Psalm 119:147 I rise before dawn and cry for help;
    I have put my hope in your word.

There are many Bible passages, particularly in the Psalms, that speak of seeking God early in the morning. It’s a simple fact of human physiology that most people focus better in the morning. I honestly think that’s one reason the devil presents so many distractions and entertainments late at night, to keep us from being able to get up early to seek God. There are still many uncertainties about our need for sleep, and some people indeed seem to get by fine on just four hours or so, but they are few and far between. The vast majority of us need 7-8 hours, but many who need it don’t get it, to the detriment of their physical and emotional health. Of equal or greater importance is that when we’re short on sleep, getting up to have time to read the Bible and pray before getting about the tasks of the day becomes an impossible task. It boils down to priorities, and the devil is all too skillful at masking those. Late-night TV programs used to be the biggest culprit, but lately, computers and cell phones have taken over, and society in general seems to think that going to bed before 11 is shockingly early. For anyone who seeks to be healthy spiritually, this is something that must be stood against. As God told Isaiah, “Seek the Lord while he may be found; call on him while he is near.” (Isaiah 55:6) He is always available, but we are best able to recognize Him first thing in the morning.

As I have written many times, I knew from my parents’ example that morning devotions were desirable, but I was a married father in my 20s before I actually started developing such a habit. Thankfully, that habit has become more and more firmly ingrained, but I am still subject to distractions. These days I watch no TV, but I spend too much time on the computer, and Microsoft, Google, etc. do their best to be as distracting and addictive as possible. I do this writing on a computer, and just a few seconds ago my cursor drifted to an area of the screen that popped something up that was wholesome and amusing, but not at all what I’m writing on right now! Some people think that a 77-year-old pastor would have everything under control, but I’m as much or more of a target of the enemy as anyone else. I too need to make the clear choice to prioritize the Lord in my time. After all, I’ve committed my life to Him, and our lives are measured in time. I need to keep Him in focus and be faithfully obedient to everything He shows and tells me, so that He may be pleased with me.

Father, thank You for this reminder. Thank You that at least I feel great frustration when I can’t have this time with You, first thing in the morning. Help me walk in harmony and fellowship with You throughout the day, each day, so that I may be instantly available to You at all times, for Your glory. Thank You. Praise God!