When you read the word “DAWG,” what do you think of? I asked this question to the ladies of my small group. One lady replied, “Have you ever seen the episode on The Office where there’s a joke about updog on your tie? Then the person asks, ‘What’s up dog?'” A roar of contagious giggles spread throughout the room.
Our group is currently reading the book: Becoming A Woman of Influence by Carol Kent.
As a follower of Jesus, I want to be like Him. I want to do what He does and act like Him. I want others around me to see Jesus in me. In order for one to look and be like Jesus, one must study the Bible to know and understand Jesus’ nature. Something that we see Jesus doing in Scripture is praying. A lot. “Hanging out” with God, his father, through prayer. Luke 5:15-16 (NIV) tells us, “Yet the news about him spread all the more, so that crowds of people came to hear him and to be healed of their sicknesses. Jesus often withdrew to lonely places and prayed.” This is just one example of many where Jesus went off by himself and spent time praying. Often it was after he had been teaching, healing, casting out demons, or amidst crowds of people. So, why do you think Jesus spent so much time in prayer?
I believe he needed recharged! Think about the times when you are pulled in all sorts of different directions by people needing something from you, whether it’s employees, friends, children, or even strangers. The time and energy you spend giving of yourself can leave you eventually feeling empty, tired, exhausted, lonely, and even grouchy. After Jesus prayed, he was right back on mission completing his father’s will while he was on earth. Stopping to spend time with God will recharge your soul and set you back on track with God’s will for your life.
So what does a DAWG day look like? It looks different for each person. The ladies of my small group each shared about their DAWG days. Some spent an hour in a chapel praying and reading their Bibles, going for a long walk with their dogs, resting and praying, and even shopping alone at Nebraska Furniture Mart! Each gal thought about what she enjoyed doing and how she could “hang out” with just God by talking to Him and just spending time with Him listening to what He had to say. Each gal that shared about her DAWG day seemed refreshed and filled with renewed hope. Your DAWG day is just one where you take the time out for God like you would for a good friend, doing the things together that you enjoy.
My DAWG day was spent on a Saturday morning bike ride. I packed my Bible, journal, and some water in a backpack, put on my helmet, and hopped on my bike. I enjoyed the sunshine and beautiful nature and listened to some Chris Tomlin on Spotify. I felt like I was 12 years old again. God filled me with energy and joy that morning and reminded me of how much he loved me, just as I was. Unconditionally with all of my faults. I read through Psalm 27 at the top of a hill overlooking a park, a farm, and some soccer fields. The time was incredibly peaceful. Even today when I think back on that Saturday morning, my heart fills up with joy and I’m reminded of how important it is to spend time alone with my Savior! He makes me a better person, wife, mom, and friend.
So, I hope you’ve been encouraged to take some time out today to spend with God alone. Find that place- whether it’s in nature or a favorite room in your house! I’d love to hear about your DAWG day. Feel free to tell about it in the comments section. Here’s to many, many DAWG days ahead!
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