Four Books for a Slower Way
Since January, we have been trying to adapt to a slower way over here at the Westfall home. But I have to tell you: Most days, it feels like we are swimming against the current. More than once, we’ve been swept back up into the hustle and the striving, of thinking there’s always more to do and I have to be the one to do it. NOW.
But then I remember: We cannot rush ourselves into a slower way of living. Sustainable change cannot come quickly, and we must allow ourselves that grace. However, we do need ways to keep our eyes focused on the vision. That’s where books come in. When I get a little off kilter, books become a good friend that remind me of a slower way and help me adjust my pace.
I’m continuing to expand my reading in slow living (so feel free to pop a suggestion in the comments), but here are four books that have been helpful in my journey thus far. (No spoilers. Promise. Just a quick overview and a good quote.)
1. The Ruthless Elimination of Hurry
by John Mark Comer
What led me into a slower pace was the desire to live a more present life. That pursuit brought me to this fantastic book, The Ruthless Elimination of Hurry. As a pastor who learned the hard way that more is not in fact more, John Mark Comer lays out his personal story of burnout, of cultural norms that encourage a fast and efficient way of living, as well as practices for cutting out the quick-paced life and living more connected with God and with people.
A favorite quote:
“Hurry and love are incompatible.”
—John Mark Comer, The Ruthless Elimination of Hurry
2. The Common Rule
by Justin Whitmel Early
While not advertised as a “slow living” book, one cannot live out the concepts found in The Common Rule: Habits of Purpose for an Age of Distraction without embracing less-rushed way of life. What I loved about Justin Whitmel Early’s book was how he equips readers with simple practices aimed not at perfect or efficiency, but connection and intention. They’re offered not as items on to-do list, but simple paths for real, everyday life.
A favorite quote:
“Our life is defined by what we pay attention to.”
—Justin Whitmel Early, The Common Rule
3. A Long Obedience in the Same Direction
by Eugene Peterson
What I love about this book from Eugene Peterson is that it takes the concepts of slow living and overlaps them with a grace-filled framework for spiritual formation. As a long-time pastor and writer, Eugene Peterson passes on observations about what it looks like to see our relationships and transformation from a long view. A Long Obedience in the Same Direction: Discipleship in an Instant Society is not only for pastors or church leaders, but for anyone wanting to see their spiritual selves from a less-hurried pace and to view themselves from a posture of becoming.
A favorite quote:
“Take your everyday, ordinary life—your sleeping, eating, going-to-work, and walking around life—and place it before God as an offering.”
—Eugene Peterson, A Long Obedience in the Same Direction
4. Growing Slow
by Jennifer Dukes Lee
I was able to snag an advance copy of Growing Slow: Lessons on Un-Hurrying Your Heart from an Accidental Farm Girl (coming May 11, 2021), and let me tell you: It’s good. What I think I liked most about this book is that Jennifer is relatable, practical, and gives you a visual way of seeing our seasons of life from a long-term view. (Note also, if you pre-order the book, it comes with bonuses!) Jennifer will also be a future guest on the podcast, so be sure to subscribe to hear more about our conversation on growing slow.
a favorite quote:
“We all want new and beautiful things to spring forth to new life. We want our lives to reflect meaningful work that can change the world. But growth that stands the test of time simply cannot be rushed.”
—Jennifer Dukes Lee, Growing Slow
What slow-living books or resources would you add?
Feel free to add your suggestions in the comments.
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