I hope that you are all doing well and that your week was a blessed one.
In our fast-paced world, the constant buzz of activity can often drown out the still, small voice of God. We rush from one commitment to another, perpetually busy, but how often do we take a step back to simply breathe in His presence? This week, I would like to invite you to explore the powerful concept of the ruthless elimination of "hurry"—a practice that can transform your spiritual life and deepen your relationship with God.
"Hurry" is more than just a busy schedule. It seeps into our minds, hearts, and souls, creating a barrier between us and God. In Matthew 11:28-30, Jesus encourages us to come to Him for rest. Yet, in the chaos of our daily lives, we often overlook this invitation. The relentless pace of life not only affects our mental health but can also stifle our spiritual growth. To combat the effects of "hurry", we must intentionally carve out time to slow down. Henri Nouwen once said, “Solitude is the furnace of the spirit.” It is in the quiet moments of solitude that we can hear God’s voice most clearly. Instead of rushing through our prayers or skimming our devotionals, let’s commit to slowing down—truly giving our minds and hearts the space to engage with God. Here are a few practical steps to integrate into your life:
Daily Quiet Time: Set aside intentional moments each day to sit in silence, pray, and read scripture. Even five to ten minutes can make a significant difference.
Sabbath: is the perfect opportunity to practice “slowing down”. Disconnect from your digital devices and focus on spending quality time with God and your loved ones.
Mindful Moments: Throughout your day, practice mindfulness. Take a few deep breaths, notice your surroundings, and invite the Holy Spirit into your daily activities, transforming ordinary moments into sacred encounters.
Nature: Spend time in God’s creation, whether it’s a walk in the park or sitting by a lake. Nature has a way of reminding us of God’s power and presence.
Let us embrace this call to a slower, more intentional life, seeking God with every moment we can. Together, let’s practice the ruthless elimination of "hurry", fostering a deep and abiding relationship with our Saviour.
Blessings, David Peñate
