Lectio Divina, or “divine reading,” is a simple way of praying with Scripture. Rather than simply reading the Bible for information, Lectio Divina invites us to slow down, listen for God’s voice and respond to Him in prayer.

You can pray with any passage of Scripture, but a Gospel passage is a good place to begin.

1. READ
Find a quiet place and begin with a simple prayer asking the Holy Spirit to guide your time of prayer. Read the passage slowly. Pay attention to a word, phrase or image that stands out to you. Read the passage a second time if helpful.
Ask: What word or phrase is God drawing my attention to?

2. REFLECT
Spend some time with the word or phrase that stood out to you. What might God be inviting you to notice? How does this Scripture connect with your life right now?
Ask: What is God saying to me through this passage?

3. PRAY
Respond to God in your own words. Give thanks, ask for forgiveness, bring Him your needs or simply share what is on your heart. Let your prayer flow from what you have encountered in Scripture.
Ask: What do I want to say to God?

4. CONTEMPLATE
Rest quietly in God's presence. You do not need to find the right words or accomplish anything. Simply remain with the Lord and allow His presence to draw you closer to Him.
Ask: How is God inviting me to be with Him?

5. ACT
Carry what you received in prayer into your day. Consider whether God is inviting you to make a change, reach out to someone, forgive, serve or simply trust Him more deeply.
Ask: How is God calling me to live differently?

BEGIN AGAIN
Lectio Divina is not about having the perfect prayer experience. It is about making time to encounter God through His Word. Start simply, remain open to the Holy Spirit and return to Scripture regularly.

“Speak, Lord, for your servant is listening.” — 1 Samuel 3:9