by Kathy Whited
In recent weeks, I have been reading a lot about personal and professional productivity, especially the writings of people who experienced success at what most would consider a young age. Most of these people leverage technology to the hilt – or even have tech careers – but ironically, these very same people warn against the dangers of technology. Across the board, these people tend to create blocks of technology- and distraction-free times to foster creativity and innovation. Call it what you will, but I call those quiet moments “God Moments” — when ideas come to me with a swell of inspiration and passion to make the vision a reality.
Life also brings stress over health and finances, anxiety over world news and national politics, pressure to hit work deadlines, tensions about a child’s life choices, and the list goes on and on. Our speed of life might make us pretty productive, but it doesn’t make us very rested. It also doesn’t make us very good listeners.
With the season of Lent approaching, I have been thinking a lot about what I might do to focus on the discipline of Lent. Many people participate in food fasting, but I challenge you to stretch yourself a little bit more than that. I challenge you to a spiritual stretch! This Lent, consider giving up distractions for just a few minutes each day — or even one day each week — in order to gain something far greater. What if we just stop the urgent pace of life and turn off our technology for just a few minutes each day and replace that time with quiet time? By doing so, we gain rest and reflection. We open ourselves up to listen for God’s direction and wisdom. In 1 Samuel 3:8-10, Samuel learns how to listen to God.
Our conversations with God are often one-sided…as in, we’re doing all of the talking. In order to listen to God, we must be still. We must stop to listen. We need to be open to receiving God’s message, which means turning our minds away from television, cell phones, social media, etc., as well as any worries that cause our minds to wander. Lastly, we must be patient. As opposed to our culture of immediacy, God speaks in God’s time. We can’t force God to respond on our schedule. We are on His schedule. Just keep at it – keep creating that quiet space and time. Pastor Charlie said that Psalm 46:10 comes to mind, “Be still and know that I am God!”
We love Jesus by serving others, so ask during this time, “God, how can I serve You with my life?” Imagine the impact if many of us take this spiritual stretch challenge this Lenten Season! Pastor Jay referred to this challenge as “prophetic imagination” — seeing us for who we are, and imagining what could be with small, intentional steps.
Let’s engage in conversation. What’s your spiritual stretch during Lent?
Prayer:
Heavenly Father, thank You for helping us to listen to You. Please help us to be people who hear You and how You wish for us to serve. In Your name we pray. Amen.