Imagine quiet. Stillness. Take a deep breath and exhale l-o-n-g, releasing the weight of the day. This is a time to purposefully be with God. No one else.

It takes effort. The phone needs silenced, TV turned off, tasks set aside. A place is chosen and time is made.

And there you are . . . you and God. You are aware God is with you all the time, but this is different. You enter His Presence for the purpose of being with Him.

Kneel, sit, or lay before the Lord. “Be still before the LORD and wait patiently for him” (Psalm 37:7a). Hear Him say, “Be still, and know that I am God; I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth” (Psalm 46:10). Imagine God in His majestic magnificence seated on His throne. Bow in silence and awe.

Pray for open ears and a tender heart. Wait and listen for His Spirit.

And worship. Be amazed by His love and kindness, His justice and righteousness, His mercy, forgiveness, and grace. Bring the Lord an offering of praise, aloud or silent. Declare His greatness and give thanks for the ways He has blessed you.

Take time to read God’s Word, His love letter to you. It is full of encouragement and guidance. Hear the words of an Old Testament prophet. “The LORD your God is with you, he is mighty to save. He will take great delight in you, he will quiet you with his love, he will rejoice over you with singing” (Zephaniah 3:17). Stop and meditate on that scene!

Soak in His peace. Bask in His Presence. Then joyfully reflect His lavish love.