“Because God has made us for Himself, our hearts are restless until they rest in Him.” –  St. Augustine

We usually don’t like talking about our devotions, because we view it as personal and what works for us might not work for others. Even if we do share, others can take it as bragging or preachy! However, it is essential that we discuss not only what we are learning, but also how we are doing it. As teammates, we should encourage one another in our spiritual walks.

We often approach devotions as something that has to get done, so we have the “conquer it” attitude. Something like this: “I rise. I read. I am done!”  Now we can get on with the day. As athletes and coaches, it becomes an action item that gets checked off the to-do list. Our mindset toward devotions is like taking medicine or eating spinach, something that we have to do instead of long to do!

My mindset has changed over the years. I used to think my devotions where all about me—what I get out of it and how much I need it. Yes, I do desperately need it, but now I realize that God longs for me to be with Him. The Lord delights when I sit at His feet each day and linger in His presence. Stopping the chaos of the day by stepping away from all the stuff that clutters my life and being consumed by His love is a non-negotiable.

"Let Him do what He pleases with me; I desire only Him, and to be wholly devoted to Him." – Brother Lawrence

Too many people skim—going through the motions. No spiritual grit. No investment is made for the long-term. When we think survival, then our devotions become a matter of just getting us through the day, not thinking what’s down the road. Running on spiritual fumes is more a reality for us than having a full tank. Can you imagine venturing out on a big trip with fumes in your car’s gas tank?  The first thing you need to do is make sure you have a full tank of gas. Do you have spiritual fuel for the journey? Soaking in God’s presence daily allows us to move from spiritual survival to spiritual thriving.

We need to invest a little extra each day so that we can go the distance. Lingering longer allows us to hear God’s voice. There will always be an opportunity to pour out what the Lord has poured in. He will always use our extra soaking for His work. But we need to stop the rushing, drop to our knees or fall on our face, and soak in His glorious presence. Sit at the feet of God and wait for Him to speak. We need to shut it down and listen to the Holy Spirit instead of filling the time with our words. Linger in His presence and find out what is on God’s heart. This is hard to do as athletes and coaches.

“I will wait for You, O You his Strength; For God is my defense.” Psalm 59:9

FCA Teammates, we need to STOP–DROP–SOAK. STOP daily; DROP before the Lord; and SOAK in His presence. Stopping is our discipline; dropping is our posture; and soaking is our worship. Extend your time with the Savior and enjoy His presence!