“Lead me in your truth and teach me, for you are the God of my salvation; for you I wait all the day long.” Psalm 25:5 (ESV)
How could tweaking my workout create such pain? I’m an avid fan of exercise and yes, it’s a daily part of my routine. But several months ago, I decided to forego some squats and lunges for more cardio which I love. Heading into Spring, I opted to carve in more time for those hated squats and lunges. End result, my legs don’t want to bend. The very thought of reaching to pick up something off the floor, like my dropped keys, makes me cringe. Lesson learned keep up those squats – the payoff is absolutely worth it.
The giving up of something in exchange for more desired things can serve us well. Yet there are many times when our exclusion of what we don’t want to do doesn’t’ serve us well. I’m a spring/summer girl at heart so warm weather calls me to any outdoor activities. And with Bible Study finished for the semester it can be easy to read a few verses and say a short prayer. Our minds can ease into vacation mode with the promise of getting back on track when September rolls around.
Sounds like a plan yes? One major problem. Shortchanging our time with God eventually shows up negatively in our thoughts, actions and words. No legalistic routine shaming here. Just simple truth. When I breeze in for a few verses, I miss beautiful moments savoring God’s word. Learning more about His character and how to reflect His image requires time, study and reflection. And the testimony of people sprinkled throughout the pages of scripture teaches us pivotal life lessons. It’s the very essence of spiritual growth my soul needs in a world filled with compromises and excuses.
Best plan of action is to come up with a plan – one that is guaranteed to invigorate our souls and alleviate excuses. Here’s a few ideas:
- Enjoy prayer walks through your neighborhood or at a park.
- Gather with one or two friends weekly to study scripture or simply share what God is teaching you
- Choose a book of the Bible to read – one you haven’t focused on before.
- Take advantage of podcasts from trusted teachers
- Grab your Bible, pen and paper and head outdoors for your study time
- Steal away some alone time on vacation and breathe in deep of God’s goodness, gentleness and faithfulness – jot your gratitude down in a journal
- Write out and unpack a scripture verse every day
- Zero in on Sunday’s sermon – dive in and allow God to unveil deep truths
- Saturate your day with worship music and allow God’s Spirit to fill your soul
- Fall in love with Jesus all over again, love God’s word and cherish time in His presence
What an incredible summer we have to flourish, stretch and grow as we put into practice incredible truths from God’s word. Amazing moments to listen intently and obey God’s gentle voice as He leads us – the payoff is absolutely worth it.
“Father what a gift to be able to draw near as You refresh our souls and teach us how to be more like You. Make this summer one we will never forget. Ignite a love in our hearts for You that will never grow cold.”
For His Glory
Janet Martin
TRBC Women’s Life
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