A guest post by Janet Eriksson . . .
Bible Verse
“As the deer pants for streams of water, so my soul pants for you, my God. My soul thirsts for God, for the living God. When can I go and meet with God?” — Psalm 42:1-2 NIV
Reflection
During a time of crisis, we are so aware of how much we need God. But we may feel it takes time and energy to build our relationship with God. And time and energy are hard to come by during a crisis.
Too often our relationship with God seems to depend on things we “have to do:” Bible reading, prayer time, worship, self-examination, and all those things we think we should do to get closer to God. Those are all good practices that grow out of a vibrant relationship with God. But what defines our relationship is simply being with Him.
Making God the focus of our “being” doesn’t sap our energy. It gives us energy and so much more.
But if we focus instead on what we “need to do,” we may end up giving our energy to religious actions, rather than enjoying just being in God’s presence.
Am I praying because I need to check it off my list of things I have to do, so I can show God how much I need Him? Or do my prayers flow from my heart because I’ve become aware of His incredible healing presence with me?
Am I reading scripture because I feel that it’s just one more thing I have to do if I want to walk with God? Or am I meditating on a Bible verse because God is nurturing a truth in my heart from my time spent just being in His presence?
In Psalm 42, the psalmist paints a picture of God as an oasis, a refreshing place of healing where we go when we are thirsty. If we see God as an oasis, we are more likely to be drawn to His presence rather than trying to check off a to-do list. When we rest in the oasis of God, we are renewed and reinvigorated. There’s nothing we have to do to make all that happen. He knows how to meet us Spirit to spirit. We simply say, “Here I am, God. I just want to be with You today.”
Prayer
God, thank You for drawing my heart to You. I long to simply be in Your presence. Help me to stay focused on You today – not on things I think I need to do for You, but on the joy of just being with You. In Jesus’ name. Amen
Thought for the Day
Take three minutes just to sit quietly and be with God. It’s not about talking or listening, but just being. Set your timer and just sit with God. What a great way to start your day. When you start each day intentionally focusing on God, you’ll more likely remember and invite His presence throughout your day. God bless you.
Copyright © 2020 by Janet Eriksson
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Janet Eriksson is an intercessor, writer, and teacher in Dahlonega, Georgia. She loves conversation with friends, front porch swings, sweet tea, and spending time on lakes and rivers. The author of nine books and editor of many more, Janet blogs and teaches online at https://adventureswithgod.blog/.
