A Meditative style of connecting with God and the Word
Lectio Divina (Latin for “Divine Reading”) is a meditative style of “marinating” in God’s Word as we slow down and let the Holy Spirit lead and speak to us. This works powerfully whether on your own or in a group.
Lectio Divina (Latin for “Divine Reading”) is a meditative style of “marinating” in God’s Word as we slow down and let the Holy Spirit lead and speak to us. This works powerfully whether on your own or in a group.
1. CHOOSE A PASSAGE
Choose a short passage so you can go deeper (ie, 6-10 verses total) - see below for examples.
Sample Lectio Passages
Sample Lectio Passages
- Psalm 23 The Lord is my Good Shepherd
- Matthew 11: 25-30 I Will Give you Rest
- Matthew 14:13-21 A Miracle Feast
- Matthew 6:25-34 No Need to Worry
- Psalm 13 Finding God in a Dark Night
- Mark 4: 35-41 Jesus Calms the Storm
- 1 Corinthians 13 God’s Powerful Love
- Colossians 1:15-20 Jesus: King of the Universe
- Isaiah 55:1-9 Listen and You Will Find Life
- Romans 5:1-5 Joy & Hope in Suffering
- Psalm 121 The Lord Watches Over You
- Matthew 5:43-48 Radical Love
- Philippians 4:4-8 Finding Perfect Peace
- Psalm 16 His Presence Always with Me
- Ephesians 3:14-21 Powerful Love
- Isaiah 43:1-7 Do Not Be Afraid
- Luke 7:36-50 Showing Jesus Much Love
- John 15:1-8 Remain Close to Me
- Romans 8:5-11 The Spirit Gives You Life
- 1 John 4:7-12 Real Love
- Longer passages: Psalms 27, 34:1-10, 42, 46, 51:1-15, 61, 63, 145
2. RELAX & FOCUS (Silencio)
Find a place where you can be quiet/not distracted, or somewhere outside. (If you can, don’t bring your phone, or if you do, put it on airplane mode.) Breathe slowly, embrace the quiet, and tune into God’s presence.
It is not uncommon to experience distractions. Don’t get frustrated by them. When they come, just imagine putting them into the river and let them flow away, and turn your attention back to God. Every time you turn your attention back to Jesus, you are telling him you love him again and it delights his heart!
It is not uncommon to experience distractions. Don’t get frustrated by them. When they come, just imagine putting them into the river and let them flow away, and turn your attention back to God. Every time you turn your attention back to Jesus, you are telling him you love him again and it delights his heart!
3. READ (Lectio)
Read the text slowly (and out loud if possible). Pause and be still for a few minutes. Then, read through the text again.
4. REFLECT (Meditatio)
- What word or phrase is the Holy Spirit highlighting to you?
- What feelings are you experiencing as you meditate on this passage?
- Do specific situations in your life relate to this passage? Spend some time talking with the Lord about these and invite Jesus to be present with you.
4. RESPOND & REST (Oratio & Contemplatio)
- How is the Lord inviting you to respond to him? Dialogue with him in your heart or write down what you are sensing.
- Rest quietly in the Spirit’s presence. Receive all the truth and love he’s given you. Speak or write out how you would like to live out this truth this week.