Be still, and know that I am God. (NIV)
In Joshua 3:5, Joshua told the people to consecrate themselves for the work that the Lord would do among them. Whatever it means to consecrate yourself, it cannot happen carelessly in the hubbub of life with no more thought than it takes to fill your gas tank. If we are going to set ourselves apart for holy work, then we first have to humble ourselves in awed silence of God’s transcendent holiness.
Has reading the Bible become a quick thing you do in the morning, something to check off the list before going to work? Is prayer nothing more than a few words in time of need? If you want to consecrate yourself for what God is calling you to do, then it may be time to change your spiritual habits. Anything, over time, can become dull and lifeless. Read a new translation of the Bible, one that makes you think about stories that are familiar. Set aside a different time and place to pray. This will cause you to break the rhythms of life, forcing you to slow down a bit and be still.
The purpose of daily devotions is not just to get something from God. It is to get us before God. Once humbly before our Lord, our task is simply to glorify Him. He will work in us what He wants.
Lord, I want to draw closer to You. Help me to dedicate time each day to You, time that is Yours alone. May I guard this time as sacred, allowing nothing to intrude on this intimate time with You. In the name of Jesus, Who often went away from the crowds to be along with You, I pray. Amen.
Copyright © 2012 by Steven R. Perkins
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