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1. Plan Strategically and Come in Prepared! There are so many times in the past that I have been unprepared for my quiet time with God. If the Spirit leads you to something different, don’t be surprised… He knows what’s best for you. One preparation technique that I have used in the past is called S.O.A.P. S.O.A.P: S: Scripture! Write it out, my friend! If you slow down and pay attention to detail, you will see more, understand more, and appreciate more. O: Observation! Think strategically. 1. Who is the audience? 2. Is there a repetition of words? If so, why are those words important? 3. What hits “close to home”? A: Application! This is where God’s word becomes clear to us. We put these words into action. Here are some things to ponder over 1. What is the condition of my heart right now? 2. What can I do to serve the Lord today? 3. What changes do I need to make that would honor the Lord? P: Prayer! You have all this scripture written down, but now what? What can you do with this scripture? When your heart is overwhelmed and words are failing you, pray scripture. There is a reason why God has placed it in front of you. Pray the scripture that you have written, meditate over it, and ask the Lord to open your eyes. 2. Carve Out Time I understand, schedules are SO busy! It’s okay to carve out 15-20 minutes of your day. It doesn’t have to be an hour! 3. Lay It All Out I cannot express the amount of importance on this one! Nothing is more distracting than having to get up in the middle of your time with God to grab a pen. Come in prepared!
4. Separate Yourself This one is a hard one for me. Spending the last three years in a noisy dorm makes it extra difficult to hear God’s voice and stay focused. Choose a place that is remotely free of distraction, quiet, and comfortable. 5. Go Outside! Who says devotional time always has to be indoors??? There is a reason why God gave us the beauty of nature. He is a true romantic, you know? Just look at the sunset. Go outside, sit on your back porch, find a picnic table at a local park, etc. Enjoy His creation. 6. Find a Routine Finding a solid routine is always good for the soul. Find a time in the day that works best for you. If you are a mom, carve 15 minutes out of your morning before your little ones get up. There’s nothing like “quiet time” with stinky feet in your face ;) But for real though… find a consistent time and chose a healthy routine! I promise you won't regret it. 7. Read! Here are some of my favorite books to read during my quiet time:
Check out some nifty blogs! My absolute favorite blogger is Jordan Lee Dooley! Please read... you will fall in love with her writing! https://jordanleedooley.com/blog/ 8. Pamper Yourself Before You Begin Pamper yourself before your time with the Lord. As I absolutely hate being sweaty, I always try to take a shower before my quiet time. That being said, I am more comfortable. He wants you to be comfortable while spending time with Him.
9. Have Fun! Out of all these tips, this is the one that I find most important. God is funny, witty, creative and crazy. Enjoy your time with Him! He’s a joy to be around! Anyway, above all… give yourself grace. Not everyday will look like this. Not every day will you have time, energy, and discipline. Try your best, but give yourself grace! Keep going strong, my friend! |