Growing Deeper: Listening Prayer

My heart behind doing this is really to encourage you to engage with the Lord in His Word at a personal level. A simple tool which I call Listening Prayer has had a great impact on my interaction with Jesus in His Word. It is one way (not the only way, or the right way) to be still and listen and to nourish your intimacy with your Friend, Jesus. Here is a simple outline of what Steve and I are enjoying together. If it helps you, great. I'd love to hear about your time. What I am posting daily comes from the 3rd question of invitation.

Listening Prayer

Isaiah 50:4  “The Sovereign LORD has given me an instructed tongue, to know the Word that sustains the weary. He wakens me morning by morning, wakens my ear to listen like one being taught.”

Begin in silence (5-10 minutes or as long as you can or have time for); paying attention to quiet your mind and make room for your heart to hear the Word. Ask the Lord to turn off the noise in your busy mind.

Read and listen to the passage three separate times reflecting on a different question as you listen. Notice what captures your attention in the passage. Notice a particular word or phrase that strikes you as you listen. Notice how the passage intersects with your life and makes you feel. Notice what the passage might be inviting you to do.

1. First reading: What is a particular word or phrase that stands out to you?

2. Second reading: What particular emotion or feeling does this word or phrase raise in you?

3. Third reading: What particular invitation are you hearing from the Lord today?

End your time in quiet reflection and response. Pray for your needs for the day (Lord’s prayer).

At the end of the day; reflect back on your day. In what ways were you aware of the Lord’s presence with you? How do you feel about your day with Him?