Christianity Oasis Forum

[deborahwarrior4god]

So how do I keep my thoughts occupied on God during times of change and trial? My life has so changed the past year I've constantly changed my routine. When do I pray, read the Bible, take time to read other books to further my walk... it changed when I got married, it changed when I had to go on bedrest, it changed drastically when I found myself with two newborns, it has changed this past week, again. I'm someone who likes a clear routine, build up habits, have a time to this and a time to do that. I've had to learn how to be a lot more flexible, so that when I have a free moment I can jump on what I haven't gotten to lately. I've noticed too that this uncertainty about when I'll actually have time to read and pray forces me to keep it on my mind. I don't get to 'get it out of the way' so I can focus on other stuff going on in my world. I welcome that... I can make it too much of a routine, chores to itemize and get done, rather than embracing following Christ as a whole way of living. I also think learning to live with uncertainty and having to be flexible forces me to rely on and trust God a lot more in my life.

[xxJILLxx]

Hi Deborah,

My suggestion is to pray all day long. Throughout your day talk to Him. While your holding your lil ones pray with them outloud, even though they may not "understand" what you are saying at this moment, you are strengthening your relationship 3 fold. With Him, with them, and them with Him There are times when we need alone time with God to meditate and petition and praise Him, why not first thing in the Am to get your day started with Him in mind. Also asking Him to nudge you and remind you to talk to Him... How can a loving father not want you to communicate with Him. God is good, present your request and He will fullfill and remind you. He says seek and you shall find

God bless!
♥Jill

[momof3]

Hi Deborah and amen Jilly.

God is so good. He doesnt require us to sit with eyes closed and hands folded in prayer. Its a REALationship. He asks us to speak with our hearts. I find myself speaking to Him throughout the day..through chores, through work, through whatever it is Im doing. Yes, there are those times that He wants us to just be still with Him..meditating on His word..in prayer and supplication..in renewal of our minds...many quiet times. I remember one day I was speaking to an elder lady at our church and told her that at night when trying to pray I would always fall asleep in the middle of my prayers. She suggested the same as Jilly...to wake in the mornings and dedicate time to just Him..reading and praying. That has become an integral part of my days now. It is a matter of disciplining yourself to do this. I find that if I miss that part of the day, I feel out of sorts and things in life frustrate me easier. Decide this is what you are going to do...even if you have to get up an hour earlier. It doesnt mean you HAVE to...prayer and time with the Lord should not be done out of a feeling of obligation, but you will find that if you make the time...it wont be a chore or obligation, but a time you desperately need every day..no matter what time it is. I hope this all makes sense.

God bless you on this walk, sister in Him. He is so good. He loves you so very much. You are soo precious in His eyes.

In Jesus,
love momo

[deborahwarrior4god]

thank you for the helpful advice Jill and momof3! I appreciate it and will definitely keep it in mind as I go forward.