Each of us wants to live our best possible life. To that end, we struggle to balance our academic or career, family, community, and personal pursuits. What starts off sounding exciting and worthwhile can leave us feeling drained and depleted. Busy is the new fine – when asked how we’re doing, we often reply with some comment eluding to our busyness. The assumption is that a schedule packed with activities, obligations, and commitments somehow reflects a more fulfilling life. The truth is, in modern society, we are in dire need of more space and opportunity to be still, quiet, reflect, and recharge.

Busyness can be a tool of the enemy – feeling overwhelmed and burdened builds fatigue, resentment, and stress. Galatians 6:9 says “And let us not grow weary while doing good, for in due season we shall reap if we do not lose heart.”  Every good thing is not a God thing. Voltaire wrote that “the enemy of the best is the good.” We need to ask God for wisdom and discernment – to show us which commitments align with His will for our lives. Luke 10 tells the story of Martha and Mary. Jesus visited the home of these sisters and while Martha was busy with her hostess duties, Mary sat at Jesus’ feet and listened to His teaching. I believe we are guilty of this today – sometimes we are so busy fulfilling what we believe are essential activities that we completely miss precious opportunities to spend time with Jesus.

A lot of us resemble Martha – putting our personal agenda and action items ahead of quality time with God. The issue is that our time with God needs to be a priority and not an afterthought. Matthew 6:33 “But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be added to you.” The good news is that time with God can take a variety of forms. Any activity that permits us to focus on God can become an act of worship or opportunity for prayer. For example, gardening, cleaning, cooking, singing, working out, and driving are times that we can commune with God acknowledging who He is and inviting Him into any situation that concerns us. We can also revel in and express appreciation for the sensory experiences associated with that moment. Seeking God in that moment turns ordinary activities into extraordinary worship. Colossians 3:17 says “And whatever you do, in word or deed, do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him.”

The Lord wants us to enjoy our lives by putting our faith in Him. He wants us to worship the Creator rather than the Creation. 1 Timothy 6:17 says “Command those who are rich in this present age not to be haughty, nor to trust in uncertain riches but in the living God, who gives us richly all things to enjoy.” The Lord doesn’t want us distracted and stressed. He wants us to be liberated – in a place where we can focus on and delight in His goodness. The Lord is willing to take on every burden, hurt, or sorrow that we face. We need only to invite Him into the situation to receive the relief that we desire. Matthew 11:28 says “Come to Me, all you who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.”