MAKING TIME FOR GOD

In our hectic lives, it becomes increasingly easy to forget about spending quality time with God. We dash through each day, juggling the demands of work, family, and a myriad of distractions—it’s akin to being stuck in a giant game of whack-a-mole, where every time one task gets knocked down, another pops right up! Have you ever taken a moment to really think about what it means to pause and connect with God? Consider it the same as nurturing a cherished relationship with a beloved friend or family member. You wouldn’t just text them when you’re in a bind; you would want to share the highs and lows of your day, your dreams, and your worries. It is fundamentally the same with God; He longs for that personal connection with us.

God is patiently waiting for us to carve out a little time in our busy lives for Him. He already knows our needs even before we utter a word. So, when we engage in prayer, it’s not merely about asking for help or blessings; it’s a chance to deepen our relationship with Him. The Bible tells us in Philippians 4:6-7: “Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God. And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.” Consider how Jesus often slipped away to pray, seeking those quiet moments to converse with His Father. There were no fancy church services required; it was about intimacy and connection. This is a beautiful model we can follow anytime and anywhere, acknowledging that God isn’t a figure we only wind up on Sundays. He is right there with us through every chaotic moment of life, ready and waiting for us to reach out.

When we take a breath and reflect on our lives, we often realize how consistently God has been with us through our ups and downs. Let’s be honest: in the hustle and bustle of life, it is all too easy to overlook the blessings we receive daily. However, when we intentionally pause to remember those blessings, we deepen our relationship with Him in profound ways. Giving thanks isn’t simply an obligation; it becomes a joyous act that brings us closer to the heart of God. Psalm 107:1 reminds us with a simple but powerful command: “O give thanks unto the Lord, for he is good: for his mercy endureth forever.”

Some may think the only viable place to find God is within the confines of a church building, but there is a truth that must be acknowledged. The early followers of Jesus gathered primarily in homes, sharing meals and fellowship. They understood that God isn’t confined to four walls; He is living inside us! The Bible emphasizes that our bodies are a temple of the Holy Spirit (1 Corinthians 6:19). This is truly mind-blowing! It means we can connect with God wherever we go—whether at home, in the car, or even sneakily chatting with Him in the grocery line when things become overwhelming. The communion is not about the location but the openness of our hearts.

Establishing that connection requires us to set aside time for Him. Think about visiting your parents—not merely to borrow money for a new gadget, but to genuinely spend time and check in on how they’re doing. They cherish your presence, not just for what you might take from them, but for the relationship itself. God feels the same way; He doesn’t want us zooming past in the hustle of life, simply checking a box on our spiritual to-do list. We are meant to linger in His presence, embracing that companionship.

And here’s a delightful thought to ponder: if you feel that inner longing to spend time with God, guess what? That very desire is a nudge from Him! It is He who plants those thoughts in your heart, inviting you ever closer to Him. Isn’t that sweet? It’s akin to a parent yearning to spend joyful moments with their child—a pure act of love.

Navigating through your busy days, don’t forget—there is always room for God, even amidst the whirlwind. Consider taking time to cherish those quiet moments with Him, allowing them to fill your spirit with light and joy. Imagine—our Creator desires to be with us just as we long to be with Him. It creates a beautiful back-and-forth, a dance of hearts that leaves us more enriched than we were before.

Building a relationship requires effort, and God isn’t asking for elaborate rituals—He simply desires a genuine connection. Often, people worry that they don’t know how to pray or what to say; God’s response, however, is straightforward. Incorporate simple dialogue into your daily life. From the moment you wake, speak to Him, expressing gratitude for a new day, or consult Him about the challenges you face. Remember, God is not the stern principal waiting in the office for you to show up; He is the friend eager to catch up with you!

A little Godly humor can brighten our perspective on these deep truths. One day, someone asked a busy pastor how to make time for God amid life’s chaos. He chuckled and replied, “Well, God isn’t scheduling an appointment! He’s not looking for an executive meeting. Just acknowledge Him while you wait for your coffee to brew!” It’s a lighthearted reminder that even our everyday moments can become special times with God—no appointment necessary.

As you keep navigating through life, consider integrating Bible verses that resonate throughout your day. Scripture like Isaiah 30:18 comforts us with the truth that “the Lord longs to be gracious to you.” This means that God is actively hoping for moments shared with you, waiting for opportunities to enrich your life, empower you, and maintain a vibrant relationship.

In the quest to build a meaningful connection with God, remember that every little effort matters. Keep the channels of communication open, like a phone line constantly available for your needs, questions, and thoughts. Use your commute to sing praises, utilize chores to meditate on His goodness, or even whisper prayers while tackling your to-do list. Each moment that invites God into the ordinary becomes a sacred touchpoint.

The beauty of making time for God is that it doesn’t always have to be sacred or solemn. It can be filled with laughter, grace, and glimpses of His glory found in everyday experiences. Even when chores pile up or meetings seem endless, pause at any time, breathe deeply, and remember that He is still present, waiting patiently, loving you unconditionally.

As you continue to make time for God, the emphasis lies on being intentional. Amidst each day’s business, create pockets of stillness, allowing His voice to penetrate your head and your heart. Treasure each moment shared, knowing that when you give time to Him, you will find peace in the chaos and strength in weakness. Keep your hearts tender and your spirits overflowing with love; your wicks trimmed and your lanterns filled with oil, because the King is coming!