The Greek philosopher Socrates famously said, “The unexamined life is not worth living.” This is the wisdom of the Bible, too. Paul gave Timothy, the young pastor of the fledgling church in Ephesus, this sage advice, “Keep a close watch on how you live” (1 Timothy 4:16a). This is an invitation for all followers of Jesus to perform an honest evaluation of their lives, including their relationship with God, themselves, and others. Put more simply, it’s the command in scripture to love God and love neighbor as we love ourselves.
It’s been said that we need to be careful and watchful over our soul when we are hungry, angry, lonely, or tired (HALT). This phrase finds its origins in the recovery program of Alcoholics Anonymous. Its wisdom echoes Paul’s admonition in 1 Corinthians 10:12 (NIV): “So, if you think you are standing firm, be careful that you don’t fall!” For me, I have two practices at the beginning and end of the day that help me listen to God’s “gentle whisper” (1 Kings 19:12).
My morning practice is a Bible reading and reflection time in which I journal the whisper of the Spirit for my life. This 30- to 45-minute-long exercise has sharpened my ear to God’s gentle whisper more than any other discipline. I have observed in my life and the lives of others that daily Bible engagement more than any other practice helps Christ followers grow in their faith.
-- Jorge Acevedo in “Everybody Needs Some Cave Time: Meeting God in Dark Places”
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