“Come close to God, and God will come close to you. Wash your hands, you sinners; purify your hearts, for your loyalty is divided between God and the world.” James 4:8.

If we want to build our relationship with God then we need to spend time with Him. God is always telling us that He wants to spend time with us, but we are not always paying close attention to Him.

We just think, “oh I’ll get with Him later” until we can’t.

“Seek the Lord while he may be found; call on him while he is near.” Isaiah 55:6.

The Lord has plans for each of us and specific work that He has called us to do. This might be hopeful news to some of us, or it might be overwhelming if we are already struggling to manage all that is on our plate.

Thankfully, we have hope, and we have the ability to control our priorities. Putting in balance five areas of our lives can help us live according to God’s will and His purpose.

First, our top priority should be spending time with the Lord each day. We can read and meditate on His Word, pray, listen for His directions, or simply be with Him. Just do it!

Second, we know relationships are essential to God’s plans for us. We should allot time to our other relationships in truth, not just casually. Galatians 6:2 says, “Share each other’s burdens, and in this way obey the law of Christ.” Begin today!

Third is the area most likely to become imbalanced, our work. The Lord disapproves of laziness, but He doesn’t want us to be overly consumed with our careers, either. “And the world is passing away along with its desires, but whoever does the will of God abides forever.” 1 John 2:17. Prioritize!

Fourth, it’s vital for us to take care of our bodies, which means we need to allocate adequate time for rest, recreation, and exercise. “Or do you not know that your body is the temple of the Holy Spirit who is in you, whom you have from God, and you are not your own?” 1 Corinthians 6:19.

Fifth, the Word urges us to meet together regularly with others for fellowship and worship. “For where two or three are gathered together in My name, I am there in the midst of them.” Matthew 18:20.

These general areas all need space in our lives, but each day doesn’t have to look the same. Ask the Lord to direct your schedule. Seek His guidance, watch for His answers, and make the changes He brings to mind.

In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

–by Don Brockway