Hit the Pause Button

Benefits of dealing with things in real time with Jason Gray

Jason Gray shared a powerful reflection during a conversation with us on the importance of being present in our fast-paced world. He discussed how, as he has grown older, he has come to value the concept of a “pause button” in life—a concept that can help us connect more deeply with God and with others in real time.

For those who may not know Jason Gray, he is a celebrated Christian singer-songwriter known for his raw and soul-stirring lyrics. Jason’s ability to speak to the heart of life’s struggles has made him a significant voice in contemporary Christian music, offering encouragement and insight through his personal experiences.

When asked whether he would prefer a rewind or a pause button in life, Jason said, “The temptation would be that I’d want a rewind button,” but quickly added that with age, he sees more value in pausing. “A pause button has more to do with dealing with things in real time. I’ve come to understand, real time is the place where the Holy Spirit speaks.”

For many of us, the idea of rewinding to fix past mistakes is alluring. We often wish we could go back and change things—say the right words, make better decisions, or avoid painful experiences. Jason challenged himself with the notion that taking pause allows us to be fully present in the moment, which is where true growth and connection happen.

The Power of Being Present

Jason explained that when we focus on the past or worry about the future, we miss the opportunity to engage with what is happening right now. He gives an example of how living in the past or the future can affect our interactions with others. “If you and I have a history of conflict, we have to have a potentially challenging conversation… I remember what it was like the last time we talked about this. I’m living in the past, [thinking] he’s probably going to say X, Y, and Z because that’s what he said.”

The pause gives space to listen, to understand, and to react on what is real and true in that moment.

According to Jason, this prevents us from truly seeing the person in front of us as they are in the present moment. “If I’m just real time in the present moment…it also allows you to be who you are right now…and allows me to respond to the Holy Spirit” By pausing, we give ourselves the space to listen, to understand, and to react not based on past grievances or future fears, but on what is real and true in that moment.

Connecting with the Holy Spirit

Jason references the Scripture where Jesus says, “Don’t worry about what you will say when you stand before the authorities. The words will be given to you as you need them” (see Luke 12:11-12).

For us as believers, it’s vitally important to be present because it is in the present moment that the Holy Spirit speaks to us. When we allow ourselves to pause, we create space for the Holy Spirit to guide our thoughts and actions. Jason noted, “If I’m looking at the past or the future, I’m only talking to myself and to my own fears…But if I’m just real time in the present moment…I can respond to the Holy Spirit.”

A Pause is More Powerful Than Rewind

Jason contrasted the desire for a rewind button with the power of pausing. “Rewind is more about me trying to control things by going back and changing things…pausing would help me get into that real-time moment.”

For Jason, the practicing the pause button helps him—and can help us—live more authentically, respond more thoughtfully, and connect more deeply with both others and with God.

In a society that often urges us to rush forward or look back, choosing to pause can transform how we live our lives. It allows us to be present, hear the Holy Spirit, and engage with others in a true and meaningful way.

As you go about your day, consider where you might benefit from hitting the pause button—and see how it changes your interactions, your relationships, and your connection with God.

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