Wife, mother, homemaker, choir member, company president, PTA secretary, landscaper - and the list could go on, and on. We live in a fast paced world filled with opportunity, but if we are not careful we can find ourselves too busy doing all the wrong things.

Luke tells the story of Jesus’ first encounter with two sisters Mary and Martha which provides some valuable insight:

Now it came to pass, as they went, that he entered into a certain village: and a certain woman named Martha received him into her house. And she had a sister called Mary, which also sat at Jesus' feet, and heard His word. But Martha was cumbered about much serving, and came to him, and said, Lord, dost thou not care that my sister hath left me to serve alone? Bid her therefore that she help me. And Jesus answered and said unto her, Martha, Martha, thou art careful and troubled about many things: But one thing is needful: and Mary hath chosen that good part, which shall not be taken away from her.
Luke 10:38-42

While completing your list of daily tasks or routines is important, taking time to sit at Jesus’ feet should be at the top of your priority list. The Bible says that Jesus is the Bread of Life (John 6:35) – how can you partake of Him if you never take time to sit down at the table?

Finding time for spiritual “private time” can be difficult but not impossible. I remember being excited about spending time in the word of God and in prayer, but being challenged as the mother of two active teens to find quality time to spend alone with God. Quiet time was what I needed: time alone in the scriptures and in my private prayer closet without the distraction of my sometimes all consuming and busy lifestyle.

Early mornings before your family’s daily routine begins could be a good time for scripture study and prayer. This was a struggle for me at first, but even if you battle with fatigue keep trying! Fixing your morning coffee before you begin might help you to stay alert. If you are working you can also use you lunch hour or break for prayer and reflection. Your office, that empty conference room or other unused spaces could be great places to spend time alone with God. What about evenings after work, after dinner or before bedtime? Family distractions may be a problem - you may need to talk to your family about your desire for quiet time so that you can work out a “private time” schedule that they will honor.

If you really try – you can find time for the good part. Taking time to nourish your spirit can have eternal and lasting consequences.