Hope First预览

Intentional Living

God desires for us to have an intimate relationship with Him. But with life’s distractions, it’s easy to keep our relationship with God at a surface level. How can we pursue closeness with God? We start by setting apart time to be in God’s presence. We can’t wait for life to slow down - there will always be something demanding our time and attention. Instead, we must be intentional with the time we are given each day.  

Luke 5:16 says, “Jesus often withdrew to secluded places and prayed.” Jesus had a busy life teaching to large crowds, traveling, and spending time with his disciples. While traveling from city to city, He was repeatedly stopped by people who knew He could heal and change their life. But as busy as Jesus’ life became, He made time to pray and be with His Father. After a long day of ministry, He chose to pray instead of sleep. Jesus knew that God was the source of His every need (Matthew 14). The night before His crucifixion, when He knew the extreme pain He would experience, Jesus left His disciples several times to pray. He was restless and scared, so He prayed. We have the same access to our Heavenly Father.  When we choose to be with God, He will reveal Himself. James 4:8 says, “Draw near to God, and he will draw near to you.” 

What would happen if we decided to spend intentional time with God every day? It may look like sitting with a cup of coffee, reading scripture, and talking to Him. Other times it may be praying in the car on our way to work, or calling out for Him in the middle of a crisis. Wherever we are, He will meet us - we just need to make the time. 

PRAYER

Father, 

Thank You for desiring a true relationship with me. I don’t want to walk this life without You. I choose to give You this time and focus on Your Word and promises. I trust You. In Jesus' Name, Amen.