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?

 

 

 

Each day is a new day and each day allows us new opportunity to evaluate and search our heart. Have you ever met someone that just seemed to light up a room and find yourself thinking, “Gosh, whatever she has, I want some of that”? That’s what it’s like to be filled with God’s light. It shines through us for others to see, igniting a fire within them. This light can’t be bought and we can’t pretend to have it. It comes from within as a result of a loving relationship with God and a true and faithful heart.

I want to encourage you this week to dedicate 15 minutes each day to spend time alone with God. You don’t have to do anything special or pray special words. Just dedicate 15 minutes during your day to have a one on one with God, sharing with him your hopes, dreams, fears, anxieties and disappointments. You’ll be surprised at what your heart will reveal!