Make time for the things of God

“Martha, Martha,” the Lord answered, “you are worried and upset about many things,  but few things are needed—or indeed only one. Mary has chosen what is better, and it will not be taken away from her.” – Luke 10:41-42

How fitting that the theme for December is the godly character of self-control. With all the holiday celebrations, feasts and treats beautifully displayed, everywhere, we are surrounded with opportunities to put self-control into practice.

I was reading today about when the Israelites returned from captivity and began to rebuild the temple. In time, they started to focus on other things and the house of the Lord was forgotten. They found time to build their own homes and to take part in their own self interests, but the house of the Lord remained in a state of ruin.

The Lord called them out and said, “Is it a time for you yourselves to be living in your paneled houses, while this house remains a ruin?” Now this is what the Lord Almighty says: “Give careful thought to your ways.  You have planted much, but harvested little. You eat, but never have enough. You drink, but never have your fill. You put on clothes, but are not warm. You earn wages, only to put them in a purse with holes in it. This is what the Lord Almighty says: “Give careful thought to your ways.  Go up into the mountains and bring down timber and build my house, so that I may take pleasure in it and be honored,” says the Lord.” – Haggai 1:2-8

How easily we push aside the things of God especially during the season that is meant to celebrate Him. We get carried away with all the hussle and bussle of the season and we miss what is most important ….Jesus.

Time with Him is what gives us true peace. Time with Him gives us clear direction. Time with Him builds our character. Time with Him is what we should be thankful for. Time with Him is what Christmas is all about…. God with us!

I pray that we will give careful thought to our ways and make time for the One who deserves our undivided attention.