Lectio Divina is a way of reading the Bible that is over 1,500 years old and means “divine reading.” It’s a simple way of slowing down enough to interact with a specific scripture passage while asking the Holy Spirit to use the reading to speak to your heart.

In the ancient practice of Lectio Divina, readers are encouraged to read the same passage on a daily basis and listen to it again and again. This allows you to reflect deeply on one passage. Use the same four questions with the same verse every day. This approach to listening to God may be new to you. If so, great! This opportunity may open new doors in your relationship with God. Enter in and see what might change in your life.

QUESTION 1— READ

Read the passage slowly.  What stands out to you? The first question leads you to read the text again and see what it says to you. Is there a word or a phrase that stands out to you? Something that “shimmers”

QUESTION 2—REFLECT

Reflect on this point. What comes to mind as you reflect on the passage? The second will require a little more time so you can meditate and ponder what you are seeing in the passage. What do you see, hear, feel, or taste? Put yourself in the story. What emotions arise as you see the scene unfold?

QUESTION 3—RESPOND

What is the invitation from Jesus? What is He inviting you to do? Pray the point. Turn any insight you have into a prayer. In response to the third question, think of a way to pray the Scripture, asking the Lord to do in you what you are seeing in the passage.

QUESTION 4—REST

Read it one final time with a posture of receiving fully what you have heard and seen. Rest in the presence of God with you during this time and what He has spoken to you. Go forward into your day, taking with you the consolations you have received from this time of reading and prayer.

NO RIGHT ANSWERS

Many people find it helpful to write down their responses to these questions. The point is to reflect and listen. You are not looking for a “right” answer. These questions are meant to help you connect to God and listen to what the Spirit might be saying to you.