My nightly routine can range from many things; listening to relaxing music, reading a book, taking a hot bath, meditating, deep breathing, and visualization, some nights, it takes all of them. While it varies nightly, these are things that help me to wind down before climbing into bed and having a good night’s sleep.
There is one nightly routine I failed to mention, and it is the most important. Prayer!
Every now and then, the day is so overwhelming all I want to do is get in bed. Nevertheless, before getting into the cloud (my bed), I get down on my knees and reflect on my day, lifting in prayer good and bad news, struggles, mistakes, family, friends, enemies, and asking God to order my steps in His Word (Psalm 119:133).
There is a song, “Order My Steps in Your Word,” recorded by GMWA Women of Praise. This is not a song per se, but a prayer for all of us who fail miserably trying to do for ourselves what only God can do.
After getting down on my knees pleading to God (hours ago) to order my steps, I wake up creating a mental to do list of things I need to get done. I have this idea that I can do everything in my power. Then I remember that I asked God to order my steps. I take a deep breath, and I let my plans go. If I believe God is in control and I want to experience peace and joy, I must leave my request in His hands. Because, when I do, life is much better.
He will order my steps. Although, He will only give enough light for the step I’m on. This is how he teaches me to trust Him. His Word is a lamp unto my feet and a light to my path (Psalm 119:105). As much as I would like, I can’t see into the future. I may have good intentions, scripture reminds me, while I’m making my plans, God is guiding my steps (Prov. 16:9).
Only He knows what tomorrow holds for me. He is the one who controls my next breath, my next heartbeat. If I want a God-ordered life, I need to begin with the very first step, and that is to get into His Word.
His Word establishes the boundaries where I am to step. I need to hear His word, read it, pray it, meditate on it, memorize it, and share it. I can’t recall His Word if it doesn’t abide in me. I must study to show myself approved unto God, rightly dividing the Word of truth (II Timothy 2:15). That can only happen when I know it and experience it. Allowing God to order my steps only comes by faith in His word (not my word, wishes, or ideas).
This is essential if I want to be guided by God’s word and discern the difference between His leading and the pull of my own chaotic desires, or the temptation of deception—which will either cause me to stumble as I step or take me off the path entirely. Only by comparing my intentions to what the word of God says can I be confident that I am walking the path that God has specifically ordered for me. Please, Lord, order my steps in Your Word.
He has a plan for me (Jeremiah 29:11). A right way, a correct ordering in the way I should go. His Will takes me forsaking my will.
Tonight, before you climb into your bed, include Him in your routine. Allowing God to order your steps will lead you into His presence, as He fulfils the plans designed for you before you became a seed in your mother’s womb.
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By Rachelle Law
Founder, How Come, How Long (HCHL)
Writer, Author, Blogger
