I remember as a young teenager reading about the great men and women of God who spent an enormous amount of time with God each day in private worship. I remember making attempts to do the same and failing time after time. Then, I read a simple tract by Dr. Stephen Olford, "Seven Minutes with God" that gave direction in how to start small with just seven minutes and then allow that to grow into a longer time with God each day.
I can not over emphasize the importance of our private worship time and how it directly impacts our corporate worship as the Body of Christ gathers for worship each week. If you have been struggling, let me encourage you to try again and just start with a few minutes.
Of course you have to figure out a place and a time that you won't be disturbed. Then, come before the Lord and wait for a minute or two. "Be still and know that I am God". Don't rush into His presence. Then simply pray a short prayer asking God to lead you in a time of private worship. Next, open God's Word and read and meditate on a short passage asking God to speak to your heart. This time is not a one way conversation. Allow Him to speak through His Word. It is God speaking directly to you through the enlightenment of His Spirit in you. Then spend a few moments worshipping Him possibly by both singing and praying to Him seeking to bless Him. Finally bring your petitions and needs before Him for others and your own walk with Him.
Many of you have an established time of devotion and private worship. Continue to nurture and grow it. If not, start small and let it grow. And, may we all commit to praying for our fellow believers. We would be shocked to know how many never spend daily time with Him. Let's pray specifically that those numbers of the Body will increase and we will see how it impacts our corporate worship and the glory of God! mjm
