Lectio Divina

Written by Josiah Gerdes

What is Lectio Divina?

Last week, we explored practices that allow the Spirit to form us through prayer. Just like through prayer, God can speak to us and change us through His living Word. We do not merely believe scripture is a collection of historical texts, but a revelation of God’s heart and Spirit that actively speaks to us today. At its essence, Lectio Divina is sitting with and reflecting on scripture, allowing it to speak to us and form us.

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Scripture

Before beginning this practice, take a moment to read the scripture below.

For the word of God is living and effective and sharper than any double-edged sword,  penetrating as far as the separation of soul and spirit, joints and marrow. It is able to judge the thoughts and intentions of the heart.
Hebrews 4:12 CSB

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How to practice Lectio Divina

In this practice, we will go through four steps. Reading, reflecting, responding, and resting. Before beginning, we strongly encourage you to sit away from your phone and use a physical Bible. With this practice in particular, it can feel tempting to speed through it or escape into social media.

  1. Reading - Choose a passage of scripture to read through. You may choose only a few verses, or you can read through several chapters or a small book. It is important to read slowly and carefully, paying attention to where the Spirit wants to speak to you.
  2. Reflection - Read through the passage again. Or, if a particular verse or section initially stood out to you, return to that section. Is there anything in the text that connects to your heart? Consider how this applies to your life today, and what Jesus may be asking of you in light of this scripture.
  3. Response - Bring your findings to Jesus and allow Him to speak to you.
  4. Rest - Sit for a few minutes in God’s presence. You may find it appropriate to sit with God in gratitude, praise Him for His word, or quietly allow Him to change you.

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Questions

Return to these questions after doing the practice. Take your time thoughtfully answering each question. You may want to write down your answers, ponder them quietly, or even talk about them with someone else.

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  1. Often, it's easy to try to understand scripture rationally rather than allowing God to speak to us through it. Did you find it difficult to hold scripture before God?
  2. Did this practice help you hear from Jesus through scripture?

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