The Pace Paradox

Why is it the busier we get, the less time we often devote to the one relationship that matters most—God?

It’s a phenomenon I call the “pace paradox.”

I recently read about studies which reveal that the pace of life worldwide is now 10% faster than it was twenty years ago. 

Consider this . . . 

Researchers for this “pace of life” project studied the correlation between time, money and walking in 32 major cities around the world. They clocked how long it took pedestrians to walk 60 feet. Singapore timed the fastest at 10.55 seconds, up 30% from two decades ago. Guangzhou, China placed fourth with 10.94 seconds, while New York, coined “the city that never sleeps,” ranked eighth, with a time of 12 seconds. 

Countries across Western Europe and Asia scored as fastest paced, while smaller, more economically undeveloped countries scored as slower. Walkers in the African city of Blantyre, Malawi came in last place at 31.60 seconds. 

One explanation suggests that economic factors might play a role in the relationship between city size and foot speed. The larger the city, the higher the wage rate and cost of living, and with that, more demands on a person’s time. Economizing on time becomes more and more urgent and life becomes more hurried. 

Interestingly, the study also revealed that people in fast-moving cities have higher rates of coronary heart disease, and are less likely to help others. 

In a world driven by text messages, email, mobile phones, and the perceived need to always be producing, concern is rising that increased speeds of living (and its deleterious consequences) will continue to affect people greater than ever before—especially since the majority of the world now lives in urban areas for the first time in history. 

What does all this mean for the Christian? 

Is the pace of life overwhelming you? 

Jesus often had crowds thronging Him, yet was never rushing when He was with people. When the demands became high, He often snuck away to a mountainside or a quiet place to pray. 

And there it is . . .

The Son of God Himself shows us our ongoing need for quiet time alone with God. 

It’s a daily challenge, a daily decision to slow down and make time for God. Starting the day with Bible reading and prayer (even if it’s only ten minutes), allows us to think about the things that really matter—to be quiet, acknowledge, and enjoy the presence of the One who goes with us all day long. 

Jesus reminds us that there will be trouble in the world, but in Him we find peace. 

I have told you these things, so that in Me you may have [perfect] peace and confidence. In the world you have tribulation and trials and distress and frustration; but be of good cheer [take courage; be confident, certain, undaunted]! For I have overcome the world. [I have deprived it of power to harm you and have conquered it for you.]   —John 16:33 (Amplified Bible) 

John 15 offers the beautiful illustration of Jesus as the vine and the Father as the gardener. Only through staying connected to the vine do we receive spiritual nourishment and bear spiritual fruit. 

Remain in me, and I will remain in you. For a branch cannot produce fruit if it is severed from the vine, and you cannot be fruitful unless you remain in me. —John 15:4 (NLT)                                                                                                        

God’s peace is not something we work to achieve or earn. It is the essence of God Himself, realized through an ongoing continuing relationship with the Prince of Peace, the Lord Jesus Christ. 

When the demands of life overwhelm us, His presence provides the key to finding all we need.

Copyright © 2014 Cheryl Elton