Being Too Busy - Part 2

Too busy… why? Too busy … tired? Too busy … frustrated? Too busy … discouraged? Too busy … trapped? There are a plethora of reasons… who is running your schedule and how meaningful / deep are your daily encounters? Busyness can be a friend or foe. 
 
A few generations ago our grandparents were told that “idleness is the devil’s workshop.” Fast forward to today and yes it’s moving fast and forward at a tremendous pace. The devil insists on and takes delight in such a demanding pace. This pace keeps us from slowing down, observing, enjoying, fully engaging and going deep in the things that matter. Ever reasoned with God that “I’ll connect with you in the morning” or “later,” promising to have a quality time with Him then to fall asleep in a routine reading? Seriously, why are we too busy?
 
I have embraced busyness to avoid silence, reflection and loneliness – so sad, but true. Before, I have chosen to serve rather than to get “stuck” or captured by a long, self-absorbed talker. However, I now actually intentionally schedule time to “slow down, breathe deeply and settle in” with important relationships. My true heart’s desire is to be deep and go deep with others. 
 
What about you? Does busyness feed your values / identity? What would it look like if you slowed down? How would it affect others around you? Sound scary?
 
A couple of solid scriptures to consider are Mark 8:36, “For what does it profit a man to gain the whole world but forfeit his soul?” Secondly, here’s a promise and truth for we busy people, “Come to Me, all who are weary and heavy-laden, and I will give you rest,” Matthew 11:28 (hey, I double dawg dare you to take the challenge found in verses: 27-29). This invitation comes from the only One who really knows, cares and can tend to your deepest longings.
 

---

Camper Corner
 
Success is not measured by busyness rather by your character. Pleasing others is a HUGE pressure, but “take time to make time and make time to take time” for things that last…that really matter. Be bold enough to say, “no” to good things and consider the energy, strength and commitment needed to say, “yes” in the giving of your time. Want your school yearbook to have meaningful encouragement? Then take command of your schedule and let your character be your guide.