Bible teachers always share lessons on the importance of quiet times. They describe traditional methods on how they go about studying the word, spending time with the Lord, and prayer. It is usually a formal pattern, where they choose a place in their home, and a particular time of the day. I appreciated their teaching, and I even tried some of their methods, but they were not me. So I decided to find my way. That which fitted my personality, my bend, the way I was made. My place to meet with the Lord has changed over the years. At times, it has been in my car while driving to work, or while riding my bike. Other times it has been as I walked in my subdivision. The place does not matter. The reasons that lead me to this place are what is most important.
The Lord chose the Garden of Gethsemane, Matthew 26:36-45, as the place to meet with the Father prior to his crucifixion. He knew what was coming. Most times I do not know what is coming, but I feel the weight of the trials, I feel the pain of others, I look in sorrow at those without hope, and a place of refuge is what I yearn for, is what I crave. So I run to it. Then I become like Habakkuk. I asked questions, have long conversations, sort things out, analyze, cry and then become silent. In the silence, the Lord speaks. Sometimes, He reminds me of his prior works in my life, or familiar verses of scripture. Other times there are no answers, just silence and the confirmation that my Lord heard my plea. Over the years, I have learned and practiced being alert, and trusting, because during the day, the Lord will answer some of my questions. Sometimes it is by chatting with someone, sometimes it is as I study his word, sometimes is by nature or by looking at some of his marvelous works. In the evenings, I analyze his answers, thank him for his kindness, and then I rest.
In my place of refuge, I cry out to the Lord and he saves me from my distress; Then He sends his word to heal me...Psalm 107:19-20
Copyright 08/2010
Wonderful!
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