“Holy Spirit, help us see the gifts we might miss in the rush.”
Do you ever find your attention fraying at the edges, starting a task, forgetting what you were doing, then wondering if you’re losing your grip? I’ve had those moments, too. For me, it usually isn’t a crisis of memory, it’s a crisis of pace.
We recently relocated and projects multiplied like laundry. One thing led to another because “it has to get done,” right? But does it really have to get done right now?
I’ve been writing about Joy in the Small Things while living at NASCAR speed. Going full throttle on the straightaway, never downshifting for the curves. You can guess how that ends…spin-out. I’m a work in progress over here. No judgment, please. Maybe you relate.
The Recenter
When I skip the simplest beginning, “Thank You, Lord”, my day tilts. Acknowledging God first doesn’t guarantee smooth circumstances, but it steadies my steps. It reminds me that grace has already arrived before I open my eyes. This is a step towards surrender as we talked about a few weeks ago.
After God-first, I choose at least one of my Six Daily Practices to flourish and not to flounder or ‘spin-out”, twenty to thirty minutes that change everything (Thank you Full Focus):
Tend to Myself
Tea, stretching, journaling, gentle care that says, “I’m a person, not a machine.”Connect with Others
A check-in text, a five-minute call, a smile that lingers, joy multiplies when shared.Do Work That Matters
One meaningful task over five frantic ones. Depth beats scatter.Prioritize Recreation
Play is not a luxury, it’s oxygen for creativity and courage.Experience Nature
Light on the table, the shape of a cloud, a walk under trees; creation quiets hurry.Stay Open to the Sacred
A whispered prayer in the in-between. Scripture in the margins. God in the ordinary.
A Small Petition of Surrender
Surrender can be difficult if you have always felt that you have to be in control. Speak this petition into your day:
I yield my timeline to God’s wisdom.
I release the projects that can wait.
I receive the small gifts that are here now.
Check out Joy in the Surrender to do deeper.
Simple Practice (60 seconds):
Inhale for 4: Present.
Exhale for 6: I surrender hurry.
Name one small gift you see. Say, “Thank You.” Repeat three times.
“Cast all your anxiety on Him because He cares for you.” (1 Peter 5:6-7)
Reflection: Which of the six principles will you practice for 20–30 minutes today? What “can wait” so that joy can breathe?
For me, I choose to experience nature starting this week, because as a writer I tend to do a lot of my work indoors. I’ll do this by walking in my community, there is a lovely marina. This will give me a chance to view the surrounding water, wildlife and even the sky. Enjoying the beauty of God’s creations! Also, I’ll take that time to do the “Simple Practice” to get the full experience.
Now it’s your turn. I’d love to hear from you in the comments.
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A Prayer for the Downshift
“Lord, I’ve been running on fumes, mistaking speed for purpose. Teach me to downshift, to begin with gratitude, to move at Your pace, to notice Your small gifts as love notes along the way. Order my steps, soften my shoulders, and let surrendered minutes ripple into a joyful day. In Jesus’ name, Amen.”
