A couple years ago I purchased a violin as a hobby.

I started out really excited. The first few weeks I had it, I played it nearly every day. I figured out a couple tunes, and even did a Skype recital for my nieces.

After a while, my interest fizzled, and
I set my violin in the corner. I looked
at it longingly from time to time. I
thought about playing it. I imagined
my future as an accomplished violinist.

My habits didn’t change because I
lacked time. Many times, in fact, I considered playing when I found
myself with a few extra moments. But
I would choose other activities.

I moved. I carried my violin to my next destination, but my interest and perceived need for it faded. My social life picked up, so I didn’t need the musical hobby like I once had. I played the violin again once or twice, but most of the time it sat in the corner collecting dust.

Finally I sold it. It had lost its value in my life.

A few years ago I became a follower of Jesus.

I started out really excited. The first few weeks I could see distinct changes God was making in my life. I was enthusiastic about reading the Word. I encouraged others as I shared my testimony of what a difference Jesus had made for me.

After a while, my interest fizzled, and I set my faith on a shelf. I looked at it longingly from time to time. I thought about spending more time with Jesus and meditating on the Word. I imagined my future as a scholar and a theologian.

My habits didn’t change because I lacked time. Many times, in fact, I considered spending time with Jesus when I found myself with a few extra moments. But I would choose other activities.

I moved. I carried my faith to my next destination, but my interest and perceived need for it faded. My social life picked up, so I didn’t need to rely on Jesus like I once had. It was occasionally useful, like when other people would turn the conversation spiritual, but most of the time, my faith just collected dust.

Finally I had no need for it anymore. I had allowed it to lose its value in my life.

A few days ago I asked God to help me be more disciplined in my abiding time with Him.