Have you ever had a day when you felt so overwhelmed by your busy life that you could barely think straight? The truth is we all have busy days no matter the season of life.

The key to keeping our heads above water is to spend time with the Lord daily. This is a lesson that the Lord taught me long ago.

“But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.  Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself.  Each day has enough trouble of its own.” (Matthew 6:33-34)

Don’t ask me how it happens, but somehow everything falls into place when I offer the first portion of my day to Jesus.  No matter what I have scheduled, the first part of my day is spent in prayer and Bible study. It has become my favorite time of day, and I wouldn’t miss it for the world!

“My soul yearns for you in the night;
in the morning my spirit longs for you.”  (Isaiah 26:9)

I must confess it hasn’t always been this way. I used to wonder how adding something to my day could possibly make me more productive. Taking care of my family, home schooling our two children, and keeping up with everything that entails was about all I could handle.  Nevertheless, I took the challenge. I spent about fifteen minutes with the Lord – just long enough for a quick prayer and small devotion. But as the days went by, I began finding myself getting up earlier and earlier so I could spend even more time with the Lord.  It seemed that I couldn’t get enough of Him. The more I drank in His Spirit, the thirstier I became. “My soul thirsts for God, for the living God. When can I go and meet with God?” (Psalm 42:2)

Are you ready to take the challenge?  Set your alarm clock fifteen minutes earlier than usual.  Then, before you do anything else, find a quiet place to pray and read your Bible. Not only will it be the best fifteen minutes of your day, but I promise you will have more than enough time to get everything done that you need to accomplish. You will also be better equipped to face the challenges that lie ahead.

“The LORD will guide you always; he will satisfy your needs in a sun-scorched land and will strengthen your frame.  You will be like a well-watered garden, like a spring whose waters never fail.”  (Isaiah 58:11)

Go ahead and take the challenge.  The Lord is eagerly waiting!