(Begin with 1-2 minutes of silence)
Psalm 34:8 Taste and see that the LORD is good. Oh, the joys of those who take refuge in him!
In yesterday's reading we focused on the topic of personal transformation and the need for each person to prioritize his or her relationship with God. But if we prioritize our relationship with God, does that mean we can't have any fun? Won't that take the joy out of everything?
According to the Scriptures, the answer to these kinds of questions is a strong "no!" Psalm 34:8 speaks of the joy we experience by prioritizing a close relationship with God. Similarly, Galatians 5 notes that the fruit of the Spirit, that is, the results of a lifestyle lived in close union with God, includes love, joy, peace, patience, kindness…and so on.
Take some time today to consider: What is currently robbing you of experiencing a life of love? Joy? Peace? Patience? Kindness? Goodness? Faithfulness? Gentleness? Self-Control?
Hint: Your answer will never be "a close relationship with God is robbing me of experiencing real love, joy, and peace in my life." It's quite the opposite. Prioritize a life of union with God.
READING & PRAYERS:
GALATIANS 5:19-23, PSALM 34 (also read the commentary notes in your Study Bible of choice.)
QUESTION: The main priority of the Christian life is to live in union with God. What would it look like for you to live in complete and total union with Him today?
REAL LIFE PRACTICE: As 2022 comes to a close, consider doing an in-depth evaluation of your life. What are the things that are actually robbing you of experiencing a life of love? Joy? Peace? Patience? Kindness? Goodness? Faithfulness? Gentleness? Self-Control? What steps can you take to eliminate these things from your life and begin living a life of closer union with God?
Take a Step: Remember to continue utilizing the One Minute Pause app throughout the week. If possible, begin to explore and practice the 3, 5 or 10 minute pause to more deeply root yourself in Christ.
PRAYER: Today, take the opportunity to write out your own prayer to God.
(End with 1-2 minutes of silence)
No comments:
Post a Comment