I start a new job on Monday, so I’ve spent the last several days establishing some new routines. Really, it’s all about timing.
I did a couple of test drives to figure out when I need to leave the house to arrive on time. That, of course, determines when I need to get up each morning and when I need to call it a night.
My new job is only 19 miles away, but in Dallas traffic that still translates to a 30–40 minute commute on a good day. That’s just city life.
More than a year ago, I made a promise to myself: keep walking every day. Over the last 18 months, that simple habit has become one of the healthiest practices in my life, benefiting me physically, mentally, and spiritually.
I won’t be walking six to eight miles every day anymore, but I can still spend about 30 minutes walking my neighborhood. Those quiet minutes become time with the Lord, listening for His whisper among the pavement and the trees. It also gives me the opportunity to pray for my neighbors and our neighborhood as I make my way down the not-so-brightly lit streets.
When I get home, I’ll feed our crew, scoop their litter boxes, spend a few minutes in my Bible App, and enjoy a cup (or two) of coffee.
For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them.
Ephesians 2:10 ESV
My new gig? Glad you asked.
On Monday, I begin serving as a recruiter with Samaritan’s Purse, helping staff the Operation Christmas Child Processing Center. It feels like the right role, in the right place, at the right time.
God always knows.
His timing is perfect.
Until my next post…
Be salty, stay lit.
Rainer Bantau —The Devotional Guy™
© 2026 Rainer Bantau | The Devotional Guy™ | All Rights Reserved
The Devotional Guy™ 
Thank you, Nicola. I think walking is such a simple, yet vital practice for our wellbeing that allows us to connect to God, His creation, and others. God’s not done writing my story. And for that, I am grateful.
LikeLiked by 1 person
This is lovely news. Have a great first day Rainer and we are thanking God for opening this door for you. Walking is so beneficial. I’m grateful for our small dog that gets me out and about.
LikeLiked by 1 person
I love you brother. Thanks for your kind words and encouraging support.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thank you Dusty aka Sarah!
LikeLike
Congrats on the new gig – I’ll be praying for you Monday on your first day! And for that commute… I don’t think I could handle Dallas traffic after my current commute of 12 miles and 10 of it are dirt roads.
Thank you again for being here – I don’t comment much, but I really appreciate the words you share!
LikeLiked by 1 person
It’s my wife’s (Terri) wise suggestion. But, she knows me well.
LikeLiked by 1 person
I just loved you driving the route first, because I am also that person. I do the exact same things!
LikeLiked by 1 person
I’m so encouraged, brother. So excited to read all about this up coming new adventure as you explore the treasures it will bring.
I’m having a cup of coffee—cheers—now as I read and pray for you and Terri!
Love you, Lord Fearing Leader!
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thanks Cindi! I’m hoping to share more about it in the coming weeks. Blessings 🙏
LikeLiked by 1 person
Good job on preparing ahead of time! I’m excited to hear all about your new job!
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thank you Dana 🙏 🙌
LikeLiked by 1 person
Wow, Samaritan’s Purse is a great organization. God bless you in this new opportunity!
LikeLiked by 2 people
Thank you Kiki!!!
LikeLiked by 1 person
Good luck! You are placed on the right path at precisely the right times! Timing IS everything. Yay you and yay to your new teams.
LikeLiked by 1 person
David, thank you as always for your encouraging voice. I’m looking for to this next step with the Lord. Blessings !
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thank you 🙏 Chef Melanie. That’s an amazing mental image—shoebox gifts overflowing, everywhere! Let’s go!!!
LikeLike
Thank you, Khadija, for providing such a lovely, thoughtful comment. Blessings 🙏
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thank you, Alan! 🙏
LikeLiked by 1 person
God speed and God bless, my brother! I’m praying for you in your new venture.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Walking daily is a great habit, walking with the Lord is forever. Enjoy your OCC season, hoping you pack so many boxes you run out of room for more donations!
LikeLiked by 1 person
Rainer, this is beautiful. You could’ve just gotten the job and moved on. But instead you’re protecting the thing that’s kept you healthy. That 30 minutes of walking. That time to pray.
And now you’re praying for your neighbors as you go. That’s what happens when you stay grounded. When you keep the things that matter. They expand. They grow into something bigger.
Samaritan’s Purse. Operation Christmas Child. You know that’s right. You can feel it. That’s God’s timing showing up.
Congratulations on Monday. Keep walking. 💙
LikeLiked by 1 person
May our Father God continue to guide and bless you in your new service for the Kingdom brother 🙏
LikeLiked by 1 person