"Now when Daniel learned that the decree had been published, he went home to his upstairs room where the windows opened toward Jerusalem. Three times a day he got down on his knees and prayed, giving thanks to his God, just as he had done before." Daniel 6:10
As much as I love my children and enjoyed having them home for Christmas break, I have to admit that I was happy to resume my normal routine again. It seems between the holidays and their needs, my normal practice of running first thing in the morning was disrupted. But you know what? It's okay. Some changes are just worth it. And while I'm alright with that alteration, there's one morning routine that, for me, will never change... spending time alone with the Lord. It's just too important.
Daniel knew the importance of spending time with God daily too. In fact, when the decree was issued that anyone who prayed to any other god or human being other than King Darius for 30 days would be put to death, Daniel still didn't change his routine. The Bible tells us that when he heard about the order, he went home to his upstairs room and prayed three times a day, "giving thanks to his God, just as he had done before." Just as he had done before? Wow! Not even the threat of death could keep Daniel from his alone time with God. He definitely knew it was just too important.
And while our prayer or bible-study time will probably never be interrupted by threats, it can be certainly be disrupted by the pressures of our schedules and the demands of our time. Remembering that prayer is our lifeline to God though can remind us just how important sticking to that routine can be. And, like Daniel, cause us to adhere to the pattern no matter the changing circumstances because yes... it is that important.
Heavenly Father, thank you for the reminder that some compromises are okay while there is never a valid reason to abstain from daily prayer and bible study. Help us Lord to realize how important this is in maintaining a strong and unwavering relationship with you. It's in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen.
Happy Running!!!
Give me Jesus - Jeremy Camp
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