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How to Best Utilize Daily Devotional and Quiet Time With God
If you want a relationship to grow, whether it’s with a friend, a spouse, or a family member regular communication is essential. The same goes for our relationship with God. Setting aside time each day for prayer, scripture reading, and reflection, what many call “devotional” or “quiet time”, is one of the most important ways to draw closer to Him.
But what does “quiet time” actually mean? In simple terms, it’s a personal appointment with God, away from noise and distraction, focused on hearing from Him and speaking to Him. Jesus Himself modeled this for us, often going off by Himself to pray early in the morning or late at night (Mark 1:35).
A good quiet time usually involves three main elements:
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Scripture Reading: Choose a section of the Bible to read. Some prefer to use a reading plan, working through the Bible systematically. Others focus on a particular book like Psalms or the Gospels (the books that tell the story of Jesus’ life). The goal isn’t speed, but understanding and application. Psalm 119:105 says, “Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.” (ESV) As you read, ask, “What does this teach me about God? What’s God saying to me today?”
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Prayer: Talk to God about what’s on your heart, confess any sins, give thanks, and bring your requests (“prayer requests” are simply things you want to talk to or ask God about). Prayer is simply conversation with God, honest, direct, and open. Philippians 4:6 encourages, “Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God.” (ESV)
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Reflection and Listening: Take a few minutes to think about what you’ve read and prayed, listening for God’s direction. This might mean journaling your thoughts or simply sitting quietly in His presence. This is a great time to memorize scripture too. Even one verse a week can make a difference.
Life gets busy, and some days “quiet time” may be five or ten minutes, while other days it stretches longer. The key isn’t the length, but the consistency and intentionality. Over time, these daily meetings with God shape our hearts, renew our minds, and help us recognize His voice in our daily lives.
Don’t get discouraged if you miss a morning or “don’t get much out of it” sometimes. Relationships grow through faithfulness, not perfection. If you’re new to this, start small. Find a place and time that works for you. Use a devotional guide if that helps, many books or apps offer simple plans and explanations.
As you draw near to God, He promises to draw near to you (James 4:8). Let quiet time be a gift, not a burden. Over time, you’ll find that you’re not just learning more about God, but you’re experiencing more of God Himself.
Pastor Justin |
