Have you ever arrived somewhere and had no recollection of how you got there? I’ve worked in the same place for over 25 years and my car practically drives itself there. On days my mind is busy with other things, I wouldn’t be able to tell you much about the commute.
God made us wonderfully detailed and complex. Studies have shown that throughout our life our brains constantly learn and reroute neural pathways. A frequently used neural path can create a shortcut that allows us to act subconsciously. Conversely, new experiences and habits create brand new pathways, with higher alertness and connectivity. It has been suggested that just driving to work a new way stimulates the brain and keeps it healthy and attentive.
I wonder if the same isn’t true in my spiritual life. I sit in the same chair with my daily coffee and meet with God. Even the church services I attend follow a well-worn routine. These disciplines have created habits that are good and useful. But I wonder if sometimes it can dull my senses due to the repetitive nature. Am I even paying attention?
When I take a different path, I can feel more engaged. My senses are more awake. My spiritual hearing might even be keener. Disciplines and habits are valuable tools, but I also want to keep my spirit healthy by mixing it up a little: read my Bible at the park; pray while walking; listen to a new teacher; attend a fellowship that’s culturally different. Like any relationship, I want to keep my time with God fresh and new, while never losing its steady discipline.
The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases; His mercies never come to an end; they are new every morning; great is Your faithfulness. Lamentations 3:22-23
What habits have you found useful for keeping relationship fresh?
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