S-L-O-W Down and Give God Thanks!

How many times have you heard someone say - "where has this month (or year) gone - it's almost over!"  It's a common saying because most of us are usually so busy that we don't pause to reflect on our blessings. There's always "something" to do, somewhere to go, and someone to take care of!  On any given day, we're running here or there: cooking, cleaning, dropping off, picking up, homework, activities, church.

Every day is full of hustle and bustle. Days roll into nights, which turn into weeks, and into months - and before you know it, the year's almost gone! There's also an additional challenge to get everything done in 24 hours as a parent! We get it. God gets it too! After all, He was the one who blessed you with "this most important job in the world."

One of the greatest challenges of this life is finding balance, and we all need a little more of it in our life. When we are always in a hurry to do the next thing, we miss the present. We don't gain a thing from running around like crazy people and neglecting time with God.

So in your 24 hours of doing "stuff," remember to carve out some special time for God! In all of the mad dashing around, make it a point daily to seek Him. 

It can be but doesn't have to be ritualistic.

It can be but doesn't have to be formal.

It can be but doesn't have to be at a specific time.

It can be but doesn't have to be long. 

But what it must be is sincere and consistent!

Can't find the time you say? SURE YOU CAN!  Pray with your kids before meals. Talk out loud in your car, driving to pick them up from Little League or ballet practice. Yes, you can do this, and no one will know! Praise Him in song as you're cooking dinner. Listen to Christian music (and dance) while you're doing household chores. Read Christian books to your kids. Get up 15 minutes before your day begins to meditate.

Whatever you do and however you do it, remember to S-L-O-W down, take a look around, and pause to reflect on his awesomeness. Then fall to your knees in the presence of the Lord to give Him thanks! He's available anytime, every day.

Let's slow it down, friends, if even for an hour. Ready? Go.