By Andrew Williams
Good morning fellow disciples.
In the hustle and bustle of daily life, it’s easy to feel like we’re constantly running on empty. We crave a moment of peace, a chance to simply breathe and reconnect. But where can we find this sanctuary? The answer lies in the simple act of choosing to spend time with God.
Jesus, the perfect example of a life lived in communion with God, understood the importance of solitude. Mark 1:35 tells us, “Very early in the morning, while it was still dark, Jesus got up, left the house and went off to a solitary place, where he prayed.” And in Luke 5:16, we see that this wasn’t a one-time occurrence: “But Jesus often withdrew to lonely places and prayed.” He knew that spending time with His Father was essential for His strength, guidance, and well-being.
So how can we cultivate this daily quiet time in our own lives? Here are some practical suggestions:
- Start Small: Don’t feel overwhelmed by the idea of a long, drawn-out session. Even 5-10 minutes a day can make a difference.
- Find Your Sanctuary: Whether it’s a quiet corner of your home, a park bench, or even your car, find a place where you can feel at peace and focus on God.
- Experiment with Different Approaches: Read Scripture aloud, listen to a devotional, journal your thoughts, or simply sit in silence and listen for God’s voice.
- Be Consistent: Aim for a regular time each day, even if it’s just for a few minutes. Consistency will help you build a habit and make this time a priority.
We all face obstacles to consistent time with God. Maybe it’s busyness, distractions, or even a sense of unworthiness. But remember:
- God Desires Your Presence: He doesn’t demand perfection, but simply your heart.
- Start Where You Are: Don’t let the “ideal” quiet time discourage you. Begin with what you can manage and gradually build from there.
- Ask for Help: Pray for strength and guidance and seek support from a friend or mentor.
Ultimately, the decision to spend time with God is a choice we make each day. It’s a choice to prioritize our relationship with Him above everything else. It’s a choice to seek His presence, His guidance, and His peace. And as we make this choice, we will find that our lives are transformed, our hearts are filled with joy, and our spirits are renewed.
Prayer: Father God, help us to prioritize time with You, even in the midst of our busy lives. Open our hearts to Your word, grant us peace in Your presence, and guide us as we seek to follow Your will. Amen.