I read a devotional today that set a challenge before me. And it could mean a radical shift in my schedule, The devotional challenged me to spend as much time in the Word and with God as I do in my personal pursuits. This means that if I spend time reading fiction each day (which I do, I love light reading for relaxation), I should spend as much time in prayer or study. If I spend an hour reading a book, surely I can spend an hour reading the Bible? If my evenings are spent in front of the tv, shouldn't I be able to shift some of that time to the Lord?
Two Scriptures come to mind to cement this in my heart: Mark 8:36 For what will it profit a man if he gains the whole world, and loses his own soul? And, Galatians 6:7-8 Do not be deceived, God is not mocked; for whatever a man sows, that he will also reap. For he who sows to his flesh will of the flesh reap corruption, but he who sows to the Spirit will of the Spirit reap everlasting life.
This is not to say we can't spend days doing fun things. It's not that we can't pursue our hobbies, God put many things in our heart and we are told in 1 Timothy 6:17 Command those who are rich in this present age not to be haughty, nor to trust in uncertain riches but in the living God, who gives us richly all things to enjoy. We take trips, we go sightseeing, spend time with friends and family. Just like we love to see our children enjoy the gifts we give and the pleasures of life, I believe our heavenly Father smiles down when we find joy in the things He gives and has created. But imagine if we spent as much time with Him as we do reading a book or watching television or playing games on our phones. Hmmmm. What a concept, right!?!
Our minds and bodies need to relax. That's the way we are made. But maybe that relaxing should include sitting in the Presence of the Lord! Maybe it's not always an intense study period, but just a time of quiet at His feet. Or reading a biography of an old time saint. Or time spent praying over our family and friends. Or just reading through the Psalms. Whatever it is, let's increase our time with Jesus!
Lord, change our hearts to seek You more. It's funny we were just had this verse in our Sunday sermon Luke 11:9-10 And so I tell you, keep on asking and you will receive what you ask for. Keep on seeking, and you will find. Keep on knocking, and the door will be opened to you. For everyone who asks, receives. Everyone who seeks, finds. And to everyone who knocks, the door will be opened. The more we seek after You Lord, the more we will find You and the more our lives will radically be transformed. Lord, give us hearts to make this a priority. I for one am so easily distracted, so easily swayed towards the easy route. I get spiritually lazy. Help us to all seek You before we seek pleasure. Be our hearts desire, be our greatest pleasure and our greatest treasure. Lord, turn our eyes and hearts towards You more and more each day. In Jesus sweet Name. Amen
Start changing your time.
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