When I reflect upon the stressful areas of my life, I come to realize that I too was designed to live a more simple lifestyle. Some of my times of greatest stress have been when I have too much going on and too much around me…too much “stuff”, too busy.
My most complete moments are times of quiet solitude, genuine and tender moments with loved ones, their laughter, absorbing the lines on their faces and the curve of a smile, taking a walk in the woods, watching snow falling quietly, singing a hymn while baking a homemade loaf of bread for dinner, watching the fire dance in our old fireplace and praying. It is while enjoying these things that I can shut out the noise from the rest of the world and I am lifted from the burdens of worry, doubt and fear.
As the days of winter fade into spring, take some time to reflect on the meaning of simplicity. What simple moments do you enjoy? In the midst of a cold winter storm, I often find myself reflecting on the beauty of a single flower from my garden, the sight, smell, feel, and sound as I walked a pathway in the woods, the laughter and conversations of loved ones around a roaring summer campfire, the feel of my mothers hand in mine, or the peace of my time alone with God. I know that I have wandered too far when anxiety starts to set in and I begin to “busy” myself. It is when I meet this fork in the road that I must choose to take the road less traveled.
All God’s people have reason to sing for joy!
Scripture Readings:
This is the day the LORD has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it. Psalm 118:24
Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: Old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new. 2 Corinthians 5:17
Commit to the Lord whatever you do, and He will establish your plans. Proverbs 16:3
Take some time today to pause and reflect upon these passages today. Journal what they mean to you.
Let’s Chat:
When you commit to the Lord whatever you do, how does that calm your anxious heart?