Article originally published at KingdomEdgeMag.com

I would’ve never classified myself as a “Do-er”. You know them. The people who have an invisible inner drive to work and achieve. Not me.

For as long as I can remember my mom has reminded me that I’m the type that needs time to stare at the clouds drifting by. I remember hours spent day dreaming or reading as a child. Even now I can be completely captivated by fresh blooms or watching the grass blow in the wind.

But somewhere along the way of adulting and parenting, I must’ve transitioned into a do-er because I find myself occupied from the first alarm (or before if I’ve woken early due to stress) until I fall into bed that night.

This spring season feels especially that way – with outdoor gardening beckoning me to leave abundant work projects at my desk, kids busy sports and extracurricular schedules, and all the family togetherness intentions we have for our family.

With no lull in the activity, I can get feeling disconnected from the Source of Life.

So I’ve been observing what I call the “spiritual practice of sitting”.

Here’s what it looks like for me:

  • Sunday afternoons/evenings
  • Maybe with a book
  • Convenience foods for the family
  • No appointments or email
  • Sometimes a nap
  • In winter I’m snuggled by the fire, in summer I’m lounging on the patio

Sounds indulgent, right?

If not, the good news is that my description isn’t a legalistic prescription. You can adapt the practice to whatever best helps you slow down and connect with God.

But it is distinctly different than “putting myself in time out” or being “off-duty” because its done with an awareness of God’s nearness and involvement in my life. Its not just me checking out for a while.

Before talking about how to practice sitting, let me just say the prerequisite is you must defend your space fiercely.

I’m not saying don’t let anyone else in the room with you. Not at all! But you may have to defend your intention. Thats where the prep work might come in – for me that’s having convenience foods in the freezer. The kids feel like its a treat and can prepare the food on their own. I can stay sitting. Defending your time also requires your own mindset to shift. Let yourself off the hook. This investment in your own soul is worth it.

Continue Reading three key elements to make the practice of sitting meaningful…