Splurge

Let the rivers clap their hands in glee! Let the hills sing out their songs of joy. Psalm 98:8

Sometimes I feel like splurging on my relationship with God. I escape to a friend’s garden, or I bring out the best china and have hand-dipped chocolates or fresh homemade scones with specialty teas as I sit and take in precious gems from God’s Word. Or we curl up together, I in a window seat cushioned with pillows, and God enthroned on high.

Since my relationship with God is vital to all the rest of my life, I don’t like to shortchange my special times with him. I regularly look for an extra day to spend in solitude at a cozy mountain cabin, prayer in an art gallery, or reading devotional books poolside.

Although always on a budget, I have looked for ways to make my time with God special, out of the ordinary. At times I want my relationship with God to be white linen, crystal, rose petals, and lace. If I have to trim in other areas to splurge with God, I will—that relationship deserves the best.

Find a garden, take your favorite journal, drawing pad, paints, or handwork. Sit quietly and take in just a tiny glimpse of what could have been before Eve ate the forbidden fruit. Try to express back to God your thanks that even though sin entered the world in the Garden, God redeemed humanity.

God is the creator, and since you are made in his image, try some creativity in his presence: Try to create a wonderful poem, photograph, painting, or sculpture.