One of the things that became clear during my time at The Blessing Ranch is that my default (the way I tend to operate) when things get hectic is to “work harder” not “depend more”.  Hard work is a good quality and desperately needed in our culture, but it can never take the place of dependency upon God.  One of the key phrases Dr. John Walker had me focus on was from June 24th of Jesus Calling (a great book by the way) is:  “In the world, dependency is seen as immaturity.  But in My Kingdom, dependence on Me is a prime measure of maturity.”  I’ve taught this kind of truth for years.  I love John 15, but realize my default is not always to “abide” or be “dependent” and when this happens it’s evident.  I exhibit a lack of grace, and increased levels of worry/anxiety.  One of my big take-aways is to get alone in quiet places and maintain my spiritual disciplines, but make sure a portion of that time is intentional in being quiet before God and listening wholeheartedly; like I wrote a few days ago to “step out of the traffic and take a long loving look at God” from Ps. 46:10 (Msg).