20241229 Growing in Favour (incl. Lectio Divina)

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The One Thing: Growing In Favour
The Scripture: 1 Samuel 2:26, Luke 2:52, Colossians 3:12-17

LECTIO DIVINA
Passage | Colossians 3:12-17 These are the clothes you must put on, then, since God has chosen you, made you holy, and lavished his love upon you. You must be tender-hearted, kind, humble, meek, and ready to put up with anything. You must bear with one another and, if anyone has a complaint against someone else, you must forgive each other. Just as the master forgave you, you must do the same. On top of all this you must put on love, which ties everything together and makes it complete. Let the king’s peace be the deciding factor in your hearts; that’s what you were called to, within the one body. And be thankful. Let the king’s word dwell richly among you, as you teach and exhort one another in all wisdom, singing psalms, hymns, and spiritual songs to God with grateful hearts. And whatever you do, in word or action, do everything in the name of the master, Jesus, giving thanks through him to God the father. (Colossians 3:12-17 The Kingdom New Testament, NT Wright)

Step 1 | Ready Breathe in and out to reach a place of internal quiet. Breath prayer: "Speak Lord | your servant is listening"

Step 2 | Read (Lectio) During this reading we’re simply asking the question “what?”. “What do you want to say to me, God?”. And as the words are being slowly read, listen for a word or a phrase that might jump out from the page. Take this as God’s word to you. Then simply write this word or phrase down. Don’t analyze it. Simply write it down.

Step 3 | Reflect (Meditatio) As the passage is read for a second time, now ask the question “why?”. We’re reflecting. Ask God why He has brought that verse or phrase to your attention. Again, you’re listening for God’s voice. Don’t force it. Don’t analyze it. Don’t overthink. Just wait on Him and allow Him to tell you why He has brought this word or phrase to your attention.
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Step 4 | Respond (Oratio) This is our chance, in the quietness of our hearts to “respond”. While the passage is being read, ask the question “What now?”. What is the step of faith that God is calling you into? As you hear from God, write down what you sense He is saying to you. “God, show me what I should do with the word or phrase that you have given me”

Step 5 | Rest (Contemplatio) During this final reading allow yourself to rest. Enjoy the quiet and the stillness. You might want to occasionally simply whisper “thank you” to God for speaking to you. This period of resting can be as long as you want. For more information visit contemplative.org/contemplative-practice/lectio-divina/ or google “Lectio Divina”