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7 Tips to Slow Down and Refocus on Christ

7 Tips to Slow Down and Refocus on Christ

It’s easy to get out of shape. Life gets busy, and we skip going to the gym. We start eating more junk food. The constant activity brings stress, which means we sleep less. We start gaining weight and feeling horrible.

We know what to do, but the changes can be difficult. Living healthy is hard.

The same is true of our spiritual walk. Our lives get hectic, and we stop investing in our relationship with the Father. We get spiritually out of shape easily and quickly. Before we know it, we begin to feel the effects—a lack of peace, hope, strength, and more.

It can seem difficult to refocus on Christ again, to do what’s necessary. However, the Scripture tells us our spiritual health is more important than physical. “For while bodily training is of some value, godliness is of value in every way, as it holds promise for the present life and also for the life to come” (1 Timothy 4:8).

And we must be careful about worldly matters encroaching upon our spiritual life. In the parable of the soil, Jesus spoke of everyday cares like thorns, choking out the Word and killing it (Matthew 13:1-23). Our common worries become sources of unbelief, which is of the curse. Jesus, however, tells us to seek the Kingdom of God and his righteousness first, and he will provide all we need (Matthew 6:33).

With this in mind, here are seven tips to slow down and refocus on Christ.

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  • distracted people in office looking at smartphones, ways to slow down and refocus

    1. Stop Distractions

    The things of this world pull at us and seek our full attention. Yet, often, the world lies about what is important. With the Spirit to guide us, we must reevaluate our activity.

    First, we can remove distractions like social media, movies, and TV shows. People spend hours daily scrolling through social media like TikTok and Instagram. In addition, consumers binge-watch shows on streaming services. While there’s nothing inherently wrong with social media or watching a show, these activities can surely wait and take a back seat to time with God.

    Further, other events in our schedule may be spreading us thin. What has God called us to commit to? God gives wisdom about these things when we ask.

    Psalm 46:10 urges us to “Be still, and know that I am God; I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth.” Eliminating distractions allows us to cultivate a spirit of stillness and attentiveness to his voice, leading to a deeper awareness of his presence and work in our lives. Romans 12:2 encourages believers to “not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind.” Removing distractions like social media and entertainment that promote worldly values and ideologies allows us to refocus our minds on Christ and His kingdom’s purposes.

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  • woman reading book in front of face hiding face, ways to slow down and refocus

    2. Morning Devotionals

    Instead of waking up and checking social media first, we can facilitate refocusing on Christ through morning devotionals. This practice involves setting aside time at the beginning of each day for prayer, reflection, and study of God’s word. Morning devotionals provide a structured framework for starting the day with surrender, gratitude, and dependence on God, deepening our intimacy with him and aligning our hearts with his purposes.

    Numerous options exist for devotionals. Between books, websites, and smartphone apps, we can all find a series of devotionals centered on different topics. Each one includes a passage, thoughts, and a prayer. Within five minutes, these devotionals center our hearts and minds upon God’s character and love.

    Psalm 5:3 affirms the importance of seeking God in the morning, stating, “In the morning, Lord, you hear my voice; in the morning, I lay my requests before you and wait expectantly.” Lamentations 3:22-23 reminds us of how the Father offers new mercies every morning: “Because of the Lord’s great love we are not consumed, for his compassions never fail. They are new every morning; great is your faithfulness.”

    Engaging in morning devotionals establishes a new spiritual discipline that nurtures our relationship with Christ and strengthens our faith.

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  • a woman praying, refocus and slow down

    3. Prayer Walks

    Often, we get distracted by things in our house. The bathroom needs cleaning, the laundry needs folding, and the TV calls to us. Getting outside and praying to God helps us slow down and refocus on Jesus.

    Prayer walks combine deepening our relationship with God through prayer while getting physical exercise and engaging with God’s creation. This allows us to immerse ourselves in the beauty of nature, quiet our minds, and commune with God in a tranquil setting. We effectively exchange our culture’s pervasive artificial and digital consumption for God’s amazing creativity.

    Psalm 19:1-2 extols the glory of God’s creation: “The heavens declare the glory of God; the skies proclaim the work of his hands. Day after day they pour forth speech; night after night they reveal knowledge.” Prayer walks in nature provide an opportunity to behold God’s handiwork firsthand, marveling at the beauty and majesty of His creation and gaining insights into His character and power.

    Psalm 23:2-3 depicts God leading his people beside quiet waters and restoring their souls. Similarly, prayer walks in natural settings offer moments of serenity and renewal, where individuals can find rest and refreshment for their weary souls as they commune with God amidst the peacefulness of nature. In Romans 1:20, the apostle Paul asserts that we see God’s invisible qualities, eternal power, and divine nature through what has been made.

    By incorporating prayer walks in nature into our spiritual routine, we can slow down, refocus on Christ, and draw closer to God in intimate communion.

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  • fasting illustration three plates only one with food on it, ways to slow down and refocus

    4. Fasting

    Fasting challenges our Western culture. Denying ourselves food resists the consumeristic society around us. Abstaining from food or other activities for some time allows us to practice spiritual self-control, seek God’s guidance, and deepen our dependence upon God. Biblical fasting declares our absolute need for God in all things.

    Matthew 6:16-18 highlights the importance of fasting as a private act of devotion, stating, “When you fast, do not look somber as the hypocrites do, for they disfigure their faces to show others they are fasting. Truly, I tell you, they have received their reward in full. But when you fast, put oil on your head and wash your face, so that it will not be obvious to others that you are fasting, but only to your Father, who is unseen; and your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you.” This passage emphasizes the sincerity and humility with which fasting should be practiced, focusing not on outward displays of piety but on genuine devotion to God.

    Joel 2:12 calls believers to return to the Lord with fasting, weeping, and mourning, urging them to rend their hearts and not their garments. Fasting serves as a means of repentance and spiritual renewal, allowing individuals to humble themselves before God, seek His forgiveness, and turn away from sin. Further, fasting reveals to us what God desires. Isaiah 58:6-7 describes the kind of fasting that pleases God, emphasizing its potential to break the chains of injustice, set the oppressed free, and share food with the hungry.

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  • man with hand over his heart, ways to slow down and refocus

    5. Practice Gratitude

    Our overactivity can stem from a fear of lack, a sense that we must provide for ourselves somehow. Just as fasting and prayer help us overcome this fear, so does practicing gratitude, reminding ourselves of all the good God has done for us. By intentionally acknowledging and appreciating his goodness, we shift our focus from worries and distractions to God's abundant grace and provision, fostering joy and contentment.

    1 Thessalonians 5:18 exhorts us to give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God’s will for us in Christ Jesus. Practicing gratitude involves recognizing God’s hand working in every aspect of our lives, even amidst challenges and trials, and responding with thanksgiving and praise. Psalm 107:1 invites us to thank the Lord, for he is good; his love endures forever. God’s steadfast love and provision bring us to praise him.

    Colossians 3:17 emphasizes the importance of giving thanks to God in everything we do, whether in word or deed, reflecting our desire to honor and glorify his name. Practicing gratitude becomes a lifestyle that permeates every aspect of our lives, shaping our attitudes, actions, and relationships. Psalm 103:2 encourages believers to forget not all of God's benefits, reminding us to remember and appreciate his countless blessings.

    As the Psalms teach, singing or speaking praise to God becomes a practical way to express our gratitude. Whether the biblical verses, older hymns, or modern worship songs, they all bring us into God’s presence in a practical and mystical way.

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  • a stack of books, ways to slow down and refocus

    6. Read Classic Christian Books

    Reading activates our minds and hearts in ways social media and entertainment can’t. We first read the Bible ourselves, but we also have the privilege of centuries of pastors, theologians, and Christian leaders writing down their insights. A host of books have been vetted through the years by readers and affirmed by the Church for their encouragement. These classics offer timeless wisdom and perspectives on the Christian faith. Immersing ourselves in these books deepens our understanding of Scripture and draws us closer to Christ.

    2 Timothy 3:16-17 affirms the importance of Scripture in teaching, rebuking, correcting, and training in righteousness, equipping us for every good work. Classic Christian books often provide valuable commentary and interpretation of Scripture, helping us engage with God’s word meaningfully and creatively.

    Furthermore, Hebrews 13:7 encourages us to remember leaders who spoke the word of God, to consider the outcome of their lives, and to imitate their faith. Classic Christian books allow readers to learn from the spiritual journeys and insights of Christian leaders and thinkers throughout history, inspiring us to emulate their faith and connecting us to the wider Body of Christ across time.

    Ask mentors or trusted Christian friends what classic books would be good for you. Reading these classics helps us study God’s word and seek wisdom from those who have gone before us.

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  • woman outdoors writing in journal, ways to slow down and refocus

    7. Journaling

    As we pray, sing, and read Scripture, God speaks to us. All other gods are deaf, dumb, and powerless. God hears and responds, often sharing important insights through the Spirit. We should write down these thoughts.

    For many, refocusing on Christ includes reflecting on our thoughts, experiences, and prayers in a journal. Journaling provides a space for introspection, spiritual growth, and communication with God, enabling us to process our feelings and align our hearts with God’s purposes.

    Psalm 77:11-12 encourages us to remember the Lord’s deeds, to meditate on his works, and to consider his mighty deeds. Journaling allows individuals to record God’s faithfulness, answered prayers, and personal experiences of his presence and provision. Lamentations 3:21-23 expresses hope and confidence in God’s steadfast love and faithfulness, declaring, “Because of the Lord’s great love we are not consumed, for his compassions never fail. They are new every morning; great is your faithfulness.” Journaling allows us to express our struggles and hopes to God, finding comfort and assurance as we remember how he’s spoken before and kept his promises in the past. He will keep them in the future.

    Many people buy a nice notebook or leather journal, making it a special time. Through journaling, we reflect and meditate on God’s word, communicating through writing with the Father who loves us.

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  • bible verses about protection, ways to slow down and refocus

    How’s Your Bible Reading Going?

    While all of these steps are useful, they are ultimately supplements to the first thing we should do: return to reading God’s word.

    When I begin acting cranky or frustrated, my wife has often asked me, “Have you been spending time in prayer and reading the Bible?” Often, I say, “No. I haven’t been.” She has noticed the difference in my demeanor and interactions with her and the family when I’ve strayed from healthy spiritual habits.

    It’s worth refocusing my mind and heart on Jesus, who I love and who loves me. This is true for all of us. Jesus is our life, the source of joy, peace, and all we long for. Let’s set aside the distractions and fears to find life in him again.

    Peace.

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    Britt MooneyBritt Mooney lives and tells great stories. As an author of fiction and non-fiction, he is passionate about teaching ministries and nonprofits the power of storytelling to inspire and spread truth. Mooney has a podcast called Kingdom Over Coffee and is a published author of We Were Reborn for This: The Jesus Model for Living Heaven on Earth as well as Say Yes: How God-Sized Dreams Take Flight.