Devotional Lifestyle

As you may have noticed in the last few months, I am one who gives the utmost importance to studying the Word of God. I believe that there are depths of the Word that must be mined in order for us to grasp the extremely important biblical principles that must be our guides for life. I know that I will always be one who shares this importance with others, even though many people would argue that they can leave that to their ministers. Today, however, I want to turn that thought around a bit and express the importance of the devotional life. It seems that something our culture has discounted quite a bit is the devotional worship of God. We are in too much of a hurry, needing to get something done, learn something, or talk to someone about something. We rarely take the time to slow down and revel in who God is.

God reveals himself to us in many different ways. His Word is an important revelation, but He also reveals Himself in nature, the way He relates to us, and the things He does. When was the last time you stopped to smell the roses? Literally, when was the last time you spent some time in nature, glorifying God for the majesty of His creation? Meditating on the world He created is one way we can live out this devotional lifestyle. It allows us to contemplate the unbelievable depths of who he is and what He is capable of doing. Landscapes, livestock, bugs, flowers, and even birds and fish can capture a curiosity in us that should always point us back to God. Such created things are merely that, creations. We should never become so enamored in the creation that we worship it, but it should always point us to the Creator.

As you reflect on your life, you should always remember the ways God has related to you throughout your life. When has He answered your prayers? How has He given you peace? In what ways has your should been blessed beyond belief? How about a simple life-change? Focusing on these things from time to time allows us to remember God's greatness and give him our worship and adoration. As we seek to grow closer to Him, it always helps to remember His loving-kindness.

It is also very good to reflect on the things God has done. Whether there have been miracles in your own life or if you just take the time to reflect on the works God did throughout the Bible, you should definitely spend time thinking about these things. The works God does reflect who He is. As you read through the Psalms, you will see over and over recollections of God's works. Paul wrote in his letters about the things God did, is doing, and will do. The more we reflect on these things, the more in love with God we will become.

Obviously God's Word is a self-revelation, but how often do you read His Word for formation rather than information? In other words, rather than studying the Word to mine its meaning, how often do you allow his word to mine your heart to form your soul to be more like Christ's? It means slowing down and taking in the Scriptures. Take a Psalm and break it down verse by verse reflecting on each word and trying to allow it to slice through any veneer you are putting up. This is a devotional style that can really change our walk with God.

All of these things are excellent ways to see God more. They will help us to grasp His revelation more clearly in order to get a clearer image of who God is and what He is doing. why is this important? Knowing who He is will drive our life as we seek to become more like Him. Yes, I stand by the fact that we must study the Bible to determine its meaning, but I also believe we must allow the Word of God to explore our hearts and mold us to become aware of who God truly is and where we are not like Him. So take the time daily to revel in God's creation or His ways, maybe His Word and His works. Allow The Holy Spirit to form your soul more and more into the image of Christ. It will also change your perspective on our own existence. Slow down and reflect more!