In today’s busy world, it can be hard to find time to connect deeply with God. Yet as believers, we long for those moments when the Holy Spirit speaks to us personally. Did you know there’s a practice that can bring fresh life to your quiet time with God? It’s called Lectio Divina, which means “sacred reading.” This ancient way of engaging with Scripture has been helping Christians grow closer to God for centuries.
In this guide, we’ll look at what Lectio Divina is and how it can make your time with God more meaningful. We’ll talk about its biblical roots, how it fits with our faith, and how to use it in your daily walk with Christ.
What is Lectio Divina?
Lectio Divina is a way of reading the Bible that goes beyond learning facts or gathering information. It’s about letting God’s Word change your heart and your life. This practice started in the early church but is just as helpful today.
Lectio Divina has four simple steps:
- Lectio (Read)
- Meditatio (Meditate)
- Oratio (Pray)
- Contemplatio (Contemplate)
Let’s look at each step more closely.
1. Lectio (Read)
Start by reading a short passage of Scripture slowly and thoughtfully. This isn’t about reading a lot or rushing through it. It’s about letting the Holy Spirit highlight words or phrases that speak to you. Hebrews 4:12 tells us that God’s Word is alive and powerful. As you read, let God’s truth sink into your heart. Pay attention to any words or phrases that seem to stand out.
2. Meditatio (Meditate)
Next, take time to think deeply about what you’ve read. Biblical meditation means filling your mind with God’s truth and letting it shape your thoughts. Psalm 119:97 says, “Oh, how I love your law! It is my meditation all the day.” Ask yourself questions like:
- What is God saying through this passage?
- How does this apply to my life today?
- Is there a promise to hold onto or a sin to avoid?
This step isn’t just about understanding. It’s about letting the Holy Spirit guide you and show you what God wants you to know.
3. Oratio (Pray)
Now it’s time to talk to God about what you’ve read. This is where your meditation turns into prayer. Be honest and personal in your prayers. You can praise God for what you’ve learned, confess sins, thank Him for His promises, or ask for His help. Let your prayer flow naturally from what God has shown you in His Word. Ephesians 6:18 reminds us to “pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests.”
4. Contemplatio (Contemplate)
Finally, spend some time in quiet with God. Let His love and truth sink into your heart. Be still and rest in His presence. Psalm 46:10 says, “Be still, and know that I am God.” This is a time to listen, to feel His peace, and to let Him speak to your spirit. Sometimes, God may give you a sense of His love, a picture in your mind, or a deeper understanding of His plans for you.
Is Lectio Divina in the Bible?
The term “Lectio Divina” isn’t in the Bible, but the idea of engaging deeply with God’s Word is everywhere. Here are some examples:
- Reading: Revelation 1:3 says, “Blessed is the one who reads aloud the words of this prophecy, and blessed are those who hear it.”
- Meditating: Joshua 1:8 tells us to meditate on God’s Word day and night.
- Praying: Psalm 119:148 speaks of staying awake to meditate on God’s promises.
- Contemplating: Psalm 46:10 invites us to “Be still, and know that I am God.”
How the Holy Spirit Helps
As Spirit-filled believers, we have the Holy Spirit to guide us into truth (John 16:13). The Spirit makes God’s Word come alive and helps us understand what God is saying. When we pray, the Spirit can even pray through us, especially when we don’t know what to say (Romans 8:26).
You can also use the gift of tongues during Lectio Divina. Praying in tongues can deepen your connection with God and help you focus on His presence.
How to Start Practicing Lectio Divina
Here’s how you can include Lectio Divina in your quiet time:
- Find a quiet place: Choose a spot where you won’t be interrupted. Early mornings can work well.
- Invite the Holy Spirit: Begin with a simple prayer, asking God to guide you.
- Choose a passage: Pick a short section of Scripture, like a few verses from Psalms or the Gospels.
- Read: Read the passage slowly and notice any words or phrases that stand out.
- Meditate: Reflect on the passage. Ask God what He’s saying to you.
- Pray: Talk to God about what you’ve read. Praise Him, confess, give thanks, or ask for His help.
- Contemplate: Sit quietly in God’s presence and let His truth settle in your heart.
- Journal: Write down what God shows you. This helps you remember and reflect later.
God Speaks Through His Word
When we practice Lectio Divina, we open ourselves to hear God’s voice. He may give you wisdom, show you a truth you need, or speak into your circumstances. The Apostle Paul reminds us to “eagerly desire spiritual gifts” (1 Corinthians 14:1). As you spend time in God’s Word, you may experience gifts like prophecy, words of knowledge, or discernment.
Fuel for Evangelism
Lectio Divina can also inspire us to share the gospel. As we grow closer to God, our hearts are stirred to tell others about His love. Acts 1:8 promises that we will receive power to be His witnesses. Through time in God’s Word, we can find fresh courage and direction for sharing our faith.
Ready to Begin?
Lectio Divina isn’t just a method. It’s a way to experience God’s love and truth deeply. Try it for the next 21 days. See how God speaks to you and transforms your life through His Word. Remember, “All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting, and training in righteousness” (2 Timothy 3:16-17). God’s Word is alive and powerful. Let it change you as you take time to listen.
Are you ready to meet God in a new way? He’s waiting to speak to you. Open your Bible, and let Him guide you through the beautiful practice of Lectio Divina.
