stillness
Psalm 46:10
Grace and peace be with you right now friend! The world around us seems to speed up. Graduations, weddings, and the rush to finalize summer plans can leave us feeling overwhelmed. In the midst of this hustle and bustle, it’s essential to remember the art of slowing down. Let’s explore how we can find peace and purpose during this transitional time.
Beauty
Our lives are often filled with noise – not just the literal sounds, but the constant mental chatter of to-do lists, worries, and plans. Yet, Psalm 46:10 invites us to "Be still, and know that I am God." This end-of-May, carve out moments of stillness. Whether it's a quiet morning walk, a few minutes of meditation, or simply sitting in silence, let yourself bask in the peace that comes from being still before God.
Disconnect
With the flurry of social media updates, emails, and messages, we can quickly feel disconnected from what truly matters. Consider taking a digital detox for a day or even just a few hours. Use this time to reconnect with God, your loved ones, and yourself. Read a book, have a face-to-face conversation, or spend time in nature. As Jesus often withdrew to lonely places to pray (Luke 5:16), we too can benefit from stepping away from the noise to reconnect with our source of strength.
Mindful
Practicing mindfulness helps us stay present and appreciate the current moment. It’s easy to get caught up in what’s next, but let’s focus on what’s now. Try this simple exercise: find a comfortable place to sit, close your eyes, and take deep breaths. As you breathe in, thank God for the breath of life. As you exhale, release any tension or worries. Repeat a comforting scripture or prayer in your mind. This practice can help ground you and bring a sense of calm amidst the chaos.
Embrace
May's end often gifts us with beautiful weather and blooming nature. Spend time outdoors and soak in the beauty of God's creation. Whether it's a park, a garden, or your backyard, let nature remind you of God's creativity and care. Matthew 6:28-30 encourages us to look at the flowers and see how God takes care of them, reassuring us of His care for us. Embrace the simplicity and peace that nature offers.
Joy
Amidst your responsibilities, don’t forget to create space for joy. Plan a fun family outing, have a picnic, or simply enjoy a hobby you love. Joy is a powerful antidote to stress. Nehemiah 8:10 tells us, "The joy of the Lord is your strength." Let’s tap into that joy and let it renew our spirits as we prepare for the new month ahead.
By embracing stillness, disconnecting from distractions, and reconnecting with God and loved ones, we can find the peace and purpose we need. As we transition into June, let’s carry this sense of calm and joy with us, knowing that God is with us every step of the way.
in harmony,
nancy
Pulse Check:
Plan a fun activity that brings you joy and share it in the comments. Whether it’s a hobby, an outing, or a simple pleasure, let’s spread the joy and inspire each other!