Embracing the Summer Shift – Staying Rooted in God
“But the one who looks into the perfect law, the law of liberty, and perseveres, being no hearer who forgets but a doer who acts, he will be blessed in his doing.”
– James 1:25 (ESV)
As the school year wraps up and summer rolls in, there’s a natural shift in pace. The days are longer, schedules loosen, and the world seems to slow down a bit. For many of us, this time of year means vacations, trips to the beach, or simply enjoying the outdoors. It’s a season of refreshment, and often, a break from the usual routine. But amidst all the changes, it’s important to remember that just because life feels a little more relaxed doesn’t mean our spiritual lives should take a vacation too.
Summer offers us a unique opportunity—not just for rest, but for growth. We can often feel like we have more time on our hands, and with that comes the potential for deepening our relationship with God in new and refreshing ways. The key is to be intentional about staying rooted in Him, even when our schedules aren’t as structured.
A Spiritual Summer Routine
It’s easy to let spiritual practices fall by the wayside when our regular routines change. But this summer, let’s choose to be intentional about our faith. Just as we care for our bodies, spend time with loved ones, and take care of our homes, we should also prioritize our spiritual well-being.
Here are a few simple, easy-to-execute practices that can keep you rooted in God this summer:
Start Your Day with Gratitude: Begin each morning by thanking God for the day ahead. It can be as simple as saying, “Lord, thank You for this new day. Help me to see You in every moment.” A gratitude-filled heart sets the tone for the rest of the day and helps us keep our eyes on God’s goodness, even in the busiest of summer days.
Read a Psalm a Day: The Psalms are filled with prayers and songs that help us refocus on God’s presence. Pick one Psalm to read each day. You don’t need to rush—just take a few verses and reflect on them. You can ask yourself, “What is this Psalm teaching me about God? How can I apply this truth today?” This small practice can keep your heart aligned with God’s Word, even in the midst of vacation or travel.
Prayer Walks: Whether you’re taking a walk around the neighborhood or strolling through a park, make it a time to pray. Let your surroundings be a reminder of God’s creation, and pray for the people you encounter, for your family, or for whatever is on your heart. Prayer walks don’t need to be long or formal—just a few minutes of connecting with God while moving your body can be refreshing for both your soul and spirit.
Sabbath Rest: With fewer commitments, summer is the perfect time to intentionally rest and recharge. Choose one day a week to take a break from your usual to-do list. Disconnect from your phone, social media, and any distractions. Focus on enjoying God’s presence and resting in His goodness. Remember, rest is not just physical—it’s also spiritual. Use this time to reflect, pray, and allow God to restore your soul.
Journal Your Journey: Take a few minutes each day to write down what God is doing in your life this summer. This could be as simple as a gratitude list or recording how God is answering prayers. Keeping a journal allows you to look back and see God’s faithfulness and the ways He’s been working in your heart.
Staying Rooted in the Summer
James 1:25 reminds us that the person who not only hears God’s Word but also acts on it will be blessed. Summer doesn’t have to mean a break from spiritual growth. In fact, it can be a season of refreshing, renewal, and deepening your walk with God.
God wants to do something in your life this summer—whether it’s through rest, new experiences, or quiet reflection. Don’t miss out on what He may have for you simply because the season feels less structured. Stay rooted in Him, and He will provide the nourishment and strength you need to thrive.
Thought-Provoking Questions:
As your routine changes this summer, how can you intentionally make space for God each day?
Which of the spiritual practices listed do you feel most drawn to? How can you begin implementing it in your summer routine this week?
How can you use the slower pace of summer to grow deeper in your relationship with God?
In what areas of your life do you feel God calling you to trust Him more this summer?
