I recall learning the concept of creating a “stay calm chair” for a child. Whenever the child became overly restless or hyperactive, you simply ask the child to sit there for a moment. You could offer the child a colouring book and crayons so he/she could channel their energy into something constructive while gradually settling down. Of course, the child never enjoyed sitting still, but the parent or guardian knows that it is for the child’s own good. Without that pause, she could easily become overwhelmed, reckless, and even hurt herself.
In many ways, our generation has been living in constant motion. Before seasons of disruption, we were endlessly busy running from one goal to another, chasing dreams, ambitions, and opportunities. In that rush, the purpose of God for our lives often faded into the background. Sometimes we even became so obsessed with discovering God’s specific calling for our lives that we lost sight of the most fundamental purpose of all: a personal relationship with Him. God’s original design was intimacy, just as He walked and fellowshipped with Adam and Eve in the beginning. It is this relationship that transforms us from within and shapes us to reflect our Father, producing sons and daughters who care deeply about the well-being of His household, the Kingdom of God, and who live daily to advance it.
I now see seasons of enforced stillness and personal or global disruption as our collective “stay calm chair.” A divine pause. A moment to slow down, recalibrate, and reconnect with our Father. In these moments, distractions are stripped away so we can see more clearly, listen more attentively, and spend time with the One who truly loves us. It is much like a honeymoon season, where you wake up eager to hear your beloved’s voice, to spend unhurried time together, to grow in intimacy, and to rediscover yourself in the presence of love.
Psalm 42:1 to 2 captures this posture perfectly:
“As the deer pants for streams of water, so my soul pants for you, my God. My soul thirsts for God, for the living God. When can I go and meet with God?”
We are not ruled by fear in the face of pestilence or uncertainty because we are confident that we are covered, sealed, and protected. Psalm 91:1 to 3 assures us:
“Whoever dwells in the shelter of the Most High will rest in the shadow of the Almighty. I will say of the Lord, ‘He is my refuge and my fortress, my God, in whom I trust.’ Surely He will save you from the fowler’s snare and from the deadly pestilence.”
This season is about strengthening our spiritual muscles in preparation for what lies ahead. A new phase. A new era. A new assignment. On the other side of this pause is the emergence of mature sons and daughters of the Kingdom. As Romans 8:19 declares,
“The entire universe is standing on tiptoe, yearning to see the unveiling of God’s glorious sons and daughters.”
Be ready for your unveiling.
