Your Daily Slice
- Mette Marx
- Jul 10, 2025
- 2 min read
TAMMUZ 15
First Things First
“…and shall speak of them …when you rise up …” (Deu 6:7)
I have wondered if – during those moments when I am first waking up – I can train myself to say the Sh’ma, thus setting the tone of the entire day. Within 20 minutes or so of waking, my husband and I will say it together as part of our daily devotionals, but what about those few seconds, minutes, before my feet hit the floor?
Immediately upon waking, many Jews will recite a prayer, directed to our Elohim:
“Modeh Ani Lefanecha Melech Chai Vekayom Shehechezarta Bi
Nishmati Bechemla Raba Emunatecha.
“I offer thanks to You, living and eternal King, for You have mercifully restored my soul within me; Your faithfulness is great.”[1]
Ancient Jewish wisdom believes that deep sleep is a minor type of death, during which time a person’s soul returns to our Creator. I do not presume to agree or disagree with this line of thought; however, I can follow the need to thank our King for the restoration of our soul upon awakening.
But there is so much more! Can we not thank Him for our body continuing to function while we slept? Who kept us breathing, what kept our heart pumping, and who watched over us while we were vulnerable? Many times upon waking, I realize that there is a scripture verse on my mind, or perhaps a worship song running through my head – all of which I believe comes from my Father (see Ps 94:11; 139:23; Jer 29:11). And I am so thankful for every day He gives me, another chance to honor and praise the One who formed me (see Ps 22:9-10; 139:13-17)!
“Awake, harp and lyre! I awake the dawn.” (Ps 108:2)
“I love those who love me, and those who seek me early and diligently shall find me.” Pro 8:17 AMPC)
©2025
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