Intentional Time With God

By: Wendy Morris

There’s something I’ve been thinking about lately…

Do you actually read the Bible daily?
Do you truly make an effort to get into the Word and allow the Holy Spirit to speak to you?

I think we’re all guilty at times of saying we’re “too busy” or “don’t have enough time” to do it consistently — or sometimes at all.

I know I am.

But I’ve found that when I make it a priority, when I become intentional and disciplined about spending time with God, He always provides exactly what I need in that moment. Every single time.

What amazes me is that I can read the same scripture or the same Bible story I’ve read many times before, and somehow the Holy Spirit reveals something completely new to me each time. How powerful is that?

The Power of God’s Word

“For the word of God is alive and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword…” — Hebrews 4:12

“Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.” — Psalm 119:105

We make time for so many other things in life.

We schedule appointments we need.
We go to our favorite sporting events.
We make sure our kids never miss practice.
We go to the gym faithfully.
We watch our favorite TV shows.
We never miss a concert.

Yet somehow, we struggle to make time for God — our Savior, our comforter, our strength, our help in times of trouble.

Make it make sense.

Discipline In Fitness and Faith

Over the last year and a half, my fitness journey has also become a spiritual journey.

I’ve become more intentional with my walk with God because of the discipline I developed through fitness. I realized fitness and health are about so much more than losing weight, gaining muscle, or building endurance. Fitness changes your spirit and your mindset too.

Those of you who are committed to physical fitness probably understand exactly what I mean.

You start seeing physical changes, but you also begin to notice mental and emotional changes. Maybe it’s the quiet time during workouts that gives you space to think. Maybe it’s spending time with God while you walk, run, lift weights, or simply breathe and reflect.

I’m not entirely sure what it is.

But I do know this:

If I can discipline myself to consistently go to the gym and take care of my physical body, then I can discipline myself to grow my relationship with Jesus too.

“For physical training is of some value, but godliness has value for all things…” — 1 Timothy 4:8

That’s what He desires from us — relationship.

“Draw near to God, and He will draw near to you.” — James 4:8

For a long time, I thought I already had a strong relationship with God because of all the difficult things I had survived in life. I knew Him in my pain. I knew Him in my heartbreak. I knew Him in my struggles.

But I never realized how much deeper that relationship could become when I spent intentional time with Him — not only on my bad days or when I desperately needed help, but also on the days when life felt good.

A Different Perspective

Jesus has shown me a completely different perspective on life.

Disappointments don’t hit the same when I trust that God is working all things together for my good. I find peace knowing He sees what I cannot see and protects me from things I may never fully understand.

“And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love Him…” — Romans 8:28

And for that, I’m thankful.

Even in painful seasons, He always finds a way to remind me how blessed I truly am.

He continues to show me that He is the way, the truth, and the life. That there is purpose in everything — every season, every delay, every relationship, every lesson, every closed door, and every blessing.

“Jesus answered, ‘I am the way and the truth and the life.’” — John 14:6

Now, I look for His purpose in everything I do and in every person I meet.

Don’t get me wrong — it isn’t easy.

But it has all been worth it.

As I look back over every season of my life, I realize I’m not the same person I used to be. I’ve become more intentional with everything: my relationships, my fitness, my work, and most importantly, my time with God.

Does having a big heart sometimes lead to disappointment or hurt?

Absolutely.

But I’ve learned that the good far outweighs the bad.

Growing Through Every Season

“Let us not grow weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.” — Galatians 6:97

Honestly, I’m excited to see what God has for me in this season of my life.

Each season has changed me. Strengthened me. Refined me.

And I know He’s not finished with me yet.

Reflection Question

What are you consistently making time for — and where does God fit within those priorities?

Closing Prayer

Lord, thank You for never giving up on us, even when we become distracted, busy, or inconsistent. Help us become more intentional in our time with You. Teach us discipline not only in our physical lives, but in our spiritual lives as well. Open our hearts to hear Your voice through Your Word and allow the Holy Spirit to guide us daily. Thank You for every season, every lesson, and every blessing — even the painful ones. Continue shaping us into who You created us to be. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

—Wendy