You are probably familiar with most of the traditional methods of having a successful quiet time. But the what you do is not the only important part of today's question. That would make this exercise too easy. The tougher and more important question is this: How have you been doing lately in your times with the Lord? God is extremely interested in the heart you bring into the experience. Do you invite the Lord into your quiet time and allow Him to determine what each encounter becomes? If so, these will be some of the most treasured times of your life - when God reveals more of Himself and His plans to you.
Private Meetings with Jesus
There are many ways to enhance your quiet time: writing in a journal; confessing a sin; memorizing Scripture; singing; working through a devotional guide; practicing silence; enjoying God's "outdoor artwork"; or praying with praise, confession, gratitude, and requests. Are you dragging yourself into Jesus' presence and enduring a legalistic obligation? Or are you ecstatic to have the privilege of visiting with Him to praise Him, learn more about Him, and see what assignments He as for you? Is your heart cold or on fire for your Savior?
Scripture to Ponder: "[Jesus said,] "Here's what I want you to do: Find a quiet, secluded place so you won't be tempted to role-play before God. Just be there as simply and honestly as you can manage. The focus will shift from you to God, and you will begin to sense His grace." Matthew 6:6 (MSG)
Do you regularly spend a "quiet time" with God? If so, how do you spend that time?
From Katie Brazelton's "Praying for Purpose" pg 118-121.
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I LOVE my quiet times! Just recently I began to become more aware of my need to have private meetings with Jesus. A few weeks ago I found a small park close to where I work, and at least once a week I've tried to have a lunch date with God. Sometimes I'll bring a devotional, others just my Diet Coke :-)
I sit, and as I enjoy the beautiful spring days we've been having, I thank God for the day and begin to have a conversation with my best friend. Sometimes I have a lot to talk about, and other times I really just want to enjoy his prescense and the day He's given me (and of course, I thank Him for the genious that thought of Diet Coke!).
I've found that quiet times with God have sparked an interest(or maybe a hunger) in me to learn more about Him, to seek Him more, to better myself for Him, and to share Him with others.
Everything can happen in my quiet times: laughter, tears, repentance, new found grace, or just plain contemplation.
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