We all put Jesus in a box and tuck Him away when life gets overwhelming and we feel like we do not have enough time in the day for homework, classes, work, clubs, and our spiritual life. So we pack Jesus up and we unpack Him when we have time. However, Jesus is constantly surrounding us with His love! Even if we are not reading the Bible cover to cover every day He fills your heart no matter what. Devotionals are a great way to spend a minute or two with God no matter how busy you are.
Devotionals come in all shapes and sizes to fit your needs. There are yearly ones, 40-day ones, seasonal ones, all the kinds you can imagine; I would know I sat on the floor of Barnes and Noble for two hours paging through some before I found my newest one! Devos have daily short verses and lessons or reminders and questions that you can read in the morning and keep with you throughout the day or read at night and reflect on your day.
They are so personal in just a few words and this way you will never have to choose between studying for an exam and studying the bible. There is a middle ground and it is using a devotional. You can use the guidance from your daily devotion to pray to God for whatever you are thankful for and need at that moment.
I have had five or six in my life and my newest one is by far my favorite. Judah Smith's "Life Is _____: Forty-Day Experience" has given my heart the jump start I need to get through the day. Smith also has a "Life Is _____ book that goes along with the devotional. This devotional focuses on four topics: God's love for us, trusting God constantly, being at peace with God, and using life to enjoy God. There is a recommended bible verse before every day's lesson, relatable lessons that teach and remind you, and reflection questions so that you do not have to come up with your own. This book has really helped change how I pray, how I read the Bible, and how I accept God's love.
We all, all y'all, all of us need God's love in our life. We need to pray every day and we don't always do that. I will be the first to admit that I struggle while laying down at night and thanking God for the joy and happiness He has given me on days that are so long it feels like they will never end. Finding a devotional that jump-starts your heart like "Life Is _____" has done to mine will help you refocus every day on the most important thing in life and that is our relationship with Jesus.
No matter the devotional, make sure it fits you and your needs as a Christian walking on a journey to God's eternal love. Always remember that God does not care if you pray for 30-seconds or 30 minutes He just wants to communicate with you and help you feel his overwhelming, reckless love.
If you are having a difficult time deciding on a devotional or what type best fits your spiritual needs research lots of different types and even take a quiz about your spiritual type to find one that can help you grow in your faith.