The Still Season

To say I have been insanely busy for the last three years is an understatement. I moved back home after graduation, began serving and leading in my church, found my first real job, began graduate school, and participated in community events. With all of this going on, I found myself still saying yes to anyone asking me to do more.

Often I am asked, “How are you able to handle everything?” The answer is simple; I enjoy being busy. I love the adrenaline rush of trying to put everything together. I enjoy the structure of having a plan and ultimately having control.

While most people made a New Year’s resolution to do something, I decided 2015 would be the year I take a break! I felt my relationship with God had been based on all my actions, how I serve, how I help lead, etc. In the midst of all my efforts, I forgot how crucial it is to have unwavering faith.

With my busy schedule, I found myself unable to sit still, let alone make time to listen to God’s voice in my life.

How can I be still, but also proactive with my relationship with God, without feeling like a lazy bum? This question seems silly, but it is a struggle many of us face without even realizing it. Sometimes, after I read the Bible, I try to listen to what God has to say to me. After about two very long minutes, my mind wanders and I think about how I should be doing something… anything other than just sitting here! It is easy to say that we will focus on God, but are we living that out, even in our prayer time?

If we do not take time to sit down, stop talking, and begin listening, we miss the opportunity to hear what God has to say to us. How can believers know what decisions we are called to make without listening to His voice guiding us? Being still before God is more than just being quiet. It is about trusting the little voice in the back of your head that guides you in the easiest and hardest life decisions. We must understand and believe that as long as we are walking side by side with God, all of our situations and struggles, regardless of how big or small, will be blessings.

David, one of the Bible’s greatest servants and prayer warriors, shared what believers are to do as they wait for God:

1. Wait quietly — “I wait quietly before God, for my hope is in him.” (Psalm 62:5 NLT) 2. Wait patiently — “Be still in the presence of the Lord, and wait patiently for him to act.” (Psalm 37:7 NLT) 3. Wait expectantly — “I wait expectantly, trusting God to help, for he has promised.” (Psalm 105:5 LB)

I am confident 2015 is going to be a life changing year for my family, friends, and me. I pray that we are able to put our faith in action in how we wait expectantly for God, trusting in His perfect timing, plan, and purpose for our lives.