So a few weeks ago in church Pastor Steve was talking about our priorities and he used the illustration of the person who puts the large rocks in the jar first otherwise there won’t be room for them in the end. While priorities are something you can sort of think you’ve established and that you’re on it, really giving it some thought is pretty helpful. So in our youth staff meeting Tuesday we did the exercise…we asked this question: “Personally, what are the “big” rocks that must go in first?”
Here they are in no particular order.
1.) Having a conversational relationship with God. Brad and Jack both have alarms on their phones that go off at different times to remind them to be continually connecting with God…cool!
2.) Time in the Word. If you are a Christ follower you’ve heard that before but it’s just vital.
3.) Times of solitude. This is a relatively new practice for me. I try to get away once a month for most of a day to get away from the noise of life to reflect and be re-energized by God for the coming month. I always feel like I’m crazy making time for this but after it’s over I’m so grateful I did.
4.) Intentional family times. Set times when we are with our wives/kids. For me this looks like trying our best to have a weekly “date night” and also having times with the kids. Aiden and I go on “guy times”…usually we end up at Winchell’s or Cabela’s.
5.) Day of rest. This is from a command from God to have a day of rest….a day where you give thanks for the blessings of life. I find it’s also a day to where I pray, “Lord would you get me ready for another week.” We started really practicing this 4-5 years ago and it’s been a real blessing!
6.)Recreational outlet. That’s a fancy way to say “have some fun!” I wish it were surfing like Ed Noble but even a short motorcycle ride does wonders for my soul!
7.) Personal health. This is an easy on for some…you love being active, etc. For others it’s a real discipline to exercise…either way it’s good and it honors God to stay healthy.
8.) Worship. Making being in worship a priority. Letting it serve as a boost to the week and a time where we freely express our “worship” to God. I’m thankful that I love our church and I crave our gathers each Sunday.
9.) Outsider relationships. This is making sure that we don’t live in a bubble! It’s having relationships with others that don’t know Jesus. The benefits are worth a post in and of themselves!
10.) Habit of fasting. I like to eat…let me say that first. So fasting isn’t something that comes naturally. Yet the times when I do it…when I give up food in order to seek God…I’m always grateful for what I get…that being “more GOD!” Our youth team is giving this one some focus this semester, I’ll let you know how it’s going down the road.
