What gets in the way of your spiritual growth?

Family? Time constraints? Work? Hobbies?

We all have things that keep us from spending time with God. Ponder the list of common scenarios below, and see what speaks to you and your circumstances.

• I went to church Sunday. Do I really need to read a devotional every day?

Many great resources are available for daily devotions that take anywhere from 5 minutes to 30 minutes. Pencil that time into your schedule every day and it will soon become a habit you look forward to. “Be joyful always; pray continually;” 1 Thess. 5:16.

• Church is too early/too late. Really? I can “Netflix and chill” until 4 a.m., but can’t be at church by 9 a.m.?

God uses church to speak to you each week and to bring you closer to Him. Don’t think of going to church as an option, and make sure to prioritize your schedule around that time each week. “Because of the Lord’s great love, we are not consumed, for his compassions never fail. They are new every morning.” Lamentations 3:23-24.

• I’ll just spend a couple more minutes on Facebook to see what this celebrity did or said.

After time spent in prayer, social media may not seem as important. Choose to spend 10 to 15 minutes less on social media and 10 to 15 minutes on daily prayer. “But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness,” Matthew 6:33.

• I need to check and respond to emails from work.

Starting your day in His Word will set the tone for the day. Use a Bible app on your phone or computer before you start work each morning. “You shall have no other Gods before me.” Exodus 20:3.

• Friends tease/criticize me for spending extra time with church events or reading the bible.

Be bold, ask them to join you for worship, bible study, and/or fellowship. “However, if you suffer as a Christian, do not be ashamed, but praise God that you bear that name.” 1 Peter 4:16.

• I’m just too tired.

 If nothing comes to your mind after a long day, recite Martin Luther’s Evening Prayer or the Lord’s Prayer and go to bed. “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.” Matthew 11:28.

God wants us to remain in constant connection to Him through prayer and study of His Word each and every day. “God time” shouldn’t be limited one hour on Sundays. Strive to not let everyday issues get in the way of your spiritual growth and life as a Christian. “Love the Lord your God with all your mind and with your strength. “Mark 12:30