Well, all these years people have told me (through preaching & teaching) that getting up early in the morning and taking time to spend with the Lord is essential. I believed them, but my poor flesh just loves to sleep every spare minute possible before absolutely having to get up. As my day progressed I made my best efforts to give the Lord place in my devotional life, but I have to admit that it was hit or miss sometimes.

Just over a week ago our hot water went out. Well, I have to have a hot shower in the morning or --well, the flesh gets unhappy (see a trend here?). Needless to say, if I was going to make it to work on time I would have to get up extra early to heat up water and get ready. Well, mission accomplished. I arose (I hear the hallelujahs) at 5:00 am and managed to be ready by just after 6:00 am. Miracles never cease! I did not have to leave until close to 7 am so I sat down, enjoyed a glass of fake crystal light ( I don't drink coffee as a rule) and had a wonderful devotional time. I could hear the birds outside, the dog was at my feet... and I read the word, prayed, did my Bible study for First Place, and practiced my memory verse! I truly started my day refreshed and ready to face whatever would come my way.

So... If anyone else can be less stubborn than me - give it a try. Pretend your hot water went out and you really have to get up early. Then enjoy God's presence. If you're like me, He will woo you back again and again to that quiet, loving place - early in the morning!

God bless, Michelle