God Is in the Small StuffSample

Give God Time

If there’s one thing we need in the midst of our busy, loud, and nervous lives, it’s the inner peace and quiet and assurance that only God can give. It’s the only way to see God’s purposes for us, let alone keep our sanity.

The thing is, God doesn’t yell out and say, “Hey, you’re neglecting me. Sit still for a moment so you can hear me.” Oh, He is fully capable of getting our attention when we really need it, but you don’t want to make a habit of giving God a reason to chase you down (and He will).

Rather than waiting for God to whack you over the head with a spiritual two-by-four, wouldn’t it be far better to give God some time each day to quietly speak to you? Actually, this is God’s preference. “Be silent, and know that I am God!” He says (Psalm 46:10 nlt). Being still may be the hardest thing you will ever do, but it may be the most important. Look at it this way. When you give God time, you show Him respect. In effect you’re saying, “God, You’re important enough to me to set aside some time each day. I want You to teach me, and I want to learn.”

Will God talk to you if you let Him? Most definitely. Not in an audible voice, but through your thoughts and emotions. God also talks through His Word, the Bible. Remember, the Bible is God’s voice for us. The only way to hear it is to read it.

The doorway to letting God into the details of your life—into your concerns and dreams—is time. We know this won’t be easy. Many other voices and devices will call out for your time and attention, and many of them are worthwhile. But if you want to hear the one Voice who will make all the difference in your life, you’ll need to let God in. . .quietly.

Ask God to give you the desire to set aside a place and a time just for Him. The details of your life will wait. More than that, they’ll take on more meaning when you give them over to God.

Was this plan helpful? We adapted it from the book God is in the Small Stuff Bruce Bickel and Stan Jantz.