A Time of Renewal

A Time of Renewal

by Linda Ray Center

 

“Can all your worries add a single moment to your life?”

Luke 12:25 (NLT)

 

Rick Warren, pastor, and author of The Purpose Driven Life says, “Time is our most precious gift because we only have a set amount of it.”

We could choose today as an optimal time to assess our writing and what we have done with the time given to us. Yet, writing often adds extra stress to my life. Where does the time go? Will I have time to get everything accomplished?

Sometimes I want to escape rewrites, deadlines, or trying to market my work. I can optimize those moments instead, by reflecting on God’s goodness as David did in Psalm 23. If my workload becomes too heavy, I place myself under the covering of the Good Shepherd; that way, my day becomes more effortless. Spiritual refreshment is a conscious choice that generates better performance. The Lord is my shepherd. He wants me to spend time in his presence.

My best requires rest. I schedule what matters most and take breaks in between. The Lord desires for me to lie down in his soothing green pastures. Instead of staring at a blank screen, I take a few minutes and reflect on God’s provision thanking him for another day to write. The Good Shepherd leads me beside calm, quiet waters. I allow his Spirit to lead me through the day. It takes the pressure off when I follow him. Experiencing peace requires a calm mind. God will provide spiritual strength to those who seek him. The power of God provides spiritual renewal. In the quiet pastures, he restores my soul. I’m recharged and ready to pound the keyboard again.

Refresh yourself in his presence during arduous times. It’s a sure way to add more time to your life.

Thank you, Lord, for supplying everything we need. Help us to fix our thoughts around on your goodness faithfulness instead of worrying. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

 

 

Linda Ray Center is a blogger, motivational speaker, and author. She and her husband live in charming Chattanooga. She loves her blended family and is a hands-on grandmother. As a communicator, she encourages God’s design for relationships on her blog. You can follow Linda on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/lindaraycenter/