Continual Conversation with the Creator

It seems that the last post really resonated with many of you. Given the comments (online and in-person) that I received, it is clear that this is something weighing on your heart as a student. How do we live an integrated, undivided life during our college years and beyond? How is that possible, given the number of things demanding our attention on any given day? What does it even look like to live undivided? We desire it, but we're not sure where to start.

It has been a decade since my own graduation from college and I can tell you that I still don't have all the answers to the above questions. I probably never will. What I do have are some ideas that I've gathered from the saints (ancient to modern) that have worked for me. I'll share a few of those (and some resources) in the next few posts.

One of the most fantastic books on seeking an undivided heart and life is The Practice of the Presence of God by Brother Lawrence of the Resurrection. This little book (barely 100 pages) gives beautiful insight and wisdom into what it means to live constantly in the presence of God. It is nothing but a series of letters never meant to be published. It has proven indispensable to Christians for years. The practical insights in this book have helped me to realize that I can give God every moment of my day. [Note: It is a priceless book, but you can find it for as little as $2.50 online!]

"He does not ask much of us, merely a thought of Him from time to time...the least little remembrance will always be most pleasing to Him. One need not cry out very loudly; He is nearer to us that we think." - Brother Lawrence of the Resurrection

Throughout the book, he encourages those he is writing simply to do everything to the glory of God. For a student that might include studying, driving, walking to class, talking to friends, etc. Thinking of our daily activities this way helps us to take "every thought captive to Christ" (2 Corinthians 10:5). This book radically re-ordered my thoughts on "quiet time" and what devotion to God is really about. Lawrence encourages daily devotions and what we would call "quiet time," and so much more. More than this, though, he is concerned that Christians be in "continual conversation" with God and do everything "for the love of God."

Is it possible to live in "continual conversation" with God in a world that is so filled with noise and distractions? I believe the answer is unequivocally, "Yes!" The how is a different story. There are times in my life when I am better at this than others. It is a constant battle, but one that I am willing to fight so that I might live undivided...and truly free.