Many of us find ourselves constantly juggling tasks, commitments, and responsibilities. We often feel overwhelmed, tired, and burnt out from trying to do it all. But what if the solution wasn’t doing more, but actually doing less? In this post, we’ll explore the importance of embracing rest, letting go of control, and finding balance by aligning our lives with God’s priorities.
Breaking Free from the Cycle of Overwhelm
As women, we often feel the need to do everything perfectly—whether it’s work, family, or taking care of ourselves. Jenn and Kari talk about how easy it is to get caught up in the endless cycle of trying to control everything, from our children’s lunches to maintaining a picture-perfect home. But they emphasize an important truth: we can do less than we think we need to.
The challenge here isn’t in doing more but in letting go—letting go of control, letting go of tasks that aren’t truly necessary, and trusting that God’s plan is bigger and better than our own. As Jenn shared, sometimes it’s as simple as letting her son pack his own lunch. It’s about choosing to trust that things will get done, even if they aren’t done “our way.”
Simplifying for Peace
One of the most practical takeaways from Jenn and Kari’s discussion is the importance of simplifying our daily routines. Whether it’s preparing simpler meals, using grocery pickup services, or delegating tasks, these small changes can significantly reduce stress and free up valuable time.
Kari’s approach to meals, for example, reflects this mindset: “If we’re not eating out, that’s already a win!” By focusing on nutritious, easy-to-make meals rather than trying to create elaborate dishes every day, she’s found a way to streamline her routine without compromising on health. This principle applies to many areas of life—sometimes, good enough really is good enough.
Letting Go of the Need for Perfection
Jenn highlighted an essential point: much of our busyness stems from the need to keep up appearances or meet societal expectations. We do things for the approval of others, trying to ensure everything looks good on the outside, even if it’s draining us on the inside.
However, this mindset is often a trap. Jenn encourages us to reevaluate what’s truly important and to ask ourselves: Are we doing this because it’s what God is calling us to, or because we feel like we should? By letting go of tasks and activities that don’t align with God’s priorities, we can find freedom and peace, allowing us to focus on what truly matters.
Do you struggle with fatigue? Take our quiz and find out where your low energy may be coming from!
Journaling and the Power of Reflection
A key part of slowing down and embracing rest is taking time for reflection and prayer. Jenn shared how a month of rest and journaling transformed her perspective, helping her to hear God’s voice more clearly. In the stillness, God gave her answers, healed her heart, and provided clarity on issues she had been praying about.
Journaling is a powerful tool for connecting with God, and one spiritual practice Jenn mentioned is The Examen. This method, developed by St. Ignatius, is designed to help us reflect on how we are walking with God throughout our day. It involves five key steps:
- Gratitude – Thanking God for His presence and blessings.
- Petition – Offering your desires and struggles to God.
- Discernment – Reflecting on where you followed God’s will and where you strayed.
- Forgiveness – Seeking forgiveness for moments of weakness or sin.
- Resolution – Committing to how you will move forward in alignment with God’s plan.
By regularly practicing The Examen, we can grow in our awareness of how the Holy Spirit is guiding us and make adjustments to live more fully in God’s grace.
https://www.theprodigalfather.org/
Watch the video below “Stay on Your Path with Lord: The Examen Prayer for Daily Reflection and Guidance“
Priorities Over Balance
Our culture often tells us that we need to find balance in all things—work, family, personal care. But Jenn and Kari remind us that it’s not about balance, it’s about priorities. When we prioritize God first, family second, and everything else third, we align ourselves with God’s purpose for our lives.
Jenn emphasized the need to check in with God regularly, to ensure that we are doing what He wants us to do, not just what seems good from a worldly perspective. Taking time for prayer, walks, and rest helps us realign our priorities and live in step with God’s will.
Rest as a Form of Worship
Rest isn’t just about taking a break—it’s an act of faith. When we choose to rest, we acknowledge that we are not in control, and we trust God to take care of the details. Jenn shared how even something as simple as letting go of yard work allowed her to trust God’s timing and provision.
This kind of trust takes practice. But as Kari pointed out, living in the present moment and giving our future to God frees us from the anxiety and pressure of trying to do it all ourselves. It allows us to focus on what’s truly important—serving God and loving others.
Embrace Rest, Embrace God’s Plan
If you’re feeling overwhelmed by the demands of life, remember that God is calling you to something different. He’s calling you to rest, to slow down, and to trust Him with the details. Simplify where you can, let go of the need for perfection, and take time to reflect on what truly matters.
By prioritizing God first and trusting Him with the rest, you can find freedom, peace, and a deeper connection with your purpose. Whether it’s through prayer, journaling, or simply doing less, embrace rest as part of your journey with God.
Want to take the next step in embracing rest? Join our free challenge on breaking free from overwhelm, and learn practical tips for simplifying your life and finding peace in God’s plan.