Psalms 143: 8 (NIV) Let the morning bring me word of your unfailing love, for I have put my trust in you. Show me the way I should go, for to you I lift up my soul.

Before retirement, the start of my day was usually a routine. It was always a rush: wash up, have a simple breakfast, check my cell phone for emails and messages, check the traffic conditions, and then drive to work. Since retirement, one of the benefits is that I do not have to brave the morning rush-hour traffic or be preoccupied with work responsibilities. Now, though my days are still busy with checking emails and messages, I can catch up with the news, spend time on my computer, and regularly go to the gym for exercise. However, the biggest difference in retirement is that I start the day with my daily devotion. I thoroughly enjoy such a precious time with the Lord. How I wish I had started my daily time with God in the morning in my earlier years!

Now, I start my day with God, in the quietness of the morning, by reading the Scriptures. I focus my mind to reflect on God’s word, understanding His purpose and message for me. Through prayer, I give thanks to God for a new day, entrust Him with my plan and activities, ask for strength for my challenges, and seek guidance in my daily activities. I can also cast all my concerns and burdens at His feet. This allows me to experience the peace and assurance knowing God hears me, He is with me, and He will guide me through. Let the morning be a time for us to be in close connection with our heavenly Father, giving Him our heartfelt thanks and sincere petitions. For the promise of a fresh start in a new day and having the desire to place our daily living in His care and protection, let us turn our hearts to Him at the beginning of the day.

Jesus’s promise for us goes beyond retirement in this world (John 14:1-4). Pray that the Holy Spirit will inspire us to expand our horizons and set our perspective in the presence of the Lord and enjoy our eternal time with Him.
While summer is still with us, may our families find time to participate in the remaining summer programs and activities of our church. Have a wonderful time with our church community, creating new and lasting memories together.