serenity

Psalm 5:3

Grace and peace be with you right now friend! I hope you're ready to dive into something truly magical and transformative today. Let's talk about one of my absolute fave ways to start the day: Sunrise Devotions in Nature. Trust me, this is the spiritual glow-up you've been craving.

First of all, let's get real—mornings can be tough. The struggle to roll out of bed is real, especially when you're juggling a million things. But imagine this: you wake up, slip into your comfiest activewear, and head outside just as the sky starts to blush with the first hints of dawn. The air is crisp, the world is still, and it's just you and God. Can you feel the peace already? I know I can!

Why Sunrise Devotions?

Why at sunrise, you ask? Well, there’s something so special about the early morning. It’s a time when everything feels new, and the possibilities for the day are endless. Plus, the Bible totally backs this up. Psalm 5:3 says, “In the morning, Lord, you hear my voice; in the morning I lay my requests before you and wait expectantly.” Starting your day with God sets the tone for everything that follows. It’s like giving your day a fabulous, faith-filled boost.

Finding Your Perfect Spot

You don’t need a bougie location to experience this (but hey, if you have one, flaunt it!). A simple park, your backyard, or even a quiet corner with a good view will do. The key is to find a spot where you can truly disconnect from the hustle and bustle and just BE with God.

Here’s how you can create the ultimate sunrise devotion routine:

1. Prep the Night Before: Lay out your blanket, Bible, journal, and anything else you need the night before. This way, you can roll out of bed and be ready to go without any fuss.

2. Choose Your Spot: Find a place where you can see the sunrise and feel connected to nature. It could be as simple as your backyard or as adventurous as a hiking trail.

3. Breathe and Be Present: Take a few deep breaths and just be present in the moment. Listen to the sounds around you and feel the peace of God’s creation.

4. Scripture and Prayer: Read a passage from the Bible that speaks to you. Reflect on it and pray. Talk to God about your hopes, fears, and dreams for the day.

5. Journal Your Thoughts: Write down any insights or feelings that come up during your devotion. This is your personal time with God, so make it as meaningful as possible.

Setting the Scene

Now, you know I love a good setup, and this is no different. Bring a comfy blanket, maybe a cozy sweater if it’s chilly, and your favorite hot beverage (matcha latte, anyone?). Don’t forget your Bible, journal, and maybe some worship music – just enough to create a vibe without distracting you from the main event.

The Devotion Routine

1. Gratitude Moment: Start by thanking God for the new day. Reflect on the blessings in your life and express your gratitude. It’s amazing how a thankful heart can set the tone for the day.

2. Scripture Reading: Choose a passage that speaks to you. It could be a Psalm, a Proverb, or any scripture that resonates with your current season. Read it slowly, savoring each word, and let it sink deep into your soul.

3. Reflection Time: Take a few moments to ponder what you’ve read. How does it apply to your life? What is God trying to tell you through this passage? Write down your thoughts and insights in your journal.

4. Prayer: Pour your heart out to God. Share your hopes, fears, dreams, and concerns. Remember, prayer is a conversation, so take a moment to listen as well. You’d be surprised how much clarity can come in these quiet moments.

5. Worship: If you feel led, spend some time in worship. Sing a song, play some worship music, or simply sit in awe of God’s creation around you. Worship is a powerful way to connect with the divine.

Benefits of Morning Devotions in Nature

• Inner Peace: There’s something incredibly calming about starting your day with God in nature. It’s like a divine reset button for your soul.

• Clarity and Direction: Spending this quiet time with God can bring clarity to your mind and direction for your day.

• Renewed Strength: You’ll find yourself feeling stronger and more equipped to tackle whatever comes your way.

• Connection with Creation: Being in nature reminds you of God’s majesty and creativity. It’s a beautiful way to feel connected to the Creator.

You might be wondering, "Why go through all this trouble?" Sunrise devotions in nature are more than just a morning routine; they’re a divine appointment. Well, here's the tea—starting your day with God in nature grounds you in a way that's simply life-changing. It reminds you of the bigger picture, aligns your heart with His purpose, and fills you with a peace that carries you through the chaos of daily life. It's like a spiritual reset button, giving you clarity and strength.

Let’s be honest, life is hectic. We all have our personal dramas and endless to-do lists. But carving out this time, even if it's just 20-30 minutes, is a game-changer. It's about prioritizing your spiritual well-being and saying, "God, You come first." And friend, that makes all the difference.

So, let’s make a pact and rise with the sun, embrace the stillness, and start our days with purpose and peace. Your mornings are about to get a whole lot more beautiful, and so is your heart. Amen!

in harmony,

nancy

Pulse Check:

Commit to doing sunrise devotions for a week. At the end of the week, reflect on how this practice has affected your relationship with God and your daily life. Share your reflections with us!