Simplify: Back to BasicsSample

Check Your Schedule

I used to have two speeds: fast and faster. My friends called me the Energizer Bunny because I kept going and going. I didn't know how to stop unless something made me.

My calendar was crammed from sunrise to well past sundown with everything I had to do as a wife, mama, and employee. I was on that hamster wheel but couldn't figure out how to get off. My life was flashing past me, and I couldn't hold on.

I felt powerless.

Have you ever felt this? You try to wear all the hats and be all the things to all your people, but there doesn't seem to be any way to do everything.

I found out that I can have it all, but I can't have it all at the same time.

If you find yourself in a similar place, wondering how you got here and how you will get off the hamster wheel before it sends you flying, know this: you are not alone. God even talks about this in his word.

Ecclesiastes 3:1 says, For everything, there is a season and a time for every matter under heaven. This is so reassuring. If you keep reading verses two through eight, you see God marking out the time for all the things we may find ourselves doing.

Let Yourself Off the Hook

We can't do everything. Some things will have to go. You may be going into a panic right now, like, How am I supposed to get rid of anything? It's all important, and things have to get done!

First things first: know your priorities. God gives us help on this one as well. Matthew 6:33 says But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be added to you. We seek God first; he helps us order the rest of our priorities. And once you know your priorities, you can simplify your calendar.

Ask for help.

Say no.

Uninvite yourself.

Be ok with disappointing people.

Set boundaries.

It is ok to be a work in progress on this one. The most important thing is to start. Look to God as your number one priority; he will help order the rest of your steps, help you say no, and guide you as you firm up those boundaries.

This will probably take a little time and a lot of grace, but you can do this! Your calling and purpose are riding on it.

Prayer: Father God, help me to put you first in my life! Show me areas in my schedule where I need to pull back, cut back, or even say no. Please give me the strength to untangle my calendar from the hamster wheel and make time for what's really important. From now on, I want you to order my steps. In Jesus' name. Amen.