This devotional is offered by Cindy Joy

On March 1, Oxford Baptist Youth began a study entitled, The Walk ~ Five Essential Practices of the Christian Life, by Adam Hamilton.  In the two sessions, we were able to have before things changed so drastically for all of us, we talked about ‘worship’ and ‘study’.  As we read scriptures; participated in activities; and engaged in small discussion groups, one point made about bot ‘worship’ and ‘study’ is they are things we do in community and individually.

I love being in community with others…whether in worship, rehearsals, youth group, or with family and friends.  I gain so much in what we are able to share together and miss when we have to be apart.  Right now we are finding ourselves in very small communities . . . mainly with our families and co-workers. Maybe this is a time for us to ramp up our personal times for prayer, worship, and meditation.

As the youth explored the essential practice of ‘study’ we discussed how we sometimes feel the need to do all the talking when it comes to communicating with God.  We talked about ways to listen and pay attention to things that influence and speak to us about the nature and love of God.   What if we were to “be still and know that He is God . . .”  What if we were to take this time we have right now to listen to God by paying more attention to His creation; paying attention to the creative expressions of love and care being shared by so many during these challenging days; and by paying more attention to His word.

Be still and know that I am God;
I will be exalted among the nations,
I will be exalted in the earth.
The Lord Almighty is with us;
The God of Jacob is our fortress.
     ~Psalm 46:10-11 (NIV)