Who Sets the Pace?
Wheeling through Walmart the other day, I passed by a display of school notebooks, pens, and pencils. I slowed down, sniffing that familiar scent of new backpacks, recalling memories when I was so hyped, so excited, so ready to zoom into elementary school, then junior high, then senior high and college. Looking back, my school years were a blur as I raced from one grade level to the next. Now, I just wish I would’ve slowed down and enjoyed it more. Had someone shown me, maybe I would’ve taken the advice of Galatians 5:25 where we are told to “keep in step with the Spirit.” Even now though, if I have a list, I dive right in… if there’s a plan, I’m on it. Sure, I will say a quick prayer, but have I really stopped to see what God has in mind? Often I have to shake myself and tell myself, “Joni, have you sought God’s heart in this matter?”
We get it all wrong when we set the pace (it shows we don’t know how to wait on the Lord). But when we keep in step with the Holy Spirit, we are able to more readily sense God’s nudging when He feels we need a change of direction. Also, keeping in step with God means we are able to receive fresh grace for each moment. And if there’s one thing I’m desperate for, it’s fresh grace every morning, noon, midday, and night!
So today, if you’re filling a lunch box or snipping the tags off a new backpack, ask the Holy Spirit to set the pace for the school year ahead. Keep on the heels of God and you won’t get ahead of things or miss out on any important details of His plan for your day.
And as you’re preparing for the school year, don’t forget that my 2019 Planner is now available. It’s a great way to take life day-by-day as you seek Him for all that’s ahead in 2019. Just match your steps with the Spirit, and you’ll always be in rhythm with God!
