Tips for Slowing Down

"It is only with the heart
that one can see rightly;

What is essential

is invisible to the eye."
Antoine de Saint-Exupery,
The Little Prince

For centuries followers of Jesus have joined with the Holy Spirit by intentionally participated in various "patterns and practices" or "spiritual disciplines" to assist in developing character, greater intimacy and strength.

Here's a couple of ideas to put into practice, as we combat the busyness of life and the Cult of Speed. On the surface they may seem to not be very 'spiritual' in nature, yet often it is in the mundane moments of life that God is most involved in... Moreover, it is often in these 'unseen' moments of our day that the potential for Christ-likeness to be exercised and cultivated in our lives.

• Over the next month deliberately drive in the slow lane on the by-pass/highway.

• Declare a fast from honking.

• Force yourself to chew at least 15 times before each swallow.

• For the next month, when you are at the grocery store, look carefully to see which check-out line is the longest, Get in it. Let one person go ahead of you.

• Make time to pause and let your mind dance. Carve out time(s) in your day/week where you can reflect and allow God to bring things to your attention. Time for things to "catch up to you." These can be some of the most powerful and intimate moments with God.

Reflect on the following quotes from the book The Life You've Always Wanted:

“The great danger is not that we will renounce our faith,
but settle for a mediocre version of it.”
(John Ortberg)

“We have largely traded wisdom for information,
depth for breadth.
We want to microwave maturity.”
(John Ortberg)