing with God's peace and joy.
What's one small, gentle way you've unhurried your life, or one way you plan to begin today? I'd love for you to share in the comments below so others can be inspired!
Your Sister In Christ,
Kelsey
Owner of Wonderfully Made Gifting Co.
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