Don’t just do something. Stand there!

Originally sent April 3, 2024

I grew up in West Michigan surrounded by some of the best examples of the Protestant work ethic. Certainly there were many great character traits I picked up, but more recently I’ve discovered the downside of busyness and efficiency. It was rare for me to see my parents relax and life was in constant motion. Busyness was definitely next to godliness. It was common to hear a teacher or parent say, “don’t just stand there, do something”.

As a young pastor I internalized these ideas and equated my industry with vibrant faith. What I could do for God was the way I measured my spiritual health and I was actually quite successful. I received all kinds of accolades for bigger, better, faster ministry. I don’t regret all this, but wisdom has helped me see the limits. God doesn’t love me for what I do for him. His Kingdom doesn’t come through my effort alone.

Reflect for just a minute on your own upbringing. What were the messages you internalized about God? How do you tend to measure your spiritual life?

Listen to these words from the prophet Isaiah:

“Only in returning to me and resting in me will you be saved. In quietness and confidence is your strength. But you would have none of it. Isaiah 30:15

God is inviting us to slow down and rest in him. Our greatest impediment to vibrant faith might not be an area of sin with which we have always struggled, but instead constant motion. We simply don’t grow closer to Jesus without repentance, resting, and returning to Him. How could you create more margin in your life to be with God? Is there a new way you could start each day in stillness? Don’t just do something. Stand there!