The children in our preschool class of three year olds were instructed to sit 'crisscross applesauce, hands in your lap'. But one little boy refused to listen. Each time his name was called he glanced up. But then just as quickly, he returned to what he was intent on doing.
It can be frustrating getting children to understand and do what is asked. They want to do what they want to do, when they want to do it. If only they would listen and obey. After all, it's for their good. And time won't be wasted with time out's and discipline.
As I thought about this, I realized how like little children we adults can be.
How often have I been intent on doing what I want to do, when I want to do it?
That still, small voice within my heart warns me to stop. It's time for me to focus on reading God's Word and pray. Just rest in His presence.
I read about spiritual whitespace from Bonnie Gray of Faith Barista. Taking the time to be quiet. But that rest my soul requires all too often gets pushed to the side only to be replaced by activity.
My computer sits right in front of me. I wonder what's going on in the world? Maybe I should quickly check Facebook or email? I have a list of TV shows I've recorded. Maybe I'll just watch one.
I realize I'm really no different from the little boy in our class who is intent on doing his own will. He doesn't realize how much he's actually missing out on by making the choice to not listen.
How much am I missing out on by insisting on my will?
Children teach me so much about myself. How about you?
Do you get distracted and caught up in what you want to do? Do you push aside quiet time spent with God? Is your to-do list taking over what's most important?
I love Cherie Hill's quote from her latest book. I don't want to be so focused on the next few minutes that I miss out on God's best for me.
What choice will you make? Can you identify?
Blessings and love,
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[name=DEBBIE PETRAS]
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What a wonderful insight! And I'm happy to see your blog again :)
ReplyDeleteHeidi
Oh my yes can I EVER relate. It always amazes me when I can go along for quite a while it seems with priorities on track and never giving room to skip my devotional time, and then suddenly it seems I am not. One thing has lead to another and on and on and it's been pushed to a back corner sadly neglected....sigh. Somewhere you'd think I'd get it. It's ALWAYS for my betterment and good. He loves me either way, but I am not as peaceful or content. I notice that as we move towards the holidays and I've lots to do it becomes more of an issue. This was a great reminder! Hope your week is a good one!
ReplyDeleteInded I get distracted. My butterfly brain is occupied with so many useless thoughts and things. A few weeks ago I was really ill, pneumonia and antibiotics allergies. I lay for days in my bed with just one book by my side. One about how God is healing the sick, written by Marie Monsen. It really caught my focus, attention and hope. maybe God just needed to draw me aside for a few weeks, to get me focused again. I felt blessed, so miracoulusly blessed, and I still carry that book with me.
ReplyDeleteOh, yes, I can definitely identify. I generally always have my quiet time in the early morning but there's so many other times that I get distracted from my focus on HIM and HIS will for me. I love that saying and will remember that. So good to drop by, I've missed visiting with you. Blessings abundant!!!!
ReplyDeleteDo you understand when I say "I love you Debbie, my sister"?? I do!!!
ReplyDeletexo
Sonja
Oh recently I have felt like the disobedient child who really knows better and yet, will not obey. Funny as an adult I feel it is my right...sin is never a right. Then I open Benjamin's devotional and sure enough, the devotional is for me as I try to read the words out loud to him, I know God is saying..."this is for you dear child".
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