Sometimes, things aren’t as bad as you think they might be. On the other hand, there are some things that are just as bad as you imagined them to be! Case in point…I recently saw an entire ear of sweet corn, shrink wrapped in plastic, being sold at my local convenience store. Is this a joke? Is this a toy? No! It was actually an ear of corn! Real food. So, of course, I couldn’t resist it. After all, Japanese convenience stores are legendary. Maybe I’ve been missing out on a delicious, healthy snack? The lady at the check out looked at me funny when I bought it. Not a good sign, I thought.
When I got home, I followed the microwave instructions, and waited patiently for 90 seconds. Then, I proceeded to roll the corn around in some quality butter and carefully sprinkled each side with an abundance of sea salt. I have to give this thing a fighting chance, right? Ok. The moment of truth arrived. I was actually hopeful for this experience. I opened wide and chomped down on my first bite. Immediately, I knew this was a mistake. It was just like it seemed it would be, a horrible idea. A horrible, inedible, idea. Still, I took a few more bites, just to be sure of my verdict. Nope.
Most of the time in life, cutting corners for convenience is a bad idea. My dad used to say, “anything worth doing, is worth doing right.” I tend to agree. After all, it takes time to prepare a good meal. It takes time to cultivate solid relationships, or to learn a musical instrument, right? Why would we put any less effort into our spiritual lives? I believe it takes time to really know and experience God as He desires to be known and experienced. I also realize that can be a challenge in our busy world.
But, let me encourage you, don’t skip or rush through your daily devotional time. Take the time to prepare your heart and mind. Take a deep breath and a moment to clear out the distractions before you pray. Then, instead of reading through a passage quickly so you can check it off your to-do list (ouch!), take a little time marinating in the Word of God. Don’t just “gulp it down”. Really chew on it and think about what He is saying to you. What is He showing you about Himself, or your own heart? I promise, the extra time spent will be worth it. Don’t settle for anything less.
“Taste and see that the LORD is good. Oh, the joys of those who take refuge in Him!”
Psalm 34:8 NLT
