The Most Productive Pause

It’s Wednesday as I’m writing this, and I’m just going to be honest with you for a minute.

Today, I’m feeling a little overwhelmed.

There are so many things on my list for the rest of this week that really need to get done. And if you know me, you know I’m a list checker, y’all. I love crossing things off. But when I keep having to push things to the next day—or even further down the list—it starts to pile up and feel heavy.

Before long, I can feel the pressure building. I get hot, frustrated, and sometimes even a little teary-eyed. Whew.

A little while ago, I was in a meeting and was asked to do something that I honestly have no clear idea how to do. Now, if I had plenty of time to figure it out, that would be one thing… but right now, time is exactly what I don’t have.

At this moment, it’s almost 3 PM. My to-do list is staring at me. There is still so much website work that needs to be done before this day is over. I’m taking a class this week, and there is homework due tomorrow. Tomorrow, I have another class and an in-person meeting that I need to drive to, so nothing can get pushed to Thursday. I still have no idea what I’m making for dinner. And Marley and Gunner are definitely going to expect their walk later.

So here’s what I’m about to do.

As counterproductive as it may sound, I’m going to stop for the next 15 minutes and do absolutely nothing—except consult my Counselor.

That’s right. I’m heading to my quiet place to pray.

I’m taking this anxiety and overload captive and bringing it straight to Jesus. I’m asking for wisdom, clarity, and peace.

Because here’s something I’ve learned over the years: when life feels the most overwhelming is often the exact moment I need to pause and remember that I was never meant to carry it all on my own.

God promises to be our Counselor, our guide, and our source of peace. And He has never let me down yet.

I fully expect that when I come back from that quiet place, the list will still be there… but my heart will be calmer, my mind clearer, and the next step easier to see.

Sometimes the most productive thing we can do is pause long enough to let God lead the way.

“Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts.” Philippians 4:6-7

March 15, 2026 Morning Brew

Join Me for Morning Brew: Devotions + Deliciousness

These devotional reflections come straight from the Morning Brew section of my newsletter—little sips of encouragement paired with practical, everyday faith. If you’ve enjoyed this story, I’d love to send more like it your way, along with fresh plant-based recipes and helpful resources delivered right to your inbox. Consider subscribing so we can continue walking this journey together, one nourishing bite and one uplifting word at a time. Subscribe now!

For more faith-based articles, please visit my Faith & Food page. Christian guest authors are helping me rapidly grow this category. Feel free to share your thoughts or favorite devotionals in the comments—I’d love to hear how these posts bless your day.