Recently, I texted a friend to let her know I was thinking of her and to ask how she was doing. I got a typical response many of us get from people we know, “I’m so busy!” We continued our conversation and I said, “I hope you’re able to find some down time to rest.” And her response was, “Wouldn’t that be nice? But it’s not going to happen, I’m just so busy.”

I understand that we all have plenty of things in a day to keep us busy: school, work, family, and the list could go on. We go through seasons where life can be more demanding than others. I believe that having a good work ethic and getting the job done is important, but my concern isn’t with us being responsible and taking care of those life things. My concern is when our identity actually becomes, “I’m busy.” When your worth comes from how much stuff you accomplish in a day, or when you think “I’m busy” makes you look or feel important.

“Where were you when I laid the foundations of the earth? Tell me, if you know so much.” Job‬ ‭38:4‬

Somewhere along the way, our society has bought into the idea that our value comes in performance and how much we are able to “hustle” to get things done. Often times this hustle comes at an expense that isn’t worth the pay received. It comes at a high price to continually be in motion, doing, and over-extending.

I’ve realized through the years that no matter how much you do and how busy you are, it’s never enough. There will always be something or someone that you are letting down. And that’s where the vicious cycle never ends—unless YOU put a stop to it. Does it mean you quit your job? Maybe. Does it mean you start to say no more? Probably. Only you can know the motives behind your hustle.

“We are merely moving shadows, and all our busy rushing ends in nothing.” Psalms‬ ‭39:6‬

Let’s take a look at a few of these possible motives.

1. Identity

2. Worth

3. People pleasing

If you can see yourself in any or maybe all of these, maybe it’s time to take a step back, re-evaluate your life, and get your heart and priorities in their rightful place. God never intended for us to live a life of hustle and striving. Even He knew the importance of getting alone for a time of rest.

My friend, let’s take a moment and soak in the worth God places in you.

1. You are of great value—no matter how much you do.

2. Just your very existence is of highest importance to God.

3. He sees you, even if you’re just sitting on your couch eating snacks and watching Netflix.

4. He loves you without you having to strive to be loved.

Does He have a purpose for your life? Does He ever!! But that purpose isn’t to live your life striving, hustling, or trying to please others. It’s to live a life pleasing to Him.

“Work willingly at whatever you do, as though you were working for the Lord rather than for people.” Colossians‬ ‭3:23‬

Let’s pray: Lord, I thank You for this life You’ve given me. I ask that You forgive me for striving in an attempt to please others or to make a name for myself. Lord, help me to live my life pleasing to You and to make Your name known above all others. Amen.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Jaime Roever is a published writer, public speaker, ordained minister, and justice seeker that has a love to minister to women of all ages. She is a communicator at heart and is passionate about sharing the word and it’s practical truths that apply to real everyday life and how God will meet you there. Jaime lives in Texas with her husband Matt, and she is a mom to two sons. Jaime is Cooper certified as a physical trainer and is a self defense instructor, providing women with the tools to live their best life. She also works with the Special Victims Unit for the San Antonio Police Department as an advocate for victims of domestic violence. You can follow Jaime on Instagram at @withlovejaime.