Simplify Your Life

Letting Go to Embrace Slow Living: A Faith-Centered Journey

Life today often feels like a race—rushing from one task to the next, striving to achieve more, acquire more, and be more. Yet, in the midst of this whirlwind, I’ve found myself questioning: Is this really how God intended us to live?

Inspired by a longing for simplicity and grounded in my faith, I’ve embarked on a journey of letting go—giving up the habits, mindsets, and distractions that keep me hurried and disconnected from God. This is my story of learning to live slowly, where less becomes more, and stillness creates space for His presence.

The Restlessness of a Fast-Paced Life

Not long ago, I was caught in the relentless hustle of modern life. Moving from New York City to Buffalo felt like a fresh start, but the internal restlessness followed me. I was chasing more: more money, more success, more satisfaction. Yet, no matter what I achieved, an emptiness remained.

I packed my schedule to feel productive and filled my life with noise to avoid the silence, but the deeper question lingered: Did I make room for God in my life?

This reminds me of the story of Martha and Mary in Luke 10:38-42. Martha was busy and distracted, while Mary chose to sit at Jesus’ feet and listen. Jesus praised Mary’s choice, saying she had chosen “what is better.” Reflecting on this passage, I began to wonder: Am I truly living as a disciple of Christ, or am I just checking off religious boxes?

Even Jesus Himself modeled a slower, intentional way of living. He observed the Sabbath, withdrew to quiet places to pray, and prioritized relationships over worldly concerns. If I want to follow Him, I must do the same.

Letting Go: The Things I’m Surrendering

To live more intentionally, I’m working to let go of certain patterns and habits. Here are some key things I’m surrendering and how they align with the themes of slow living, minimalism, and faith.

1. The Pursuit of Perfection

I’ve struggled with perfectionism—trying to do everything flawlessly and striving for others’ approval. But this relentless pursuit only leads to exhaustion and pride.

Scripture Insight:
"But he said to me, 'My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.'" (2 Corinthians 12:9)

This verse reminds me that I don’t have to be perfect because Jesus is. When I surrender my weaknesses to Him, He works through them for His glory. Letting go of perfectionism means releasing the hidden idols of approval and control and allowing God’s grace to take center stage.

2. Overcommitment

I used to say “yes” to everything—projects, plans, and obligations—filling my schedule to the brim. But this left little time for rest or connection with God.

Scripture Insight:
"Let your 'Yes' be 'Yes,' and your 'No,' 'No'; anything beyond this comes from the evil one." (Matthew 5:37)

Romans 12:2 also warns us not to conform to the patterns of this world. Overcommitment is one such pattern, where busyness is often glorified. I’m learning to declutter my schedule and honor the Sabbath, trusting that God’s plans are better than my overpacked agenda.

3. Materialism

The chase for material possessions is another area I’m working to surrender. Whether it’s wanting the latest gadget or upgrading my wardrobe, I’ve realized that these things don’t bring lasting peace.

Scripture Insight:
"Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moths and vermin destroy, and where thieves break in and steal." (Matthew 6:19)

True contentment comes from God, not things. Hebrews 13:5 echoes this, urging us to keep our lives free from the love of money and to be content with what we have. Simplifying my possessions and resisting the urge for “more” helps me focus on what truly matters.

4. Constant Noise

In today’s world, we’re bombarded with constant noise—social media, news, entertainment, and endless notifications. This leaves little room for God’s voice.

Scripture Insight:
"Be still, and know that I am God." (Psalm 46:10)

Stillness allows us to hear from God and reconnect with His presence. Turning off devices, practicing silent prayer, and spending time in nature are ways I’m creating space for Him.

5. Worry and Anxiety

Lastly, I’m surrendering worry and anxiety—the need to control everything and the fear of what might go wrong.

Scripture Insight:
"Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you." (1 Peter 5:7)

Trusting God means letting go of control and resting in His care. Practices like morning prayer, journaling, and meditating on His promises have helped me find peace.

Implementing Slow Living in Everyday Life

Living slowly doesn’t happen overnight—it’s a process of small, intentional changes. Here’s how I’m implementing it in my daily life:

• Limiting Screen Time: Setting boundaries for social media and choosing intentional content.

• Simplifying Routines: Decluttering my home, streamlining my wardrobe, and prioritizing what truly matters.

• Sabbath Rest: Setting aside time each week to disconnect and focus on God.

• Being Present: Fully engaging in conversations and cherishing relationships.

Scripture consistently calls us to live humbly, to spend time with God, and to be content with what we have. Yet, this requires surrendering our desires and patterns of this world. It’s not easy—there are days I feel tempted to revert back to old habits. But each small step brings me closer to the life God desires for me.

The Beauty of Slow Living

In a world that tells us to do more and be more, the beauty of slow living reminds us that we are already enough in Christ. By letting go of what weighs us down—whether it’s perfection, busyness, or materialism—we create space for the peace and purpose God desires for us.

As I continue this journey, I’m reminded of the promise in Isaiah 30:15:
"In repentance and rest is your salvation, in quietness and trust is your strength."

Let us take a deep breath and reflect: What are the things in our lives that we need to let go of? By surrendering them to God, we can embrace a slower, simpler, and more faithful way of living—one that draws us closer to Him and fills our lives with His peace.