Now when Jesus saw the crowds, he went up on a mountainside and sat down. His disciples came to him, and he began to teach them.
MATTHEW 5:1–2
Jesus often went up on a mountain to pray or to teach. We may feel like we are climbing a mountain every day as we try to get on top of all the things that eat up our time. We have to rush here and there—to work, to school, to meetings, to run errands. We are so busy that we often miss out on the opportunity to spend time with the Lord. But on the days when we put aside all other demands and spend time with God, we are blessed. Whether we turn to Him for a few minutes in the morning, spend an hour reading the Scriptures and praying, or do an in-depth Bible study lesson, we often receive an unexpected peace. This gift from God is described in Philippians 4:7: “And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.”
Our progress toward any goal is usually in direct proportion to the time and effort we put into it. It’s no different as we develop the habit of spending time with God. We reap what we sow. Each goal we set and reach may not seem like much in itself, but when we look back, it’s like looking down from the top of a mountain we have just climbed. In fact, it takes a desire and a commitment similar to that of physically climbing a mountain peak. We know it will be worth the effort, but when we reach the goal, we are astonished by just how sweet it is.
Dear Lord, I am often overwhelmed by the daily pressures of life. Please help me find the time to be still and listen to You. I treasure my time with You.