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Unhurry Hack: When we ask the Lord to help us set healthy goals and daily seek His help, we begin to experience true change. What is it about a brand new year that brings the desire for new habits to mind? I hear five little words starting many of my sentences every January: "this year I'm going to ____." Can you relate? The goals of new years past remind me that I've wanted to exercise more, drink more water, read my Bible more, pray more...the list goes on. What about you? What goals have you made in the past? Do they still linger or have you learned to hone the habit? Let's talk more about this word "hone" I've always had a love/hate relationship with goals. As a type A personality, I love to make goals, but because I'm also human and imperfect, they often serve as reminders of incomplete tasks or failures when they start to peter out. A hone is a tool. It is a fine-gritted stone used to sharpen a razor or other tools with a precision edge. Use this word as a verb and it means to refine or master something, and make it more effective. Additionally, when we "hone in on" something we focus our attention and move towards our objective. So, how can this dictionary dive help you and me? Just maybe it is the reminder we need this year to meet our goals. This year let's hone our habits. Goals are great, but let's not limit them to the month January. As we look at our lives and consider our heart, mind, soul, what needs sharpening so that we are living healthy, abundant lives in Christ? The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy. I came that they may have life and have it abundantly. --John 10:10 Abiding in Christ allows us to live attached to Him and His will for our lives. God is at work refining us and making us more like Jesus! When we ask the Lord to help us set healthy goals and daily seek His help, we begin to experience true change. Take a look at how God helps us hone our habits: It's Christ in me - Galatians 2:20 -  "I have been crucified with Christ. It is no longer I who live, but Christ who lives in me. And the life I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me." It's renewal - Colossians 3:10 - My new self is "being renewed in knowledge after the image of its creator." It's transformation - Romans 12:1-2 - I don't have to be conformed to this world and all its worldly trends or habits, instead I can present my body "as a living sacrifice, holy and acceptable to God, which is (my) spiritual worship" and I can "be transformed by the renewal of (my) mind, that by testing (I) may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect. *paraphrasing mine. It's being intentional - Luke 11:28 - My Bible is a gift and treasure and honing tool. I need to know what God says and store it in my heart -- and this only happens when I USE my Bible. But he said, “Blessed rather are those who hear the word of God and keep it!” It's leaning in - Proverbs 27:17 - I can keep showing up. God has given me community and friendships to spur me on if I'm willing to listen and learn. "Iron sharpens iron, and one man sharpens another." It's living by my true standard -Ephesians 5:1-2 - I don't have to model any earthly person or social media post. I can rest in the Word of God as my perfect guide and standard. As the Bible says, "Be imitators of me, as I am of Christ. It's not giving up - Ephesians 2:10 - If God doesn't give up on me then I shouldn't either! "For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them." It's letting God work - Philippians 1:6 - I am a work in progress, NOT a failure. God keeps His promise to finish His good work in us! "And I am sure of this, that he who began a good work in you will bring it to completion at the day of Jesus Christ." It's relying on HIS power - Galatians 5:22-23 - It's not about me-power! The Spirit of God living in me yields good fruit. "But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control; against such things there is no law. It's daily life - Proverbs 17:3 - God uses the good, the bad, and even the hard to mold and shape me and deepen my relationship and daily faith. "Fire tests the purity of silver and gold, but the Lord tests the heart." JOIN ME IN PRAYER: Father God, teach me to seek you first in all I do. May the goals I set reflect seeking you first and a heart surrendered to Jesus. Lead, direct, and strengthen me this day. Fill me with self-control and motivation to do the things you call me to do. In Jesus' Name, Amen.

Unhurry Hack: Joyful activities can quickly go overboard when distraction & hurry are at the center of celebrating. Does this season find you groaning or grinning? Holidays are meant to be celebrated, but sometimes the bustle of preparation and festivity can leave us wishing to take a pass instead. What if there was a way to enjoy the merriment without the hurt of hurry? Whether we are celebrating thanksgiving, Christ's birth, or ushering in a new year, there is much to remember and reflect upon during these cooler months. There are many special days worth enjoying! The basic definition of celebrate means "to engage in a joyful activity in appreciation of an event" (Word Hippo). However, if you are like me, engaging and appreciating can quickly go overboard. What if there was a way to enjoy the merriment without the hurt of hurry? To guard my heart this season, I have come up with a list of 10 ways to unhurry the holidays this year and I invite you to join me in with me: 1. LOOK UP & LOOK OUT - When you feel tension to beat the clock, try physically lifting your head. Close the phone, take a deep breath, and notice what is around you. Just this week while scrubbing dishes, I tried this, and my eyes landed on a soft ray of sunshine piercing through my kitchen window. It boosted my spirit and revived me to finish the task at hand. What a wonderful gift God allowed me to enjoy through His creation, and I would have missed it had I stayed intent on rushing to clean up the kitchen. 2. ENJOY THE PROCESS - Here is where chores can become gifts. Repetitive actions found in activities like cooking or crafting, even exercising can be cathartic. So this season when you find yourself chopping, stirring, wrapping, or even addressing a stack of envelopes, try to avoid multitasking and rest in the rhythm of repetition instead. 3. TAKE IN ALL 5 SENSES - In my book Permission to Walk, A 40-Day Journey to Unhurried Peace, I challenge readers to take a "60 second challenge" : Go outside if you can, or at least to a window. Then, for 60 seconds just be still and look at God's creation in nature. What do you see, hear, taste, feel, or even smell? Take note of things like the intricate veins of a leaf or the variety of notes in a bird's song. A minute feels long in our hurried culture today, but slowing down helps us shift our priorities to keep Jesus first. 4. LET GOD'S WORD BE THE FIRST WORD - It is tempting for me to grab my phone first thing in the morning and let the world wake me up, but I find it challenging to fully circle back to God's Word once the daily rush begins. Can you relate? However, when scripture is the first message we allow into our hearts and minds, we get to experience His joy and peace first thing and God's Truth becomes a filter for all other daily input. In the holiday rush, keep a bookmark in your Bible, post-it note with verse written, or keep a devotional book handy for the first few moments of the morning. This leads us to #5 ... 5. SET YOURSELF UP FOR SUCCESS - What do you need to have ready in order to make spending time with God possible during the holidays? Are you traveling? Try keeping scripture cards in your suitcase or make-up bag. Showering or getting ready in the morning may be the only quiet moments you have in a houseful of guests. Jesus stepped away from the crowd to be alone with His Father--we can too! 6. PAUSE TO THANK GOD - We are quick to say thank you as we unwrap and admire our gifts. God is such a Good Father and Good Provider. His grace, mercy, and lavish love are often why we celebrate, but can easily get pushed to the background in a festive flurry. Who/What are you thankful for in your life? What would you say to thank God for who He is and what He has done? Will you join me in an extra challenge to Praise God and thank Him for the hard things in our lives and the many ways He draws us close and reveals His character and promises? God is good! 7. BLESS SOMEONE - Have you noticed that serving others lifts our spirits as well as slowing us down? Try something unexpected like taking a neighbor a loaf of yummy bread, or sending an encouraging note to a friend you haven't seen in a while. Shop for an angel tree or send an extra monetary gift to a missionary. Grab a few friends and sponsor a family in need--some of my favorite memories are volunteering with family and friends. With winter weather approaching, look for opportunities to check on shut-ins and others who may not drive in severe weather. Adding one of their needed items from the store is a great way to pause the rush as well as delivering a smile. Above all, serving allows us to be the hands and feet of Jesus. 8. SAVOR - Whether it is food, music, people, or landscape, pause to intentionally enjoy it. Be present and soak it all in--your gift of presence may be the very thing a friend or family member needs this year. 9. KNOW WHEN TO SAY WHEN - okay, okay the obvious here is our waistline, but in terms of holiday bustle we have permission to say "enough." Sometimes we need to turn down the invitation, buy the store bought version, ask for help. I love the Pinterest version of Thanksgiving and all things Christmas, but I have learned the hard way that our family version is way better--wouldn't you agree? Spills, goofs, and simplicity have a way of making fun-filled memories. 10. BE INTENTIONAL - Reflect on the "why" behind traditions and preparations. Are they necessary or needed? Do they distract from the meaning of day and/or the people we celebrate it with? Or do they glorify God and keep hearts present, joyful, and focused? Make time to pray over distraction and focus this season. Moments of worship scattered throughout our day can help us keep Jesus at the heart of our holiday worship this year. For further reading, check out: INTENTIONAL ADVENT: Enjoying the Better Portion of Christmas and download the free printable advent cards to help you pause & pray this season:

Let this free resource help grow your prayer life. As I read and study the Bible, I find that noting traits and names of God teaches me to lean on His character and promises throughout the month. What a difference it makes to see God at work in our daily lives! Print out a copy and try it out today!

Unhurry Hack: God lifts us out of the places we are stuck. Psalm 40:1-3 “I waited patiently for the LORD to help me, and he turned to me and heard my cry. 2 He lifted me out of the pit of despair, out of the mud and the mire. He set my feet on solid ground and steadied me as I walked along. 3He has given me a new song to sing, a hymn of praise to our God. Many will see what he has done and be amazed. They will put their trust in the LORD.” Every once in a while, God calls us to a new season in life. While sometimes exciting, a new season can be scary, inexperienced, or even undesired. But the starting place for any new season is to seek the Lord. Our key verse assures us that when we do, God hears our prayers. He lifts us up, steadies our feet, and gives us a new song to sing--a hymn of praise. These new songs are evidence of God’s constant work in our life and serve as important markers in our walk with God. But new songs take time. Regardless of the circumstances, God provides solid ground, steadies your feet, and gives you the words to sing. Wait patiently for the lyrics. What is your season? Maybe you are learning a new season with or without someone you love. Maybe you have started a new job or lost an old one. Maybe God has led you to a new ministry area or person to disciple. Perhaps you are in a new place of growth in your relationship with the Lord. Regardless of the circumstances, God provides solid ground, steadies your feet, and gives you the words to sing. Wait patiently for the lyrics. Then, one day in a beautiful lyrical crescendo, you will surprise yourself by doing or saying something that your old self would never have been capable of doing. God lifts us out of the places we are stuck. With daily tenderness, He provides our solid ground. He steadies our feet as we learn how to walk in these new places. Much like teaching a baby to walk, picture the tender nearness between you and your Heavenly Father as He encourages new steps and steadies your wobbling feet. Day-by-day talk and listen to God in prayer. Read His message to you in the Bible. Lean into Jesus for strength and direction. Then, one day in a beautiful lyrical crescendo, you will surprise yourself by doing or saying something that your old self would never have been capable of doing. It is at that moment you realize that you are singing a new song God has given you to sing in this season-and it becomes a hymn of praise. Sing it for all to hear! May others see your story and learn to trust in Jesus. Join me in prayer: Father, thank you for hearing my cry. Help me learn another word today to the new song you are teaching me this season. Lift me up and steady me. Help me be brave and try new things as I trust and follow you. May others see my life and hear my song, and may they be encouraged to put their trust in you too Jesus! In Jesus Name, Amen.

UNHURRY HACK: Make time for discipleship. Who in your life has nurtured your spiritual growth? A parent or grandparent? Perhaps there were others in your life who “spiritually” raised you and shepherded you. God carefully tucks these men and women into the background of our story, leading you and I to the places we are today. Check out 5 ways to honor people who nudge us to Jesus (see below). FIRST READ Matthew 21:1-5 (NIV) : As they approached Jerusalem and came to Bethphage on the Mount of Olives, Jesus sent two disciples, saying to them, “Go to the village ahead of you, and at once you will find a donkey tied there, with her colt by her. Untie them and bring them to me. If anyone says anything to you, say that the Lord needs them, and he will send them right away.” This took place to fulfill what was spoken through the prophet: “Say to Daughter Zion, ‘See, your king comes to you, gentle and riding on a donkey, and on a colt, the foal of a donkey.’” A colt--the foal of a donkey. In human terms, this was a baby boy. And this baby boy, so to speak, had been chosen on this Kingdom day to carry the Messiah, who came as a baby boy also humbly born in a manger stall. Words of prophecy were fulfilled as Christ prepared to enter Jerusalem as her King (Zechariah 9:9). Tucked into the background of this moment, there is a sweet picture of motherhood. Tucked into the background of this moment, there is a sweet picture of motherhood. Jesus sends two disciples to retrieve both donkey and colt. Notice the tender language used in verse 2, “with her colt by her,” and “the Lord needs them.” Verses 6-10 further tell that the disciples did as they were commanded, bringing the donkey and colt to Jesus, then spread their garments over the colt for Jesus to ride. Mama donkey is not mentioned in the other gospel accounts, but we are blessed here with a precious detail and encouragement for all who shepherd little ones. Matthew, a former tax collector, would have been conditioned to record details, especially those concerning personal property. God certainly wastes nothing in our life for His glory and our ultimate good! As this colt prepared to toddle down crowded and unfamiliar streets, his mama would be by his side. This mama would nudge her little one to honor and obey Jesus. She would model for him the way to follow Jesus’ commands. She would teach this little one about humble serving. Her presence would reassure him, guide him, and comfort him in the presence of loud voices and waving palm branches while Jesus made his regal entrance. Raising and shepherding children of all ages can be tiring and thankless. And to the mothers, teachers, and mentors, be encouraged today! While it feels routine at times to be tucked into the background story of our little ones, God is doing big things for big days on His Kingdom calendar through our small daily nudges. Keep pointing them to Jesus! Make time for discipleship. Whether you are discipling children or your peers, the moments we spend teaching others how to follow Jesus is valuable! In our fast-paced world it is tempting to think we don't have time. In our look-at-me world, it is easy to think we don't measure up. In our hard-to-impress world, it feels like we need big programs and credentials. In reality, a willing heart is all it takes. With sincerity and intentionality, we can nudge others to Jesus while we are learning to do the same. ...a willing heart is all it takes. Thank those who've nudged you. May this account in Matthew encourage us to say thank you to mothers who discipled us. And perhaps there were others in your life who “spiritually” raised you and shepherded you. God carefully tucked these men and women into the background of your story, leading you to the place where you are today. Who in your life has nurtured your walk and nudged you to Jesus? 5 ways we can honor people who nudge us to Jesus: THANK - Write a note telling her about the difference she made in your life. TREAT - Invite her to coffee or other small gesture to enjoy her company. TELL - Sharing your testimony of your spiritual growth not only honors her, but may encourage others to do the same. TRAIN - Become a mentor. Use what you have learned from her and continue making disciples. TAKE AFTER JESUS - This is the ultimate way to honor anyone who disciples us--let your life reflect Jesus! JOIN ME IN PRAYER: Father God, thank you for the many people you have woven into the background of my story in order to teach me Your Story. Show me “little colts” in this world who need to be nudged to Jesus. Teach me how to point them to Your love and grace. May I serve you with a joyful heart in the routine-ness of my day today. In Jesus Name, amen.

UNHURRY HACK: God meets us in our weariness and provides true nourishment and rest. First read 1 Kings 19:5-7 Key Verse: Then the angel of the Lord came again and touched him and said, “Get up and eat some more, or the journey ahead will be too much for you.” 1 Kings 19:7 I love naps, but I sure do fight them. In many ways I am still the toddler who has 100 reasons for not resting when it's time. It feels good to sleep, so why is it so hard to meet this most basic need of the body? Here are 5 areas adults fight nap time: Fear of missing out - Everyone else is going full steam ahead. I should too. Guilt - Naps are for lazy people. No time - There are things to do and so little time. Value other things - I think I'll watch a movie or scroll through social media instead. Denial - I'm not really tired, I just need some more caffeine. And there are likely more! God values our worth ethic, but it's easy to forget, He also values our commitment to rest. It's a reminder I need daily. After the completion of a huge ministry project, I found myself depleted. I was physically exhausted, brain tired, and emotionally spent. This all seemed to bleed into my spiritual well-being too. I needed God's Word, but my eyes only fluttered. I needed conversation with God, but my prayers only trailed off in weary thought. My house needed cleaning, new projects needed starting, and it was time to catch up with my friends and family, but it would all have to wait. My body was crying out for rest. I knew from previous years that this annual project would wear me out, but somehow I had once again underestimated the full toll it would take on me. Likewise, I had neglected to plan for my needed recovery. I love people, but as an introvert, I know that time alone is an important piece of my recharge. Was I listening to God's instructions for nurturing my body? The body He intricately wove together and knows more about than even I do? The enemy wants us to feel failure and so my body fought each of the 5 areas listed above. But the Holy Spirit faithfully reminded me that rest is being a good steward to a tired and spent body. The Bible is full of wisdom and instruction about needed rest. Here is one of my favorites. These words are spoken to Elijah in the Old Testament, and they still minister to us today. Then he lay down and slept under the broom tree. But as he was sleeping, an angel touched him and told him, “Get up and eat!” He looked around and there beside his head was some bread baked on hot stones and a jar of water! So he ate and drank and lay down again. 1 Kings 19:5-6 Elijah had different circumstances than us today, but God met him in his weariness and provided nourishment and rest, so he could refuel get back to serving God. It wasn't time to give up, it was time to rest up! The same is true for you and me. With that wisdom, Gradually, I closed the laundry room door. Not today. Gradually, I closed my laptop. Not today. Gradually, I put away recipe books and shopping lists. Not today. I ordered pizza, grabbed a book, and put comfy pants on. I cleared the day, rested, and napped. It was good and necessary. Then the angel of the Lord came again and touched him and said, “Get up and eat some more, or the journey ahead will be too much for you.” 1 Kings 19:7 Don't you love how God knows just what we need? Oh that we would listen and receive His nurture and care. Lord, teach us to value sleep at night, healthy rhythms of activity, and restful pauses in our day. The Bible says plenty about avoiding laziness, and this can be hard to justify rest. Yet, read in context we see wisdom in avoiding a foolish life without self-discipline and responsibility. For example, Proverbs 6:6 says: Take a lesson from the ants, you lazybones. Learn from their ways and become wise! Rest is a blessing. Psalm 4:8 reminds us: "In peace I will lie down and sleep, for you alone LORD, make me dwell in safety. Psalm 127:2 says, It is useless for you to work so hard from early morning until late at night, anxiously working for food to eat; for God gives rest to his loved ones. Romans 12:11 reminds us that adequately resting our body allows us to love, serve, and enjoy God well: "Never be lazy, but work hard and serve the Lord enthusiastically." Is God calling you to a nap today? Consider the rest your body needs today. Are you recovering from a big event, project, or even an illness? Rest is a blessing. Then consider daily needs. Am I staying up too late or am I giving my body the rest it needs? JOIN ME IN PRAYER: Father God, I thank you for rest. It feels good to live with a healthy body, but I can't do it on my own. I confess my need of self-discipline and self-control. Holy Spirit, cultivate these in me, minister, and teach me to make wise choices daily for my body. It is Your temple Lord. In Jesus' Name I pray, Amen.

UNHURRY HACK: Distracted by the shiny lure of the world around us, it is easy to think we need something better than God’s best. First read: Psalm 101 and 1 Samuel 12 Key verse: 1 Samuel 12:20 “Don’t be afraid,” Samuel reassured them. “You have certainly done wrong, but make sure now that you worship the Lord with all your heart, and don’t turn your back on him. Gosh, we mean well. Yet, oh how we miss the mark. And sometimes, we just fall off the mark completely and go our own way. Distracted by the shiny lure of the world around us, it is easy to think we need something better than God’s best. Praise the Lord, our big mistakes are not greater than our Big God! God loves His children, and that includes you and me and every other follower of Christ today. One of many displays of His great love and mercy can be found in 1 Samuel 12. The Israelites want a human king to lead them, totally disregarding the fact that they already have the perfect King. The people refused to listen to Samuel. “No!” they said. “We must have a king over us. Then we’ll be like all the other nations: our king will judge us, go out before us, and fight our battles.” (1 Samuel 8:19-20) Samuel (whom God had called as a prophet and judge) warns them, takes their request to God, and tells them: “you said to me, ‘No, we must have a king reign over us’--even though the Lord your God is your king.” (1 Samuel 12:12) ...EVEN THOUGH THE LORD YOUR GOD IS YOUR KING Don’t these words pierce your heart? How many requests have you and I made that disregard God’s perfect provision? How many times do we let the world dictate our needs? How many times do I forget and trust in what I can only see? God allows them to have a King. The Israelites may have only had selfish reasons, but God had a plan all along to rescue His people. “At this time tomorrow I will send you a man from the land of Benjamin. Anoint him ruler over my people Israel. He will save them from the Philistines because I have seen the affliction of my people, for their cry has come to me.” (1 Samuel 9:16) Saul is anointed king, but in the face of trouble he acts foolishly and disobeys God (1 Samuel 13:13-14). This leads to God appointing David as the new ruler and king and also the family line through which Jesus would be born. God’s perfect plan always prevails. His mercies are unending. Thanks be to God that even when we make mistakes or foolish decisions, it is not the end. Samuel counsels God’s people of this and we are wise to listen today: Samuel replied, “Don’t be afraid. Even though you have committed all this evil, don’t turn away from following the Lord. Instead, worship the Lord with all your heart. Don’t turn away to follow worthless things that can’t profit or rescue you; they are worthless. The Lord will not abandon his people, because of his great name and because he has determined to make you his own people. (1 Samuel 12: 20-22) Samuel then promises to pray for them and he admonishes all the people to fear the LORD, worship with all their heart, and consider all the things God has done already in their past. (1 Samuel 13:23-24) Thankfully our big mistakes are not bigger than our Great God! So the next time we find ourselves in the face of a foolish mistake: DON’T turn away from following the Lord. Instead worship Him with ALL your heart. DO turn away from worthless things that can’t save us. God never leaves us! He loves you and me by His great name and by His covenant love! Read Psalm 101 and let it guide your prayer today for a renewed heart and focus to worship God with all of your heart. Verses 2-3 state: I will live with a heart of integrity in my house. I will not let anything worthless guide me. Join me in prayer today: Open the eyes of my heart, Jesus YOU are the world’s perfect Lord and King! Open the eyes of my heart, Jesus YOU are my perfect Lord and King! Unhurry our hearts today, that we may worship you! Amen

UNHURRY HACK: God doesn’t just enable us to do something for Him--He changes our heart to do it with Him! FIRST READ: 1 Corinthians 13:1-3 (NIV) The fresh start to a new year is often a time of reflection and goal setting, but also a time to restart good habits and spiritual disciplines in our life. January can feel a bit like a coach calling you back into the game after a sluggish season of sitting on the bench. Your mindset is ready to train hard and make plays. And while goals and discipline can be healthy, in order to stay in the game this year in your spiritual growth, love is essential. 1 Corinthians 13 reminds us to let God’s love motivate our attitudes and actions. We can do lots of really great things for God, but without love, they just become noisy things we do for our self instead. I can remember years of feeling frustrated with inconsistency in my daily quiet time with God. In all honesty, at that time reading my Bible felt more like a chore on my to-do list. And then, it donned on me one day that I was making this “chore” all about me and my schedule, instead of my love for God. I can remember asking God to change my heart and to help me want to read His Word. Out of that honest and simple prayer, has come many seasons of love and joy in consistently meeting with my Savior through the pages of His Word. That is the kind of God we serve! He doesn’t just enable us to do something for Him--He changes our heart to do it with Him! Want to develop a consistent time to meet with God daily? Try these 5 habit - building steps to develop routine: PRAY and ask God for help & desire- He wants to meet with you too! LOCATE a comfortable place with minimal distraction. GATHER the items that you will want to have with you ahead of time. For example, the night before set out your Bible, journal, pen, blanket, etc. PLAN your time. I like to begin by reading a Psalm, then a passage from the New and Old Testaments followed by a time of prayer. While God's Word always speaks to us, being intentional rather than random in reading the Bible helps build understanding & interest. ENJOY your time with God. Listen, love, and learn as the Holy Spirit guides you. Rather than a checklist, embrace the mindset of savoring this time. In the early Corinthian church, Paul had identified a lack of love in their motivation for serving God. They struggled with pride and felt certain spiritual gifts were better than others. Paul explained that their actions were empty because they lacked God’s kind of love, Agape love. Jesus embodied Agape love and calls us to put this love into action in our life today. Another word for this love in action is charity. In today’s language, we often limit the use of the word “charity” to our outward actions of doing goodwill, like giving money or donating canned goods or old clothes. But this passage calls us not only to serve, but to empty out our self and fill our attitudes and actions with Jesus. As a result, we begin to love and serve like Jesus did (even to our enemies), and our spiritual gifts begin to effectively build up the Church, the body of Christ. Spending intentional time with God daily and responding in obedience with love and action go hand in hand. Think of it as filling a pitcher and then pouring it out! Emptying out self and filling our attitudes and actions with Jesus helps us love and serve like He did. Are there areas in your spiritual life that are just noise? How do you want to grow this year? Don’t just set a goal, go to the source-God Himself! As believers, the Spirit of God indwells in us and empowers us to display His characteristics. Ask God to change your heart. Ask God to cultivate your spiritual gifts and use them for His glory! Seek God first in all areas of your life, and let Him show you how to actively live out His Agape love. Let love be your motivation! JOIN ME IN PRAYER: Father God, fill me with Your love. Reveal to me any attitudes or actions that are driven by myself rather active love for You and others. Empty me of selfishness and grow me more like Jesus each day. In Jesus Name, Amen.

UNHURRY HACK: Moments of worship scattered throughout our day can keep Jesus at the heart of our holiday worship this year. FIRST READ: Luke 10 Verse focus - (Luke 10:38-42) ENJOYING THE BETTER PORTION OF CHRISTMAS... I’m always amazed how quickly Christmas Day comes and goes each year. Shortly after August we begin to see red and green signal flares of retail reminding us to start getting ready for the big day. It seems like stores announce the start to the holiday season earlier and earlier each year. And yet, I routinely celebrate Christmas wondering if I am prepared. How is this possible? We have the ability to prepare for weeks if not months, and yet we can still feel a tug that something is lacking. Deep down I think our heart knows that no shiny décor, BOGO sale, or savory Pinterest recipe can ready us for worship. Have you been there too? It can leave us stuck somewhere between bows and boxes with a heart crying out for more. Something deeper. Something better... Perhaps somewhere along the way, have we let store shelves become our advent? While meaningful traditions and celebrations help us countdown to Christmas, they can also keep us preoccupied. By the time December 25th finally rolls around, sometimes we can hardly enjoy it. At my house, the many days of planning, shopping, wrapping, and baking can easily be consumed in a brief morning. Hours of planning often go into our celebrations of this blessed day, and while it is fun and memory-making, it can be easy to let details derail us from true purpose. Is there is a better portion of Christmas just behind the veil of our to-do lists? The Lord taught a woman named Martha about the heart of this kind of preparation while visiting her house one day. If we lean in and listen, we too will find rest and focus as we prepare for our Savior. Luke 10 tells of two excited sisters: "Now as they went on their way, Jesus entered a village. And a woman named Martha welcomed him into her house. And she had a sister called Mary, who sat at the Lord's feet and listened to his teaching. But Martha was distracted with much serving. And she went up to him and said, “Lord, do you not care that my sister has left me to serve alone? Tell her then to help me.” (Luke 10:38-40). Mary was excited to sit at Jesus’ feet and listen as he taught. Mary was excited to serve. Both perhaps started with heart of worship, but distraction carried Mary away. When Mary confronted him about her sister’s lack of help, Jesus spoke to all of us. “But the Lord answered her, ‘Martha, Martha, you are anxious and troubled about many things, but one thing is necessary. Mary has chosen the good portion, which will not be taken away from her.” (Luke 10:41-42). I can certainly identify with Martha here, I mean, that Christmas dinner doesn’t cook itself. However, a few words catch my eye like my own reflection in a mirror. Jesus explains that Martha was anxious and troubled in her serving. She was fretting over the details and workload. Her serving had consumed her. Yikes! How many times have I let the details of preparation and hospitality consume me? Distraction is a subtle tactic of the enemy, and he uses anything he can to get our eyes off of God, even our recipes and serving platters. No one wants to be stuck at the sink while friends and family gather in the next room. Yet, with a heart focused on worship, these less glamorous moments of serving can become treasured moments to worship. Colossians 3:23-24 reminds us, “whatever you do, work heartily, as for the Lord and not for men, knowing that from the Lord you will receive the inheritance as your reward. You are serving the Lord Christ.” Perhaps both Mary and Martha both had the opportunity to serve the Lord in their own intentional ways, but Mary is the one who kept her heart focused on worship. This Christmas there will be treasured moments of sitting and listening, and there will be moments of service. We can do both at the feet of Jesus. Intentional advent is about a balance of activity and keeping our focus on Jesus. It is about following the star of Bethlehem. And the angel said to them, “Fear not, for behold, I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people. For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord. And this will be a sign for you: you will find a baby wrapped in swaddling cloths and lying in a manger.” And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God and saying, “Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace among those with whom he is pleased!” When the angels went away from them into heaven, the shepherds said to one another, “Let us go over to Bethlehem and see this thing that has happened, which the Lord has made known to us.” (Luke 2:10-15). Like the shepherds, intentional advent is about letting the long awaited Savior of the world interrupt our daily routine. It’s about awe and wonder. It’s about purposeful, focused moments of worshipping God. This Christmas set aside time to remember who Jesus is and why he came to earth. Fully God and fully man, the long awaited Messiah still deserves our pause and presence in the big and small moments of our day. The word Advent means “Coming” in Latin and ushers in the celebration of the birth our Savior Jesus Christ. These four weeks leading up to Christmas Day are intended to prepare our hearts for worship and remembrance of the true meaning of Christmas—the birth of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. “…Behold, the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world!” John 1:29 Whether it is getting up 5 minutes earlier, keeping sticky notes with scripture in places around the home that we typically work, or setting aside a special coffee date alone with and Jesus, moments of worship scattered throughout our day can keep Jesus at the heart of our holiday worship this year. In addition, I have found that the tradition of the advent wreath is an excellent tradition to weekly reset my heart in the days leading up to Christmas. While advent wreaths can be purchased, a simple piece of garland or an evergreen bough can also do the trick. If you prefer freshly cut Christmas trees, this is a great way to use those branches that undoubtedly need trimming once the tree is brought inside. Sometimes tree farms will even trim them for you or sell bundles of boughs to use for decoration. The greenery symbolizes everlasting life and the ring points to God’s unending love. Great gift idea for this year! Again Jesus spoke to them, saying, “I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will not walk in darkness, but will have the light of life.” (John 8:12). Five candles are then typically placed within the wreath. A large white candle is placed in the center of the wreath and is lit on Christmas Day to honor the birth of Jesus. Surrounding the white candle are four smaller candles (three purple and one pink candle) signifying hope, love, joy, and peace. Make time this advent season to pray over distraction and focus this season, using these verses as an opportunity to prepare your heart for the worship and celebration of the birth of Christ. On the four Sundays leading up to Christmas Day, though variations exist, advent candles are often lit in this order: Week 1 – light a purple candle: Hope This candle reminds us of the promise of the Messiah foretold by the prophets. A verse to meditate: For to us a child is born, to us a son is given; and the government shall be upon his shoulder, and his name shall be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. (Isaiah 9:6). Pause to pray: Thank you God that you keep your promises. I am reminded that your Word is always true and faithful. Every single day I can place my trust in your unchanging promises. Amen. Week 2 – light a purple candle: Love This candle reminds us of God’s great love. This candle reminds us of the work that Jesus did on earth preparing hearts to be reconciled with God by His love and grace. A verse to meditate: “For God so loved the world,[a] that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life. (John 3:16) Pause to Pray: Dear God, thank you for sending Your One and Only Son Jesus to die on the cross for my sins. Only by your great work on this cross am I made right with God. Thank you for saving me by your grace and love. Amen. Week 3 – light a pink candle: Joy This candle points us to praise and worship. Joy to the world! A verse to meditate: When they saw the star, they rejoiced exceedingly with great joy. And going into the house, they saw the child with Mary his mother, and they fell down and worshiped him. Then, opening their treasures, they offered him gifts, gold and frankincense and myrrh. (Matthew 2:10-11). Pause to pray: God you are worthy of all my worship. You are King of Kings and Lord of Lords. Lord of my life, mold and shape me, and lead me in Your perfect way. Amen Week 4 – light a purple candle: peace This candle point us to the hope and promise of everlasting peace. A verse to meditate: “Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will among men. (Luke 2:14). Pause to pray: Dear God, only in Christ can I find perfect and everlasting peace. Thank you for the promise perfect eternal peace and daily peace as I dwell in your presence. Help me share the hope and peace of the gospel message to the world around me. Amen Christmas Day – light a white candle: Christ This candle reminds us of the birth of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. A verse to meditate: And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us, and we have seen his glory, glory as of the only Son from the Father, full of grace and truth (John 1:14). Pause to pray: Dear God let my heart worship you daily. Mold and shape me and teach me to walk daily with you Jesus. Amen. Join me in praying: A PRAYER FOR INTENTIONAL ADVENT: Dear Lord, like Mary I want to listen and sit at your feet, and like Mary I want a servant heart. Create in me a heart of worship to serve you in both. Make me aware of the moments of holiday bustle that I become distracted and anxious. I want to experience the better portion of Christmas. Bring me back to a heart focused on you Jesus. Amen.

UNHURRY HACK: It’s hard to grumble and give thanks to God at the same time. FIRST READ: Colossians 3 Featured passage: Colossians 3:15-17 (ESV) verse 15 And let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, to which indeed you were called in one body. And be thankful. verse 16 Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly, teaching and admonishing one another in all wisdom, singing psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, with thankfulness in your hearts to God. verse 17 And whatever you do, in word or deed, do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him. Don't rush those verses...linger with me here in the life-giving words of this passage: Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts...be thankful Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly...with thankfulness in your heart Let all you do be done in the name of Jesus...giving thanks to God Thankfulness spills over and fills out our attitudes and actions when let Jesus be the center of our life. But sometimes the "letting" part is hard to do! In our fast-paced world today hurry often rules, distraction dwells, and we end up doing everything in the name of rushing to the next task. Oh that we would set our minds on the things above instead as it says in Colossians 3:3. Unhurry my heart Lord to dwell in your purpose and presence today Jesus. It’s hard to grumble and give thanks to God at the same time. There is something about thankfulness that changes our perspective and lifts our spirit. When we trust God and are grateful and appreciative of His ways - His character - and His promises, then thankfulness becomes the lens through which we view our world. Wise King Solomon said in Proverbs 12:22 that “A joyful heart is good medicine, but a crushed spirit dries up the bones.” The Message, by Eugene Peterson says it like this, “A cheerful disposition is good for your health; gloom and doom leave you bone-tired” (Proverbs 12:22 MSG). Isn’t that so true? It only takes one look around our fast pace society to see the toll that stress, worry, anxiety, and constant striving takes on our bodies. In addition, we are plagued with information overload, a constant demand for our immediate attention, and an endless to-do list. People today are exhausted more now than ever! Getting to know God leaves us awestruck and overwhelmed with love instead! Daily, our mind, body, and spirit needs to focus on what God says for us. OUR PERSPECTIVE MATTERS: When we are focused on difficult circumstances or on the hustle and bustle of daily life, our perspective quickly shifts downward and we begin to wear down. In this state, it doesn’t take long to feel all dried up and bone-tired. We are wise to take Solomon’s advice and live with a joyful heart. And, thankfulness is a great way to put our eyes back on the joy of Christ in our life. But how? The best way to rehydrate our heart daily is with the Living Water of Jesus Christ. Do you spend time drinking from this well daily? Our bodies needs to drink water and daily our hearts needs to drink in God's Word. In both cases, when we don't our bodies begin to feel more and more thirsty. When we read our Bible we aren't just studying a book, we are getting to know God. The Bible is helpful, instructive, protective, nourishing, directing, comforting, encouraging, guiding...just to name a few! Billy Graham once said, "The very practice of reading [The Bible] will have a purifying effect upon your mind and heart. Let nothing take place of this daily exercise." I agree! When we make time to read the Bible, the Living Word of God literally hydrates and nourishes us. When we spend time just being still and enjoying time with God, His peace washes over us which leads to praise and thankfulness. Do you let the peace of Christ rule in your heart? Or do you let the stress of life call the shots for the day? "Let your roots grow down into him, and let your lives be built on him. Then your faith will grow strong in the truth you were taught, and you will overflow with thankfulness." Colossians 2:7 WHAT IF WE LIVED OUT THANKFULNESS EACH DAY? We are called in the body of Christ to live representative of Him. What if we lived out thankfulness each day? What if our words and conversation were rich in thoughtfulness and encouragement? What if we spoke with the wisdom and hope of Jesus? What a powerful body we would be in a dark world. As Solomon reminds us, gloom and doom has always been around, and the world still searches for hope. When we choose to focus on God rather than grumble, we offer hope to the world around us, not to mention the good medicine that joy brings to our own heart and well-being. Let the message about Christ, in all its richness, fill your lives. Teach and counsel each other with all the wisdom he gives. Sing psalms and hymns and spiritual songs to God with thankful hearts. And whatever you do or say, do it as a representative of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks through him to God the Father. Colossians 3:16-17 (NLT) Are you worn down today? Drink in His Word. Sing praises. Tell God what you are thankful for. When the peace of Christ rules in our heart, every detail of what we do in word or action begins to overflow with God’s love and joy, because rather than circumstances, our joy is found in Jesus Christ. As we build our life on Him, our praise and thankfulness will overflow. Will your attitude speak a message of Jesus today? Will you choose to live out thankfulness? JOIN ME IN PRAYER TODAY: Dear Lord, You are worthy of all praise and glory. Thank you for loving me and for dying on the cross for my sins. Teach me to have a thankful heart and to be rooted in You alone. Remind me of Your Word and Your goodness, Your creation, Your promises and Your blessings. May this be my attitude today and every day. In Jesus Name, Amen.

Unhurry Hack: Human emotions and desires will lead us to follow the wrong voice, but there is rescue and rest in God’s Truth and Hope. First Read John 10 Feature verse: John 10:11 “ I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep.” Are you prone to wander like I am? Oh how we like to wander off to follow worry, rebellion, hurt, and confusion…even laziness. One of the scariest experiences I ever had as a small child was the moment I realized I was lost. I can remember standing in the middle of our local shopping mall paralyzed somewhere between a large fountain and the food court. Alone and vulnerable, I realized that I had followed the wrong yellow skirt out of the department store where my parents and I had been shopping. Moments later, I began to hear my name called and saw my mother in her brightly colored skirt and my father running towards me. I was finally back in the arms of safety. Though I am an adult now and no longer in my parents full care and watch, I am reminded often that I am still prone to wander. We have a Shepherd who knows our name (John 10:3) Praise be to God that we have a Good Shepherd! We have sheep-like hearts that need regular guidance and protection. Oh how we like to wander off to follow worry, rebellion, hurt, and confusion…even laziness. It’s scary to look up and realize we’ve strayed or find ourselves in a landscape of thoughts that lack any sight of Jesus. In these moments our Great Shepherd feels distant, but He’s not. He’s calling us back to His side even now. Our Good Shepherd loves us, sees us, and cares for us every single day, and no one but Jesus Christ could ever fill that perfect role. Just think of some of the shepherds listed in the Bible: Abraham, Jacob, Moses, David, and even the prophet Amos. While they were all great at leading flocks and following God’s call, they were fallible and susceptible to sin. They broke promises, they doubted and lost their temper, and they acted selfishly and foolishly at times. Ultimately, their understanding was only human sized. They could never fully rescue and redeem, nor could they love with God-sized grace and mercy. Jesus says of himself in John 10:11, “I am the good shepherd.” Praise be to God, our Lord and Savior not only came to this earth fully man; He came fully God ready to lay down His life for the sheep. He is still the Shepherd who leads us beside still waters (Psalm 23) and the One who braves the wild to rescue the lost (Matthew 18:12). Do you have a wandering heart today? There is no substitute for Christ’s life-giving call. Human emotions and desires will lead us to follow the wrong voice, but there is rescue and rest in God’s Truth and Hope. It is so good to be found by Jesus. How will you respond to His voice today? JOIN ME IN PRAYER TODAY: Father God, lead me back to your side today. In my moments of pain, feelings, or despair, help me hear Your voice and listen to Your Truth. You alone are the balm and care my spirit needs today. In Jesus Name, Amen. “If a man has a hundred sheep and one of them wanders away, what will he do? Won’t he leave the ninety-nine others on the hills and go out to search for the one that is lost? --Matthew 18:12

Unhurry Hack: We can rest in the peace of trusting God daily. First Read Isaiah 41, verse focus: Isaiah 41:10 Do not fear, for I am with you; do not be afraid, for I am your God. I will strengthen you; I will help you; I will hold on to you with my righteous right hand. --Isaiah 41:10 (CSB) My head may know things, but sometimes my heart lags behind. In the emotion and worry that come with new seasons of life and new experiences, I find that I need constant reminders that God is near—that He is near to me and near to the people in my prayers. Back to school time is fun and exciting, but also a little weary as we send our kids out the door and into the world. With two children heading off to college this week and a high schooler that’s a new driver, my mama heart has needed reassurance that God is with them. Isaiah 41:10 tells us why we can rest in the peace of trust. I will hold on to you with my righteous right hand. What a safe place to live out our days! Your Word tells me that, · You are with me. · You are my God. · You strengthen me. · You are my help. · You hold on to me. Thank you Jesus. We can pray these truths over the people in our life as well. When my children were young, the safest place for them to be in unfamiliar or unsafe surroundings was holding mom or dad’s hand. This verse is a beautiful reminder that they still have a protective hand leading them even when their mother and father aren’t present. I find that I need constant reminders that God is near—that He is near to me and near to the people in my prayers. If you are like me, I can easily concoct 100 what-ifs and worst-case scenarios when I let my mind wander into the wilderness of worry. Yet God tells us, Do not fear, for I am with you; do not be afraid, for I am your God. This verse is a wonderful reminder that it is God himself who helps us. He really hears. He really responds. He really helps. The letting go is hard for a lot of things in life, and this visible image of God’s mighty and victorious grip is reassuring. It helps us to both trust and entrust. God is not telling us to ignore reality or to avoid our concerns, but to be wise and direct these thoughts straight to prayer and into His care. Praying scripture is a powerful way to disempower the enemy, both in the world around us and in our own thought-life. The Bible tells us to take our thoughts captive to obey Christ and when stray thoughts enter our mind we can speak God’s Word over each one in prayer. I often have to ask God to remind me to do this, and that is a powerful place to start when we are having trouble letting go. "We use God’s mighty weapons, not worldly weapons, to knock down the strongholds of human reasoning and to destroy false arguments. We destroy every proud obstacle that keeps people from knowing God. We capture their rebellious thoughts and teach them to obey Christ." -- 2 Corinthians 10:4-5 (New Living Translation) Does your mind ever wander in the wilderness of worry? God is faithful to counsel and remind us through the Holy Spirit. Are you experiencing any fear or anxiety today? What is one area of your life that needs more trust in God? Who does your heart need to entrust in God’s care today? JOIN ME IN PRAYER TODAY: Father God, you are my refuge and mighty to save. In obedience, I surrender my fear and worry at the cross today. You tell me not to be afraid and so choosing to sit in my fear and worry is disobedience. Today, I surrender my thoughts about _______. Instead, I put my trust in you Jesus. Thank you for your faithful care, watch, and protective hand. In Jesus Name I pray, Amen.