DAWG Days- Not Just For Summer

As I sat waiting for my medical appointment there were two ladies conversing about these HOT “Dog Days of Summer”. One sweet soul was distraught because it was “too hot outside” and “too cold inside”. She was not amused at all to be waiting dressed for blazing hot temperatures outside and quite cool conditions in the medical facility. Her newfound friend (sitting 2 seats down) offered encouragement, “Well, enjoy the air condition in here because you’ll be out there sweating again soon.” Patient #1 was not sold on the idea at all as they began the discussion of how the term “Dogdays of summer” began.

I won’t go into the history behind this phrase but know that this term has its roots in ancient times, specifically the Greeks and Romans.  Today the term “dog days” is usually used to describe the peak of summer and no one has any idea that it is linked to Orion’s belt, Sirius (the brightest star after the son, or even astrology! Those in the South associate the “dog days of summer” with a bottle of Coke with peanuts poured inside, a huge cup of sweet tea, bare feet and listening to the crickets and Cicadas sing as night closes in. It’s a reminder to slow down, cool off and enjoy the moments with family and friends as all begin looking forward to the fall and football.

I’d like to encourage each of you to begin a tradition of- having “DAWG” days in every season- not just summer. Before you think I’ve lost my mind, there is a difference between a “DAWG” and a “Dog” day. Most of you have never heard or experienced a “DAWG” day but it’s likely my favorite days of the year. While living in Germany I began having DAWG days. These were: Days Alone With God. Most of the time I planned these days once a month when the men in our church met for a breakfast. My husband would attend the breakfast and then come home and work in the yard. My day was completely mine.

My sweet sisters in our church knew that this day, once a month, was one of my favorite times. They knew not to ask me to do anything with them on this day. I so looked forward to sending hubby off so that I could enjoy anywhere from a ½ to a whole day with just me and God! Oh, how sweet this time because to me as I would engulf myself in Bible study digging into God’s Word, worshipping Him in song, music and prayer as well as praying for my friends and family. All of the “Grace Girls” knew that if they messaged of called that I’d get back to them after my DAWG Day was over, but the morning was just me and God! It was such a blessing to be engulfed in His love, praising Him and having the entire house to myself. I could sing, pray and cry as loud and as long as I wanted to without disturbing anyone!

Sweet sister, let me tell you how full my heart is after spending several hours to a day with my Savior! The joy and comfort, the warmth in my soul and the desire to read more in His Word, to praise Him more and to just bask in His presence can’t be described! It’s an experience that comes only with spending time focused on Him.  You may only have 1/2 a day, 4 hours, 2 hours or even an hour- USE IT! God is waiting for an invitation to spend time with you. To speak to you through His Word, to pour out His love on you and fill your heart as you praise Him.

Since moving back to the USA I have had to get a little more creative with getting my DAWG time in. Recently I had foot surgery that has not went well so I've had to sit ALOT. This past Saturday I didn't make it up the stairs where my normal DAWG day is spent but I was able to sit in my recliner, read my Bible, study a foundational topic that I wanted to learn more about, play my piano and listen to praise and worship music. Yes, even a surgery not healing can be used by God and become a blessing. God is in ALL the details.

You will be amazed at the benefit of spending large blocks of time with God! Spiritual growth, emotional benefit, increased gratitude, guidance and clarity are jut a few examples of blessings God bestows on us as we prioritize time with Him. He's waiting to bless us if we only take time for Him and to allow Him to work in our lives. Oh sister, I wouldn't trade my DAWG days for anything! My only regret is that during this season I can't have more of them!

Find the time that He is giving you. Make an appointment for Him and put it on your calendar. There is nothing more important that you can do. For now, think about the verses below as you pray about having a DAWG day with your Savior!

Verses to Meditate On (ESV translation):

Psalm 46:10- “Be still, and know that I am God.    I will be exalted among the nations,    I will be exalted in the earth!

Jeremiah 29:12-  Then you will call upon me and come and pray to me, and I will hear you.

James 4:8- Draw near to God, and he will draw near to you. Cleanse your hands, you sinners, and purify your hearts, you double-minded.

Matthew 6:6 – “But when you pray, go into your room and shut the door and pray to your Father who is in secret. And your Father who sees in secret will reward you.”

Matthew 6:33- “But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be added to you..”

I Peter 2:2-3- Like newborn infants, long for the pure spiritual milk, that by it you may grow up into salvation— if indeed you have tasted that the Lord is good.

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