Check The Oil

 
Check The Oil
 
 
When I helped our daughters learn to drive, I included a little instruction on basic auto maintenance. We visited a local service station where they learned to check the oil every time they put fuel in the car. Today, years later, they often remind me of my six-word slogan, "Oil is cheap; engines are expensive." Adding a quart of oil is nothing compared to replacing an engine.
 
Maintenance is also important in our spiritual lives. Taking time each day to read the Bible, pray, and listen to God is a key element in avoiding a breakdown. In Psalm 5, David wrote, "My voice You shall hear in the morning, O Lord; in the morning I will direct it to You" (v.3). In the following verses he poured out his heart in praise, thanksgiving, and requests to God.
 
Many people find it essential to begin every day with the Lord. Before checking email, catching the news, or eating breakfast, they find some quiet moments alone to read a portion of God's Word, praise Him for His greatness, thank Him for His love, and seek His guidance.
 
Others spend time reading and praying at different times of the day.
It's not magic-it's maintenance, as we ask the Lord each day to fill our hearts with His presence on the road of life.
 
Give me a strong desire, O Lord, to look into Your Word each day. Help me hide it in my heart so that I might not stray from Your truth. Feed me and teach me about Yourself and Your will for me.
 
The roots of stability come from being grounded in God's Word and prayer.