Getting Up With The Sun

A Picture Took That Morning

As I write this, I’m literally sitting at a Myrtle Beach pier just an hour prior to daylight. All I hear are waves crashing. All I feel is a cool morning breeze that reminds me God is always is still awake.

It’s been quite awhile since I’ve actually watched the sunrise. I’m certainly not a morning person. Meaning, unless I set my alarm clock I will never naturally enjoy getting out of my warm, comfy bed before daylight. But, I know from past experience that waking early can be the biggest blessing.

(Luke 4:42) says, “At daybreak, Jesus went out to a solitary place.”

(Luke 5:16) says, “Jesus often withdrew to lonely places and prayed.”

I believe Jesus started each day on his knees. Before his busy day got underway. Before He faced the challenges before him. He humbled himself before his Heavenly Father. He prayed “Father not mine, but your will be done.”

Now, I’ve never read in scripture a command that says we have to rise early in the morning to pray. But, based on firsthand experience and research I would say it doesn’t sound like a bad idea. Every believer should at consider starting each day on their knees.

Only once in my past did I seek to experience forty days of sunrise with God. It was tough and often inconvenient. Yet, I remember well how much closer I felt to God. Especially when my only motivation was hoping to hear God’s voice and encounter His presence.

(Jeremiah 29:13)”You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart.”

Maybe God is calling you to come closer. To set aside the first part of your day seeking His heart, will, strength, and peace. I know many who will rise early to go hunting, fishing, or to go on some other adventure. Why not rise early to draw closer to the God who knit you together in your mother’s womb.

(James 4:8) “Come near to God and he will come near to you. Wash your hands, you sinners, and purify your hearts, you double-minded.”