Me & God, Not Me AloneSample

TIME ALONE WITH GOD by Rachel Earls

But he would withdraw to desolate places and pray. — Luke 5:16

May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit. —Romans 15:13

Draw near to God, and He will draw near to you. Cleanse your hands, sinners, and purify your hearts, double-minded people! —James 4:8

Think of one person you love a lot. I’m not talking about someone you admire from a distance, or a celebrity you’re infatuated with. I’m talking about someone who you know on a very personal level.

I’ll go first. I choose my husband. When first getting to know him, I was eager to spend as much time with him as I could. I didn’t need to stay up all hours of the night learning new things about him, but I sure wanted to because I loved him.

Strong relationships are built on quality time. One summer at church camp, it was explained that having a relationship with God is similar to having a relationship with your mom or best friend. Just as you would give that person your undivided attention, share the latest details about your life, and listen to what he or she has to say, you should also do the same in your relationship with God. Relationships don’t form on their own. If you’re wondering why you don’t have a stronger relationship with God, ask yourself if you’ve put in the time. If the only effort you’re putting in is half-hearted prayers, then you’re going to have a half-hearted relationship, too.

At my church camp growing up, we had a daily Tag Time, which was the name we used for time alone with God. Set aside your own Tag Time, use it to pray, journal, worship, or just sit and listen, as long as you are intentional. The purpose of alone time with God is to shift your focus away from things of the world that are fleeting and directly to Jesus, who is the source of joy.

One of the greatest ways you can change your life is to choose joy daily. And that is only possible by being in God’s presence. Joy is found by being fully dependent on God and letting Him live in your heart despite any circumstance or trial. The best way we can face our stress, anxiety, and worry is with a heart of joy that comes from the hope of God. Will you choose joy today and every day forward by embracing an intentional relationship with the Lord?

Daily Prayer

Lord, I want to be near you, and I know that takes effort. My heart and attention are Yours. Give me the discipline to be intentional with my time with you. I invite you into every aspect of my life. Thank you for relentlessly pursuing a relationship with me. I choose joy today and always, knowing that despite my circumstances, I have hope and a God who loves me unconditionally. I am ready to know you more. In your loving name, Amen.