The Lord is my Shepherd [to feed, guide, and shield me], I shall not lack. He makes me lie down in [fresh, tender] green pastures; He leads me beside the still and restful waters. He refreshes and restores my life . . .
(Psalm 23:1-3a Amplified)
Spending time with the Shepherd of our souls in a familiar place each day can be comforting, but some occasions call for a pause from the ordinary. It may be as simple as getting up and going for a walk with God in your neighborhood or as elaborate as visiting a place far away from home.
Either way, taking a break from the routine can enhance your relationship with God. Not everyone has the luxury of going to distant lands, but if you love being outdoors with the Creator take your Bible outside to sit on the patio. Or take a blanket to your local park and just lie in the grass soaking up God's presence.
Often changing up our location can be a way to commemorate significant seasons of life. Maybe you need to set aside a day to make a decision or take an afternoon to grieve a loss.
I will let Pam Farrel speak to us today about a way she navigated a time of grief:
When my father died, traditional quiet times were not easing the pain. My friend . . . brought over a gift from my women's ministry team. It was a small rose bush. Planting, pruning and caring for that plant gave me time to talk to God about my feelings and a positive result-- a living, growing, blooming beautiful result. It felt like my dad's death wasn't insignificant but rather significant because one small corner of the world became a more beautiful place, a reminder of a life lived.
She also shares how choosing a special place or activity can enhance our relationship with God:
Some days just demand that we stop, step out of the normal pace of life and look full face into the creation so we can connect with the Creator. Of course, you can pray in your dining room at home, but somehow when pivotal prayers are uttered in poignant settings they become etched in your mind and heart.
Won't you consider this challenge from Pam today:
Look at the calendar for the coming year, is there an event you can make special by stepping into nature and feeding your relationship with God?
©Pam Farrel from 30 Ways to Wake Up Your Quiet Time (IVP).
For more devotional books by Pam www.Love-wise.com
Oh Kel, did you take this photo in Scotland? It's gorgeous--one of your best! I talk about this as "spicing up my dates with God," and love to go to a sidewalk cafe, weather permitting, to a local park (where I know it is safe), to a hotel lobby (no one knows who you are), to a cozy restaurant, in my back yard on my chaise longue, and especially to our cozy cabin in the woods, where the weight of the world lifts as soon as we drive down the dusty road. We can certainly meet with the Lord anywhere, but "coming away" with Him sometimes really shifts our perspective. God has met me in significant moments at the cabin, and has shaped and changed the direction of my life. Thanks for suggesting this!
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Lynni
Lynni- This photo was taken during my trip to Scotland, but was actually in the Lake District of England...we saw these sheep across the lake from the hostel my sister and nieces stayed in...Coming away with the Lord in special places warms my heart and gives me fond memories of my journey with Jesus!
DeleteKel, Now I have to get a copy of Pam's book. I am really enjoying her suggestions. Did you take this photo in Scotland? or was it here in Missouri? Love it!
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Kelly
Glad you are enjoying Pam's book...I hope you can find a copy...I think you can get them used on amazon! I took the photo in the Lake District of England, part of my trip while in Scotland...good memories! God is good all the time and everywhere we go!
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