At the time we receive Christ as Lord and Savior, the Holy Spirit comes to live in us forever (John 14:16). Although He continues to dwell in us, He can be silenced (Ephesians 4:30 due to our sins of commission or omission.
When this happens, we do not have the inward peace, love, joy and power that we once had. Acknowledging and confessing these sins to God puts them away as they are cleansed by the blood of Christ.
Spending time with God on a regular basis helps us to gain knowledge of Him and helps us to further surrender every part of our life to Him. As we learn God's truths and yield to them, we receive many blessings and further fillings of the Holy Spirit.
I will be praying for you as you begin or continue your personal journey to a closer relationship with God
Suggestions for having a quiet time with God:
- Schedule a specific time each day - Choose a time that works for you - Although it might require getting up a little earlier, first thing in the morning gives the opportunity to have a mind clear of any of the clutter of the day. Beginning the day with God's truth will bring many blessings (Mark 1:35).
- Chose a place free of distractions
This may be difficult unless you get up early or stay up late. Pray for God's leading in this as well as the time of day. There is an interesting story about Susannah Wesley, mother of Charles and John Wesley, who pulled her apron up over her head to have private time to pray. Her children knew they were not to disturb her during that time!
- Supplies
Your Bible is the best tool and a journal is a great way to record thoughts received during quiet time.
- Determine what to study - See information below for one suggestion. This is just one method. Follow God's leading in this.
- Purpose
To meet God and grow in your knowledge of, love for and obedience to Him.
- Progress
This is measured by the degree to which you are growing in knowledge of God, love for God and obedience to God.
- Perseverance
Determine, with God's help, to overcome obstacles or distractions to your study time.
Always begin your study time with prayer.
Three Question Bible Study Method:
- Select a passage of Scripture (start with a small passage)
- Begin by reading the passage to be studied.
Question 1: What is the passage about?
- Write down the facts or content of the passage. Ex. Who, What, Where and When
- Use very brief sentences
Question 2: What do I learn from this passage?
Suggested questions to ask yourself:
- Is there a warning, a command, a promise?
- Is there an example to follow or an example not to follow?
- What is the main truth of the passage?
- Is there a lesson or principle that is a universal truth?
Write down in your journal your conclusion(s). Pick out one or two things that are especially meaningful to you personally.
Question 3: How can I apply what I learned to my life?
- Can you think of a current situation in your personal life, home life, church, or work that is similar to what you learned?
- Ask yourself a question about that situation that requires action. (ex." How can I set aside time to study God's Word and pray?"
- Write the answer to the question in your journal. (ex. "By setting aside the time from 6:00 - 6:30 a.m. daily to read one passage of Scripture and to write out the facts, lessons, and practical applications I discover there. "
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