The Flame Within

"All Scripture is inspired by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, for training in righteousness; so that the man of God may be adequate, equipped for every good work." 2 Timothy 3:16-17

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I love God, my husband was my high school sweet heart, and still is today. I’m a proud mother of the four most wonderful, sweetest, and cutest kids in the world! In addition, I am a mental health counselor. I love to write! I write from the most honest places within my heart and pray my experiences are able to help and encourage others on their journey through life.

From “Devotional“ to “Time With God” – The Power of Words

Sitting at the coffee shop this morning, I had a revelation regarding how I label my quiet time with God. I always write “Devotional” at the top of a blank sheet of paper. This is a way to engage more with the scripture, by writing verses that stand out, and thoughts that His word brings to my mind. There is nothing wrong with writing “devotional time” at the top of my paper, However I realized this morning, that it felt more like a phrase that feels dutiful and structured, like checking off a spiritual task. Making this one small shift in wording changed everything, at least for today.

I crossed out “Devotional” and above wrote “Time With God.” This felt inviting and refreshing. I mean who wouldn’t want to spend time with God?

As I sat down for my morning quiet time, there was an amazing and obvious shift happening within my spirit. I felt closer, wanted, invited, and a deeper desire to spend time with the Almighty Counselor, Comforter, and my Best Friend. Something powerful happened when I wrote the words “TIME WITH God”… Saying the words out loud feels like a breath of fresh air. Instead of crossing off a “spiritual task” or completing a chore, I was invited to sit with my Creator. I was reminded once again that spending time with God is a blessing and an honor. It is not an obligation; It’s an invitation.

“Time With God” is a time to sit with my Creator, my Shepherd, and my closest Friend. Time with God always draws my heart in, softens my spirit, and awakens a longing inside to be with Him.

Words matter. There is power of life and death spoken through words. This is why The Bible is life-changing and renewing – It is truly God’s words spoken to humanity.

Scripture reminds us of this truth over and over:

“The tongue has the power of life and death…”
— Proverbs 18:21

“Let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be acceptable in Your sight, O Lord…”
— Psalm 19:14

“In the beginning was the Word…”
— John 1:1

Words shape our mindset, our faith, and even our desire. This is the power of the most popular therapy tool, CBT, recognizing and altering the thought process to manage anxiety, depression, and fear. CBT being integrated with God’s word and the Holy Spirit is powerful and life changing.

Somehow this morning, renaming my devotional time to “Time With God,” made it all the more precious and special. Time with God should never be a task— God desires true relationship with me and you. That is amazing! We are loved by God! He longs to spend time with us! Time with god is not about checking a box—it’s about meeting with the One who holds my heart.

Perhaps today, you just need a small shift too…

Instead of saying “I have to do my devotional,” try, “I “get” to spend time with God.” WOW!

I pray this message breathes fresh life into your day, in the same way it did mine!

It’s going to be a good day! I started it with “Time With God”!

Blessings, Crystal

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