Lectio Divina
Lectio Divina, or divine reading, is an ancient practice of praying the scriptures. Begin by reading a few verses of scripture or a sacred text unhurriedly so that you can listen for the message God has for you there.
Lectio Divina has four elements:
1. Read the passage slowly twice
Listen for the word that stands out from the rest of the words. What word or phrase shimmers for you and catches your attention?
2. Reflect on the words
What is God trying to say to you?
3. Respond in prayer
How does this passage make you feel? What is this passage inviting you to do or to be? What are your thoughts? How does the passage move you to pray?
4. Rest
Rest in God’s presence and enjoy the nearness of God. Spend time in quiet prayer.
Choose any text of your choice and then follow the four steps. Some short readings you may use are:
- Micah 6:8
- Psalm 13:1
- Philippians 4: 4-7
- Psalm 62:8
- Ezekiel 36: 26-27
- Matthew 11: 28-30
- Proverbs 3: 3-6
- John 14: 25-27
- Psalm 138: 8
- Isaiah 43: 19-21
- Psalm 69: 1-3
- 2 Corinthians 1: 3-4
- Psalm 46: 10-11
- Luke 3: 21-22
- Luke 5: 4-7
- Matthew 19: 14
- John 1:5
- Psalm 139:1-14
- Isaiah 43: 19-21
- Psalm 69: 1-3
- 2 Corinthians 1: 3-4
- Psalm 46: 10-11
- Luke 3: 21-22
- Luke 5: 4-7
- Matthew 19: 14
- John 1:5
- Psalm 139:1-14