If you have spent any time with me in a work setting you'll probably know that I mostly operate in the urgent and important quadrant of the Eisenhower Decision Matrix. I only ever seem to find the time and motivation to do things that are essential and time sensitive.
The challenge is that this isn't always the best way to make decisions as a follower of Jesus! So many things that are essential for our growth in maturity, the priority of mission and just generally loving and caring for people don't fit into the box of urgent and important!
One of these priorities that often slips is personal Bible reading. There always feels like there are plenty of things that need to be done right now and that reading God's word can wait.
I read something this week that I found really helpful. It encouraged us to come up with a theological reason, in our own words, of why we should prioritise reading the Bible. That is, what do we know that is true from God's word, that has traction with how we view the world, that can remind us of how vital this spiritual discipline is?
For me, I am trying to remind myself (and anyone else!) that 'there is nothing more urgent or important for me to do right now than to read God's word'.
As is written in Psalm 119:73-80,
Your hands made me and formed me;
give me understanding to learn your commands.
May those who fear you rejoice when they see me,
for I have put my hope in your word.
I know, Lord, that your laws are righteous,
and that in faithfulness you have afflicted me.
May your unfailing love be my comfort,
according to your promise to your servant.
Let your compassion come to me that I may live,
for your law is my delight.
May the arrogant be put to shame for wronging me without cause;
but I will meditate on your precepts.
May those who fear you turn to me,
those who understand your statutes.
May I wholeheartedly follow your decrees,
that I may not be put to shame.
Why not take a moment to think of a reason why reading God's word ought to take the highest priority?
Grace & peace,
Andrew
eNews - 22nd July 2022