Thursday, 15 May 2008

• An appointment with God

   
  by mr. oak

  i always grew up hearing that as a christian we should take time out everyday and "spend time with God."  some people call it devotional time, others call it quiet time.  regardless - i noticed that most christians want to spend time with God, but never take the time out to do so!

  i think it's common in all of us - that we find reading the Word, praying, or even journaling out thoughts to be great and rewarding on so many levels, but why is it so difficult to do?

  it got me thinking because there are plenty of daily activities that we consistently do - brushing our teeth, showering, etc... one pastor once told me, it doesn't start with much - even 7 minutes is more than enough time!  i spend at least that much time in the bathroom!  a simple solution would be to even put some devotional material in the 'john'! 

  but here are some tips that have helped me in the past and have gotten me regular with my quiet times

  • bible in the bathroom
    seriously - why not put an extra bible in your bathroom?  you're there anyway - it sure beats reading the backs of your hand soap dispenser - or that old magazine from 4 months ago
  • do them in the mornings
    the brain is fresher and more sharp in the mornings (or at least for the most of us) also, whenever i did them at night, i would get knocked out and wake up with a crinkly folded bible and highlighter on my face.
  • get a 365 days a year devotional
    it's best to get the ones with dates on them.  that way you don't fall behind and have some reference.  there are some devotionals that also serve as your planner!  no cash to get one?  plenty of free ones online: here's a good one i like
  • get an accountability partner
    for fun, i used to ask people at church to check up on me on a daily basis...and then if i missed any, i would do push ups!  one way or another, i was gonna get stronger!  ;)
  • set a restriction on a daily habit
    put a post it note next to something you access everyday (tv, toothbrush, fridge) and write "do QT first today!"  and then train yourself to do your QT before doing that activity. 
  • pay it forward
    every time you do your QT, make it a point to put a dollar or quarter in a jar.  and then tell yourself that you'll either donate that money, or buy yourself something nice.  it's a great feeling to see how much change you built up after a few months of doing QT.

  all of these are just to get you started.  once you get the rhythm it gets easier and easier....if you have any other suggestions, please let us all know!  hope these help

   

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