I recently learned that a former college classmate has just been promoted to partner in their law firm. It’s good news for them, but a shaming voice has crept into my head. “I still don’t know what I am even supposed to be doing with my life!”

Yes, my work in service and ministry is “valuable.” But how much upward movement am I seeing? On social media all my friends’ lives are going “up and to the right,” each one seems like an overnight success. Their lives have come together as quickly as instant mashed potatoes in the microwave.

And then there is me.

Me, who doesn’t know where my next career step is even supposed to be — Shouldn’t I have arrived already? Me, who always seems to be moving backwards in terms of financial security. Why am I still struggling?

Me, whose desire for instant success has seeped into my spiritual life. I’ve asked Jesus to make me less anxious — how come I’m not calmer already!? I’ve asked Jesus to make me less selfish — so why am I still thinking about myself all the time!?

Why is progress taking so long? Is there something wrong with me?

Not long after learning about my classmate’s promotion I met with my good friend, Sarah. We walked through a prayer labyrinth together and she prayed for me as I brought these questions to God. “Take your time.” she said as we began our walk.

The Holy Spirit turned a light bulb on in my head.

I am a victim of our self-obsessed “insta-culture.” I’m desperate to see the immediate fruit of my labor. I want success — whether in my career or spiritual life — and I want it, now!

But the Holy Spirit offers me a different path. A path of rest and enjoyment with him!

“Progress” with God is much more like “taking our time” with God than making instant mashed potatoes. My transformation is God’s work, and always seems to go at a long, slow, leisurely pace.

At that moment, I got the clear sense that God is more interested in walking with me than in getting wherever he’s leading fast. Maybe true “success” is learning to walk at God’s pace?

What about you? Do you hear the shaming voice of our “insta-culture?”

Dear friend, Jesus wants to linger with you on the journey too. He loves you, no matter how fast you’ve been moving. Is he inviting you to slow down and walk with him at his pace?

Enjoy the journey! :)

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