3 WAYS TO START THE SCHOOL YEAR OFF RIGHT! {Part 2}

With school back in session, I thought I’d share my top 3 ways to start the year off right.  If you missed the #1, you can find it here.

2. Stop all religious activity. You know what I’m talking about – all those very spiritual things we do to please God – the things that all the “good” Christians are supposed to do.  One can never seem to pray enough – be the in Word enough – or go to church enough, can they? 

When spiritual disciplines become religious duty, we should stop doing them.  And find a “reset button”.

Let the Pharisees be our example.  Although they get a bad rap in our day and age, in New Testament times, they were the cream of the crop – the spiritual superstars – the measuring stick for all things religious.  Oh – they were religious, all right, and they certainly were diligent at keeping all the rules.  But they missed the point of the Law and ultimately, missed their Savior, Jesus! 

Sure – they could recite scripture backwards and forwards, but they never knew the Living Word.  They prayed eloquent, elaborate prayers but they missed the opportunity to cry out to a personal Savior.  Their life was filled with empty, religious routine. 

Like the Pharisees, our spiritual gymnastics do not score brownie points with God.  It’s time to stop jumping through hoops, my friends.  There’s no trophy to win. 

Instead, how about a “reset” prayer that goes something like this:  Lord, I can’t keep up this kind of life – with this long list of have to’s  and should do’s.  No more “doing” for me! What I really want is to rest in You.  By your grace, open me up to the fullness of your love.  Grow in me the desire to know you.  That’s all I want, Lord.  I want to know you more. 

If you start there – at seeking God’s heart alone – you’ll find Him – guaranteed! 

You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart. Jeremiah 29:13

As God makes Himself known to you – as you begin to know and experience Him personally, intimately – you won’t be able to contain all of His love.  It is from this outflow that God desires us to live.  Forget about “needing” to read your Bible.  You’ll be running to it hungry.  No more trying to find time to pray.  Your life will begin to flow through your communication and intimacy with Him.  What was once duty will become your greatest delight. Then you’ll be living life as it was intended – walking in intimate and unbroken fellowship with God. 

It’s time to stop “doing” and learn to ABIDE in HIM.

Suggestion #3:  Don’t Volunteer for anything new.  As a matter of fact, be ready to quit a few things.