Reading Scripture

What is a 'quiet time' with God?

It's a spiritual discipline that has been observed by followers of Christ since the church first began. It's a regular unhurried time with God that includes prayer and reading the Bible. If you want to hear from the Holy Spirit, see people like Jesus does, and experience God you must become unhurried and quiet before Him.

Here are a few suggestions for your quiet time:

1. Make space for it in your schedule.
   - choose something to remove from your schedule to make space for time with God

2. Decide on a routine and put it into writing.
   - Where? Find a space that is reasonably quiet and free from other distractions
   - How long? Set aside 15 minutes to an hour, start small and add more time later
   - What's included? Prayer, silence, reading the Bible, memorizing a Bible verse, journaling

3. Expect to do it imperfectly.
   - Developing a new habit is hard work, you will miss days here and there, don't become discouraged, jump back in
   - Consider setting an event or alarm on your phone to help you remember

Example Quiet Time Structure:

1. Silence/Stillness (2 minutes)
   - Rest in the love of God, release your cares, burdens, anxiety, and worries
   - End this time by asking the Holy Spirit to direct and guide the rest of your time

2. Scripture (5 minutes)
   - read a specific passage slowly and thoughtfully

3. Journal (3 minutes)
   - What did God show you in his scripture today? What are you going to do with it?
   - Write a prayer expressing these things to God.

4. Prayer (5 minutes)
   - Spend more time listening than speaking
   - What things in your life do you need to confess to God? Ask for forgiveness.
   - What things in your life are you thankful for? Express your gratitude to God.
   - What things do you need help with? Humbly and earnestly ask God for help.
   - Write your prayers down so you can look back and see how God is moving