The first spiritual discipline is slowing down—building margin into our lives and eliminating hurry. John Ortberg, seeking advice from Dallas Willard before starting a demanding pastoral role, was told that “hurry is the great enemy of the spiritual life” and that he must “ruthlessly eliminate it.” This simple but profound advice highlights how busyness distracts us from God. Many feel too busy to engage in spiritual practices, but slowing down allows us to cultivate awareness—the ability to notice where God is at work and align ourselves with Him. Trusting God’s timing is essential, as He makes everything beautiful in His time, not ours. Learning to slow down requires faith in the “slow work of God,” resisting the urge to rush ahead, and embracing the process of soul care.