Silent Summer?

"Be still, and know that I am God." PSALM 46:10

Today is the last day of school for my kids. Many others have already been finished for a few days or weeks. In any case, we're all set for a busy and fun summer. Will there be sufficient or satisfying room for quiet reflection on life and love, not to mention a holy God?

For some of us, summer is an opportunity to slow down, take a break from routine and enjoy a new pace. For others, life ramps up in a whole new routine filled with camps, lessons, vacations, summer jobs, yard projects, etc. Temptations to neglect worship are all around. As one who both works hard and plays hard, I sometimes find myself challenged between two extremes: in some moments I will settle into summer's metaphorical "armchair" and loose myself in the lemonaid and at other moments I will get very caught up in the new treadmill before me. Either way, I risk missing important quiet moments of revelation unless I am intentional about BEING STILL with God.

Only in slowing down and being silent can we come to grips with who we really are...and who God really is. No doubt, Isaiah the prophet was quiet and alone when he experienced the vision of God that inspires us all to awe yet today. "I saw the Lord seated on a throne, high and exalted, and the train of his robe filled the temple...Holy, holy, holy is the Lord Almighty; the whole earth is full of his glory." ISAIAH 6:1-3

I appreciate passionate, expressive worship like David and will enjoy praising God with fervor and in fellowship with others many times this summer. But I begin this summer with one very intentional goal, to have dedicated time every day for God-honoring silence and stillness. I expect and pray for insight, encouragement, and challenge out of those times.

What about you? Is the Lord prompting you to embrace some personal spiritual goal or discipline this summer?

Please share your ideas! Let's inspire one another and hold each other accountable.