Slow: Five Minute Friday
I am writing for 5 minutes on Friday night, while helping hubby renovate the kitchen. Joining Kate Motaung at Five Minute Fridays. Today’s word is SLOW.
It’s funny I recalled a childhood memory to my hubby today while we walked our little dog, Snowball, around the lake. I recalled walking home from school when I was quite young, thinking about things, dreaming, visualizing. When I arrived home my mom said, “Janis, you should walk smartly home. Don’t dawdle. People will thing you are dopey. Always move along, with your head up and keep going.”
That was the last day I walked slowly. Until now. Now I realize that I need the slow time to dream, to be inspired and to rest with God. That doesn’t mean I have “slowed down” continuously. Far from it. I keep thinking of things in my down time, and then have lots to do in my active time.
The book that got me thinking of living a slower, calmer lifestyle was In Praise of Slowness by Carl Honoré . By 2005 when I read this book I all ready spent time with God every morning. But I also realized that when I slow down I get to enjoy the beauty around me and I need an additional few pause points during the day as well.
I have a plate that says: Stop and Smell the Roses.
In order to be inspired we need time to hear from God. We need to slow down to hear from Him.
Elijah learned this lesson.
A hurricane wind ripped through the mountains and shattered the rocks before God, but God wasn’t to be found in the wind; after the wind an earthquake, but God wasn’t in the earthquake; and after the earthquake fire, but God wasn’t in the fire; and after the fire a gentle and quiet whisper (1 Kings 19:11-12, The Message).
Elijah heard God in the quiet whisper.
Are you learning to be quiet before God, to slow down, to listen to Him? (tweet this)
I have written on the subject of slow before:
Are you lead by the Spirit or man?
Time is up. Now it’s your turn. Join us at Five Minute Fridays.
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“Now I realize that I need the slow time to dream, to be inspired and to rest with God.” I’m starting to realize the gift of slow too. It means I need to say no to some things so I can have space for dreaming, inspiration, and rest.
Blessings to you,
Cheryl
Cheryl,
Boy am I late in replying to this. Where did the week go? Glad we know to start to slow down – to be able to dream and find peace and rest.
Blessings,
Janis
Amen to slowing down and seeking the still small voice of our Lord. He really does have so much to show us. I have to say I am learning to unrush myself but it takes some work. This week’s prompt was just what I needed.
Have a wonderful weekend.
Your FMF neighbor #69
God bless you.
Hi Kelly,
I have to tell myself that every day. Seeking His voice, praying and not going ahead of Him.
blessings,
Janis