I have to say that I borrowed this title from a book I read. In it I read about how to juggle the many different roles and responsibilities in my life. The book began by saying “Life is like a three ring circus, and to try and do it all is like juggling elephants.” Never were truer words spoken. But it doesn’t keep me from trying. I do wish I could stop and learn to do more with less.

We have many roles and with each of these roles come many responsibilities. Some days it feels like it just doesn’t pay to get out of bed! I have days where I just want to pull the covers over my head and take the day off from everything, but then reality sets in and I know I can’t.

It doesn’t matter how much planning, preparation and “to-do lists” I create; I honestly do not have control over my schedule. I can make the plans, but it is God who controls the steps – a very difficult lesson of which I must always be reminded.

I recently heard a quote, “If I will do what I can, God will do what I can’t” (Joyce Meyer); simple words with a powerful statement. I can only do what I can do. I want to learn to set boundaries (not easy); I want to learn to say yes with integrity; I want to learn to say no (again, not easy); and I want to learn it is okay to take downtime just for me (massively hard to do!).

If you need permission to slow down, take on fewer responsibilities and do the things to which you are called, seek God. He always has the answer. Take joy in knowing you can rest in His arms and He will take any and all burdens you want to give him. It’s okay to just juggle the balls He has given you and not the elephants as well.

Come unto me, all ye that labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart and ye shall find rest unto your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light. Matthew 11:28-30

Thank you, Heavenly Father, for teaching me it is okay to take rest and that I do not have to do it all. Amen.