Rest is invaluable, and God renews our hearts in moments of stillness. I challenge you to join me and “do nothing” in 2021.
In a recent newsletter, we talked about lightening our emotional load during the holidays. Carrying that thought into 2021, have you ever considered making a New Year’s resolution to do nothing? Rather than declaring you will lose twenty pounds or exercise three times a week, resolve to take some time to do nothing. Nothing at all.
Recently on vacation, that is pretty much what I did. I walked on the beach, pondered my morning devotions and prayed. I also spent plenty of time sitting on the beach with my face toward the water. Daydreaming. Watching the birds along the shore or gazing at the pelicans floating on the water. I felt recharged and renewed by simply chilling out.
I managed, mostly, to “do nothing” without guilt or feeling pressured to read a book or write a newsletter. I completely relaxed.
However, now that I’ve been home for several weeks, I find if I’m not intentional and carve out time for this very important activity, it won’t happen. Something always fills my calendar. In fact, if I’m not careful I overdo, my emotions unravel, and I could unintentionally become more like King Rehoboam in 2 Chronicles 12:14 (NIV): “He did evil because he did not set his heart to seek the Lord.”
What are you resolving to do in 2021? What are you setting your heart to do? If you are not intentional to allow your soul to catch up with your body, I promise it will never take place.
Resolve to invest in time to do what is “nothing” in the eyes of the world. In God’s eyes, you are doing something for your greater good.
In Isaiah 30:15 (ESV), we read of a rebellious people:
“For thus said the Lord God, the Holy One of Israel, ‘In returning and rest you shall be saved; in quietness and in trust shall be your strength.’ But you were unwilling…”
This year I challenge you to make a different kind of resolution. Make an appointment and schedule time on your calendar to slow down and to “do nothing.” Just hang out with God.
Intentionally invest time to quiet your anxieties and cease your normal activities, for “to do nothing” can rest your mind, body, and soul. Contemplate the galaxies or a tiny snowflake. Watch the waves. Follow the course of the wind in the wheat or a bird on the wing. Wait while God paints a sunrise or sunset—don’t take a snapshot; but watch from beginning to end. These simple “doing nothings” can renew your mind and spirit and give you strength to return to your duty—or to do something equally great.
Warmly,
Georgia
P.S. Please send a note to my Facebook page and share how you have in the past or will protect your time to do nothing as we move into 2021. We’d love to hear from you!
