1 Thesalonians 5:23-24
Now may the God of peace himself sanctify you completely, and may your whole spirit and soul and body be kept blameless at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ. 24 He who calls you is faithful; he will surely do it.
Creative Quiet Times
I struggled to maintain a quiet time with Jesus as a young mom and pastor’s wife, but never seemed to master the daily discipline other people seemed to enjoy on a regular basis. Each January 1st, I’d make promises that this would be the year everything changed. But inevitably, I’d get busy and forget, or something would throw my schedule out of whack. Rather than simply start where I left off, I’d throw up my hands in despair, deciding I must not be the spiritual sort. But God was so patient with me as He tenderly – and continually! – called me to friendship with Him. “Don’t worry about being perfect, Joanna,” I sensed Him say. I just want to be with you.” Joanna Weaver
- Take God out for coffee. Find a quiet corner in a café and meet with God. With your Bible and a notebook, you’re set for a heart-to-heart with your very Best Friend.
- Add a spiritual classic to your devotional diet. While nothing should replace the Word of God, Good Christian books provide delicious and enriching side dishes!
- Put feet to your faith. Take a walk with God! Praise Him for His handiwork. Listen to the Bible on your iPod. Pray. Your body and spirit will appreciate the workout.
- Journal your journey. Keep a spiritual diary. Record thoughts as you meditate on Scripture. List prayer requests and answers.
- Come before Him with singing. Add music to your devotions. Use a praise CD or sing acapella. Read a hymn out loud. Praise ushers us into the presence of God.
- Let faith come by hearing. Download sermons from your favourite Bible teachers. Anointed preaching builds both knowledge and faith.
- Dig a little deeper. A good Bible study will take you beyond just reading the Word. It will help you rightly divide the Word of Truth and apply it to your life.
- All the King’s versions. Find a Bible translation you understand for your regular devotions. Read from other versions to add a fresh perspective.
- Hide the Word. Memorizing scripture plants the Word of God deep in your heart. Write verses on index cards and carry them with you to practice.
- Spend a half-day in prayer. It may seem impossible, but as you set aside a large portion of time to spend with the Lord, He will meet you in extraordinary ways.
- Fill everyday mundane tasks and dead time with the Word of God. Get a waterproof wireless speaker that can go in the shower or anywhere else with you. Listen to the Word of God on a high volume when you are taking a shower, folding laundry, cleaning or gardening. Listen to your audio Bible in the car.
- Make an on-line appointment with a friend/s. A weekly Bible study and prayer for an hour or so, is a good motivation to prepare.