SACRIFICES vs. DOING THE RIGHT THING

Proverbs 21:3
³ The Lord is more pleased when we do what is right and just
than when we offer him sacrifices.

For people who serve God in the ministry, there are a lot of times that we get so overwhelmed with the work that needs to be done (sacrifices) that sometimes we forget to do what's more important, being with God and His will (doing what is right). God is more pleased when we do the right thing (and the just things) than offering our sacrifices to Him. It's better that we "don't serve Him" if we don't do the right thing. We could be serving all we want, sacrificing our time, our effort, our energy, but in the end, we really aren't doing what is right. What kind of sacrifice are we offering to God that goes above doing what is right?

It's as easy as, spending MORE time with God than other things. I know there has been many times recently that I've been having "fast food" quiet time. I haven't been intentionally spending quality time with God. With all the work that I do, I know God wants me to spend MORE time with Him rather than doing all the stuff I am doing right now. I must learn to "let go" of the "sacrifices" (being too busy) and intentionally have quality dates with God... quality time, where I could get soaked into God's presence.

This PDYM Conference could be about refreshing my spirit. Getting plugged back in to God. Yes, it's about the youth. I'll learn lots of ideas, great insights and learnings... but the goal is to be re-connected with having quality time with God again. Re-igniting the fire and just putting aside all the "distractions" (good and bad).

Lord, forgive me. I am guilty that I haven't been spending quality time with You. Please help me to have the ability to say NO to the "distractions" whether good or bad. Most of the time, the good distractions are heavier because it seems like, since it's good anyways, it shouldn't be a distraction and that I "must deal with it!". The truth is, Lord, I realize that's not the point. Please help me to spend awesome time with you during this trip. More than the cool stuff I will experience, help me to just connect with you. A spiritual retreat and just re-igniting the fire that you have lit in me years back. Thank you for your rebuke. Help me just trust in Your power that I can do this through your strength. I love You Jesus. In Your name, amen.