And so it begins… again.

The fall semester kicks off this week, and things are about to get crazy. Don’t get me wrong. I’m excited about getting back to classes and readings and papers and studies. This semester looks like a good one. But the workload is about to skyrocket, and that can get a little overwhelming.

Along with the busyness comes the temptation to slack off in my personal walk with the Lord. I always have to be on guard against the danger of pursuing theology and studies over the God of those disciplines. As much as I love school, I can become distracted all too easily, and I don’t want to lose focus this year. I want to discipline myself to pursue the Lord, to love and fear him more than I love textbooks or fear deadlines, to abide in him more than I abide in the library. I want to do all things to the glory of God (1 Corinthians 10:31), allowing the times of study to deepen my love of the God who makes studying possible.

I think this challenge can apply to each of us. Let us never grow so consumed with the tasks God sets before us that we forget to walk with God himself, and may we always love him more than the work he’s graciously called us into. We are only part of his kingdom by his grace. Also, let’s remember to rest well in the Lord. I’m pretty sure God was serious about the fourth commandment. Jesus often spent time alone with his Father, so let’s not assume we’re too spiritual or too important to do the same.

That being said, I pray God moves in huge ways this semester. I pray he leads us each into a deeper knowledge of himself. I pray he speaks to our hearts and deepens our faith. And I pray we can continue to encourage each other along the road as we learn to walk as Jesus walked.

I’m still hoping to keep this blog going consistently, although, admittedly, I might not be able to post as frequently as I’ve been able to lately. I may only get one or two posts out each week in the midst of homework. However, I’m excited about what God has in store, and I look forward to sharing the lessons with you whenever I get the chance! May God be glorified through everything!