Blank Canvas, Part II

Seek the Lord while he may be found; call on him while he is near (Isaiah 55:6, NIV).

Sitting quietly with Jesus is something I’m getting better about. It used to be really difficult for me, and I think that’s because there was so much I was trying to avoid. Thought patterns, unrealistic expectations, shame, pressure, and much more.

Going through counseling, connecting with the Word, and putting myself in a community with other believers has helped tremendously with my ability to get into a space of being quiet with the Lord.

In a society where we’re inundated with information, news, updates, and real-time photos, it can be especially difficult to allow our minds and hearts to simply be a blank canvas for the Lord.

Let’s ask ourselves these questions today:

When was the last time we sat quietly for 10 minutes with no devices?

When was the last time we spent 5 minutes journaling whatever comes to mind?

When was the last time we took a walk outside with no cell phone?

When was the last time we spent 30 minutes doing a hobby without distractions?

Slowing down can be hard. Finding time and space is difficult at times. Creating an environment where your heart can connect with Jesus isn’t always easy. But it’s always worth it.

As we head into 2025, may we all be more intentional to lean into quietness with the Lord. I’m not ignorant of the fact life is busy. It’s actually because of the pace we keep on a regular basis that I believe spending some quiet time with the Lord is so essential.

Isaiah 55:6 reminds us: Seek the Lord while he may be found; call on him while he is near. 

Start by carving out 10 minutes several times a week. Maybe it’s while you shower. Maybe it’s in the morning with your first cup of coffee. Maybe turn the TV off ten minutes before bed at night. Whatever it looks like, just be intentional, and I will try to do the same.

You may not necessarily feel the presence of the Lord.

You may not always feel like you’re hearing from the Lord.

You may not always feel like the time is productive.

But I truly believe when we are intentional to give the Lord time, He will respond. It may not look like what you expect, but I’m believing it will grow all of our hearts this year as we seek Him above all else.