A simple question for a simple post today, but the difficulty is in the doing of it, is it not?
Jesus regularly arose early in the morning to pray (e.g., Mark 1:35). The blessed man finds that “but his delight is in the law of the Lord, and on his law he meditates day and night” (Ps 1:2; cf. 1:1). Daniel prayed three times a day (Dan 6:10).
Do you regularly take time each day to spend time with the Lord in Bible study and prayer? A look at the examples above and other passages in Scripture offers us some practical suggestions on how we can spend time with the Lord.
First, set a regular time (or times) to study and pray. Whether in the morning, evening, in the middle of the day, or some combination of the above, discipline yourself to keep this time each day.
Second, no one is too busy to spend time with the Lord. Jesus was busier than we can imagine. Daniel had great responsibility in Babylon. Whatever their responsibilities were, they knew how to set them aside to spend time with the Father.
Third, there was a great desire for this time. The psalmist delighted in God’s law and thus sought to meditate upon it multiple times in the day. Daniel prayed three times a day, even when faced with death as a consequence. Jesus could have simply filled His time with healings, but He prioritized time with the Father.
Fourth, have a regular place you go each day to spend time with the Lord. Daniel went to the upper chamber where there were windows. Jesus got away from everyone else. Whether it is at your table or in your easy chair, let the location be part of your habit.
Fifth, get rid of any distractions. Silence the smartphone, turn off the radio, and check your email later. A location that allows for thoughtful time with the Lord is helpful along these lines.
These are just a handful of suggestions to which many more could be added. If you don’t spend time with the Lord, there is only so much that you will be able to “grow in grace and the in the knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ” (2 Pet 3:18). But if you were to put your mind to intentionally doing so as a habitual time each day, you could grow all the more.
Grow in grace and knowledge by spending time with the Lord!
About David Huffstutler
David pastors First Baptist Church in Rockford, IL, serves as a chaplain for his local police department, and teaches as adjunct faculty at Bob Jones University. David holds a Ph. D. in Applied Theology from Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary. His concentration in Christian Leadership focuses his contributions to pastoral and practical theology.
