no room for rocks
By Rachel Wyatt“Those who live according to the flesh have their minds set on what the flesh desires; but those who live in accordance with the Spirit have their minds set on what the Spirit desires.”
Romans 8:5
Abstinence is a deliberate choice to step away from distractions and focus on what truly matters. This verse challenges us to reflect on what occupies our minds and whether it aligns with God’s will.
Imagine a jar filled with rocks, sand, and water. The rocks represent God’s priorities, while the sand and water symbolise our worldly desires and distractions.
If we fill the jar with sand and water first, there’s no room for the rocks. But if we place the rocks in first, the sand and water settle around them.
Abstinence helps us reorder our lives, placing God first so everything else falls into its rightful place. Practicing abstinence involves giving up something we enjoy—like food, entertainment, or social media—not as a punishment, but as an act of worship.
It’s a reset for our hearts, aligning our desires with God’s will. For instance, fasting from a favourite activity can create space for prayer, reading the bible, or listening to God’s voice.
Abstinence isn’t about deprivation but transformation. It shifts our focus from what we’re giving up to what we’re gaining: intimacy with God, greater self-discipline, and clarity about His purpose for our lives.
Choose one thing to abstain from this week—something that often distracts you. Use the time or space created to focus on prayer, Bible study, or simply being still in God’s presence.
Lord, help me to examine my heart and identify what’s distracting me from You. Teach me to surrender my desires and place You at the centre of my life. Through this act of abstinence, draw me closer to You and help me hear Your voice more clearly. Amen.
