Two Feet on the Floor: The Moment When Your Day Begins

My alarm goes off sometime between 5:00 and 5:30 AM. The house is still, the world outside feels quiet, and for a brief moment, I consider staying under the covers. But then I remember: this is when it all starts. My mornings aren’t just the beginning of the day—they’re the foundation.

I’ve learned that how I use these early hours impacts everything else. It affects how I lead in ministry, how I show up for my family, and, most importantly, how I connect with God. So, when my two feet hit the floor, it’s go time.

Here’s how my morning routine helps me stay grounded, connected, and ready to take on the day.

Step 1: Breakfast and Connection

The first thing I do is head to the kitchen to make breakfast. It’s not just about food—it’s about setting the tone for my family before the day pulls us in different directions. My youngest daughter heads off to school early, so I try to make sure she starts her day with something warm and filling.

After breakfast is ready, my wife and I sit down together. This has become one of my favorite parts of the day. In the middle of the morning rush, we create a small pocket of stillness. We connect over coffee, talk about what’s ahead, and take time to pray together.

I’ve realized how easy it is to let the busyness of life crowd out moments like these. But these shared mornings remind us that we’re in this together—not just as parents, but as partners who are anchoring our family in God’s presence.

Step 2: Time with God

After my daughter is off to school and breakfast is done, it’s my time. I make my coffee, grab my Bible, and settle in for about an hour of focused time with God.

I use the One Year Bible for my daily reading. There’s something powerful about walking through Scripture in a structured way—it keeps me grounded in the Word and reminds me of the bigger story I’m part of. Some days, a verse will jump out and speak directly to what I’m walking through. Other days, it’s the simple rhythm of showing up that keeps me connected.

Prayer journaling has also become a key part of my mornings. Writing out my prayers helps me slow down and be honest with God. I’ll lift up specific concerns for my ministry, pray over my family, and seek guidance for decisions I’m facing. It’s also a chance to reflect on the ways God has answered prayers I’ve written before.

This hour isn’t rushed or hurried—it’s sacred. It’s where I recalibrate my heart and remember who I’m serving before I step into the demands of the day.

Step 3: Getting Ready and Planning the Day

Once my time with God is done, I get dressed and review my calendar. This is my moment to shift gears and prepare for what’s ahead.

I glance at my schedule and prioritize the key tasks or meetings that need my attention. Ministry can be unpredictable, so having a clear plan helps me stay focused on what matters most. It’s not just about checking boxes—it’s about making sure I’m stewarding my time well.

From there, I head to the church office, ready to take on whatever the day holds.

Why This Routine Matters

For years, my mornings were chaotic and reactive. I’d hit snooze, rush through breakfast (if I ate at all), and scramble into the day feeling unprepared. But over time, I realized that how I started my morning set the tone for everything else.

Now, my routine gives me a sense of purpose and clarity. Making breakfast isn’t just a chore—it’s a chance to serve my family. Praying with my wife isn’t just a habit—it’s a way to strengthen our relationship and invite God into our day. Spending time in Scripture and prayer isn’t just a checkbox—it’s the foundation of my calling.

For youth pastors, mornings are a gift. They’re a chance to meet with God before meeting with students, to invest in your family before investing in your ministry, and to prepare your heart before the demands of the day come knocking.

So, tomorrow morning, when your alarm goes off, resist the temptation to hit snooze. Swing your feet onto the floor and start with intention. Whether that looks like making breakfast, diving into Scripture, or taking a moment to pray, know that these small choices can have a big impact—not just on your day, but on your life and ministry.

Trust me: when you start your mornings with purpose, you’ll be amazed at how much better you’re able to pour into the people God has called you to serve.

Let’s talk about your morning routine and how we can get your day started off right… schedule a 1on1 coaching session.