Slow Down

“Rest time is not waste time. It is economy to gather fresh strength… It is wisdom to take occasional furlough. In the long run, we shall do more by sometimes doing less.” - Charles Spurgeon

Speed bumps cross many of our neighborhood streets, cautioning drivers to slow down and watch for children in the area. These mounds of asphalt remind us that there are times to go fast and times to go slow.

We all face the challenges of overwhelming responsibilities in our families, work, church, and community. Managing relentless problems and opportunities well can leave us exhausted and addicted to the adrenaline rush of busyness.

We need speed bumps in our lives to remind us to slow down and to watch for dangers. God designed us to set aside one day a week to rest and remember that He is in control. The tasks He gives us can wait while we regain perspective on God, self, and the world around us. 

All of God’s commands have our best interest at heart. But Jesus especially affirms that this command is for our good. “Then he said to them, "The Sabbath was made for man, not man for the Sabbath.” (Mark 2:27)

Be flexible – not legalistic – about taking breaks. And remember: busyness will rob you of joy, focus, and health, leaving you in a dangerous place. Don’t be irresponsible; heed the speed bumps and take the breaks God prescribes