MORNING

“Let the morning bring me word of Your unfailing love, for I have put my trust in You. Show me the way I should go, for to You I lift up my soul.” Psalm 143:8

There were two ways to start my day of taking ballet class and rehearsing. Too often, I remember I would rush into class, barely making it on time, without much thought about what I was wearing, eating a few bites of a Power Bar in the car, throwing my hair up in a clip, saying a quick prayer, and BOOM!, the day had begun. The problem with that is that I would feel rushed, stressed, hungry, sloppy in my appearance, and basically unprepared for the day. I would just jump into my plies and my muscles would pay the price later for not properly getting warmed up.

The other option would be to get up a little earlier and spend time with Jesus, eat a good, nourishing breakfast, thoughtfully get dressed and fix my hair securely, and take time to warm up my muscles and stretch. Then I felt prepared, ready, focused, and energized for the day. My muscles would feel great and be able to handle the strenuous rehearsals for the day. What a difference!

This is what Jesus wants for us spiritually, to set the tone for our day. One key word in this verse is “morning” – the opportune time for stillness and quiet – a time where God wants to speak to our hearts, teach us His Word, and prepare us spiritually for the day ahead. I know how hard it is to wake up early! But you will be glad you did! But you know what else? Whether or not I have that time with the Lord, His grace still covers me! He doesn’t love me more or less, but when I choose to spend that time with Him, I will feel His peace and guidance all day long!

Prayer: “Lord, help me start my day with you. Help me soak in the riches and blessings of Your Word.  Prepare me for the events of this day. Thank you that I can talk to you throughout the day. And thank you for your grace that covers me no matter what.”