Tips for Better Living

Make time for God; God will make time for you.

"You cannot mock the justice of God. You will always harvest what you plant. Those who live only to satisfy their own sinful nature will harvest decay and death from that sinful nature. But those who live to please the Spirit will harvest everlasting life from the Spirit. So let’s not get tired of doing what is good. At just the right time we will reap a harvest of blessing if we don’t give up. Therefore, whenever we have the opportunity, we should do good to everyone—especially to those in the family of faith." (Galatians 6:7-10)

Which makes me think of Ecclesiastes:

"For everything there is a season, a time for every activity under heaven.
A time to be born and a time to die. A time to plant and a time to harvest.
A time to kill and a time to heal. A time to tear down and a time to build up.
A time to cry and a time to laugh. A time to grieve and a time to dance.
A time to scatter stones and a time to gather stones. A time to embrace and a time to turn away. A time to search and a time to quit searching. A time to keep and a time to throw away.
A time to tear and a time to mend. A time to be quiet and a time to speak.
A time to love and a time to hate. A time for war and a time for peace." (Ecclesiastes 3:1-8)

What we should never lose sight of is...there is a time for prayer. A time for introspection, discernment, and meditation on God's will. Lent is coming. What a perfect time to make the commitment to start and end every day in counsel with God.

Last night, or rather in the wee, wee hours before dawn, I lay awake trying not to fret about some work-situations that are draining me...leaving me empty and dry. I cast about in prayer. I struggled with focusing my prayers, seeking the "right" request of God. I'm trying to do good, even in trying circumstances. My home relationships are strained because I'm so exhausted from giving everything in the office. I have to be cautious that I not abuse those closest to me, those in the family of faith. I knew that with my internal tank empty, I am becoming cautious and protective of my core. Fortunately, I quickly hit upon the prayer that needed praying.

God, replenish my Spirit. Fill my spiritual well with the living water provided only by your grace and mercy. Refresh my soul. Help me to feel joy during these trials. I cannot seek renewal anywhere else and be satisfied. Only through you are my needs met. Bless me in this hour, this day. Do not leave me to cry alone - pour your Spirit into me until I am overflowing. Let me make time for you trusting that you will always make time for me.

Amen.