Coffee and Jesus

It's so encouraging to hear others embarking on a journey to grow closer to God! My own goal for 2025 is very similar – to be more diligent in my faith walk. Starting each day with 'Coffee and Jesus' has truly become my favorite way to anchor my mornings and set a positive tone for spiritual growth. For me, this routine isn't just about reading; it's about creating a sacred space and time. I've found that having a dedicated spot in my home, maybe by a window or a cozy corner, makes all the difference. My morning ritual begins with brewing a fresh cup of coffee in my favorite coffee mug. The warmth and aroma are so comforting and help me ease into the quiet time. Then, I turn to my Bible. I've been using a 'trueidentity' Bible which has some fantastic notes that really help me understand the context better. Alongside it, I love diving into my 'Year in the Bible' study book. It provides a structured plan, which is super helpful when you're trying to build consistency and not sure where to start each day. If you're new to daily scripture reading, a guided study or devotional can be an absolute game-changer. The 'notebook' aspect from your query is something I can't emphasize enough! Having a notebook handy is crucial for active engagement. I keep mine close by, along with a trusty light blue pen and a stack of colorful sticky notes. As I read, I jot down verses that resonate with me, questions that come to mind, or personal prayers inspired by the text. Sometimes, I'll use those colorful sticky notes to mark important passages in my Bible or to quickly list prayer requests. It turns passive reading into an interactive conversation with God. Building this habit takes patience, believe me! Some mornings, I feel super inspired, and others, it's a battle to even open my eyes. The key, I've learned, is grace over perfection. If I miss a day, I don't beat myself up; I just pick it up the next morning. What truly helps me stay diligent is remembering why I started – to cultivate a deeper relationship with God. Even just 10-15 minutes can transform your day and your spirit. For anyone looking to start their own 'morning coffee and bible' routine, my top tips are: Start Small: Don't aim for an hour right off the bat. Five or ten minutes is a great beginning. Prepare the Night Before: Lay out your Bible, study book, notebook, pen, and set up your coffee maker so it's ready to go. Find Your Space: Create a peaceful, distraction-free environment. Engage Actively: Don't just read; reflect, pray, and write down your thoughts. That notebook and those sticky notes are your best friends here! Be Consistent, Not Perfect: It’s a journey, not a sprint. Celebrate small victories and extend grace to yourself on off days. This daily practice has truly helped me feel more connected and grounded, even on the busiest days. It's a wonderful way to pour into your spirit before the world starts pouring into you. I hope this helps anyone looking to strengthen their faith through a beautiful morning routine!