Life is a
busy enterprise. It seems there are always more things to do, places to go, and
people to meet. And while none of us would want a life without meaningful
things to do, the fast pace threatens to rob us of the quietness that we need.
When
we’re driving a car, stop signs and other signs warning us to slow down are
reminders that to be safe we can’t have our foot on the accelerator all the
time. We need those kinds of reminders in all aspects of our lives.
The
psalmist clearly knew the importance of times of calm and quiet. God Himself
“rested” on the seventh day. And with more messages to preach and more people
to heal, Jesus went apart from the crowds and rested a while (Matt. 14:13; Mark
6:31). He knew it wasn’t wise to accelerate through life with our gas gauge
registering on “weary” all the time.
When was the last time you could echo the psalmist’s words, “I have calmed and quieted my soul”? (Ps. 131:2). Put up a stop sign at the intersection of your busy life. Find a place to be alone. Turn off the distractions that keep you from listening to God’s voice, and let Him speak to you as you read His Word. Let Him refresh your heart and mind with the strength to live life well for His glory.
