STOP
What do you think of when you hear the word foolish? Do you think of a person? Do you think of an activity? What do you consider to be foolish? What acts make someone a fool? Have you ever felt like a fool? Foolishness lies in turning away from God. But you chose to be with the Lord today, in these still small moments. So, just simply pause and let Him speak to you. Sit for five minutes with God, rest and pray to Him and put aside all of your foolish things that distract you.
Lastly, imagine all of it, your thoughts, your feelings, your emotions, the expectations, your agendas, your to-do lists as loaves of rising bread. In order to be good, you have to let the bread rise. In order to enjoy the bread, you have to give it time, setting the bread aside until it is ready. These “things” end up devouring us, like the bread that is eaten too quickly. However, we can rest in Jesus, knowing He has got it all taken care of with His loving hands.
EXHALE
Next, breathe. Breath in…and out…in…and out. Close your eyes to everything around you. God is as close to you right now as the breath in your lungs. Find peace in this thought. When you are ready, pray this simple prayer a few times while still focusing on your breathing.
As you inhale pray, “God is present”
As you exhale, pray, “in the company of the righteous”
LOOK
Let’s look at the word of God for you today. When God speaks, it’s important for us to pay attention. Read these words slowly and carefully. Read it a few times if necessary. Notice which words or phrases stay with you. Read the whole Psalm for full context.
“The fool says in his heart, “There is no God.” They are corrupt, their deeds are vile; there is no one who does good.The Lord looks down from heaven on the sons of men to see if there are any who understand, any who seek God. All have turned aside. [....] Will evildoers never learn-those who devour my people as men eat bread and who do not call on the Lord? There they are, overwhelmed with dread, for God is present in the company of the righteous. You evildoers frustrate the plans of the poor, but the Lord is their refuge. Oh, that salvation for Israel would come out of Zion! When the Lord restores the fortunes of his people, let Jacob rejoice and Israel be glad!”(Psalm 14 NIV)
ASK
What stood out to you? Highlight/mark it in your bible. When have you been foolish? What tempts you to think “There is no God?” How does our distance from God affect our behavior? How does our closeness to him affect us? In what ways do you notice your demeanor and happiness increases the longer you are in the presence of God in the company of the righteous? Can any of us truly understand God, even if we are seeking him? Where do you see evildoers frustrate your plans? What part of your life runs without regard to God? How can you run to the salvation that the Lord is offering and rejoice in it?
HEAR
What is God saying to you? Listen to hear his still small voice. Quiet your mind and search your heart. Now pray: “Speak Lord. Your servant is listening.” You are waiting to hear from the Holy Spirit. Don’t rush this. Based on the scripture you read today, God’s words to you, is there anything God is asking you to do? What is he telling you about your relationship with Him? Read the scripture again if you need to. God is speaking to you through it. Let him. To finish up your quiet time, reflect on times that you have been foolish in your relationship with God. When have you been distant from God and been one who had turned aside? When have you felt devoured by people and expectations? When have you felt overwhelmed with dread? Take refuge in the Lord; take refuge in the company of the righteous.
