top of page
Writer's pictureMelissa Williams

Finding Real Connection: The First Step to Living a Cageless Life - START

Updated: Jul 3

In our previous post, we discussed taking some time to STOP and refocus our energy. If you missed that one, you can check it out here. We'll be right here when you get back.


So what is it that we need now to START? Taking small steps to implement STOP will begin the process to START building more confidence and fulfillment in your life. You will begin to experience and better understand the meaning of “the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding” we find in Philippians 4:6 (CSB).



Finding Deeper Connection by Learning START


START incorporates five benefits of learning how to STOP:


Satisfy

Trust

Anticipate

Restore

Thrive

 

Satisfy. We were created for connection. By taking time to stop and connect with God, we are fulfilling an innate desire for connection with someone who only has our best interest at heart. David said in Psalms 90:14 (CSB), “Satisfy us in the morning with your faithful love so that we may shout with joy and be glad all our days.”

 

Trust. This one might be a little hard sometimes. Trusting in something that we can’t see? Letting go of the wheel of our life to let someone else drive? Trust is the foundation on which any solid relationship is built. My favorite reminder of this is found in the book of Proverbs. Proverbs 3:5-6 (CSB) tells us, “Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not rely on your own understanding. In all your ways know him, and he will make your paths straight.” The more we remain open to God’s guidance and trust him to guide our path, the more we can relieve ourselves of anxiety, worry, and fear. What does trust mean to you?

 

Anticipate. What do you think of when you see this word? Maybe it reminds you of how you felt as a child waiting for a special occasion, or still do. Perhaps it stirs up excitement about an upcoming trip or special occasion that you are planning. As you develop the habit of stillness and connection, you will likely find that you anticipate that time and even miss it when you skip it.

 

Restore. We all need time to rest and restore our soul from time to time. Even in small moments, we can find respite from a hectic day. Taking time to intentionally connect with God will give you the tools you need to find that restoration. “Truly my soul finds rest in God…” Psalms 62:1

 

Thrive. Implementing the routine of stillness and connection with God on a regular basis provides us the opportunity to focus on the bigger picture. It gives us the type of hope found in Isaiah 40:31 (CSB), “but those who trust in the Lord will renew their strength; they will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not become weary, they will walk and not faint.”


Want to dig deeper?


Click here to download my 4 Keys to Finding Real Connection. We will be offering both group and individual coaching around the STOP/START framework starting in February. If you are interested in learning more, schedule a free 30-minute Initial Discovery Session so that we can get to know each other.


Subscribe below to our monthly newsletter focusing on living A Cageless Life.



Comments


bottom of page