Daily family life is filled with long to-do lists and cluttered schedules. It seems all of our attention is directed to one project after another. Very rarely do we find ourselves with the time to sit and think about God, think about all that we have been blessed with and all that we can do to become better Disciples of Christ.
When we think regularly about God, we have an easier time focusing on the good in life. We are much happier and grateful as individuals and families. We also have an easier time getting along with each other. We are not as quick to judge and we see others as children of God, not just an annoyance or a bother.
However, even though there are numerous benefits to focusing on God throughout the day, it is a challenge. There are so many tasks and trials that affect our daily lives that our minds are constantly elsewhere. It doesn't have to be that way. By doing a few simple things each day, you can more easily remember God throughout the day.
Read and pray
If you want to remember God throughout the day, you must make the effort. There is so much wicked in the world that our attention is easily distracted by the things of the world, not the things of God. Make it a habit to study scripture on a daily basis. When working to establish this habit, consider your daily schedule and preferences. I love the mornings when the house is quiet and the sun is just barely starting to shine through the window. This is when I can really indulge in the works of God. My Dad uses his lunch break at work to read. Find what works best for you.
In addition, take the time to pray. Before or after your scripture study is an excellent time to talk to your Heavenly Father. Also, make a habit to pray in the morning and in the evening. Remember, you don't always have to kneel to talk to God. Say a prayer in your heart or go to a private area and pray standing up. The more you pray and talk to God, the easier it is to remember him.
Write in a journal
I am an avid journal writer and have found this to be one of the best ways to remember God in my life. At the end of each day, write about your experiences. As you look back on the day, you will begin to notice small tender mercies that occurred. You will begin to notice God's hand in your life. As you begin to notice these blessings more and more, you will begin to pick them out throughout the day. You will have an easier time recognizing God's hand in your life.
Serve one person
Service is one of the best and easiest ways to get close to God. Charitable acts do not have to be large and time-consuming. They can be as simple as opening the door for someone, giving a phone call to someone in need or watching someone's children while she cleans her house or takes a nap. There are opportunities to serve all around us. When we look for these experiences and grab onto them, we are not only making a difference in the life of another individual, we are also making an impact in ours as well.
Make family a priority
The family is central to God's plan here on earth. When we make the time for our family, we are showing God that we are mindful of him and his desires. You don't have to spend every waking moment with your family, but dedicate one night a week to spending time together, plan family dinner daily and support one another in extra-curricular activities. When you are close together as a family, your home feels like a safe haven and somewhere God will want to dwell.
Remembering God throughout the day is a challenge. It is something that sounds so easy, yet is so difficult. However, when you put forth the effort, you will reap the benefits.
