Maybe you’ve experienced this too—those days when things just don’t go according to plan. You start with a rhythm, a schedule, or a practice that usually helps you feel grounded. But then life happens: unexpected responsibilities show up, tiredness lingers, priorities shift, or distractions sneak in. Before long, the day feels a little off, as though something is missing.
That’s where I found myself today. My usual writing rhythm is set for Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays. Last Wednesday, however, I surrendered my writing time to prepare for our Online Bible Study. I knew it wasn’t wasted—it was still service to the Lord, just in a different form. I thought to myself, I’ll just catch up tomorrow.
But when today came, my mind felt scattered and distracted by other tasks. I almost let the day pass without writing again.
And yet, there was this quiet uneasiness in my heart, like something wasn’t complete. Deep down, I knew the Lord was gently nudging me back to write. Not because He demands perfection in my schedule, but because this is one way I get to steward the ministry He entrusted to me.
This experience reminded me of something important: routine shapes us, but God’s grace carries us through.
When Routines Break, What Do We Do?
One thing I’ve noticed is that once you break a routine, it becomes easier to break it again. Last week, because of the Singles Conference, I only managed to post twice instead of three times. This week, with Bible Study preparation, it’s looking the same. I don’t regret it—I know the Lord used that time.
But I also realize that if I’m not intentional, small disruptions can become new patterns.
The truth is, we need both discipline and grace in our rhythms. Discipline helps us stay consistent. Grace helps us when we inevitably fall short.
Paul writes in 1 Corinthians 9:25–27 (NIV):
“Everyone who competes in the games goes into strict training. They do it to get a crown that will not last; but we do it to get a crown that will last forever. Therefore, I do not run like someone running aimlessly; I do not fight like a boxer beating the air. No, I strike a blow to my body and make it my slave so that after I have preached to others, I myself will not be disqualified for the prize.”
Paul reminds us that a life of faith requires intentionality, just like an athlete trains consistently. At the same time, we remember that even when we fall out of rhythm, God’s grace invites us to get back up and keep going.
The Subtle Itch of Disorientation
I don’t know about you, but when I break a rhythm, I feel this slight discomfort. It’s not guilt—it’s more like an inner nudge that things are “out of place.”
Maybe you’ve felt it too:
- When you miss your morning quiet time.
- When you skip journaling or prayer.
- When you get distracted and lose track of your commitments.
It’s that subtle reminder that something is off—not because God is angry, but because our soul craves the structure that helps us flourish.
Psalm 90:12 (ESV) says: “So teach us to number our days that we may get a heart of wisdom.”
God gives us the gift of time, and when we use it well, it brings order and peace to our lives. But when things get disoriented, instead of shaming ourselves, we can pause, realign, and simply begin again.
Serving God in Different Ways
Sometimes we may think our service to God must always look the same, but He works through different seasons and different expressions of obedience. In this season, writing is one of my callings, but I know it’s not the only way He invites me to serve.
Colossians 3:23–24 reminds us:
“Whatever you do, work heartily, as for the Lord and not for men, knowing that from the Lord you will receive the inheritance as your reward. You are serving the Lord Christ.”
Whether through writing, teaching, encouraging, or simply being present for others, our daily acts of faithfulness matter deeply to God.
The Need for Balance
As I grow in the Lord, I notice that He keeps planting new desires in my heart—desires to serve, to create, to step out in faith. And I love it. Serving God does not feel draining to me; it actually refreshes me. But I also know this:
if I don’t balance my commitments, I risk stretching myself too thin.
That’s why I’m learning to pause, reflect, and plan more wisely.
For example:
- I know writing in large batches doesn’t work for me right now, because my energy and focus are limited.
- I know I need to stay flexible with my posting dates without feeling rigid or pressured.
- I know I need to steward both my study time and my writing time well.
Proverbs 16:9 says: “The heart of man plans his way, but the Lord establishes his steps.”
Planning is good, but ultimately, I knew I must leave room for God to direct my steps.
Lessons for All of Us
Maybe you can relate to what I’m sharing. Perhaps you’ve also experienced seasons when your routines break—your quiet time, your devotional reading, your creative projects, or even your health practices. When that happens, here are some lessons I’m learning:
- Don’t see disruptions as failures.
- Sometimes God redirects your focus. What looks like a “missed routine” may actually be an opportunity to serve in another way.
- Listen to the nudge in your spirit.
- That inner uneasiness might be God’s gentle reminder to return, not with guilt, but with grace.
- Plan wisely, but stay flexible.
- Schedules are good tools, but they shouldn’t become chains. Leave room for God’s leading.
- Remember the “why.”
- Routines are not about checking boxes. They are about cultivating intimacy with God and stewarding the gifts He entrusted to us.
- Begin again.
- Each new day is a fresh start. “The steadfast love of the LORD never ceases; his mercies never come to an end; they are new every morning” (Lamentations 3:22–23).
Gratitude for This Community
Even as I navigate my own rhythm, I want to pause and thank you—this growing community that takes the time to read these reflections. Your presence here reminds me that writing is not just about discipline, but about connection.
I want to steward this blog well, not just for myself, but for you—who come here seeking encouragement, rest, and reminders of God’s truth. Even when my posting schedule shifts a little, I pray each word continues to meet you where you are.
Final Encouragement
If you’ve been feeling disoriented, off-track, or uneasy because your routines haven’t gone as planned, let me encourage you with this: God’s grace fills the gaps.
Routines are important, yes. They give us structure and help us grow. But when life interrupts, remember that God looks at the heart. He delights not in our perfect schedules but in our faithful desire to walk with Him day by day.
So, if today feels incomplete, start again tomorrow. Or better yet, start again this very moment. God’s mercies are new not just in the morning, but every time we choose to return.
A Prayer for Us
Lord, thank You for the gift of time and for the routines that shape our days. When we falter, remind us that Your grace is enough. Help us to serve You with joy, whether through writing, studying, or simply showing up in obedience. Teach us to plan wisely, live with balance, and return to You whenever we drift. May every rhythm of our life be an offering to You.
In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Let’s Stay Connected
If this reflection encouraged you, I’d love to hear your thoughts. You can share your experiences in the comments below—I truly enjoy learning how God is speaking to each of us in our unique journeys.
If you’d like to walk alongside me in future posts, don’t forget to subscribe so you won’t miss new reflections. And if you feel someone in your life might be blessed by this message, please consider sharing it with a friend. 🌸
Together, we can remind one another that we’re not alone in learning to trust God, even in the small rhythms of life. 💛
Faithfully,
Yani 💛
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