Lectio Divina

Lectio Divina is a spiritual discipline or practice used in the church for centuries as an integral part of the Christian experience. It is a Latin word meaning ‘sacred reading’. Another way to think of it is a private and personal conversation with God as you experience him through scriptures.

“Lectio Divina is the most traditional way of cultivating friendship with Christ. It is a way of listening to the text of scripture as if we were in conversation with Christ and he was suggesting the topics of conversation. The daily encounter with Christ and reflection on his word leads beyond mere acquaintanceship to an attitude of friendship, trust, and love. Conversation simplifies and gives way to communing.”

~Thomas Keating

How to Practice Lectio Divina:

Quiet Down

• Sit comfortably and relax.

• Breathing slowly can help you to quiet down.

• Remind yourself of how much God loves you, likes you, and is excited to be there with you. Remember that his long, loving gaze is upon you.

Read and Reflect

• Read a Bible passage slowly, audibly if that helps.

• Read the passage three times. Using a different translation for one of the times may be helpful.

• With each reading stop when something catches your interest or stands out. Listen. Repeat the phrase or word a few times.

• Ask, “Lord, what are You pointing me to in this passage?” or “How is my heart being engaged at this moment?” or “How might this word intersect with my own life right now?”

Talk to God

• What do you want to say to him? What questions do you have for him?

• What does he want to say to you?

• Speak to him as a friend speaks to a friend. Rest.

• Sit quietly. Enjoy being present to God.

• Thank him for the time and his presence.