How do you get started in your private worship?
That seems to be the number one question about a quiet time, devotional, Bible reading, or personal time with God.
The second question is very similar: “How do I keep it going?”
I hope to be able to help you with these questions. A previous post should help set the context and prepare you for a post about getting started in your personal time with God. You can read it here. http://waylonbailey.com/2011/11/a-devotional-life-that-pleases-god/.
First, set a time that fits your personality, schedule, and present circumstances. In other words, pick a time that will allow you to be successful. God wants a relationship with you. He knows all about your personality and the events in your life. Choose a time which will allow you the most time to really consider what you are doing. You may need to experiment with several different times.
Second, start with a plan that fits who you are. Though I am not one of them, many people pick a devotional guide to help them focus on one passage of Scripture and to get the thoughts of someone else. You can find many of them, including “Open Windows,” “The Word for Today,” or “The Upper Room.” You might also pick a book filled with brief chapters or devotionals. I simply try to read through the Bible. Other people read a chapter of Proverbs for each day of the month.
Third, don’t get discouraged and don’t give up. Last week after worship at our church, a young woman bemoaned the fact that she is always starting and stopping in her devotional life. She’s not alone. I simply said, “Don’t worry, you’ll be fine. Just keep starting.” Remember, God knows our frame. He understands that we are made of dust.
If you’re plagued by not being able to spend time with God on a consistent basis, all the rest of us can sympathize with you. Start again today. Tell God what you want to do. Ask God to help you stay close to Him. Remember, in our weakness He is strong. He wants you to stay close to Him. He will help you. Your prayer asking God to help you will be a form of personal time with God.
It’s easy to get weary over doing good. That’s why Paul told us not to let the weariness overcome us. He reminded us that a reward comes when we persevere in our time with God (Galatians 6:9).
May God bless you as you get started in your private worship.
If you would like to receive all my posts (usually each day of the week), you can subscribe to waylonbailey.com below. Simply type in your email address and click subscribe. It’s free and easy. When you receive a return email, confirm your desire to subscribe by clicking on the link.
Waylonbailey.com is my ministry across the Internet. I would appreciate your subscribing and also forwarding this and other posts to your friends. Thanks for your help and support.