What are Your “No’s” for November?

On the shore of the lake, I sit watching my children fish with their dad. Quietly and patiently, I wait as each child casts their bait into the water. Each one eagerly anticipates the joy of a fish on the line. 

Waiting, hoping, and laughing together in the afternoon sun, I find joy beside those peaceful waters. 

In contrast, the world around us forces us into wilder rapids. Go faster. Do more. Don’t stop.

We multitask and miss the magic of being present in the moments and with the people around us. Tracking conversations in the room, in text messages, and over a screen, we fail to be fully focused and trade quality for quantity in our interactions. A tidal wave of activity, people, and opportunity floods our calendars, leaving our minds drowning and yet still longing for more.

However, when we pause long enough to savor the joys of a slower pace and take the time to examine the life of Jesus, we see that He moved through life with intentionality and purpose. He was present to the people before Him, and often the one who brought peace into the chaos.

What would happen if we moved through life with purpose and presence, like Jesus, instead of letting life passively push us from month to month distracting us from what God might be doing today?

That’s why I am saying “No” to the busyness and distractions in November. I want to move with Jesus. I want to move with purpose and presence. In doing so, I am finding joy like those moments by the lake, but I am also seeing areas of my heart and relationships that I’ve neglected in the constant pace of go, go, go.

Thankfully, Jesus’ pace not only holds moments of joy and peace, but it also leaves room for healing and grace. Will you slow down with me, so we can experience both?

“He makes me lie down in green pastures; He leads me beside the still waters. He restores my soul; He leads me in the paths of righteousness For His name’s sake.” 

Psalm 23:2-3

Take Time to Pause

Will you join me in choosing a different pace for November, especially as we approach the weeks leading up to the holidays? 

What do you need to say “No” to today? 

Where is God calling you to say “Yes” and to be fully present to what He wants to do in your life? (even the hard heart work)