Busyness is not a Fruit of the Spirit

Busyness is not a Fruit of the Spirit

 

“How are you, friend?” My reply: “Busy, SO busy.”

Why do we always default to responding to our friends, family or acquaintances that we are “so busy”, as if this is an enviable state of being, a spiritual gift or a Fruit of the Spirit. (It is certainly NOT, sisters!) Sometimes we say it with pride and accomplishment, other times we respond in resentment or defeat. Our culture has encouraged the pace and content of our days to be an ever – increasing race to fit in every activity, job, appointment, hobby or social event.

We compare ourselves to others and pack our schedules so full that sometimes we are ready to run away from our own lives! So we take a much needed break. Many of you have heard, or even used, the phrase “I need a vacation from my vacation” after returning from a break intended for rest and relaxation.

Ladies, why do we push ourselves to the edge of sanity to reach unrealistic expectations?

• What does God expect of us?
• Who can we look to as an example of how to spend our time? How to keep a balance?

• Remember Lydia of Macedonia? After being baptized by Paul, she faithfully hosted missionaries while maintaining a thriving business and taking care of her family? She still found strength for hospitality and blessed others. Whenever we can…say “yes” to serving God and pray for opportunities to show His love. (Acts 16:14-15)

•  Remember Mary of Bethany (Lazarus’ sister) who sat at the feet of Jesus when Martha was working so hard in the kitchen to prepare a meal? Whenever we can…sit like Mary, and listen for Jesus. (Luke 10:38-42)

• One of my favorite authors Lysa Terkhurst (of Proverbs 31 Ministries) said, “We run at break neck pace to try and achieve what God wants us to slow down enough to receive.”

• In a January sermon series (God and Your Stuff) Pastor Tim said “God cannot put His eternal riches (blessings) in hands that are already full…God says ‘I want to fill you with things that are eternally good’…but first we have to let go.” Even though he was referring to our tithing, I really connected with this message in a way that relates to all the meaningless things that we hold onto in life. We must raise open hands upward to receive.

Let’s make it a point this summer to prioritize our schedules.

Serve, rest, receive, let go… Say “no” when we should… Say “yes” when we can.

We can start by choosing to be present with our loved ones, connecting with friends and neighbors, putting down technology and social media distractions…and asking God to help us hear Him in the midst of our self-driven chaos. Make the time. God is waiting for us to take a moment with Him to enjoy His presence.

Take off the badge of busyness and receive the spirit of peace.

In Christ,

Kelley Warne

Ecclesiastes 4:6 Better one handful with tranquility than two handfuls with toil and chasing the wind.

Psalm 46:10  Be still and know that I am God.

Psalm 29:11  The Lord gives strength to his people; The Lord Blesses His people with peace.

Proverbs 11:25 A generous person will prosper; whoever refreshes others will be refreshed.

Proverbs 16:3 Commit to the Lord whatever you do, and he will establish your plans.

Matthew 11:28 Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.