In thinking about my “downtime” I think I do what the typical guy that has been married over 5 years with kids does. After a day of work I usually like to go home click on the TV, hang out with my wife and kids, eat some food, usually unhealthy stuff, and then knock out by 10 or 11 PM. Get up the next day and do it all over again. This has been my usually rhythm for years. It is compounded even more on the weekends. The difference is I usually go out to places with my family like the movies, Disneyland, LEGOLAND, etc. What I typically find is that my “downtime” has been making me even more tired. Even though I am a pastor I have found that my “downtime” is probably not much different than anyone else. But, I believe as a Christian my “downtime” should be different.

PSALM 1:1-3

Blessed is the one who does not walk in step with the wicked or stand in the way that sinners take or sit in the company of mockers, but whose delight is in the law of the LORD, and who meditates on his law day and night. That person is like a tree planted by streams of water, which yields its fruit in season and whose leaf does not wither –whatever they do prospers.

I’m coming into 10 year of being ministry. It has been a mixture of church ministry and international ministry. Through this experience I have learned a lot. I know that I still have a lot to learn though. I believe one of the greatest principles that I am currently learning is the idea of meditating on God’s law day and night. Even though I am a pastor and have been in ministry for a little while it is easy to get caught up in tasks, projects, and even people. The reality is I should be more focused on connecting with God through immersing myself in the Word. Lately I really have been taking more time to read the word, and listen to it. When I’m working out, driving to work, coming, and going. I am actually making a conscience effort to immerse myself in the Word of God on a more consistent basis. I have actually felt a greater sense of comfort, rest, and renewal by making this simple correction in my “downtime”.

By making this correction I’m finding my love for God increase and hopefully my love for people is too! I’m finding that I have more energy, I am more refreshed, my attitude is better (hopefully) and most importantly I am not worried as much about the “stuff” in life! I would say that I am a newbie at this but it has been a great experience. God is opening me up to new experiences with Him. I actually was interested in playing the guitar and I got hooked up with a free guitar! Praise God! As apart of my “downtime” I hope to learn some worship songs and play them. Even though I am a terrible singer. But whatever. My encouragement is to really immerse yourself in God’s Word and in your “downtime”. I believe God will refresh you continually and you will feel more energized to live for God.