Survival Kit

Dear Friend,
I found an article written by pastor Ulf Ekman on his blog
( http://ulfekman.nu/ only in Swedish) and here are some excerpts I would like to pass on to you. In building “holy habits” this could be a helpful start (and a help to fight a bad conscience).

Sincerely yours,

Ida

“…We have different habits, temperament, and ways of doing things. What will function in the long run must be adjusted to your personality. At the same time we cannot just follow feelings and impulses but slowly and firmly build holy habits… …We must be disciplined without falling into the pit of legalism. Legalism kills joy. It is important to know that the devotional life is not “spiritual gymnastics” or a “diet” you have to endure alone without Jesus. He stands there every morning, longing to talk with us….

1/ When you wake up: Say “Jesus”. Repeat his name as you step out of bed.

2/ When you have turned off the alarm clock; reach for the Bible and read at once 2 Bible verses (not more) This all can do.

3/ Pray silently with tongues on your way to the shower. It makes your inner self praise Jesus in stead of meditating on the concerns of the day. (If you have an issue with “tongues” use your own language; my remark)

4/ Include in your breakfast prayer what will be on your schedule during the day, so you will hand over the whole day in the hands of the Lord.

5/ Try to have a 10 minute prayer and Bible reading time before you rush off to work

6/ Take a small pocket New Testament with you. Read it whenever you can; on the buss, when you have a break at work, etc.

7/ Try to read through the Bible every other year. The second year, try to study one Bible book more carefully.

8/ Pray for the food and bless each meal and thank God for what you receive.

9/ Pray short, specific silent prayers for special events at work and for certain people.

10/ Try to pray in the evening and if you like to read in bed, end your day with the Bible so that you go to sleep with a word from God.

11/ Repeat the name of Jesus until you fall asleep.

12/Don’t try all at the same time. Try what works for you. Don’t loose heart if it doesn’t work at once. …You will see that your day more and more will become surrounded by God’s presence. …Prayer is wonderful because Jesus is wonderful.”