"Yet the news about him spread all the more, so that crowds of people came to hear him and to be healed of their sicknesses. But Jesus often withdrew to lonely places and prayed." Luke 5:15-16
My TNIV Bible has application inserts scattered throughout. This one grabbed my attention recently. It follows the scripture above.
" Jesus knew the pressure of a packed schedule. Crowds of people clamored for his attention. The Pharisees continually attacked him. Teaching his followers required a huge investment of his time. Yet he never let his schedule rule over him. He knew the mission God had given him and he didn't allow others' demands dictate how he spent his time. He was never too busy to focus on what was most important - including time alone with his Father. If you're too busy to spend time with God, then perhaps you're too busy."
Ouch. Does that hit any of you "where it hurts" like it does me? Even if our commitments are good ones, or necessary ones, like taking care of our children, homes, etc. they can take us away from having time with Him. Jesus wants our first fruits but often gets our last fruits, our left overs. Even if a quiet time isn't possible in your schedule today, how can you show him that you love Him today?
Great minds think alike...at least when we have the mind of Christ! My last blog took a lot more words to say exactly what you just said here more concisely. We all need this reminder! I just got back from the dentist this a.m. so it's time to go do my Bible study! :)
ReplyDeleteDouble ouch... I do find myself getting caught up in taking care of my children. Spending time with them, encouraging them, loving them, even settling their squabbles... I focus so much on them that I forget the obvious fact that I'm one of God's kids. As much as I want to do for my boys and be there for them as they grow up in life, He wants that even more with me! I would be completely devastated if my children told me "I'll get to you when I can" or "Well, I guess I can spare you two minutes" then fall asleep while their talking to me. Yet, in a way, this is what I tell Him when I say I just can't find the time to spend in the Word, or I finally get to my prayer time as I climb into bed. I guess that's why I'm such a big fan of this blog... no more excuses. It's my heart's desire to know Him more and this provides such a great tool for me to take that time to show Him how important He is to me.
ReplyDeleteI am definately guilty of always saying "YES" and then later I am so busy and caught up in the everyday activities that there is no time. I too need a reminder, and need to know when to say "No"...that it's ok.
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