A Morning Drift Downstream
“Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding, in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make your path straight.” Proverbs 3:5
A few weeks ago, upon waking, I made a split second decision and altered my morning routine. I followed my first impulse..quickly check the weather update. The weather man had been promising snow for several days, and I was excited to see the latest report.
An ad popped up on my screen and grabbed my attention. It was related to some research I had done the day before and really piqued my interest. I clicked the link and got sucked into watching a long, “credible” video about a solution for a health concern weighing heavily on my mind. 25 minutes later, I clicked the "purchase” link for a supplement and began entering my credit card information when I suddenly received a “fraud detection” alert from my bank. That gave me serious pause, and I immediately left the site.
After researching the two “credible” sources and their connection to the product, I learned– lo and behold– it was a marketing scam! Now, before you judge me, I'll share that several of my friends have been scammed in recent months and lost money.
This devotion isn’t a warning about scammers (although it is a huge “business,” and we need to be alert.) Instead, I am sharing it as is my own reminder and re-direction of where my focus needs to be every morning: Time with God! Maybe, friend, it's a good reminder for you? I had been worrying about something for days and got sucked into finding a solution - as a result of looking too far down life's road. I know the difference between taking necessary steps, responsibility, and WORRY. I had been in a worry cycle.
There is immeasurable value for me in spending a portion of my day, as soon as I wake, with God. This is when I rest in the Lord. It may seem odd, after a good night's sleep and going straight to rest, but it is as important as the air I breathe. In fact, Proverbs 3:5 is the reason why I spend time reading scripture, listening to a hymn or worship song, studying scripture, and praying every morning. It is the sweetest time of my day. More than that, I desperately need it and believe it is a form of worship for God. This routine gives me assurance that God is with me, leading me and protecting me in whatever life throws my way. I have followed this routine for over 25 years, and it keeps me from a life of worry. This ritual blesses me and has led me to “Trust in the Lord with all my heart.” And you know what I have found? He is ever so faithful and kind.
Dear Father God,
Thank you for meeting with me in the early morning hours and for the countless ways and times You reveal Yourself to me. Even when the waters of life get rough, I know you are with me. I love you, God, and commit to trust You all the days of my life. You are such a loving God and even in life's hardest circumstances, You act on our behalf. Open our eyes daily to see You. In Jesus name Amen.
If this devotion has spoken to you, I would love to hear how by leaving a comment below or emailing me tracyarntzen@gmail.com.