There is someone in my life (not my husband thankfully!) who is often in a rush. Many times, I store up a few things that are on my mind to tell them and just as I am 4 words in, this loved one needs to rush off. Rarely is there time to tell them what was on my heart. I am left feeling hurt and it makes me just not want to bother.
This thought flashed through my mind today as I was reading Psalm 27:4, which says: “One thing I ask from the Lord, this only do I seek: that I may dwell in the house of the Lord all the days of my life, to gaze on the beauty of the Lord and to seek him in his temple.”
Everything about this verse talks about not rushing. Too often I am in a rush when it comes time to sit with the Lord. David (the author) talks about how he longs to dwell (not just pop in) with God. Reading even further, he mentions the idea that while he is there, he would like to gaze at the beauty of the Lord – not glance, gaze!
I have discovered that if I am able to slow myself down and really be present as I sit in the presence of the Father, I am able to see Him more clearly, hear what He is saying, and receive His peace. None of this seems to happen when I rush in and rush out. I wondered this morning as I read this verse, how often do I complain that I am not hearing from God when perhaps, like my experience I describe in the first paragraph, God begins to speak but honestly, my mind is already on my next task.
I remember the challenge of being a young mom and trying to find the headspace to read and truly hear from God – it was challenging. I remember thinking that once the kids got older it would get easier. Well, the kids are older and it is NOT easier. I have more time and quiet, but that doesn’t mean resting before God is any easier. It still takes a decision to slow down and enjoy His presence, read His word and reflect on it. I sure notice a difference when I do!
Taking time with God and allowing Him to fill your cup to the top is important for all you will face today. I think of the many times I am like a child who is asking for a glass of water while in the middle of a game where there is little time for that cup to actually be filled to the top. Impatient and hurried, they pull it away and are satisfied with a half-filled cup. I pray that today we will both sit at His feet and gaze at the beauty that is our Heavenly Father. May He fill our cup to the full!
Dear Father,
We live in busy and distracting times. I ask that You would forgive me for my rushing in and out of Your presence. I also want to thank You for Your tender mercy. You see my life and see what I am up against. I ask that You help me even in the few minutes I have some days, to rest at Your feet and gaze at the beauty of Who You are!
In Jesus Name,
Amen