Training Objective: He will have a daily quiet time, consisting of reading the Word and praying.
“The Example of Jesus”
And rising very early in the morning, while it was still dark, he departed and went out to a desolate place, and there he prayed.
Mark1:35 (ESV)
Well, that’s kind of embarrassing. I haven’t had any quiet time for 2 ½ weeks. During Vacation Bible School, I gave myself permission to sleep in an extra half hour and then I was up and running. I figured I would be immersed enough in Godly things. Yes, you may argue that indeed I should have continued even more diligently to be in the Word and pray and I would agree. But it was a fabulous week in most ways.
Then it did get bad. I was so far behind in my reading and reviewing that I chose to take another week off and catch up. Psychologically, it did a world of good for my brain. I got caught up. I even gave myself a break and made a deal with myself for the future. I push myself too hard. I am too strict. Which makes everything – not… much… fun.
But then I noticed I was a bit depressed and out of control. The Devil took over and made sure I felt worthless. My positive outlook was gone. Tears came easily. And yesterday, I lost my temper with my girls. I realized that I hadn’t done that in a long while and I was scared.
And then I realized that I had let my Quiet Time, such that it is, go.
God and I haven’t been close lately. I have been angry, frustrated, agitated, disappointed and so many other things. But I was still trying. No, unfortunately, not training.
What I really need to do, is create an actual Quiet Time. Perhaps I’m too hard on myself. Making this not count. This is something. It’s more than nothing. But I think I need a next step. Because I’m not actually studying the Word. I’m not actually praying. I’m thinking and venting.
My dog walks used to be more prayer-like. And even those have suffered.
I’m tired. In so many ways.
(God loves me – how quickly I forget what I should know.)
Finally, be strong in the Lord and in the strength of his might. Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the schemes of the devil.
Ephesians 6:10-11 (ESV)
Belt of Truth
Breastplate of Righteousness
Shoes of the Gospel of Peace
Shield of Faith
Helmet of Salvation
Sword of the Spirit
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