A Study of Psalms - Week 02 Launch
WELCOME
Welcome to Week 2 of Study of Psalms! This reading plan is designed to partner with Compassion Christian Church’s sermon series of the same name, which you can find information about right here.
We are continuing to reflect on the Psalms through Lectio Divina this week.
Lectio Divina is translated to “divine or sacred reading.” It is a spiritual practice that was refined by the early Church leaders of the Christian faith. Its roots can be found in Scripture itself as in Hebrews 4:12 “For the word of God is alive and active”. The Holy Spirit is actively working in the hearts of those reading the scriptures every time they open their Bible. One just needs to come to the Word with a heart open and available to hear from God.
Lectio Divina is about slowing yourself down, finding the time to put away distractions and meditate on the scripture you have just read. It might feel uncomfortable at first, but the more you practice and release any concerns about “doing it right” or “silence is uncomfortable,” the more God works on your heart and you long for these moments with Him.
There are six “steps” to Lectio Divina; these abridged steps were taken from Ruth Haley Barton’s book Sacred Rhythms:
John-Mark Comer has said “The best place to begin is where you are, not where you want to be.” Remember this as you begin the practice of Lectio Divina, because where you are today is all God is asking of you. The more you practice, the more it will become a natural rhythm in your walk with God.
Before We Start
Take the moment to watch the Bible Project's explanation of the ancient Jewish meditation of scripture. This meditation and outlook of reading the scriptures were influential in the early Church leaders’ development of Lectio Divina.
Ancient Jewish Meditation
Looking Ahead
This week's verses are Lament Psalms:
Monday, May 27 - Psalm 130
Tuesday, May 28 - Psalm 6
Wednesday, May 29 - Psalm 12
Thursday, May 30 - Psalm 38
Friday, May 31 - Psalm 86
Welcome to Week 2 of Study of Psalms! This reading plan is designed to partner with Compassion Christian Church’s sermon series of the same name, which you can find information about right here.
We are continuing to reflect on the Psalms through Lectio Divina this week.
Lectio Divina is translated to “divine or sacred reading.” It is a spiritual practice that was refined by the early Church leaders of the Christian faith. Its roots can be found in Scripture itself as in Hebrews 4:12 “For the word of God is alive and active”. The Holy Spirit is actively working in the hearts of those reading the scriptures every time they open their Bible. One just needs to come to the Word with a heart open and available to hear from God.
Lectio Divina is about slowing yourself down, finding the time to put away distractions and meditate on the scripture you have just read. It might feel uncomfortable at first, but the more you practice and release any concerns about “doing it right” or “silence is uncomfortable,” the more God works on your heart and you long for these moments with Him.
There are six “steps” to Lectio Divina; these abridged steps were taken from Ruth Haley Barton’s book Sacred Rhythms:
- Preparation (Silencio) - find your space to be with God. Take a moment to quiet your mind, heart and body. Come to God fully open to be in His presence.
- Read (Lectio) - Slowly and out loud, read the passage. Pausing after sentences where it feels natural. Listen for the word or the phrase that God may want to speak to you about.
- Reflect (Meditatio) - Ask yourself a few of these questions: What is it in my life right now that needs to hear this? Where am I in this passage? What is God saying to me in this passage? What longing does this passage stir in me? How is my life touched by this passage?
- Respond (Oratio) - Read the passage again, then talk to God about what has come to your mind as you’ve reflected. Allow yourself to be open with God about your needs, your emotions and your reactions to what the Holy Spirit stirs in you.
- Rest (Contemplatio) - Rest in the Word of God. Read the passage one more time, and rest with God in it. Whether that is in silence or in prayer.
- Resolve (Incarnatio) - Incarnate (live out) the Word of God. As you leave your personal space with God, remember that His Spirit lives in you and goes with you. Therefore, carry your encounter with God for others to receive their own experience with God through you.
John-Mark Comer has said “The best place to begin is where you are, not where you want to be.” Remember this as you begin the practice of Lectio Divina, because where you are today is all God is asking of you. The more you practice, the more it will become a natural rhythm in your walk with God.
Before We Start
Take the moment to watch the Bible Project's explanation of the ancient Jewish meditation of scripture. This meditation and outlook of reading the scriptures were influential in the early Church leaders’ development of Lectio Divina.
Ancient Jewish Meditation
Looking Ahead
This week's verses are Lament Psalms:
Monday, May 27 - Psalm 130
Tuesday, May 28 - Psalm 6
Wednesday, May 29 - Psalm 12
Thursday, May 30 - Psalm 38
Friday, May 31 - Psalm 86
Posted in A Study of Psalms