“Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.” Matthew 11:28-30
Find a Quiet Spot.
Consider doing this first thing in the morning even if it means getting up a little earlier than other members of your household (especially small children!). Spending time first thing with God will let his Spirit work in you from the first part of the day. Intentional time in the evening, to quiet your heart before bed, is also wonderful.
Settle In
Before you begin, take thirty seconds or so to take some deep breaths and mentally set aside whatever you were doing prior to beginning. If needed, write down anything that is preoccupying you so that you remember to take care of it later and you can focus on your time with the Lord.
Begin with Prayer
Ask God to bless your time with Him and help you to focus. Ask Him to give you a generous portion of His Spirit as you slowly read his Word and to guide your heart and mind and give you his peace.
Read Slowly
Consider taking time to read the daily Scripture reading. (Find the reading schedule at www.openthebook.org.) If you are having trouble focusing, reading aloud can help. If there is a phrase that stands out to you as really speaking into the current situations of your life, spend additional time praying those words.
Sit with the Lord
Thank the Lord for the specific blessings in your life right now. Ask for his Light to shine into the dark places where you are fearful, worried, or angry. Pray specifically for others in your family, your church family, your community and the World. You can use your own words or one of these prayers. Close by praying the Lord’s Prayer.
Let the Blessing of the Lord Rest Upon You:
Remember, this is not a wish but a promise.
“The Lord bless you and keep you; the Lord make his face shine on you and be gracious to you; the Lord turn his face toward you and give you peace.” Numbers 6:24-26
If you would like to know the Christian companionship of others while reading, we are suggesting this time with the Lord at 6 a.m., 9 a.m., or 7 p.m. Know that others will be worshiping and praying in their own homes with you.