How to spend time with God

Sara Alexander

The phrase “quiet time” is tossed around causally in most Christian circles. But if you didn’t grow up in church, you’re probably wondering the same thing we’ve all wondered at some point: What does the phrase “quiet time” actually mean? And what does it practically look like to spend time with God?

Most of us hit the ground running each morning and go to bed exhausted later that night. We spend our days accomplishing tasks, big and small, that keep our families and lives in order. With busy schedules and instant access to the noise of social media, it’s pretty hard to find any type of quiet in our lives.

Spending time with God looks different for every person, but there are three things that will help us hear from God in any season. 

3 Essential Elements to Help Us Hear God's Voice

1. The Bible

The Bible is the living, active word of God. It is how God most clearly speaks to people. Regardless of the season of life we are in (student, single, married, working, etc.), everyone can take their relationship with God to a deeper level by reading in the Bible. Think of it like a letter from God to you, explaining who He is, where you came from and who He’s made you to be.

Reading the Bible every day can change the rest of your days. If you’re not sure where to start, try an online Bible reading plan or study. A journal or notebook is a great way to write down verses in the Bible that speak to your heart so you can remember them later.

2. Prayer

Prayer is our direct connection to Jesus. Philippians 4:6 says, “Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.” As we pray, we share our worries, doubts, and fears with Jesus, and we thank Him for all the good gifts in our lives. Prayer is a time to communicate honestly and sincerely with Jesus and give him honor and praise.  

3. A Distraction-Free Environment

Jesus often had to leave town to get a few moments alone with His heavenly Father (Luke 5:16). Thankfully, most of us don’t have to leave town to get alone.

Whatever it takes for us to have uninterrupted time with Jesus through prayer and Bible time, take the necessary steps to do it every day. Maybe that means going to bed a few minutes early, so we can get up before the rest of the house wakes. Or maybe that means turning off the cell phones, iPads, and TVs so we can focus on what God wants to say to us as we read the Bible.

Reading the Bible just 10 minutes a day, every day, can change the rest of your days.

Spending time with God is simple, not mysterious. But the impact it can make on your life as you do it consistently is greater and deeper than any other way you can spend your time. As we read the Bible with a sincere desire to understand and pray in a place where we can focus and listen, we’ll hear God speak to us about what’s next in our lives.

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