Even Jesus knew He needed time alone every day with God.

I recently read a book on time management practices of successful people. The author made the point that a strong morning routine is important to have a productive day.

I am a person of habit. I like a good morning routine. I get up. I put on my favorite podcast. I workout. I take vitamins. I drink a protein shake and I am ready to take on my day. I actually look forward to this time and if I veer away from this approach, I can feel it. I don’t have the same energy. I don’t have the same focus. I might even be (...dare I say it?...) grumpy.

I agree with this author. I do think that a morning routine is important for success.

Every year, I carve out more time in the morning. I have found it is essential for me to be healthy physically, mentally, emotionally and spiritually.

The most important part of this routine, and the one thing that makes the most difference in my life, is the very first thing I do every morning.

I spend time with the Lord reading the Bible and praying. And, I believe this is the single most important thing I do every day.

It centers me.

It reminds me of what is most important.

It allows me to give my day to the Lord. It allows Him to speak to me. I feel lost without it. It is my lifeline.

Do you want to make a difference in your life? Then give the "first fruits" of your day to God. Why? Because God guarantees His Word.

"It is the same with my word. I send it out, and it always produces fruit. It will accomplish all I want it to, and it will prosper everywhere I send it." - Isaiah 55:11

What other book makes this kind of guarantee?! What other way can you spend your time that is guaranteed to have results?

It is so impactful that even Jesus took this approach. No, really...you can look it up.

29 times the Bible records that Jesus went alone to pray. If that’s how many times it is recorded, imagine how many times it actually happened. Even Jesus knew He needed time alone every day with God. If Jesus, God in the flesh, needed it, then you and I as humans definitely need it!

But, HOW do you start? (I'm glad you asked)

You most likely know that this would be a game changer for you. The problem is not knowing you should do it. The problem is actually doing it.

Here are six tips (that have worked for me) to successfully make time with God a priority.

6 Tips to Help You Make Time with God a Priority:

1. Make a plan

   Choose what you want to read ahead of time. Pick a book of the Bible or a Bible study. The YouVersion Bible App is a great free resource.
   
   

2. Get up at least 30 minutes early

   I may have lost you here...but I know you can do it!! Be disciplined.
   
   

3. Have a cozy spot!

   I like to read with a blanket on the couch (most of the time in my jammies!) or even in bed before I actually get up. If it is inviting, you will be more likely to do it.
   
   

4. Have your Bible and study waiting in your cozy spot

   Prepare the night before, or you will just be frustrated and waste precious time in the morning if you are hunting for these items.
   
   

5. Mark it on a calendar

   Get a calendar and put an X on all the days you spent time with God. There is something magical about marking down an X! It feels good. You can see your progress. You will be less likely to miss a day and feel defeated because you will see all of your successful days.
   
   

6. Most of all...Be expectant

   God will accomplish great things in your life and put you on the road to success through your faithfulness to spend time with Him!!

You can absolutely do this. And, it will make a huge difference in your life!

"Study this Book of Instruction continually. Meditate on it day and night so you will be sure to obey everything written in it. Only then will you prosper and succeed in all you do." - Joshua 1:8