Prioritizing Intimacy with God
In the stillness of the morning, before the dawn breaks, lies an opportunity to connect with the divine. Jesus, our ultimate example, understood the importance of prioritizing his relationship with God. Mark 1:35 reminds us that Jesus would often rise early, leaving the comforts of his home, to find a quiet spot to pray.
The Tyranny of the Urgent
Can we imagine Jesus sacrificing his morning prayers for a quick cup of coffee and a rushed start to his day? Yet, how often do we fall into this trap? Psalm 127:2 cautions us against succumbing to the pressure of our daily tasks, reminding us that God provides for those he loves, even while we sleep.
A Habit of Intimacy
Spending time with God in the morning should be a natural part of our daily routine. Dietrich Bonhoeffer notes that many men of God, including Abraham, Jacob, Moses, and Joshua, rose early to seek God and carry out his commands. Jesus himself made it a daily habit, demonstrating his desire for intimacy with God.
Thirsting for God
Psalm 63:1 expresses Jesus’ longing for God, saying, “O God, you are my God, and I long for you. My whole being desires you; like a dry, worn-out, and waterless land, my soul is thirsty for you.” This intense desire for God should be our attitude as well.
Living Like Jesus
To emulate Jesus, we must allow his message to dwell richly in our hearts. Colossians 3:16-17 encourages us to teach, instruct, and sing praises to God, doing everything in the name of the Lord Jesus. By prioritizing our relationship with God, we can live a life that honors him.
Overcoming Obstacles
So, what holds you back from consistent morning devotions? Is it lack of time, fatigue, or distractions? Consider how you can work with your community to support each other in establishing a daily habit of intimacy with God.
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