Scientists have discovered how to make life feel less frazzled. “Time famine”—the sense that we have too much to do and too little time to do it in—is correctable with a single experience: awe.
New studies show that taking a moment to pause and gape in wonder has a significant impact on one’s perception of time. When people contemplate something majestic they are more relaxed, happier, and may become healthier. Not only that, but “Those who felt they had more available time were less impatient; they were more willing to volunteer their time to help others; and they were less materialistic,” the researchers reported.
Sounds good, doesn’t it? In fact, it kinda sounds … devotional. Like what happens when we raise our hearts to ponder the majesty of God. When we pause regularly to remember—really, truly remember—the greatness of our maker, it changes how we perceive life.
Our days open up when we ask, “Who among the gods is like you, Lord? Who is like you— majestic in holiness, awesome in glory, working wonders?” (Exodus 15:11) Even the scientists know it. Awe helps us look differently at the day the Lord has made, and helps us rejoice and be glad in it. Stop. Ponder. Be awe-struck.
