Delightful Start
Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing. 1 Thessalonians 5:11 (NIV)
Insight
I attended a delightful party many years ago with some close friends and new acquaintances. There was a lady at the gathering who exuded incredible energy and light. Now and then, I overheard her using the sweet term of endearment, "Bless it," with someone. The expression was so precious that I started adopting it as my way of saying "How sweet" or "How lovely" to others.
During the recent FUSE camp, our very own Caroline Coghill, a youth ministry staff member, habitually responded with "Beautiful" whenever someone did a great job or offered help. Naturally, I found myself echoing her response to others, which always brought a smile.
While certain phrases bring me joy, others I've encountered over the years do not. I'm sure you can relate and think of a few yourself. Whenever I meet words that don't resonate with me, I try to process them in a way that doesn't define my identity. Words can shape us, and we must be mindful of our internalized messages. Unfortunately, we often fail to guard our ears and allow words to affect us without considering their impact.
Even something as innocent as watching the news for 30 minutes in the morning can adversely affect our well-being. It subtly intrudes into our minds, influencing how we perceive the beginning of our day in a way that doesn't encourage us. We tend to absorb what we hear and the company we keep.
However, there's a better way to start our day with a sense of delight. By inviting Jesus into our morning routine and surrounding ourselves with people who bring positivity into our lives, we can truly experience joy. It might not come naturally, especially if we've been exposed to negativity for a long time. Yet, there's value in sitting quietly in His presence while savoring a cup of coffee.
Those first 30 minutes can be a time of understanding and accepting His new mercies for the day. It's an opportunity to fully detach from distractions and embrace His presence, setting the tone for a delightful day ahead. So, why not give it a try? It's a beautiful way to start your day!
Reflection
How can you recognize the slow, sneaky intrusion at the beginning of your day? What actions do you take when you notice it or hear it? How can you redirect your focus toward Jesus?
Can you commit to daily 10 to 30 minutes of quiet time before starting your day? What preparations would you need to make the night before?
Do you have someone in your life who exudes delight and provides encouragement? How would you feel about having a conversation with that person?
Prayer
I want to live in a place of delight because I know that is where You are. Help me to develop a practice of seeking You first thing in the morning. Help me find people I can surround myself with who speak beauty and uplifting words, and allow me to be that person for someone else. Create in me a beauty that shines You for others and encourages people to seek You. In Your name, Jesus. Amen.
Cindy Stauffer, Administrative Assistant at our Wilmington Campus, wrote today’s devotional.