Most mornings I read several daily devotionals along with a
chapter in the Bible. I look up the referenced Bible verses from the
devotionals, including the verses before and after, to better understand the
context of the message. Sometimes this simple act takes me on amazing rabbit
trails where God graciously speaks to me concerning a current trial in my life.
I love being reminded that, “He’s got this,” as the Lord lifts the burden I’ve
mistakenly placed on myself. I give thanks that He is still on the
throne – still in control. Spending this time alone with the Lord and putting
on my spiritual armor (especially necessary in these challenging times we live
in) helps keep me at peace.
But I have to admit; sometimes staying focused each morning is
a struggle. Sitting still and keeping my mind from wandering can be
challenging—I have to continually rein it in. Otherwise, it can be impossible to
discern His still small voice. Before reading my first devotional, “to-do” lists a mile long can easily
be scribbled down. And it doesn’t help that I’m considered to be a “senior” by many
standards. My aging brain knows if I don’t capture thoughts as they enter in,
forget it. They are history.
This mental struggle used to create frustration and
conflict. And then I had a lightbulb moment. I actually...prayed about it. (Yeah,
heavy, I know.) Sometimes the simplest answer is literally staring you right in
the face.
And God’s response to that prayer? For me to compromise just a
little. By keeping a small tablet barely within reach I can quickly jot down the list
of to-do items as they crowd in, but I keep my Bible and journal directly in
front of me to capture “God thoughts” or “divine messages.” For me this system works.
I’m able to keep the main thing the main thing, retaining my priority of staying
focused on the Lord.
God created our amazing mind and He wants us to use it
wisely. He also created us as spirit beings. He longs to fellowship with us
throughout the day. We can do both, and
have peace amidst the storm, as long as we remember to put Him first.
Trust
in the Lord with all your heart
and lean not on your own understanding;
in all your ways submit to him,
and he will make your paths straight. (Proverbs 3:5-6)
and lean not on your own understanding;
in all your ways submit to him,
and he will make your paths straight. (Proverbs 3:5-6)
