Time well spent
March 13, 2009 (Friday)
Moses spent a lot of time alone with God atop Mount Sinai, a dry, rocky peak amidst many similar mountains in a desert area. It is a very quiet place, well-suited for communion with God. Elijah later spent time with God at that mountain. It’s possible that Jesus’ “wilderness” experience took place at Sinai. Paul’s time in deep meditation and prayer for an extended period at the beginning of his Christian life was probably at the same place. All these men had a similar experience: self-evaluation and seeking God’s will.
Jesus began His ministry with a six-weeks fast, alone in the wilderness with His Father. He then found time each day to pray, and often urged His disciples to come with Him away from the busy crowds of people, so that they, too, could have moments with God.
Our bodies are so designed that rest is necessary. We have no choice but to stop and rest each night. We sleep. It is time well spent, for we arise refreshed and renewed with energy. Our soul needs maintenance and repair also. “Spirit of the Living God, fall fresh on me. Break me, melt me, mold me, fill me. Spirit of the Living God, fall fresh on me.”
Every one of us needs to spend some time with God each day. We need spiritual renewal. How can we experience that rejuvenation of spirit? Various terms have been used through the years to describe this discipline, but most people today, I think, refer to it as a “quiet time.” It is an opportunity to be quiet and listen to God as He speaks within. Most Christians find it a good time to read and meditate upon God’s Word, the Bible. They also pray. Some utilize music, others poetry, or short meditations and devotionals written by dedicated servants of the Lord.
We need to go, to do, to make, to live active, useful lives for the Lord. We also need to stop, think, meditate, pray, and spend time with our Lord each day. We need to connect with God, and find our strength in Him.