Last month, we gleaned some wonderful insights from Pastor Craig Fritzler in our debut presentation of IN THE WORD, a series of conversations with members of LifeNet Church as they encourage us to spend time with God daily. Later, we had the pleasure of also hearing from his wife Jadine as they sat with Pastor Van Harbor for an in-depth conversation. We're delighted to share some of Jadine's thoughts on what, for her, spending time with God entails. We pray it will encourage and bless you.
JADINE FRITZLER is a member of the LifeNet writing team. She serves as director of Hope for Life, a non-profit organization in Belmopan, offering support and assistance to pregnant women.
What does "spending time with God" or "quiet time with God" mean for you? In other words, what do you usually do during that time?
JADINE: Since I am an early riser, quiet time for me takes place about 5:00 a.m. I try to quiet myself first, focus on who God is, and sometimes sing. Then I read. Often I will read several chapters from the Bible, working my way through one book at a time. Sometimes, though, one or two verses will really speak to me. Then I stop, meditate on that, let it really sink in. And then I end with prayer.
What benefits do you gain from reading and studying the Bible regularly?
JADINE: Reading the Bible keeps me grounded in my faith. I am reminded of who God is and His love for me. In the Old Testament stories, I see how God dealt with people in their good times and in their failings. The gospels help me to see God’s heart, demonstrated in the life of Jesus. And the New Testament letters help me know how to live as a member of God’s family.
In addition to the Bible, what books or other resources do you use on a regular basis to help you grow spiritually?
JADINE: I read books by people like Philip Yancey, Tim Keller, and C.S Lewis. I enjoy reading memoirs and biographies of people who love Jesus. Seeing how they navigate living for Jesus in this broken world encourages me. And I listen to sermons and podcasts by people who love the Word.
What do you do to maintain a regular reading habit even in the midst of the many things competing for your time? What have been your struggles and/or successes with this?
JADINE: I’m reminded of a Liberian proverb: One day don’t be all the days. Sometimes life happens and I miss my morning quiet time. I’ve learned not to beat myself up over that. Jesus lived on this earth; He knows what it is to be human. He understands life’s interruptions. If I can’t read, I can still pray throughout the day and meditate on what I’ve read before. But I do make an effort to get back to the daily practice as soon as possible.
Name one or two Christian books that you're reading now or have enjoyed reading lately.
JADINE: I recently read Beth Moore’s memoir, All My Knotted Up Life. It left me thinking, “If Beth Moore could write so many books and teach the Bible faithfully to thousands of women while dealing with trauma and craziness in her life, there is no excuse for me to hold back.”
I’m currently reading Walking with God Through Pain and Suffering, by Tim Keller. It’s making me think deeply about the purpose and fruit of suffering.
What made you decide to write for The LifeNet Blog? And how has this challenged, blessed, or stretched you?
JADINE: I was asking God to show me how I should get involved in LifeNet. The ministry at Hope for Life is very demanding emotionally, so I wanted to be careful what I said yes to at church. When I was invited to join the writing team, I saw my prayer answered. I enjoy writing and hope to bless others through what I write.
I also serve as one of the editors for the blog, which gives me the opportunity to work with the other writers. I want to help them make their posts the best they can be. It’s exciting to see so much talent on our team.
Is there a devotional, story, or article of yours that especially uplifted you during the writing process? Tell us about it.
JADINE: I was really encouraged while writing “I Will Still Praise Him,” which was posted on July 5 of this year. Remembering the impact of that glorious rainbow reminded me once again of God’s faithfulness. And it challenged me to join with the psalmist and put my hope in God whenever I start to feel discouraged and overwhelmed. I hope the readers feel encouraged, too.
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