As I grow older and face bouts of anxiety, I still experience fear, and even shame can creep in from my old self. I am sometimes painfully hard on myself for lack of motivation or inspiration. I hope and pray to improve and to do more for God. I am learning to take a step back and use discernment: is it God or me who wants this improvement? (Psalms 37:4, 5 / Rom. 8:1-4)
It can be too easy for the enemy to slip in when I’m not paying close attention, and it can also become a vicious circle if I'm not careful. But I recognize that I am leaving God out and trying to figure this out on my own. Whenever I listen quietly and receive no response in my heart, I realize that my motivation might not align with God’s will. And instead, I tend to try to govern or control things.
I share this to encourage you as we face these life challenges: devotion to His Word helps us naturally move beyond our human tendencies and instead move by our spirit. (Galatians 5)
When I knew this was a problem in my thoughts (peace replaced with angst), I started diving into the Bible after honest prayer.
I was eventually led to Acts, which describes the earliest Christian community. We see what sustains the disciples: not intensity, not surprise, not steady spiritual highs. They devote themselves to rhythms of devotion, teaching, fellowship, meals, and prayer. These are ordinary practices repeated consistently. Faith isn’t sustained by scenic moments alone but by traditions that shape daily life—a structured life.
A life built on structure reflects how Jesus Himself lived. Jesus embraced rhythms; He frequently withdrew to pray, honored the Sabbath rest, and moved between community and solitude. Structure wasn’t a burden for Him; it was a source of freedom that kept Him aligned.
Motivation isn’t always reliable; it can rest on our feelings, and we sometimes chase emotional highs instead of doing the necessary inner work.
It’s actually okay not to feel motivated in daily life; what matters is creating sustainable practices through our prayers, reading God’s Word, and authentic time with Him, even on days when motivation is low.
Focusing on staying committed rather than waiting for perfect inspiration, and learning to hold tight to your church, your support, and your community, can make all the difference in nurturing your spiritual and devotional life in Jesus.
Heavenly Father,
I honor You as the wise Creator who understands my limits and meets me within them. Thank You for showing me that lasting formation is built on You, Lord God, and Your Spirit within me. Today, guide me in establishing rhythms that nourish my spirit and protect my attention. Help me trust that faithfulness in small practices allows Your grace to work in me.
In Jesus’ name, I pray,
Amen
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