Cause me to hear thy lovingkindness in the morning; for in thee do I trust: cause me to know the way wherein I should walk; for I lift up my soul unto thee – Psalm 143:8
While expecting to be entertained by a man’s quest to find his former partner’s killer, I instead discovered Oscar Shaw—the main character of the self-titled movie—to be a man who, despite a failed marriage and being forced into retirement, faced life with unwavering commitment. Early on, we see Oscar start his day with yoga meditation, a calming mechanism that fosters his inner peace. Later, when asked why he always wears a three-piece suit while walking through his community, Oscar explains that his attire demonstrates respect for himself and others. Ultimately, Oscar Shaw proves that life’s volatility is best faced by holding onto absolutely non-negotiable principles.
What made Oscar Shaw’s character so relatable was his dedication to daily practices, specifically the relaxation technique he used to promote his well-being at the start of his day. Although his strategy and strict adherence to punctuality—which involved using a timer—differ from mine, I have nevertheless cultivated what the author of Psalm 143:8 discovered. Spending my mornings with God through reading, writing, and listening is an absolute must-have for me; even if the duration varies, it serves as a stabilizing tool both spiritually and emotionally.
We all have routines that are essential to our lives because of their positive impact. They give us the fuel and energy to start our day and get through it. This perfectly describes what God does for us, which is why spending time with Him each day belongs at the very top of our must-haves list.