A Habit Worth Forming

When I was growing up, I often wondered why my faith was not affecting my life. My questions were not with Scripture and I did not doubt Christ. Rather, I questioned myself as I struggled to overcome personal insecurities. My frustrations built as I struggled to believe that I would ever enjoy 'abundant life' (John 10:10).

In the midst of my constant struggle, I learned a principle that changed my life and perspective. It was not something that I learned by hearing from a preacher or by reading. It was not an attitude that I embraced, or an opinion that I adopted. I guess I would describe it as a habit that I built into my life.

I began to spend time with Christ daily, and it revolutionized everything about me. My sin life began to diminish. My attitudes became more like Christ's. In addition to all of the other benefits, my joy increased, my faith became more focused, and my testimony became more consistent. The Bible teaches us that dramatic things take place in our lives when we do invest in our relationship with the Lord.

"When they saw the courage of Peter and John and realized that they were unschooled, ordinary men, they were astonished and they took note that these men had been with Jesus." Acts 4:13

At the time, Peter and John may not have been able to articulate it, but spending time in the presence of Jesus Christ had altered them. They were now defined by their courage and boldness. Their valor was exhibited in the midst of persecution. They faced imprisonment and death, yet they stood up, spoke up, and refused to be intimidated.

Even though they were 'ordinary', they were mightily used of God. He took their service and their voice and anointed it. He accelerated their abilities and filled in the gaps when they were lacking.

Everything that God wanted to do through them was imparted to them as they spent time with Christ. In the same way, all that He longs to impart to us will be discovered as we invest in this relationship.

I want to encourage you today not to neglect Christ. You must develop habits that will lead you into His presence. He is with you now, waiting and longing to impart perspectives, strength, and gifts into your life. If you draw near to Him, you will not be disappointed. However, if you ignore the opportunity to spend time with Him, you will miss out on many blessings that He longs to give you.

"Lord Jesus, would You build us into the men and women of God that we need to be? Teach us to love Your presence, embrace worship, and become addicted to Your Word."

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