As typical in ministry, there are a million and one things that need to be done. I usually am pretty good at focusing on one issue at a time however, I am struggling to settle down and move in one direction this morning. My tasks appear to be overwhelming. Deadlines are approaching and work needs to get done. My anxiety level is running very high.
With all of that said, I realize that a huge reason for feeling the way that I feel is due to what I have not done this morning. I have not taken the time to simply be still. When I ignore my quiet time with God I do feel more restless. I tend to let the stresses of a normal day get to me.
I have learned that being still is vital in my life. It allows me time to clear my mind and start fresh. I need my moments with God as much as I need air. I still have the demands of the day, but I allow myself time to stop and prioritize what truly needs my attention and what order things need to be accomplished.
As a pastor, it is very easy to become overwhelmed by the different demands of the day. I don’t have to look very far to see the needs for ministry that are all around me. I am the kind of person who would like to settle everything at once and make everybody happy. I know that it is impossible to meet those standards. I am just saying that is where my mind goes.
I depend on my communication with the God of my understanding to remind me to relax and do what I can, as I can. That is all that is required. It is impossible to do any more than what I can accomplish in a given day. To do so I would need to be super human. Since I am not wearing a cape or have recently walked on water, I have to settle with my humanness.
Today, I am thankful for a God that reminds me to be still. I am grateful for a safe place in which I can breathe and take in the joy of the moment. I thank the divine that anxiety does not have to overwhelm me and steal my happiness. Praise be to God who gives us the victory! Now it’s time to focus.
From a Pastor's Point of View 