My quiet space and devotion/study area is the recliner at the end of the couch in our living room. Several years ago, our son, Judah, made me a lapboard that perfectly fits a Bible, a devotion book, and a journal. Each morning before my family arises for the day, I grab my coffee and sit down for my quiet time. It is a place of serenity and simplicity. I have been following this regimen each morning for about eight years.
The key to my success in the morning, begins with my preparation before I go to bed. I normally make sure the coaster for my coffee is clear of any other cups; make sure my throw blanket is on my chair; make sure my Bible, books, and pens are in their proper place; I set my coffee pot to start about 15-minutes prior to when I will arise in the morning. My intentional preparation sets me up for success. When I don’t get everything ready, my morning routine is interrupted, and the serenity of the moment is lost.
In Scripture, we see the importance of preparation, as the Lord calls for the people to celebrate different festivals to the Lord. As the Lord is preparing to lead the people into the Promised Land, Joshua instructs the people, “Consecrate yourselves, for tomorrow the Lord will do amazing things among you” (Joshua 3:5). As Jesus is preparing for his final meal with his disciples, he tells Peter and John, “Go and make preparations for us to eat the Passover” (Luke 22:8).
Success for a morning routine begins with the preparation before bed. If your intentional regimen has to do with your spiritual life, you can set up the altar or space for study. If it has to do with a fitness plan, you set out your clothes the night before, so you do not have to think about what to wear or find them in the closet or dresser. An intentional life does not happen by accident. The preparation covers the breadth of our spiritual, mental, emotional, relational, and physical life. As we end each day, we are preparing for success in the new day.
How is God calling you to a more intentional life? What preparations do you need to make before going to bed to help you be successful each day?
Prayer: Lord, I want to grow in all areas of my life in 2026. For that to occur, I need an intentional, disciplined life. In the evenings when I am tired, give me the strength to prepare for the new day, setting myself up for success. In Jesus’ name. Amen.