Too Busy to Pray
This devotional was written by Jim Burns
Very early in the morning, while it was still dark, Jesus got up, left the house and went off to a solitary place, where he prayed. —Mark 1:35
Most of us aren’t evil. We aren’t trying to stay away from God on purpose. We race from morning to night to keep up with the pace of our lives. We are just too busy to pray. Can you identify with this?
Have you ever had a conversation with God like this?
God: I’d like to spend some time with you today, Jim.
Jim: Great, I’d love to.
God: How about right now?
Jim: Right now? Uh, I’m already late for an appointment. I’ll catch you later, though. I promise.
God: OK, I’ll be waiting.
Jim: Maybe, I’ll have some time during lunch.
God: OK, I’ll be waiting.
God: Hey Jim, I missed you at lunch. Your body was there but your mind wasn’t.
Jim: I know. I’m sorry. I’ve got so much to do and so much on my mind. I just forgot to pray.
God: Are you ready to spend some time with me now? I know you only have a few minutes before your next meeting.
Jim: Well, uh, I’d like to, but I need to review my agenda. I’ll have to catch you later.
God: Okay, I’ll be waiting.
(Before bed)
God: Jim, I love you and I miss you. I’ve been waiting all day to be with you. Let’s just focus for maybe five minutes.
Jim: I know. I’m sorry. I really feel bad. I’m so busy. Thanks for being so understanding, God. Thanks for… (Jim falls asleep.)
God: Oh well, maybe he’ll have time for me in the morning.
Are you too busy to pray? If you are, then you are simply too busy. God loves you and wants regular time with you because you are so special in his eyes. When is your special appointment with God? This may seem overly simplistic but it is true: people who spend a regular time with God will have a closer relationship with Him.
GOING DEEPER:
1. What did Jesus do in Mark 1:35?
2. Do you have a set time and place to meet with God daily? If not, set an appointment with God today.
FURTHER READING:
For more information and resources please visit HomeWord.com.