On this episode of A Different Perspective, Berni Dymet talks about finding a balance between taking action and building relationships, especially in our spiritual lives. Many people feel overwhelmed with tasks and responsibilities, which can lead to neglecting important relationships. We all need to take time to appreciate life and truly connect with those we care about.
Berni points out that a lot of husbands and fathers miss out on quality time with their families because they focus too much on duties and obligations. Sadly, this can create distance in close relationships. But the same goes for our relationship with God; many of us don’t take the time for prayer, reflection, and worship.
Instead of treating worship like just a series of songs or rituals at church, we should see it as a special relationship with God that comes from wanting to connect with Him deeply. ‘Worshipping God is about having a relationship,’ says Berni. ‘It’s something that begins in the heart, a desire to be with Him. We just want to experience God and to worship Him through Jesus Christ.’
Worship requires sacrifice. It means looking beyond our own desires and being open to connecting with God. Berni shares the story of Mary and Martha from the Bible (Luke 10:38-42). In that story, Martha is busy trying to serve Jesus, while Mary takes the time to sit and listen to Him. Jesus gently reminds Martha that only one thing is truly important, which is having a relationship with Him.
Connect with Those we Care About
‘When someone asks Jesus, what’s the most important commandment?,’ says Berni, ‘It’s love the Lord with all your heart, with all your soul, all your mind and all your strength. This is the first and greatest commandment.’
In our fast-paced lives, it’s easy to get distracted, just like Martha did. People often feel overwhelmed by responsibilities and might put urgent tasks above important moments spent nurturing relationships. But being busy doesn’t mean being productive, especially when it comes to our faith. Just because someone is involved in church activities doesn’t mean they are close to God.
We need to make time to sit quietly, listen, and worship Him. ‘But walking with Jesus isn’t entering into some super spiritual zone where every one of life’s problems evaporates,’ says Berni. ‘Yet amidst the pressures and the concerns, there are so many good things going on too.’
Finding time for God in our busy world is essential. Berni talks about his own challenges in prioritising tasks, and admits that even when you’re following Jesus, life can still be stressful. Worship can help us manage these stresses better, and taking moments to pause and engage can change how we see things.
‘We forget to thank God for the good things,’ says Berni. ‘But something happens when we spend time doing that. It’s better than just running around doing stuff. We all have things to do. But pausing for a time, resting at Jesus feet, and hearing Him speak changes our lives.’
Listen to Berni’s full message below:
