By Emily Saunders

As busy Moms we have to prepare each and every day for success.  We have to pack lunches, prepare healthy food, lay out clothes, keep things tidy, make sure there is toilet paper and paper towels in the house, review our calendars, fold laundry, etc. so that we can make sure our family’s needs are met.  If you’re like me, you have the coffee maker pre-set and your workout clothes laid out before bed.  It’s what we have to do to make our lives turn!

A while back it struck me that while I was spending time in God’s word daily, I wasn’t preparing for success the same way I do in other areas of my life.  I would read through a chapter at at a time, yes, but I wasn’t intentional.  Often I was rushed or just reading to check it off my “to do” list for the day.

It’s funny how God works.  Through learning the habits and practices of friends and mentors, I felt convicted that my time spent with God needed more preparation and intention.  While I don’t think that time with God should become a “step by step” regimented process, I thought it might be useful to share the blessing of tips that my Sisters in faith have shared with me.  I hope you find them useful!

Disclaimer:  I am by no means suggesting that the only time spent with God should be in this scenario.  Communicate with him all day every day- he longs for you to call out to him any and everywhere!

1.  Set Aside Time:  The day gets away from me quickly so I start my day early with my Bible and my journal.  I don’t allow myself to touch the computer or my phone until I’m done.  Those restrictions help me maintain my focus.  What time of day is your head most clear of distractions, to-do lists and the needs of your family?

2.  Designate a Place:  Choose your favorite chair and call it the “prayer chair”.  Make it comfy, cozy and appealing.  It’s your sacred place.  Where is your favorite cozy place in your house?  I’m looking forward to nice weather so I can also take advantage of watching the sunrise on my back porch during my quiet time.

3.  Keep Your Tools In One Place:  Keep your journal, a cute pen, a highlighter, devotion book, and of course your Bible in a bin or basket by your chair.  Be prepared!!

4.  Stock up on Sticky Notes:  If a verse jumps out at you, stick one in your Bible so you can revisit it regularly.  If a person is on your mind write down their name so you remember to pray for them and also to reach out to them.  If you’re like me, despite your best intentions, you’ll forget until days later to let them know they’re in your thoughts and prayers once your day gets started.

5.  Be Intentional:  As part of the Momsanity Sisterhood we follow an ongoing devotion or book study.  Having the guidance and accountability of studying with a friend or group is useful for me.  Others may find it overwhelming or too structured.   Expect God to show up– He’s there!  Pray Big, Pray Specifically, write down your prayers so you can go back and see how fully and richly God has answered you!

6.  Invite the Spirit:  Ask the Holy Spirit to envelope you with His being.  Ask him to keep the enemy from filling your life with so much stuff that God gets pushed to the back burner.  Ask him to help you wake up every morning ready to jump out of bed and onto your prayer chair.

What tips do you have for both prioritizing an enriching your time with God?  Please share with us!!