Take the Summer Challenge
Take the Summer Challenge
Summer is here! That means school is out, swimming pools are open, back yard barbeques are happening and all the other things that summer brings. With those thoughts in mind I have a question; where does God rank in your summer plans? It’s easy to get so caught up in all of our summer activities and vacation plans that we let our spiritual life slip during the summer months.
God never goes on vacation and we shouldn’t find excuses to take a vacation from church and growing spiritually. This summer I invite you to “Take the Summer Challenge” – instead of taking a rest from your spiritual life use the summer and all it has to offer as an opportunity to grow even more in God individually and as a family. Be creative! Be committed! Be with Christ!
Here are just a few ideas, use them for inspiration in finding additional ways to continue on your journey with Christ during the summer months;
1. Go to Church! Try a different service time if your church has more than one service. If you take vacation visit a different church. Summer is a great time to worship God.
2. Volunteer! Consider helping with some outreach at your church or in your community. This is something you can do as a family. Serving one day at the community center or visiting a local nursing home or helping in the nursery or childrens church. The list is endless.
3. Read a Book! Pick out a good book with a strong Christian basis or theme to read during the summer, like The Travelers Gift, Pilgrims Progress, Present Darkness, etc.
4. Take a Hike or bike or fish or picnic or …! Summer is a great time to appreciate the beauty of God’s creation. While you are out there take time to notice and give thanks to God.
5. Freshen Up Your Daily Devotion! Have it in a fresh place – back yard, patio, under a tree, deck, porch, park, etc. Make it special in connection with summer. Listen up and journal what God is speaking to you during the summer months.
So, where does God rank in your summer plans? It’s up to you. You can either let the summer drift away or take ownership for your spiritual life this summer and Take the Summer Challenge. I say – go for it. Make this summer your best summer ever.
“Like newborn babies, crave pure spiritual milk, so that by it you may grow up in your salvation,” 1 Peter 2:2 NIV
Have a great summer. Go for the abundant life that is in Jesus everyday.
Be Blessed.
Bruce
