Eternal Stillness
where there is no movement for a time
When we slow down, we play, we rest, we dream, we wonder—we cease from that which is necessary and turn to that which gives life—and in the hush that descends, we listen. Are you listening?
Mark Buchanan, The Rest of God: Restoring Your Soul by Restoring Sabbath
Excerpt from Values and Strengths Coaching Course, Week Three - Finding Balance
Work, rest, and play rhythms show us how to create a more balanced life. Conversely, areas of unrest and overburden can affect us mentally, physically, and spiritually—they can also affect our relationship with God and others.
Biblical rest is knowing we can fully trust God with our lives. Sadly, some of us tend to put much pressure on ourselves to ensure we do "everything" however that looks for us. Even if they are good and have value— discerning one value over the other will help calm our daily lives in a way that will cultivate balance. Resting becomes an act of faith because God says so. He will continue to work and care for everything, even while we rest. There is a time for everything: work, rest, and play. In our Western culture, work can take top priority—that's why learning to rest and play is a massive part of biblical rest, and finding a margin and creating space is crucial. Otherwise, we fall prey to exhaustion, which exposes us to sickness and stress.
The word margin means the outside limit and the adjoining surface of something—the edge—according to Merriam-Webster.
Living on the edge can be a dangerous place.
I love what Timothy Keller says in his book Every Good Endeavor, Connecting Your Work to God's Work —around creating a healthy life balance.
"He (God) did not need restoration of strength—and yet he rested on the seventh day (Genesis 2:1-3). As beings made in his image, we can assume that rest and the things you do as you rest are good and life-giving. Work is not all there is to life. You will not have a meaningful life without work, but you cannot say that work is the meaning of your life. If you make any work the purpose of your life—even if that work is church ministry—you create an idol that rivals God. Your relationship with God is the most important foundation for your life. It indeed keeps all the other factors—work, friendships, family, leisure, and pleasure—from becoming so important to you that you become addicted and distorted."
If we are breathing, we envelop time right here, right now.
A favorite author of mine writes that the desert is where we dwell alone with God—where there is no movement for a time. I love this!
Did you hear that? No movement for a time.
As you approach the upcoming New Year I encourage you to focus on what's most important—where there is no movement for a time and rest in God's presence.
Peace and Joy,
Whether you're new to the concept of core values or seeking to deepen your understanding, I invite you to embark on a journey of exploration and self-discovery. Join my Values and Strengths Small Group Coaching Class. This class is a learning opportunity and a gateway to a more balanced and fulfilling life, where you can focus on what truly matters and honor what you value. For more information about the course, starting in January 2025, visit my website at the link below. Look around, and if you have any questions, reach out. I'm here to provide the support you need, and I'd love to chat with you and address any questions you may have about the program.
To learn more about navigating your core values, check out my Values Coaching Course! I’d love to connect! Reach out for a complimentary visit @ kerry@lbdesigncoaching.com.