How to Have a Quiet Time

If you have been around churches much, you have probably heard the term “Quiet Time” or “Devotional Time.” This is time set aside to spend with the Lord in prayer and reading and thinking about His Word, the Bible.

If you are in the habit of having this time with the Lord, then you know how valuable it is. If you are not in that habit, you do not know what you are missing.

Paul’s heartfelt desire was to “know Christ” (see Philippians 3:10-11). And, Jesus gave us the example of pulling aside and spending time with His Father (see Mark 1:35). If Jesus needed this time with His Father, I need it more. Here are some pointers for having a solid quiet time.

First, pick a time. What time would work best for you? Are you a morning or a night person? When is life hectic and when could you carve out some time to be totally focused on the Lord? Try to make it a consistent time so that you can form a solid habit.

Second, pick a spot. Where can you pull away to and have the fewest distractions? Is there a room in the house that tends to be quiet? If you have some time for lunch at the office, you can go to your car, eat your lunch, and have your Quiet Time in your car in the parking lot. Wherever that best spot will be, place your Bible and other materials there so that they will be waiting on you when you go to that special spot.

Third, take your Bible, a pad and pen, and a devotion book if you are using one. You need the pad and pen to write down what God is teaching you. Plus, you may want to keep a running prayer list to remind you to pray for people and record as God answers.

Then, begin with prayer. Spend a few moments asking God to speak to you during your Quiet Time with Him. Let Him know that you will be listening and your heart will be open to His truth.

Next, read the Scripture and Devotion for the day. you may be reading through a book of the Bible. You may be using a Devotion Book. You may be reading through the New Testament. You need a plan that keeps you from sitting down and wondering what you are going to read.

Think about the truth you are hearing and pray about the truth you are hearing in the Bible. Spend a few moments letting the truth sink into your heart. Don’t rush the impact that the power of God’s Word can have on you.

Finally, end with your prayer time. Work through your prayer list and spend some time listening to what God is speaking to your heart. A consistent, daily time with the Lord like this will greatly enhance your walk with Jesus. Why don’t you start today!