“Count it all joy, my brothers, when you meet trials of various kinds, for you know that the testing of your faith produces steadfastness. And let steadfastness have its full effect, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing.” James 1:2-4
How do I write my Daily Devotional? I let the Holy Spirit guide me, and often He uses the mundane things of life - such as oatmeal.
I have two kinds of oatmeal in the pantry: instant and steel-cut. The former takes about five minutes, while the latter is more work. It takes 15 to 30 minutes, depending on the quantity. It’s also chewier, so it takes longer to eat. This slows me down and gives my body time to feel full, so I eat less rather than quickly swallowing mush.
A bit more work and a bit more time.
We can either rush through life and take in the cheap and easy - the hollow things that do not nourish us physically, emotionally, or spiritually, OR, we can eat the “steel-cut oats of life:” slow down, savor the moments that God gives us, and be nourished fully. Spend time in prayer, in the Word, in worship. Visit a friend. Take a moment of quiet. Do the things that take a bit more time but yield far greater benefits - even if those things are harder to chew - such as ministering to someone in need, and seeking and giving forgiveness.
Jesus did not rush through things and did not take the easy way. He did not call us to an easy life either, but He did promise to be with us
Prayer: Lord God, give me patience, peace, steadfastness, and the wisdom to discern what is best according to your will, rather than always taking the easy way out. Let me not become a slothful Christian, a gluttonous Christian who feasts on the pleasures of the world rather than the nourishment of your Word. This I pray, in Jesus’ name. Amen.