Slow Down

Stop to enjoy the goodness of the Lord.

Psalm 27:13 says, “Yet I am confident I will see the Lord’s goodness while I am here in the land of the living." I'm not sure I always saw the goodness of God in my daily living. I was too busy getting to the next thing. I had babies to rock and corporate dreams to pursue. There were many times when I was on my feet, going and doing, for 18-19+ hours a day. I finished the day, collapsing on the bed, only to start it all over the next day. You can likely relate.

But as you move into this new season of empty nesting, there will be more time, at least during the transition, to slow down and rest. Take a moment to smell the roses. Enjoy nature. I'm not sure I ever feel so close to God as when I am in His creation. Stop at the roadside visitor's bureau on the drive home and be a tourist in your town. Tour the museum. Take the wandering road trip to nowhere. Or take a day trip with friends.

If your last few years were anything like mine, they were filled with basketball, baseball, football, track, swimming, volleyball, dances, and just about any other kids' activity you can imagine. My days were spent as a chauffeur, and my nights were spent as a short-order cook and housekeeper. The following season for you may include sitting at the coffee table a little longer or reading the book you never got around to. It's okay to slow down and embrace your new season.

Perhaps you have never had time to read the Bible cover to cover. Maybe there is a new Bible video series you want to enjoy on YouTube that you just haven't stopped to enjoy. Perhaps this is the perfect time to take a new class at your church. Take this time to slow down, and enjoy all the Lord has done.

Points to Ponder:

• Are there hobbies you used to enjoy that you haven’t done in years?
• Have you read the Bible cover-to-cover in one year?
• Was there a time in your life that was faster-paced than it is today? What new things can you enjoy during this season that you couldn't have in other seasons?