Lectio Divina
This practice is all about soaking in a short passage of scripture, slowly reading it and re-reading it a few times, and inviting the Holy Spirit to speak.
When we meditate upon God’s word in this practice, we don’t just “think” and only use our intellect or our mind. Rather, we bring our whole selves to God in lectio divina – our mind, body, soul, heart, desires, relationships, questions, fears, insecurities.
We wait quietly for God to speak, and we allow God’s word to take root in us, to become a part of how we pray and how we live.
In lectio, we aren’t using scripture to make it say what we want it to say. We are entering into it in a way that allows God’s word to permeate and fill us.
Passage
Philippians 4:4-9
4Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice! 5 Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near. 6 Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. 7 And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.
8 Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things. 9 Whatever you have learned or received or heard from me, or seen in me—put it into practice. And the God of peace will be with you.
1. Ready (Silencio)
Get comfortable, steady your breathing, and begin to quiet your thoughts.
Ask the Lord to meet you in this time of prayer and sit in silence for a few minutes.
2. Read (Lectio)
Slowly read the passage of scripture.
Listen for any word or phrase that catches your attention.
3. Reflect (Meditatio)
Read the passage again.
This time, spend a few minutes reflecting upon that word or phrase. Let it sink into your heart and allow God to speak to you.
Be aware of any emotions or memories that are stirred up.
4. Respond (Oratio)
Read the passage a third time.
Respond in prayer to this word or phrase.
Dialogue with God. What feelings do you have? What struggle or longing in your life today is God speaking into? Let His grace meet you there.
What is God’s invitation to you through this passage?
5. Rest (Contemplatio)
Rest in God’s presence. No words are necessary. Just be.
Taste and see the Lord’s goodness to you.
Shalom
John Proeve
