This question placed on a sign in front of a
church building really caught my attention. There are some observations I
wish to make about this relevant question. First of all, scores of
individuals are so busy in their secular pursuits that they are spiritually
drained. Honest toil is required and is needful; but some people have
become workaholics. Others have need of more money and thus they pursue
multiple careers. They are never at home with their families. They
never have time to meet with brethren in the various assemblies of worship.
Then, there are Christians who are always on the
go. They move about in their daily activities helping others and they
participate in all the programs of the local congregation. They equate
Christianity with motion. Such endeavors are essential ingredients if we
are to meet the needs of others; however, an individual can be involved in
various activities and at the same time be deficient in real spiritual
strength. The problem is a common one. A person can be overworked
and ‘underprayed’.
There should be times when a child of God can
stop all his/her busy activities and meditate on the grace, love and mercy of
God. Some people call it ‘quiet time.’ We all need moments of
meditation and prayer. The Heavenly Father has said, “Be still and know
that I am God” (Psalms 46:10). Also, He tells us to “commune with your
own heart upon your bed, and be still” (Psalms 4:4). In our relationship
with God, we should allow Him to lead us “beside the still waters” (Psalms
23:3). Prayer will keep us near to God. Communication with the Lord
will calm a troubled soul. There is power in prayer. An automobile
will eventually run out of gas if it is not filled up from time to time.
The life that is void of prayer and meditation will become empty and
meaningless.
“Take time to be holy, Speak oft with thy Lord;
Abide in Him always, And feed on His Word. Make friends of God’s
children; Help those who are weak, forgetting in nothing, His blessings to
seek. Take time to be holy, The world rushes on; Spend much time in
secret with Jesus alone. Abiding in Jesus, Like Him thou shalt be; Thy friends
in thy conduct His likeness shall see. Take time to be holy, Be calm in
thy soul; Each thought and each motive, Beneath His control. Thus led by His
Spirit to fountains of love, Thou soon shall be fitted for service above.”
