January 2009
It’s a New Year! Many love the idea of a fresh start each year. Years ago columnist Erma Bombeck made the statement that when she was behind and overwhelmed, she would declare herself all caught up! I think she was referring to household chores. But I’ve never forgotten the idea of “declaring myself caught up.” I tend to smile when I think about it.
Over the years, there are times when I got behind in my Bible reading. Here is where I call upon Erma’s declaration and just move on without guilt and the burden of trying to catch up. A New Year gives us the opportunity to start fresh in our devotions.
For the last couple of years, I’ve done something a bit unique for my devotions. One year, I read through the Bible paying attention to the word “city”. I quieted myself and focused, asking God, “Lord what is it that you want me to learn about your interaction with this city?”
Last year I decided to slow down my reading pace and read through the NT with the intention of paying close attention to prayer. What was prayed and why? Throughout the year, when I facilitated the local expression of the National Day of Prayer Breakfast, church concerts of prayer or small group prayer, I’d review my devotions and use it during that prayer meeting. Of course when God spoke to me on another topic or issue in my life, I’d journal that as well, but I focused on prayer.
This year, I want to look at the “questions” that Jesus and other leaders in the NT asked. A master ministry coach mentioned recently that Jesus’ ministry was 100% coaching. Coaching is moving people to action and usually starts with the coach asking questions and then challenging them to move forward. I’m intrigued with the thought that Jesus “coached” and want to take a look at how leaders use questions to move people to action. So this year, I’m excited to look to God’s Word and ask Him to reveal the purpose of the questions used and how I might improve my coaching though asking better questions.
How about you? Is there something that you feel God would have you focus on in your devotional life? If this method interests you, let me encourage you to “declare yourself all caught up” and embark on a search for the topic God has been speaking to you about. I’d love for you to share it with me as well. If several of you share your topic with me, I’ll send the list of topics to all of you.
Warmly In Him,
Sam Johns
