Wednesday, November 11, 2009

Restlessness


It is interesting that I was about to chide myself for feeling restless, but I came across this quote from Thomas Edison that actually throws it into a more positive light.  I didn't think of restlessness as being necessary for progress; but, it makes sense that we wouldn't be motivated to change, unless there was some sort of dissatisfaction with the status quo. 

Granted, we should be content in our circumstances (Phil 4:11), in our attitude towards whatever curves life throws at us.    Yet, it does not mean that we shouldn't try to improve circumstances if we were able to do so.  Thus, I like this perspective, of trying to use my restlessness to motivate positive change.

It would help if I could identify the cause of this restlessness.  It's kind of ironic that part of it is because I was able to complete the major items on my "To do" list.   No longer having that feeling of always having something that needs to be done and driving at full speed; I really should allow myself a chance to slow down and enjoy, since I now have the time.   Maybe in slowing down, I can think more clearly and leisurely about what the next steps are.   I can plan for what's next, without having life dictate it based on what's headed my way.   And maybe, it would allow me the chance to refill my energy and look at ways in which I can invest in the lives of others or to meet their needs.

Actually, it's not like I have nothing to do.  I should be grateful that it's actually more manageable.   I'm still teaching Sunday class, I still have normal responsibilities, and I still have the occasional non-usual thing that pops up (e.g. tenant registration, STR lecture, etc).  

The best use of the little "extra" time that I have, would be to be in prayer and to think about what's next:  mentoring? missions? outreach?      And I can use this time to find renewal to be ready for the next wave.   I should keep working at the things I enjoy, like cooking (this weekend, my garlic spinach turned out well, because I found that when the wok is heated really high, and I just saute the garlic and spinach a little, there seems to be a smoky flavor and the color stays strong).  Also,  I can prepare for the next Bible Study series.

May I be an effective steward of my time.

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