“Seven times a day I praise You, Because of Your righteous judgments. Great peace have those who love Your law, And nothing causes them to stumble.”
Psalms 119:164-165 NKJV
Routines. For me, routines matter in a big way. When we moved, I struggled to find my balance and felt off kilter for months because my morning routine was rattled. The solution for me to get back on track was to join a 5am crazy club – CrossFit before the sun comes up. It sounds crazy – but the routine gives me a sense of balance and safety.
I’m not alone in that. The American Journal of Lifestyle Medicine published an article in December 2018 touting the powers of routine as noted in a study conducted by the University of Houston. Their research showed that routines created better sleep habits and an increased sense of security in children. Routines also led to an overall improved mood and general sense of well-being in adults. As a result, participants reported improved relationships, less depression symptoms, and increased productivity. Routines matter.
Can you imagine the power of a routine that includes stopping to praise G-d SEVEN times a day? I cannot imagine it. And I have not done that – ever. But I long to – I feel convicted to.
When I read the passage for today, I was struck by the thought that the most important routine there is and the one that would lead to the best mental health is to stop and praise Him 7 times a day. Seven times to stop and thank Him. Seven times to stop and exalt His name. Seven times to magnify Him. Seven intentional pauses to recalibrate and refocus my mind, my thoughts, and my focus on Him, the One True Living G-d.
If I truly want the change I claim to want, it’s the only thing that has the power to truly transform me, my family, my community, and our nation. When we exalt Him, the enemy has to flee and darkness trembles. When I exalt Him, my gaze shifts, my heart soars, and my life is changed. More of Him, less of me, with intention, seven times a day. Anyone want to join me?
Father – teach me what the Psalmist knew. Show me how to make praise my lifestyle and my routine. Capture my heart anew today. You are good and You keep doing good. Your leadership in my life is perfect and You can be trusted. Amen.
Daily Reading: Psalms 119:89-176
June 1, 2022