During Busy Times Refocus on the Lord 

For many people this seems to be an especially busy month. It is the time when another school year draws to a close, meaning a lot of end-of-the-year activities for teachers, students, and their families. Some are focused on graduations, not just from high school but from kindergarten and college. In addition to all of that busyness, throw in Mother’s Day, Memorial Day, and in our family a few birthday celebrations. I know others who are also in the middle of house renovations or sorting through all their belongings as they prepare to move out of their homes. At our church we even squeeze in our Homecoming service and potluck dinner this month.

When there is so much activity going on and our calendars are full, it is easy to get overwhelmed in all of the hustle and bustle. We can find ourselves stressed out as we try to navigate our way through those busy schedules. We hardly have time to catch our breaths as we scurry around, chauffeur kids, and prepare for special gatherings. It can be tiring just thinking about it, much less living it out each day.

At times like these, we need to remind ourselves of that familiar biblical exhortation: “Be still, and know that I am God” (Psalm 46:10). Someone might shout in response, “But I don’t have time to be still!” Neither did the psalmist. He referred to times of distress, earthshaking events, troubled waters, and war. Yet he reminded himself that God is our refuge and strength, no matter what is going on in our lives. In the midst of all the busy disturbances in his life, he heard the divine voice reminding him to be still and to focus on God.

Maybe some of us need to listen and act on that command too. Notice, it is a command, not just a suggestion. God knows what we need during these busy times. No, it isn’t more hours in the day or a clone of ourselves so that we can be doing two things at once or be in different places at the same time. What can often be most helpful in times like these is a better perspective. We need to be reminded that God is with us. We need to remember that He has everything under control. We need to know that we can lean on Him for support and strength, as well as take refuge in Him when we feel as if we are being overrun by everything. Be still and know that He is God.

How can we fulfill that command when the clock and the calendar seem to be putting so much pressure on us? It may involve just taking a moment to physically be still or at least to calm our spirit. Catch a breath. Say a prayer. Listen to an inspiring Christian song or hymn. Recite one of God’s promises to yourself. Get your eyes off your problems, challenges, and activities momentarily while getting refocused on the loving and powerful God who is with you.  

At the same time, as much as possible, don’t forsake those longer pauses in your schedule in order to draw close to the Lord. Keep your priorities in order. You may have to do it differently or at a different time, but maintain a regular time for Bible reading, prayer, and worship. Don’t let these other things crowd out your needed fellowship with your heavenly Father. Keep seeking the Lord first and all those other activities will find their proper place.

You may not have much choice but to be busy these days, However, also choose to take time to be still. Take a moment right now and draw close to the Lord.