The Lectio Divina

One of the most ancient methods of improving prayer and meditation in the Christian church is the lectio divina, or divine reading. This is using the Scripture itself as a guide for prayer. We will be coming back to this again and again in the next few weeks.  Today, however, we will be focusing on praising God through the Scriptures. 

Before we begin, we need to make this clear—we are not talking about Bible study in the usual sense of the word.  The serious study of the Bible has an important part to play in a disciplined spiritual life. 

The lectio divina, however, is something different.  It usually involves a relatively small passage of Scripture, perhaps a verse or two, or as long as a chapter.  Unlike regular Bible study, which seeks to understand all there is about a passage, the lectio divina aims for the heart more than the head.   As we read through the passage, turn the promises of Scripture into prayer by redirecting them to God in our own voice.  “He” becomes “you”,  “We becomes “I” as we personalize the scriptures as our voice to God.

Let’s go through one of the best known Psalms--Psalm 23.  As we do, read it aloud.  Let the passage sink into your mind and heart.  Think about what it is like to have God as your life guide.  Feel the comfort of having a terrific leader for your life. Take it phrase by phrase and line by line, reflecting each line back to God as statement of praise. 

In order to get you started, we have done it for you. 

 On the left side are the psalms, phrase by phrase. On the right are prayers of praise based on the lesson of the psalm.   Say them aloud to yourself.

The Lord is my shepherd, I shall not want	God, you lead me and provide everything for me.
He makes me to lie down in green pastures He leads me beside the still waters.	God, you give me a place to rest,  and set me in a safe place.
He restores my soul	God, you help me to recover from the losses of life.
He leads me in the path of righteousness for His name sake	God, you set me on the right path and keep me there.
Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil	God, you protect me in the middle of danger.
Your Rod and staff comfort me	God you love me enough to correct me
You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies	God, you give me what I need when I am surrounded by enemies.
You anoint my head with oil	You  cover me with pleasure
My cup overflows	You have given me more than I need
Surely goodness and mercy follow me	You continue to forgive and You keep the blessings coming
And I will dwell in God’s house forever.	One day, You will take me to heaven.

Now ask yourself—is the Lord your shepherd today?  Are you following Him through the struggles of life?  Praise God that He is leading you.

 

Praise You God because Your divine character is revealed in Your eternal Word.

In Jesus’ Name

Amen.