How to have a ‘Quiet Time’
I thought I would pass on the wisdom Giles shared with us on this topic at the weekend away – or at least what I can remember of it. A ‘quiet time’ is simply time alone with God, reading his word and praying. It’s not commanded in Scripture, but it’s a good habit because it’s all about our relationship with Jesus. Rather like tithing our money, we give a part of what we have as a signal that everything we have really belongs to him.
The suggestion is to spend ten minutes a day – that’s all. ‘Little and often’ is a better motto than one of ‘gorge and starve’ – just as it is with eating. How should we spend the ten minutes? First, one minute praying: for help in understanding what God says, for concentration(!), that we would know God better. Then, five minutes reading a Bible passage, asking questions as we go: What does this teach me about God and Jesus? (The Bible is primarily about God, rather than us). How should this affect me today? What is the key truth for me to carry into the day? (Bible notes can be helpful here as they tell us what to read). Finally, four minutes talking to God about what he’s said to us, turning Scripture into prayer: for myself, for the day ahead, for others (family, friends, colleagues). Praying aloud can help here, as can using the prayers others have written.
Why not give it a go if you haven’t before? Why not start again if you’ve faltered (and which of us hasn’t at some time?)? And please ask if you’d like some help…