One of the most special times between a mother and child is when they spend time reading a book together. I always loved it when one of my kids would crawl up in my lap and ask me to read a story. Now, I especially love it when one of my grandkids asks me to read a story! It is always entertaining to see how quickly their inquisitive minds jump ahead of the story and wander off with some unrelated insight!

You know… “Once upon a time… (yes that’s a choo-choo) in a tiny town (a red choo-choo, very good!)…there lived a (you’re right… it’s really a train, but he can call it a choo-choo, okay?)” Get the idea?!

Sometimes, after a full day of activity, my grandkids will even drift off to sleep before the end of the story. (Usually, I just keep reading, because I want to hear how it ends myself!)

It’s amazing how similar these scenarios are to my quiet time with the Lord. My Heavenly Father is glad to have me come to Him and read His Word. But there are days when I find my mind wandering, thinking of other things, sidetracked by unimportant disruptions, and yes, even falling asleep before I finish the passage.

Though that’s not my intent or desire… somehow, like a loving Father, I think He understands. In fact, just like I cherished those times with my own children, I think He cherishes every moment with His children… even if our minds do tend to wander or fail to fully comprehend His love.

So, dear friend…busy woman…frustrated mom…don’t be discouraged if you feel like you are failing in your quiet time with the Lord. Know that He loves you. Know that He understands. But, also know that, even as you love it when your children are attentive, your Heavenly Father asks you to be attentive, as well.

If you feel like you’ve already lost some of that “new year fervor” in your devotional time with God, set aside some time today to recommit your heart to the Lord. Acknowledge that you are prone to wander, and ask Him to help you maintain an attentive heart and spirit.

Give God your undivided attention today! Love Him and seek Him with your whole heart!

“And in every work that he began in the service of the house of God, and in the law, and in the commandments, to seek his God, he did it with all his heart, and prospered.”—2 Chronicles 31:21