How Creating Space for God Brings Rest, Connection, and Renewal
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I’ve been spring cleaning… in the middle of summer… here in Queensland, Australia, LOL. Each weekend I’ve been tackling a different room.
Every time I finish a room, I feel so pleased with the result. And every time, I ask myself the same question: Why didn’t I do this sooner? Why did I avoid and dread starting?
As I’ve reflected on that, I’ve realised this pattern hasn’t just shown up in my home, it’s appeared in my spiritual life too.
There have been seasons where I’ve become so busy doing life that I’ve put off, or quietly forgotten, spending time with my loving God. I’d plan to pray later in the day, usually just before bed and more often than not, I was simply too tired and would forget altogether.
When I stopped and honestly considered what I was doing instead, it was often time that didn’t really nourish my soul — watching TV or scrolling through social media.
Once we became aware of this, my husband and I made a conscious decision to use our evenings more intentionally, rather than simply falling into a familiar rut.
Teach us to number our days, that we may gain a heart of wisdom.
Psalm 90:12 (NIV)
What surprised us most was how much time we actually had. Our evenings began to feel spacious. We found ourselves talking more, going for walks, catching up with friends. Sometimes we’d listen to music or read. Other nights we’d play cards or a board game. Occasionally, we still watch television, but now we decide what we’re going to watch and why, instead of mindlessly scrolling through channels.
The biggest change of all, though, is that we now spend time in the Bible and in prayer, listening to God before anything else. We’re not perfect, but this has become far more common than not.
The most unexpected outcome hasn’t just been how long our evenings feel, although they truly do, it’s how rested and relaxed we feel when we go to bed. We’re sleeping better, and we’re waking refreshed and ready for a new day.
I will both lie down in peace, and sleep: For You alone, O Lord, make me dwell in safety.
Psalm 4:8 (NKJV)
Stewarding our time, our most limited and precious resource, has been a blessing beyond what we expected.
Prayer
Loving Father,
Thank You for the gift of time and for the gentle ways You invite us closer to You. Help us to be wise stewards of our days and evenings, choosing what nourishes our hearts and draws us into Your presence. Quiet the noise and distractions around us, and teach us to rest in You. May our lives reflect intentional love, peace, and gratitude.
Amen.
Gentle Activation
This week, choose one evening to be intentional with your time.
Turn off unnecessary distractions, open your Bible, and sit quietly with God, even if only for ten minutes. Ask Him, “Lord, how would You like me to spend my time?”
Notice how your heart responds, and carry that awareness into the rest of your week.
If this reflection encouraged you, please consider sharing it with someone who might need it today. I’d love to hear your thoughts, how are you being intentional with your time, and what has God been gently inviting you into? Feel free to leave a comment below.
You’re also warmly invited to like, subscribe, and join the Jesus 4 Generations community, where we encourage one another to walk with God, no matter what season of life we’re in. Right now is always the best time to begin.
Source:
All Bible quotes were taken from https://www.biblegateway.com
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