I believe the most revolutionary spiritual principle I have experienced through the years is the discipline of having a daily quiet time. Each day, the first thing I do is spend time with God. Do you? Before newspapers, email, clean-up, and yes, CNN, I spend time with God. Nothing has impacted my life any more than this. The issue is not whether you are an early riser or not, the issue is: begin your day with God, whatever time you begin it.

What do I do in this quiet time with God? This is a very good question. First, I pray. I present myself to God for the day. I praise Him and thank Him for who He is and what He does. I pray for various people, matters of importance, and for God to direct my reading in the Word of God. Second, I read God’s Word. I have read it through completely on an annual basis since 1990. This is powerful because it is very important that you listen to God more than talk to God. Do you? Third, I journal a one-page prayer to God which articulates my greatest concerns of the day or days to come. I have done this each day since 1990. It is powerful as I transfer to writing the issues of my life, family, and ministry.

The benefits of this time with God are innumerable. However, I will list just a few:

• Prepares me for the day spiritually and practically.
• Sets matters in order for the day.
• Focuses me for the day.
• Prepares me to hear what God wants to say to me about sharing His message with His people at various speaking venues.
• Helps me deal with people throughout the day.
• Helps me to respond to the uncertainties of the day without losing my testimony.

Have a quiet time. It will change your life. Yes, it will take discipline.