A quiet time, also known as a devotional time, refers to the practice of spending regular, intentional time alone with God in Bible reading, prayer, and meditation. Though not explicitly commanded in Scripture, the concept of a quiet time flows out of biblical principles about the importance of abiding in Christ, meditating on God’s word, and praying constantly.
The Purpose of a Quiet Time
The purpose of having a regular quiet time is to cultivate intimacy with God by making space to hear from Him through His word, respond back to Him in prayer, and reflect on biblical truth. Just as human relationships require quality communication time together, our relationship with God requires consistent, unrushed time reading His word, conversing with Him, and allowing His truth to renew our minds. A quiet time enables us to be still and know that He is God (Psalm 46:10), to taste and see that the Lord is good (Psalm 34:8), and to have our strength renewed through waiting on Him (Isaiah 40:31).
Key Elements of a Quiet Time
Though each person’s quiet time may look a bit different, there are several key elements that are important for getting the most out of this special time with God:
Bible Reading
The centerpiece of any quiet time should be reading and meditating on God’s word. There are many methods for approaching Bible reading including reading through a book, studying a passage verse-by-verse, using a devotional guide, or reading on a particular topic or theme. The important thing is that we come to the Scripture expectantly, asking God to speak to us, and take time to ponder and apply what we’ve read.
Prayer
Prayer is our personal communication with our Heavenly Father. A quiet time allows extended time to pour out our heart to God, worship Him, thank Him for His goodness, confess our sins, intercede for others, and bring our personal petitions and requests to Him. Praying Scripture back to God is also a powerful way to pray during our quiet time.
Meditation
Meditation in the biblical sense means sustained reflection on the word of God and His truth. As we read and pray the Scripture, we should pause and meditate on verses or passages that particularly strike us, “chewing” on them and letting them sink into our hearts and minds. Meditation helps move biblical truth from just intellectual knowledge into transformed thoughts, attitudes, and actions.
Worship
Our quiet time is ultimately about encountering the presence of God, so worship is a fitting response. Worship can include singing praise songs to God, listening to worship music, reading prayers or psalms of worship, or just expressing our awe and adoration for who God is. Starting our quiet time with worship helps orient our hearts toward God.
Journaling
Writing out thoughts, prayers, reflections, lessons learned, and action steps is a helpful way to process and capture what God is teaching us through the quiet time. Journaling leads to deeper meditation and application of God’s word.
How to Start and Maintain a Quiet Time
Beginning and sustaining regular quiet times takes intention and discipline, but the blessings far outweigh the effort. Here are some tips:
Choose a Set Time and Place
Pick a time and location where you can be alone, unhurried, and free from distractions and interruptions. Make it a consistent part of your daily schedule. Many devote their first moments of the day to quiet time.
Start Small
Especially if new to quiet times, start with just 5-10 minutes per day and focus on just one component like Bible reading. Once this becomes a habit, add additional elements like prayer and worship.
Use a Devotional Guide or Bible Reading Plan
Having a plan and guide can be very helpful when starting out. Over time you may develop your own approaches.
Remove Distractions
Put away cell phones, turn off TV or music, and try to clear your mind of other thoughts and to-dos. Be fully present.
Vary Your Approach
Add variety to prevent stagnation. Try different Bible reading plans. Vary your posture between sitting and kneeling. Occasionally read outdoors.
Invite God to Speak
Approach quiet time eager to hear from God, not just read as routine. Believe His word is living and active (Hebrews 4:12) and ask Him to reveal Himself.
Apply What You Learn
Ask yourself, “How can I apply this passage today?” Write down specific applications and steps of obedience.
Persevere Through Dry Spells
Press through seasons where quiet time feels dry or repetitive. Those who stick with it experience renewed closeness with time.
Involve Others
Join a small group Bible study, discuss insights from quiet times with a friend, or keep an online journal to stay accountable.
Hindrances to Avoid
There are a few key hindrances that can derail quiet times. Being aware of these can help get back on track:
Prioritizing Other Things
Busyness, fatigue, or lack of time management can lead to constantly skipping quiet time. Remember it should be part of your daily “fixed” schedule.
Treating it as a Religious Ritual
Quiet time shouldn’t become an empty tradition. Approach it with eagerness and openness to God.
Not Preparing Your Heart
Come to quiet time with a yielded spirit, putting aside sins and distractions that create barriers between you and God.
Having Unrealistic Expectations
Don’t expect earth-shattering spiritual experiences every time. Focus on faithfulness regardless of how you feel.
Lacking Variety
Trying different Bible reading plans, prayer methods, or devotionals can stimulate fresh inspiration.
The Blessings of a Quiet Time
While not always easy, cultivating a vibrant quiet time is tremendously worthwhile. Here are some blessings that come from this spiritual discipline:
Deeper Understanding of God and His Word
As we regularly study and meditate on Scripture, biblical truth becomes cemented in our mind and transforms our thinking.
Greater Intimacy with God
Shared time in conversation, Bible study, and worship nurtures an increasingly close relationship with Christ.
Heightened Sensitivity to Sin
God uses His Word to reveal sinful areas of our life. A quiet time makes us more receptive.
Power to Resist Temptation
Hiding God’s word in our heart enables us to withstand temptation and sin (Psalm 119:11).
Assurance of Grace
Reminding ourselves daily of God’s unmerited grace breeds security and confidence.
Peace and Reduced Anxiety
Time alone with God anchors our emotions and relieves anxiety as we cast cares on Him.
Wisdom for Decisions
God’s Word enlightens and instructs, guiding us to make wise choices aligned with truth.
Direction and Purpose
Listening to God’s voice through Scripture gives divine perspective on His will and plan.
Renewed Motivation
Regular stillness before God ignites fresh passion to live wholeheartedly for Him.
Greater Faith
Immersing our minds in God’s truth and promises bolsters our faith in Him.
In summary, a quiet time with God is vital for every believer who longs to deepen their walk with Jesus Christ and hear His voice each day. When pursued with discipline and hunger, it leads to transformation that ripples through every area of life. The blessings are exceedingly abundant.