The Girl Next Door ☎︎: How to Unwind Well

It's been a long day, and it's finally time to unwind and re-charge. But how?

How can we as Christians steward the free time the Lord blesses us with when our minds are drained and our bodies are tired?

John Piper sums up how Christians can unwind well:

"Don’t do anything that would diminish your capacities to revel in the riches of the Bible." John Piper

Listen to a Podcast

If your mind is too tired to read, sometimes it's nice to listen to someone else speak God's Truth into your ear.

My podcast favorites:

♥ Jen Wilkin
♥

Christy Nockels

♥ John Piper
♥ Hunter Beless
♥ The Villiage Church
♥ Breakaway Ministires
♥ The Gospel Coalition
♥ Annie F. Downs

Read the Psalms

Psalms passages are not only easy to read but especially refreshing when you feel burnt out. The psalmists exemplify a godly response to negative emotions.

Not sure where to start? Read the chapter that corresponds to today's date, then read the next four Pslams in increments of 30. For example, if today is the 20th, read Psalms 20, 50, 80, 110, and 140.

Play Worship Music

You don't have to sing praises to Jesus only on Sundays. You can do so in the car, at home, or outside. Music has the power to rejuvenate our spirits.

Music about God's grace and love has the power to change our heart.

My Spotify favorites:

♥ Journeywomen Jams
♥ Worship Wednesdays
♥ Worship Now
♥ Pslams Live-Shane & Shane

Fellowship with Believers

Play cards with friends. Listen to an audio book with your family. When we join God's family, He not only gives us Himself but countless other brothers and sisters to enjoy life with as well. Surround yourself with the kind of people that encourage your desire for the Lord and help you enjoy His gifts.

Go on a Prayer Walk

Walks or runs not only give us time with the Lord, but the fresh air and exercise refreshes our bodies. There is something deeply satisfying and humbling about communing with the Creator in the midst of His creation. If you're too worn out to walk, sitting on a porch swing is just as effective.

* * *

Remember, these activities should never replace our time in the Word. These past-times are worthwhile additions to Bible reading because they feed our souls more than Netflix or romance novels. They wet our spiritual taste buds so we crave God's Word more. They keep our hearts joyfully receptive of heavenly things.