Finding Quiet Time with God

Our lives are busy! Sometimes, it feels like there's no time to slow down and connect with God. Even on the Sabbath day, pastors, layworkers, missionaries, and church programmers are overwhelmed with activities. But the Bible tells us how important it is to take time for meditation and prayer. Think of it like a phone call to a loved one - you wouldn't want to miss out on talking to them!
Ellen White says, “Many seem to begrudge moments spent in meditation, and the searching of the Scriptures, and prayer, as though the time thus occupied was lost.” SDA Bible Commentary 3:1157.
The term “begrudge” means you don’t want to spend your time in meditation, studying the Bible, and praying but you feel you have to. Or “begrudge” could also mean you're not happy doing it, even if you have to do it. Is this how we feel in our spiritual life?

Ellen White continues, “I wish you could all view these things in the light God would have you; for you would then make the kingdom of heaven of the first importance.... The affections should center upon God. Contemplate His greatness, His mercy and excellences. Let His goodness and love and perfection of character captivate your heart. Converse upon His divine charms, and the heavenly mansions He is preparing for the faithful. He whose conversation is in heaven, is the most profitable Christian to all around him. His words are useful and refreshing. They have a transforming power upon those who hear them.” SDA Bible Commentary 3:1157.
Even a few minutes of quiet time with God can make a big difference. God wants to spend time with you and hear from you.

Reflection Questions:
•    How often do I take quiet time to be with God?
•    What are some distractions that keep me from meditation and prayer?
•    What can I do to create a regular time for connecting with God?

•    When was the last time that you really spend your whole time with Jesus on Sabbath?
Going Deeper:
•    The passage says our thoughts, morning and night, should be on God. Can you start your day and end your day with a short prayer or thought of thanks?
•    Some people find it helpful to read the Bible during their quiet time. Would this be helpful for you?
•    The passage talks about the importance of prayer. Who or what could you pray for today?

Sulad Jhun Cardeinte writes from Adventist International Institute of Advance Studies (AIIAS) Silang, Cavite, Philippines. His email address is acardeinte@aiias.edu

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To read the previous blog articles, go to SULADS Thailand website and click blog section. Direct link below; https://www.suladsthailand.com/blog-1/