“Man does not live on bread alone, but on every word that comes forth from the mouth of God.” // Matthew 4:4b
Last year, I experienced what felt like a season of desolation in my prayer life. I was not hearing from the Lord in the way I was used to hearing Him speak to my heart. Over time, I admittedly grew discouraged. Simultaneously, I was living a particularly full season in my vocation as a wife and mother, and I gradually fell away from a former habit: daily time spent with the Scriptures.
As time passed, by God’s grace, my heart was open to hear the Holy Spirit remind me that if I wanted to hear from the Lord, I need only open my Bible. He tells us in Scripture that His word is living and effective (Hebrews 4:12), and promises that “[my word] shall not return to me void, but shall do my will, achieving the end for which I sent it” (Isaiah 55:11).
His Word is truly a gift sent for us, especially for you, sister. He longs for us to spend time with Him, the Word made flesh, that we might know and love Him more and be better equipped to share His love with the world.
I have an invitation for you: will you join me in committing to spending time with the Lord in His Word each and every day? If this feels like an overwhelming commitment, ask the Lord to show you what He wills for you, and where more time with His Word might fit into your day. At times I have found it a great help (not to mention a joy and blessing!) to ask a friend or two to join me in reading a particular book of the Bible. Reading just a chapter a day, start a text message thread sharing one takeaway from that day’s verses.
Sister, when we make the Word “our daily bread,” we allow God to feed our souls, to nourish our spirits, to comfort our hearts. We allow Him to speak. Will we make time to listen? Perhaps praying with the Mass readings of the day this week we can begin?
Make time to listen. // Elise HoweClick to tweet
Elise Howe is a wife, mother, vocal artist, and teacher. She is most joyful when creating with the inspiration of the Divine Artist. Elise hopes to live a life full of authentic beauty—especially through her song, her cut-flower garden, great books, delicious ice cream, and her yes to the Father. A born-and-raised Midwestern gal, she happily resides in Michigan with her husband, son, and two daughters. She was a contributing author to Set a Fire and Blessed Conversations: Misericordia.
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