God, Me, and Us – Part ISample

Do You Have Spare Time?

In the journey of life, where storms are inevitable, the steadying power of faith and prayer becomes our anchor. This truth is vividly illustrated in Matthew’s account where Jesus, after feeding the 5,000, sets His disciples on a path across the sea and retreats to engage in solitary prayer. This scene is a profound testament to the importance of seeking moments of quiet communion with God in the bustle of life.

As the disciples struggle against the waves, a striking moment unfolds: Jesus approaches them, walking on water. They mistook Him for a ghost. Their initial fear is assuaged by Jesus’ comforting words, “Have courage, it is I. Do not be afraid.” This encounter vividly demonstrates the reassurance and strength that God’s presence brings, even in our most fearful moments.

This story mirrors our modern-day challenges, where distractions abound and often shift our focus away from spiritual goals. We must understand the difference between “traction” and “distraction.” Traction is moving towards our faith goals whereas distraction is the force that pulls us away. In today’s world, rife with digital interruptions, maintaining this spiritual focus is paramount.

One of the best ways we can find traction is through prayer. Spare time can be transformed into prayer time. Through prayer, we find opportunities for deep connection with God. Distractions, on the other hand, though they may seem minor, can significantly increase stress and consume our valuable time. They can detract from our spiritual and personal growth.

The passage urges us to create our own sanctuaries of prayer, similar to Jesus’ retreat for solitude and communion with the Father. Doing so enables us to break away from daily distractions, refocus our faith, and realign our lives with our spiritual aspirations. This practice is essential for cultivating healthy relationships with ourselves, others, and God.

When we anchor ourselves in prayer and keep our faith unwavering, we are equipped to overcome any challenge. Conversely, succumbing to distractions can lead to spiritual instability. I invite you to reassess where you direct your attention and energies. By consciously choosing to prioritize prayer and faith, you empower yourself to navigate life’s challenging seas. Prayer not only provides you with direction and strength but also deepens your relationship with God, helping you to maintain your spiritual course toward peace and fulfillment. Take some time right now to commune with God. Ask Him to reveal where your spare time has been going.