Pace is the Five Minute Friday word prompt for this week. The first thought I had was the advice I’ve heard and given often. Go at your own pace. But as I thought about it, I wondered what really determines our rhythm or tempo or speed.
[bctt tweet=”Should we go fast or slow or somewhere in between? Maybe you feel like your days go by in a blur and you wonder when you can rest.” username=”GaylWright”]
Slowing the Pace
My phone chimes every couple of hours during the day. I set those alarms to remind me to stop, pray and acknowledge that God is with me throughout the day. It’s a gentle reminder, but I’m not always consistent.
[bctt tweet=”Sometimes I just go from one thing to another without really thinking about why or when or how it should be done. Do you do this, too?” username=”GaylWright”]
I can make lists and try to space my time so that there is a balance of rest and work. But that doesn’t always work, because of interruptions or delays of one kind or another.
Recently, after having lower back trouble, I have been forced to slow my pace. Even though there has been pain and it was hard to walk around, I have been blessed during this time of rest. I’ve been able to work in my art journal and also make collage bookmarks. I laminate the bookmarks and give them as gifts.
My daughter gave me the painted rocks resting on the above photo. I thought they went well with this recent art page. They remind me of the words found in Psalm 23:
Psalm 23:1-2 (NKJV)
The Lord is my shepherd;
I shall not want.He makes me to lie down in green pastures;
He leads me beside the still waters.
*I thought it was interesting that the footnote for still waters said it meant literally waters of rest.
[bctt tweet=”I keep the rocks in my view during the day. Whenever I look at them I think of Psalm 23, and I remember that Jesus gives me rest.” username=”GaylWright”]
Even in my busyness I can stop for a minute and take a breather. I might even say a breath prayer thanking God for His provision of rest.
How about you? What helps you find rest in your busy days?
I’m linking up with: #FiveMinuteFriday, #InspireMeMonday
I am so sorry that your back was injured this week, Gayl, but I am so grateful for the rest time that the Lord brought to you. Your art page is so beautiful, and the stones from your daughter fit so well. I want to remember those original meanings that you found in the footnote: “waters of rest” when I pause and ask my Good Shepherd to guide my steps. He knows the ways to lead me to His living water where true rest is found. Thank you for sharing these thoughts today, dear friend! I am praying for your healing and blessings.
Thank you, dear Bettie! Yes, the rest has been good even though my house needs attention. I also love that meaning “waters of rest.” I appreciate your thoughts and your prayers. Blessings, hugs and much love to you my dear sister/poet/friend! xoxo
I love bookmark gifts! 🙂 I needed to remember to slow down too.
Thanks for visiting, Tara! We all need the reminder to slow down often. It’s so easy to run full speed ahead until we are forced to rest. But intentionally taking time really helps us. Blessings to you! xo
I like your quote. I especially appreciate the exhortation to reclaim our moments. There are always opportunities for redemption.
Thank you, Stephanie. Yes, I need to remind myself to slow down. And you are so right – “There are always opportunities for redemption.” Amen. Blessings to you!