Photo by Jacki Drexler on Unsplash

We live in a world of productivity.

So much of what we do is measured by outputs, achievements and sales. We are constantly trying to rise to the top, reach a new height and outpace everyone else.

Ask someone how they are these days, and you’ll likely get some form of, “Things are good, but I’m busy.” Busy at work and at home and constantly trying to keep up in a rapidly changing world. 

We are busy being busy. 

It impacts me so much that sometimes I can even measure my prayer and time spent with the Lord based on how much I get out of it or how much I accomplish.

I can sometimes be scared to slow down. I compare myself to others, how busy they are and all the ‘good’ things they are doing. 

But actually, what good comes from being busy? Being a busybody!

So much doing. Not enough being. 

Filling our lives and our calendars with so many things that keep us busy pulls us away from sitting with Jesus. 

And it makes me wonder: can I be effectively productive without taking time for rest?

In a world marked by rushing, productivity and busyness, the Christian is marked by their ability to slow down. To rest in the Lord.

And those times of slowing down or ‘bench sitting’ are still productive times. We may not be accomplishing anything in the eyes of the world, and we may not feel like we accomplished a whole lot in one day. But with God, we are accomplishing a whole lot.

The bench is a period of rest; it is a time of preparation. It is a time to draw near to the Lord in order to catch His word and His vision. Doing the Lord’s will is of the utmost importance for the Christian. Only by resting with Him can we come to know Him and what His plans are for us.

So get out your calendar. And today, or this week, find some time for rest. Find some time to sit on the bench with Jesus. Allow Him to minister to you and fuel your journey. 

Patrick is a beloved son of the Father who desires to use his gifts to build up the Kingdom of God. You can read more of his writing on his blog.