Priorities

by Hallie Gipson

January 9, 2013

The New Year is only 9 days old and already I feel the crush of a calendar over-flowing with appointments, activities, deadlines, things to accomplish, and places to go. At a glance things look orderly enough. But I am aware that all things are not as they seem. What looks orderly and well planned is actually a minefield! The Enemy has laid the minefield and is waiting to discourage, derail, and defeat me. He wants me to believe I can accomplish things in my own power and when I fail, he is standing by to accuse and condemn.

I have strayed into his minefield more than once and have felt his accusations and condemnations when defeated. But praise the Lord, He doesn't allow me to stay in the minefield! He gently reminds me that He is to be my number one priority and without time in His Presence each day, I will be discouraged, derailed, and defeated.

Priorities

The day was upon me before I arose

with things to be done and places to go.

I knew I should start my day with a prayer,

but my mind wouldn't rest as I sat in my chair.

Appointments to keep, people to please . . .

the list would go on so I sprang to my feet.

I quickly accomplished tasks one through four,

dressed for the day, and ran out the door.

I scurried about and completed each chore,

finished the errands, and returned home once more.

“Home at last”, I thought with a sigh.

The hour was late, the day had flown by.

My heart felt a prick as I glanced at my chair,

that place where I sit and cast all my cares.

There lay my Bible, my journal and pen --

reminders I’d placed other things before Him.

The day was fast slipping, the sun sinking low.

As I sat in my chair I knew just where to go.

To my Father in heaven, the Lord of my life,

Who can order my days and bring peace to my nights.

                                                                                                     Written by Hallie Gipson

“How blessed is the one whom You choose and bring near to dwell in Your courts. He will be satisfied with the goodness of Your house, Your holy temple.”    (Psalm 65:4 NASB)  

My prayer for you, dear reader, is that you will not stray into the Enemy’s minefield! As we begin this New Year, resolve to place your relationship with our Lord and Savior as your number one priority.

Father, forgive us when our priorities are not those You would have for us. Thank You for the order and peace you bring into our lives as we surrender our time to You.  Amen.