The wise have wealth and luxury, but fools spend whatever they get. —Proverbs 21:20 (NLT)

Hurry Hurts

1. Hurry increases my stress and decreases my productivity.

“My brothers were angry with me and made me work in the vineyard. I had no time to care for myself.” —Song of Solomon 1:6 (b) (GNT)

It is dangerous to have zeal without knowledge, and the one who acts hastily makes poor choices. —Proverbs 19:2 (NET)

“Careful planning puts you ahead in the long run; hurry and scurry puts you further behind.” —Proverbs 21:5 (MSG)

2. Decreases my joy and burns up my love.

“My days are passing faster than a runner. They are flying by without any joy. —Job 9:25 (NLT)

3. Hurry keeps me from hearing from God.

“Be still, and know that I am God! I will be honored by every nation. I will be honored throughout the world.” —Psalm 46:10 (NLT)

Slow the Pace

1. Learn to say no.

An impulsive vow is a trap; later you’ll wish you could get out of it. —Proverbs 20:25 (Msg)

2. Learn to take a weekly Sabbath day.

You have six days each week for your ordinary work, but the seventh day is a Sabbath day of rest dedicated to the Lord your God. On that day no one in your household may do any work. —Exodus 20:9-10 (NLT)

“The Sabbath was made to meet the needs of people, and not people to meet the requirements of the Sabbath.” —Mark 2:27 (NLT)

3. Learn to trust God’s perfect timing.

If it seems slow in coming, wait patiently, for it will surely take place. It will not be delayed. —Habakkuk 2:3 (NLT)

Discussion Questions:

1. What are some of the healthy motives that drive you to push for more in life?

2. What are some of the unhealthy motives that drive you to push for more in life?

3. How do you go about discovering your motives and whether they’re healthy, or not?

4. To avoid burnout, many find it helpful to prioritize commitments by making a “what matters most” list first. Do you have a list like that? If so, what does it look like? And, how does is help you discern when to say “yes” and “no”?

5. We often pray and talk about trusting God, but can fail to trust God’s timing. Discuss the fine line between trusting God and his timing. What tips can you offer?