Want to grow your prayer life?

Have you heard of Lectio Divina?

Lectio (as it is sometimes called) is an ancient form of prayer and Bible reading that has its roots all the way back in the second century. The idea is to invite the Holy Spirit to speak to you through God’s Word. Lectio Divina means “Divine Reading.”

If prayer is a new spiritual discipline for you or maybe just was not emphasized in your background, it might be stretching for you. This is okay. Don’t get frustrated.

A quick search will give you all kinds of information on the topic. There are multiple ways to do Lectio, but here is how it was first introduced to me and how I use it most often.

First, find a quiet place. You don’t want distractions. Set aside about 20 minutes (longer if you want). Grab your Bible and turn to a short passage. Psalms are often a great place to start. Psalm 23 or 46 would be a good choice for you first time.

You will be reading the same passage through four times, while asking God to speak to you in specific ways each time. Then you will listen for the Holy Spirit to speak. Remember a key part of prayer is listening.

Note: The following is set up to be done in a group setting and with worship songs to sing in between the readings. Obviously this would take longer. People can share or not share, as they are led. Lectio can be done in a group or alone, with singing or without. So the 20 minute version I am suggesting is for one to do alone, probably without worship.

First Reading
(Read the passage. Just listen. Pray for the Lord to speak to you through His word.)
Sing

Second Reading
(Read the passage again. If in a group setting, a different person with a different version could read. Ask God for a “word” as you read. Listen for a word, phrase or sentence that stands out to you.)
Share Word/Phrase (As you feel led.)
Sing

Third Reading
(Read again. Ask God why he has made that “word” stand out to you.)
Share (As you feel led, share what the Lord is saying about that word, phrase or sentence.)
Sing

Fourth Reading
(Ask God what he wants you to do with what He has spoken to you.)
Share what God wants you to do. (If you do not hear anything, do not be concerned. This happens regularly. Your job is just to listen and respond accordingly.)
Sing

Prayer
Close in prayer, praise God for speaking through his Word.

If you have any questions about prayer in general or Lectio Divina specifically, please send them my way. I’d love to help you with your prayer life any way I can.