When I was a new believer, one of the most helpful and practical things I was taught that helped develop my relationship with the Lord was to have a morning “quiet time” as it was called. It is just a private devotional time consisting of reading the Scriptures, praying, and maybe singing a song to the Lord.
There were times when it became a legalistic snare, where I erroneously thought that I had to have a quiet time or my day was going to be a blessing-less bust, but on the whole it was a great benefit to my faith. It became a practice I continue somewhat today, although it is much expanded and is no longer confined just to a specific time slot.
Regarding those times, today is a special anniversary for me. Seven years ago, today, I renamed my private time with the Lord, “Abiding and Delighting,” which, more accurately reflects my reason for spending alone time with the Lord. I do it to spend focused time specifically seeking to abide in Him, that is to be comfortably and authentically “at home” with Him. And to delight in Him, meaning being appreciative of who He is to me and who I am to Him.
I walk and talk to Him. I sit before Him and thank Him through a Psalm. I meditate on and review favorite passages and promises. I use props, symbols and inspirational phrases that express my aspirations. I sing songs. Whatever inclines my heart.
In truth, we never really know how much we are initiating time with Him versus how much we are just responding to His call. But in either case, what could be better than abiding and delighting in Him? I have found that He Himself is a gift that provides a Monday-Sunday boost.
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