For years, my time with God was more like a religious duty.  I viewed it as something I checked off my list along with exercise and the grocery store.  During my time with Him, I would:

• Read from a daily devotion
• Read the Scripture reference
• Pray a quick 2 minute prayer-

And off I went into the day, never giving thought as to what I had read or how it related to my life.  Looking back, I was merely going through the motions of trying to be a good.   My time with God was more of a duty than a cultivation of something special.

Keep in mind, if you’re a new believer, nothing is wrong with this approach. But if becomes a habit, eventually the most important relationship you can cultivate will become nothing more than a fizzled out regimen you meant to get accomplished each day.  An item on a check list when God wants to give us so much more!

By God’s amazing grace, my time with Him has become possibly my favorite time of day!  He fills my heart with joy even when I’m not feeling joyful.  He gives my soul rest when I’m not feeling peaceful.  He quiets my anxieties.  He gives me a sense of direction and perspective.  He reminds me if there’s someone I’m neglecting in all my busyness.  He prompts me to call or text someone who needs a special touch. He prompts me to pray for certain people.

He is the All-Wise, All-powerful, All-knowing God of the Universe.  To think He sees me and is mindful of me despite all that’s going on the world is mind-blowing to me!  Truly, after all these years, I can’t seem to get over it!  I pray I never do.

Be encouraged – He sees you too and is mindful of you as well.  He simply wants to spend time with you.  He wants to quiet your anxious heart and feed your hungry soul.  He adores you. He wants to cultivate a special relationship with you.

If you currently view your time with God the way I used to – as something I had to do instead of something I wanted to do, pray!   Ask God:

1. To give you a desire to spend time with Him.  (It’s okay to tell Him you feel like it’s a duty.)
2. Ask Him to breathe fresh life into your time with Him.
3. Ask Him to speak personally concerning your current situations or circumstances –  in a way that you know it’s Him.

It may not happen in that moment or the next day, but be diligent.  Continue praying – because this is a prayer He delights to answer!

Don’t miss Thursday, September 29th
Marriage Series: Unwrapping the Gift of Sexual Intimacy 

Sexual Intimacy is a gift from God.  His desire is for us to enjoy this gift with our spouse. Have you put it on a shelf to use only on special occasions?
Join us Thursday night at Hope Community Church – Raleigh Campus,
Speaker: Gwen Brodd;