How to Hit the Ground Running

by Dr. Tim Orr

Picture this: You stand at the starting line of a new day, and your heart is beaming with excitement and anticipation. You're ready to dive in headfirst, full of energy, enthusiasm, and determination. You're not just starting; you're hitting the ground running. What does it mean to "hit the ground running"? It means embarking on a new day's journey with zeal and efficiency. It's about being well-prepared, proactive, and ready to conquer challenges immediately. So, how can you harness this spirit of hitting the ground running in your own life?

Eugene Peterson, a fervent advocate for intentional and contemplative prayer, offers valuable insights. He argues that the rhythm of prayer, specifically when engaging with Psalms 4 and 5, should guide our approach. Peterson believes that rushing through these prayers would be a missed opportunity. Instead, he asserts that their true essence unfurls when we approach them deliberately. Such a mindful pace fosters a profound connection with God, leading to a richer and more meaningful experience of these sacred texts. Peterson underscores the significance of embracing a thoughtful and intentional method when praying with these Psalms, emphasizing that this approach can lead to a profoundly meaningful spiritual encounter.

The Rhythm of Prayer - Psalms 4 and 5: Peterson highlights that the order of these Psalms illustrates a rhythm in prayer. Psalm 4 encourages us to pour out our problems to God, unburdening our hearts and minds in His presence. Begin your evening by journaling and praying, following the pattern in Psalm 4. It combines lament, trust, and assurance in God's faithfulness. This heartfelt prayer reflects the confidence that God will answer your cries for help and underscores the importance of trust, prayer, and seeking righteousness, even in the face of challenges and opposition.

Evening Prayer

Unburdening Your Heart: Like Psalm 4, start by expressing your concerns to God. Write down your thoughts and feelings, engaging in self-reflection to clarify your emotions. Doing so opens the door to a deeper connection with God, allowing Him to understand your innermost self.
Confidence in God's Blessing: Express contentment and peace, even amid adversity, as Psalm 4 suggests. Trust that God has put more joy in your heart than those with abundant material possessions. This reflects a deep trust in God's provision and the value of peace over worldly riches.
A Prayer of Trust and Commitment: Conclude your evening prayer with a commitment to God, acknowledging that you can lie down and sleep in peace because He makes you dwell in safety. This final verse underscores the theme of trust and reliance on God's protection.

Morning Prayer
Embrace a Morning Prayer Routine - Psalm 5: As you turn to Psalm 5, embrace a morning prayer routine. Just as King David did, start your day with dedicated time for prayer and communion with God. This practice sets a positive and spiritually centered tone for your day, reminding you to prioritize seeking God's presence and guidance from the very beginning.
Seeking God's Attention: Much like David, recognize the importance of seeking God's attention. Express your deepest concerns and needs in prayer, knowing God is always ready to listen to your heartfelt cries and groans.
Contrast Between Righteousness and Wickedness: Reflect on the contrast between the righteous and the wicked presented in Psalm 5. Consider how you can lead a righteous life rooted in honesty and integrity, consciously avoiding the pitfalls of wickedness.
Desire for God's Presence: Share David's longing for God's presence. Seek moments of worship and spiritual connection, both individually and within your faith community, where you can draw near to the Lord and experience His divine presence.
Trust in Divine Guidance: Place your trust in God's guidance and protection as you navigate daily life. Lean on His wisdom and direction to make sound decisions and overcome obstacles.
Joy in God's Presence: Discover the joy and refuge in God's presence, even during trouble. Take shelter in the Lord's righteousness and boundless love, finding joy in the assurance that God is your ultimate protector and the source of true joy.
Gratitude and Praise: Express gratitude for God's favor and blessings, irrespective of circumstances. Acknowledge the goodness of the Lord and His unwavering faithfulness, even when facing difficulties and challenges.
A Daily Reminder: Let Psalm 5 serve as a daily reminder of the importance of seeking God's presence, living a life of righteousness, and entrusting yourself to His guidance and protection. Use this psalm as inspiration and guidance throughout your spiritual journey, drawing strength and wisdom from its verses.

Conclusion: As you embark on your day's journey, take inspiration from the concept of hitting the ground running.