One of the struggles we all face in following Jesus is the loss of focus. Our attention is so easily diverted to other things. I often say we are distracted by shiny things. As a culture, with our move to being very technologically driven, our attention span has continued to get shorter and shorter. I think that is why it is such a struggle for most to slow down and just be still.
As I have reflected on my time with pastors this past weekend, and our focus on slowing down and truly listening, I have been faced with the reality that I need to practice what I preach more intently. As I do, what my mind continues to return to is the idea that my soul needs to be restored. Psalm 23:1-3 says, “The Lord is my shepherd, I lack nothing. He makes me lie down in green pastures, he leads beside quiet waters, he restores my soul.”
Do you hear the peacefulness and tranquility in those words? He restores my soul – sounds good doesn’t it? But how does one go about restoring or refreshing a soul? When our bodies are tired and sore, we can rest and regain our energy. When our minds are exhausted, we can take a break and focus on something else to regain some sanity. But how do you restore your soul?
The first thing we need to understand is that we can’t do it on our own. We have to do our part, but it is the Father that brings the restoration. Our part is making ourselves available for God to do His work. We do that by slowing down and spending time being still, focused in His word and listening for His voice. When we take time to make moments with God, He is faithful to shape and restore.
Over the next post or two, we will explore ways we can make ourselves available. But for now, take time today to simply be still and look intently for God’s presence in and around you. You might be surprised by what you see.
Clay in the Hands 