Originally published Monday, 12 July 2021.
(Photo Credit: Canva)
I know that with the rat race of life, sometimes it can be tough to stay connected to God’s Word on a consistent basis. With the demands of work, trainings, family, chores, church responsibilities, issues of life, and the overload of online information these days, it’s easy to unintentionally begin placing God on the back burner of our busy lives.
I know this from experience because I’ve had times when I have been so engulfed with my work or a special project, that I literally asked God for a “rain check” on spending time with Him. I know that sounds crazy! Right?! But it happened and I'm not proud of it.
I mean think about it. Putting the God of our universe on hold while I’m trying to fulfill His purpose for my life? It's insane! I know. But sis, think again. Have you ever done this before? Have you ever been too busy for God?
If so, thank God He’s a loving and forgiving Father. But guess what? We have to know that this type of attitude (i.e., “mindset”) does not sit well with Him. And why? Because He longs to spend time with us. I think it's fair to say that His love language is definitely "quality time."
So if we're allowing our busy lives to crowd out this precious time with our heavenly Father, we really need to reassess our lives and realign it with what's most important. And that's spending time with Him in prayer and in His Word. That's how we get to know Him better, be instructed and encouraged, and learn how to serve, evangelize, disciple, and live.
We simply cannot afford not to be in God's Word today. With everything happening in our world around us and even in our churches (the decline, tolerance, and growing apostasy), we have to fight to stay connected to the Vine to stand strong, persevere, and continue maturing in our faith until Christ returns for us or calls us home.
For me personally, there is no way I could do what I do or handle the trials of my life without the Lord or without having a consistent diet of prayer and His Word. I talk to Him everyday. Honestly, I wouldn’t be able to respond the right way, live in a way that pleases Him, nor minister (serve) effectively without Him. I love what King David said in Psalm 119:11, “I have hidden your word in my heart that I might not sin against you.” (NLT) Amen!
Now, with all of this being said, before I close this post, I would like to share a few quick tips that can help you stay connected to God’s Word daily:
- Download a Bible App on your phone (i.e., YouVersion, etc.).
- Purchase or bring a small Bible with you wherever you go (keep one in your car, by your bedside, or in your purse).
- Type up or purchase some Scripture cards to keep around you (intentionally read them before you start your day, during lunch or break time, or before going to bed).
- Research or Google search a list of Bible verses in the area and in this season, where you feel the need for personal growth (i.e., overcoming fear or anxiety, sexually immoral thoughts, gossip, servant leadership, giving, controlling anger, etc.).
- Watch Christian films or YouTube videos to teach and encourage you.
- Screenshot encouraging or life-changing Instagram, Facebook, or Twitter quotes or verses that stand out to you and either write them out in your personal journal or go back to them later when you need them.
We need the Word, sis.
I want to encourage you that anything that we face today, there is an answer for it in the Bible. We just have to search the Scriptures and trust that God will give us the answers for our circumstances or needs (read Philippians 4:19). The next step would be to follow through on its instruction. Joshua 1:8 says, “Study this Book of instruction continually. Meditate on it day and night so you will be sure to obey everything in it. Only then will you prosper and succeed in all you do.” (NLT) This Word still holds true today. Obedience is key.
Another verse that I love that helps me in keeping God first in my day and life is Matthew 6:33 and it says, “But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you.”
If you already have time carved out in your day for spending time in God’s Word, that's awesome! I love it! Continue in His Word and stand firm at all costs until the end. However, if you find yourself struggling in this area by being too busy to spend unhurried time with the Lord, examine your life and schedule, and begin making this time a new priority in your life. I know you can do it! ;-)
If you do this, I strongly believe that it will not only change your life, but others around you. Connect to God today, sis. Trust me. You'll be so glad that you did!
Remember, Jesus is coming back soon! And those who endure unto the end shall be saved. So let’s be ready from the Inside Out!
~Courtnaye
QUESTION: Are you struggling to stay connected to God's Word in today's busy culture? Let me know. Also if you need prayer, email me directly at insideoutwithcourtnaye@gmail.com.
Check out my audio message on "3 Strategies for Studying God's Word" here. For more resources or to book me for your next LIVE or virtual women's conference, visit www.courtnayerichard.com TODAY!
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Courtnaye Richard is the founder of Inside Out with Courtnaye, a ministry that helps women grow in their walk with Christ from the heart and equips them to fulfill their God-given purpose. She is also the author of the book, IDENTIFIED: Knowing Who You Are in Christ and Moving Forward in Your Purpose. Courtnaye is married with three beautiful children and is a contributing writer for ibelieve.com, Women’s Ministry Tools, speaker of a host of women’s conferences, and her blog reaches thousands of women across the globe. She resides in the beautiful Texas Hill Country (outside of Austin, Texas).
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