Time to Slow Down

On May 21, 1901, Connecticut became the first U.S. state to enact a speed limit for motor vehicles. The speed limit for rural highways was set at 12 mph, while the maximum speed within city limits was fixed at 8 mph. Modern vehicles would exceed that velocity by merely shifting the gear selector from park to drive and taking one’s foot off the brake. The field has been set for the annual Memorial Day Indianapolis 500 race this coming weekend and the fastest qualifiers averaged almost 223 mph in their time trials. When life comes rushing at us with an apparently never-ending accelerating velocity, it’s important to carve out some time and space for quiet reflection on our relationship with God. While the hectic pace of modern living presses us to hurry up and do something productive with our lives, the words of the psalmist merit our attention and obedience as he quotes these words from our Heavenly Father, “Be still and know that I am God” (Ps. 46:10). It’s not easy to find a place of quiet stillness to focus our thoughts on the Lord, but the rewards for doing so are beyond measure. Meditating on God’s attributes and His love for us will enable us to cope effectively with this world’s frenzied pace. Make it a priority each day to spend time in God’s presence and you’ll discover resources to handle whatever challenges life throws your way.