We live in a fast-paced culture that consistently leaves us feeling behind if we’re not keeping up with the latest trends. And we often bring this same approach to our own life and relationships – assuming faster and more intense is better. But often low and slow is the better approach.
A pitmaster knows the value of taking his time to achieve the perfection of a tender, flavorful, and juicy piece of meat. If he cooks too hot or too fast then he risks burning or drying out the meat. And this is wisdom we can take with us throughout our daily lives as well.
For instance, it’s tempting to want overnight success in our work. But we risk merely building a house of cards or burning out ourselves when we don’t take our time – learning how to cultivate, offer, and sustain the gifts and abilities God has given us.
And, of course, we want to do whatever we can for our marriage to thrive and for our kids to grow into maturity. But things cannot be rushed on these fronts either. Often simply being present in the mundane realities of life together does more than filling our calendar with endless social activities and exciting trips.
Likewise, this often plays out in our spiritual life as well. Certainly, when we’re merely chasing one spiritual high after another we might become depleted and dry when there’s not an immediate high to fuel us. Deliberately nurturing our faith over time allows for a deep reservoir to be present through the various ups and downs of life.
Whatever it looks like, low and slow is learning the value of patience and the strength that builds over time. We risk burning ourselves out and creating shallow relationships otherwise.
In the end, the best things in life often cannot be rushed. Learn the value of low and slow throughout your life and relationships.
Photo by Scott Madore on Unsplash
