By DiAnn Mills @DiAnnMills
What does creating white space in our lives mean? How can we remove the onslaught and clutter of text and graphics from our daily pages? Should we take a few moments to be free from our obligations and responsibilities? Enjoy a favorite pastime? Breathe fresh, uninterrupted air?
Good questions—but if we answer yes, might we be labeled lazy? We know what the Bible says about being lazy. Hint: not good.
Actually, the practice of creating margin or white space is biblically-based. Here are 20 verses that guide us to rest.
Creating white space doesn’t mean we’re lazy.
We take a break so we can be our best for others and while participating in activities that make a difference. An absence of someone clamoring for our immediate attention is an opportunity to add balance to our lives. If we don’t schedule regular white space, our lives resemble hamsters running on a wheel and getting nowhere. Physically exhausted. Mentally depleted. Spiritually drained.
I’ve been there and still fall into that trap. But this is what I’ve learned about the benefits of white space and how it helps us be more deliberate in our daily routines:
- Beautifying: We minimize tired bags under our eyes and a worn-out disposition to match.
- Creative: Our imaginations kick down the walls of opposition so we can engage in various art forms—dance, math, cooking, painting, writing, gardening, and the list goes on.
- Energetic: We’re ready to tackle the most difficult of important tasks.
- Focused: We can zoom in on an issue with problem-solving skills.
- Grace-filled: Our spiritual life allows us to love others and ourselves as God purposed.
- Happier: Laughter comes easier when the burdens of life are lifted.
- Healthier: Our bodies need time to repair and build up immunities. Taking care of ourselves results in a better quality of life.
- Inspired: We are motivated and motivate others to fulfill their God-given purpose.
- Optimistic: Our attitudes soar when our bodies and minds are at rest.
- Smarter: We can concentrate and use our brains as they were intended.
How do you create white space in your life?
