“Spending an entire day alone with God may sound scary or difficult to pull off. But think of not doing it. Imagine reaching the age of seventy, having received more than 25,000 days as a gift from God, and not having given a single one back to him because you were ‘too busy.’ “- John Ortberg
“Seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added to you.”- Matthew 6:33 (NKJV)
In Chapter 11 (“Fill Each Square with What Matters Most”) of When the Game is Over, John Ortberg notes it’s challenging to juggle the “have-tos” of life. Yet, Pastor Ortberg asserts, it’s necessary to engage in four activities to pursue life in God’s kingdom. John covers the first three today.
1. God – not one priority among many, but the priority. Thus, the author stresses our need to do certain things to remember God. Because we don’t want to “skim” God or get to the end of life and not really know Him. Also, we don’t want to begin every prayer with the word “Help!”
As a result, this means we must take time to withdraw from human contact as well as life’s noise and busyness. We need space to be alone with God.
2. People – here Pastor Ortberg notes one striking aspect of Jesus’ life. Jesus paid attention to whomever He was with. Although life placed many demands on Jesus, He never acted distracted or preoccupied. However, have-tos often squeeze out any time for people. Most noteworthy, every human life is a miracle. To develop a compassionate heart, we must not allow have-tos to crowd people out of our schedule (daily squares).
3. Calling – John exhorts us to use our God-given talents and gifts to do His work in the world. Hence, as the apostle Paul wrote to Timothy: “Devote yourself to the public reading of Scripture, to preaching and to teaching. Do not neglect your gift.” (1 Timothy 4:13-14)
Today’s question: Have you ever spent an entire day alone with God? Please share.
Tomorrow’s blog: “Honoring your deepest commitments”
