I’m still getting up early everyday. In fact, I’ve acquired such a taste for the solitude of dawn, that I’m quite unsettled if I don’t make time to get my heart “happy in the Lord,” as George Mueller described in his autobiography:
I saw more clearly than ever that the first great and primary business to which I ought to attend every day was, to have my soul happy in the Lord. The first thing to be concerned about was not how much I might serve the Lord, how I might glorify the Lord; but how I might get my soul into a happy state, and how my inner man might be nourished.
Lately, to cap off my early morning’s celebration of God’s goodness, I’ve been taking a 20 minute walk in the neighborhood. My sweetheart goes before I do, and prays as he walks. I, however, have become quite the multi-tasker. I’ve been finding great pleasure in walking briskly, praising and praying aloud, listening to worship music, meditating on the Word that’s been consumed–all while taking in the breathtaking sunrise coming over the mountains.
Seeing God’s glory, hearing God’s glory, reflecting on God’s glory, partaking in God’s glory, being transformed through God’s glory. If that’s not multi-tasking, I don’t know what is! And how does all that multi-tasking measure in productivity?
I’ve got no boxes to check, list to cross out, no inches melting off my waistline….but, a growing steadfastness, an enlarged heart of faith, and joy in the discipline await me day by day.
If you find yourself joining me in morning multi-tasking, here’s a remarkable song to fix your mind on. Listen to it: O Great God
O Great God
Words and music by Bob Kauflin
As recorded on Valley of Vision
O great God of highest heaven
Occupy my lowly heart
Own it all and reign supreme
Conquer every rebel power
Let no vice or sin remain
That resists Your holy war
You have loved and purchased me
Make me Yours forevermore
I was blinded by my sin
Had no ears to hear Your voice
Did not know Your love within
Had no taste for heaven’s joys
Then Your Spirit gave me life
Opened up Your Word to me
Through the gospel of Your Son
Gave me endless hope and peace
Help me now to live a life
That’s dependent on Your grace
Keep my heart and guard my soul
From the evils that I face
You are worthy to be praised
With my every thought and deed
O great God of highest heaven
Glorify Your Name through me
Download it here.
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Ruth,
I think we could be great friends if we didn’t live so far apart. We are followers of Sovereign Grace music as well. It warms me when my children sing these words. I pray that they will be a blessing to their souls as they grow.
I have been convicted by your early morning discipline since you first blogged on it, but I have yet to discipline myself to it. Please continue to update us on this joyful endeavor of yours as I try to get myself motivated to follow suit.
Thanks!
MCA
I’m sure we would be great friends, MCA! Sovereign Grace has produced some of the most worshipful contemporary music I’ve heard in recent years. Do you listen to Red Mountain Church. They are wonderful as well. I will pray for your desire for discipline…the Lord is good to provide.
I haven’t heard Red Mountain Church, but will check them out. I also really enjoy Andrew Peterson, Sarah Groves and Indelible Grace. Interesting as well, I’m in the middle of George Muller’s autobiography. Wow! He’s inspiration! Blessings to you! (And thank you!)
I need to read George Muller’s autobio again…I was so amazed and convicted the first time I read it. Thank you for sharing with us your early morning time with the Lord. I’m encouraged by you as always! Love you!
I’ve joined you in the early morning hours. It is my favorite time of day. This morning I was out in the backyard in my pajamas photographing the sunrise and meditating on God’s promises. I can’t think of a better way to start the day.