Ruts and routines

Cause me to hear Your lovingkindness in the morning, for in You do I trust. — Psalm 143:8

Summer is my favorite season. I love the leisurely days when I can set aside some of my routines without feeling guilty. Doing new things, seeing new places, and allowing myself the time to take “the scenic route” revive my spirit and renew my enthusiasm for life and work.

But summer can also be a dangerous time of breaking good habits. Certain routines are good. They increase our efficiency and ensure that important things get done. After all, we need to have fixed times and places for certain things or the world would be chaotic. Creation is designed to operate on schedule, and, as part of it, so are we. We need food and sleep at regular intervals.

We sometimes hear legitimate warnings about allowing routines to turn into ruts. But the Bible indicates that having set times for certain things is good. David indicated that morning was the right time for him to praise God and ask for His direction (Ps. 5:3; 143:8). And Daniel prayed three times a day, and not even the threat of death made him change his routine (Dan. 6:10).

While enjoying carefree days, we must not become careless about spending time with God. Savoring spiritual sustenance is a routine for all seasons. — Julie Ackerman Link

You’ll go forth a little stronger

With a fresh supply of grace,

If each day you meet the Savior

In a secret quiet place. — Adams

READ: Daniel 6:1-10

Those who wait on the Lord shall renew their strength. — Isaiah 40-31

The Bible in one year:

• Psalms 100-102

• 1 Corinthians 1