If you’re anything like me, your quiet time with Jesus probably feels a bit overwhelming at times. You’ve got this devotional, that reading plan, a bajillion prayer journals, and more. But more often than not, this kind of quiet time isn’t quiet at all. It’s detrimental to your spiritual well-being, and it will make you less motivated to read and pray in the long run. So you’re wondering, how can we simplify our quiet times so that we’re actually gleaning something from God’s Word and prayer? Keep reading to find out!
1) Choose two devotionals; one for morning and one for night. The one for the mornings should be practical and hopefully it will encourage you to read a passage along with its message. Your night routine should include a devotional that not only helps you relax, but reflect on the events of the day. Perhaps keep a prayer journal with that devotional.
2) Choose a reading plan. I would personally recommend one that takes you through the Bible in a year, but regardless, make sure the plan is simple and easy to follow. If you’re a beginner, go for Psalms or the gospel of John. If you want to actually study the passages in your plan, try Romans or one of the historical books in the Old Testament.
3) A Youtuber I watch recently suggested that sometimes all we need to do is read. No commentaries, no study material, no fancy journaling supplies...just pick up a Bible and read it. God works through that just as well as organized notes and color coding.
4) Keep the supplies simple. Sometimes all you need is a notebook and a pen, but if you want to go further, colored pens and pencils will work great. Washi tape makes for great decoration and art without the mess and hassle of glue and paint.
5) Always pray before and after your quiet time. Pray for wisdom and guidance on understanding and application of what you’re reading.
6) Find one place in your home where you can do your quiet time. It can be on the porch, the bed, or anywhere you deem comfortable. Then, choose a time; make sure its consistent. Most people say to do it in the morning, but if you don’t have time for morning quiet times, do it at some point during the day. When you do it is not as important as the fact that you actually do it.
7) Remember that you are spending time with God. Keep it reverent. Make that time holy and set apart just for Him and Him alone. If you get distracted, that’s okay. Just remember to keep fighting for that quiet time; it’s the most important part of your day.
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Do you have any tips on keeping your quiet time simple? Feel free to share! I’d like to see pictures of your quiet times and supplies on Instagram. Tag me there @ourlivinghopeblog.
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