My six-o’clock alarm jump-started my adrenaline as I reluctantly kicked off the sheets and internally griped about getting up. Being up this early should be illegal. The cold water stung the nerves on my face in an offsetting, but amazing way. It was a nice compliment for the warm dark roast coffee I would soon sip. I brushed my teeth, with tired eyes closed and mentally planned my outfit for the day. The forecast was sunshine and no clouds, but I knew the inside of our prison-like school would be an icebox. Skinny jeans, a T-shirt and light jacket… oh, and my go-to grey booties were the perfect combination. And just like that, the rush of my day began.
The craziness only got worse as the hours passed. I am the type of person who doesn’t know how to say no. I fill every minute of my agenda going from school, to practice, to clubs, hangout with friends and work. There is never time to relax. My idea of relaxation is when the coffee wears off and I am back in my bed, or the car ride from one place to another or the wait in line at Starbucks. Rest is not usually in the forefront of my mind. In fact, it is usually an afterthought that gets cut from my busy day. Something else that is also rarely considered is my quiet time with God. As a Christian, I know is should be part of my day, but I’ve never been great at including it, even though it is something I desire.
Psalm 46:10 says “Be still and know that I am God; I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth.” Often times I read over this verse quickly. I am not one to stay still when there is so much opportunity and so many things to do. The Lord calls us to not only know that He is God, but to be still and let Him govern our lives. It reminds us to be still even on the busy days where I overbook myself or find other things to do. I need to prioritize time to be with the Lord, to be quiet with Him and listen to His voice. Whether it is five minutes or an hour, I find peace in the reminders that God is exalted and governing the world. He is in control, not only of my life, but of everyone else who submits their heart to Him.
Slow down, drink in the goodness of God with your caramel Frappuccino. Be intentional about making time to be with Him. It will jump start your day and give you strength when you are weary. We all have the same amount of minutes in our day. It’s our choice on how to fill them. I challenge you not to “fit God in” because you have to, but to “spend time with Him” because you want to. Go ahead, satisfy the craving. He’s created you with a desire to know Him.
Jordyn is a senior at Olentangy Liberty High School and will be attending High Point University in the fall. She loves spending time with friends, photo shoots, and shopping.
