Plan for Stillness…
Sue’s Note:
About this photo: Recently, my husband drove up north, hoping to get some good eagle photos. When he came home, he said, “Wasn’t much going on in Bayview today.” He did, however, photograph this tranquil scene of the “Floating Village” in the sleepy North Idaho resort. It reminded me of the beauty of stillness. I hope it speaks to your soul as it did mine.
My current schedule is providing me an opportunity to “practice what I preach!” An ambitious writing project with an end-of-March deadline means I need to re-assess how I manage the 24 hours allotted in my day. I will unpack my project later, but for now, I want to remind us again of the psalmist’s encouragement to “Be still …”
Historically, when enmeshed in a big project, I pour all my energy into the details and put “soul care” on the “back burner.” I’m committed to managing life differently these days, which means I must find ways to create times of “stillness” despite deadlines.
Today’s post includes an excerpt of a post from 2020 in which my daughter explained how she creates time for “stillness.” Even though I am in a different season of life than my daughter, her suggestions are valuable. I hope they will resonate with you.
My daughter, a busy woman navigating a hectic life season, juggles the demands of career, family, and faith. She’s a logical thinker, designed by God—unlike her mom—with an analytical mind. Sarah told me, “When I hear people talk about spiritual practices like stillness, I think, Well, wouldn’t that be nice! I need practical suggestions to make things real for me!”
She’s correct! While vision is important, unless I take concrete action steps, my soul’s longings will remain wishes. Here are some practical “Sarah-Stillness- Suggestions:”
Set a time goal to create stillness and space to meet with God. For me, this means getting up earlier than I need or even would like to have “quiet time.”
Shut down social media and other phone ‘stuff’ for a while.
Journal thoughts, questions, and prayers.
Make time to read a devotional with the kids and create a quiet time for them. (Grandma adds: Children’s souls also need time to “be still and know …”)
Prep meals to free up space in between work and dinner.
Set a standing calendar reminder or app to prompt me to read my Bible or pray.
Remember! It’s easy to lose sight of the importance of creating moments of ‘stillness’ when feeling overwhelmed.
Blessings as you discover ways in which you can be still,
