![]() For a number of years now the Lord has been waking me most mornings before my alarm so I can spend some time with Him. Being hard headed, and often thinking I know it all, it took me awhile to realize that's what He was doing. I'd get aggrivated and frustrated that I was wide awake more than an hour before my alarm was set to go off, and I couldn't go back to sleep. This went on for over a month before it dawned on me that maybe I should be using that time for prayer instead of struggling to get prayer in at other times during my day. Now, to be fair, I had just come out of a season of life where I had babies and toddlers and didn't get a lot of sleep or alone time so I had been using shower time for prayer mostly. I had continued that, as well as adding my commute to work, but it never seemed to be ample time, and the Lord knew I had moved out of that season and needed to reevaluate things. I, on the other hand, took a little while to catch on. Now, y'all know we learn, and then we grow. That's how all this works. We do the best we can until we know better, and when we know better, we do better. As I was changing seasons, I was growing in the Lord in so many ways. Reading my Bible more than ever, and giving up worldly things that were holding me back from growing in Him. Lots was happening, as God was moving me to the next level. He was trying to do even more in me and through me, but I was slow to the party. I didn't realize there was a direct correlation between how much time I spent with Him, and how much time I talked to Him, and how fast and far I would grow in Him. Although it was true I hadn't been a "baby Christian" in some time, I wasn't that mature Christian He was pushing me to be either, well not yet anyway. When I started using that morning time for prayer I felt a shift. It was literally like everything changed, and that's because it did. There were mornings I'd wake up and say things like, "I'm tired today Lord, what's on your mind?" Let me tell you, He filled me up with His mind. I was amazed at how much clearer I could hear Him when I just listened in those early morning meetings. Sometimes our morning meets were longer, and sometimes they were shorter, but they were always worth my time because He was preparing me. He was preparing me for that day, and every day after that. He was preparing me for things I wouldn't know were coming for a long time, and for things I needed preparation for. Indeed He was guiding me, and because I was spending time with Him, I understood that. He gave me more patience with my children. He gave me more patience with my husband. He gave me love for the people who hurt me, and acceptance of myself and all my flaws. I bet y'all can guess, I was still completely imperfect, but I was listening more than ever to a God who was not. This changed my life. If you're a Christian and you're reading this and you're not spending time in the secret place daily with the Lord, I implore you to do it. It's a game changer. If you're not a Christian, reach out to the Lord. He loves you were you are, but too much to leave you there, and if you don't know how to do that, reach out to me. I'd love to share the Gospel with you and answer any questions you may have. God doesn't promise us a life free of troubles, He just promises us that when we go through troubled waters, He'll be with us. So, in the morning, when I rise, give me Jesus. I wouldn't have it any other way.
If you enjoyed this blog, please like it and share it on your social media. I'd love to hear how and when you spend time with the Lord. Leave me a message below and let me know. Thanks for stopping by. I look forward to this time again tomorrow. XOXO Jen
6 Comments
Alice Labranche
2/23/2020 05:27:52 pm
I loved reading your blog. I get up early every morning to have this quiet time with Him. Right now I am asking my Father to grow my spiritual life. It’s taken time for me to figure out what His vision is for me. He is moving within my soul. I know he is not done with me. Right now I am having a problem with a co-worker. I finally journaled about it this morning. I am a very non confrontational person. This person has a very strong personality. I will keep praying that my heart softens. Have a blessed day!
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2/23/2020 11:19:13 pm
Thank you for the kind words Alice! Isn't that early time with the Lord the absolute best? It gives me a jump start to my day, plus I love knowing I gave Him the first of it. It's just another way to put him first in my life. I'll pray for you about your co-worker. Thanks for stopping by my blog. <3
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2/25/2020 02:15:10 pm
I too have my time with God in the morning. While I am retired, so no alarm clock, it is still the best time for me. Once my husband is up, it is harder to find quiet time. Obviously we can speak with Him anytime, but for me there is something special about the early morning time.
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Jen Ridenour
2/25/2020 02:17:02 pm
I fully agree Jean. It’s the best time when we give God our first! I haven’t needed an alarm in several years because He rarely fails to wake me for our time. Be blessed today. ❤️
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Lisa Harness
2/27/2020 01:20:11 am
I’ve been through many seasons. When my kids were growing up it was in the afternoon or late evening. After my husband & son died it was the morning. I love the morning time, seems it’s just that blessed time. Now, I keep my grandkids & it tends to be the late evenings again. I’m struggling to do it earlier, bit I tend to fall asleep if it’s real early. I know God is with me and He will shore me up.
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AuthorHi I'm Jen, and I'm so glad you're here. I have a passion for Jesus, my family, and connecting with a more simple way of life. I love to write, and enjoy many creative avenues. I look forward to sharing so much with y'all so come back often! Archives
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