How to Become Closer to God

For many people, establishing an intimate and strong relationship with God can be a difficult undertaking. However, there are effective methods you can use to become closer to God. One technique is lectio divina (divine reading). It is the Christian contemplative practice of praying sacred Scripture. With this tutorial, you can learn this ancient practice to develop and cultivate a deep communion with God.

Instructions

1. Pick a time and place to practice lectio divina on a daily basis. You need a quiet location where you can sit silently for at least 1 hour daily without interruptions. If 1 hour is impractical because of time constraints then do two 30 minute sessions. The practice of lectio divina has four stages which are lectio (reading), meditatio (meditation), oratio (prayer) and contemplatio (contemplation).

2. Choose a sacred text from the Bible to begin the practice. The Book of Psalms is good for beginning this practice. Work through the book by praying one Psalm a day.

3. Sit comfortably in your chosen location and calm yourself by doing some breathing exercises. Say a prayer of your choice before you begin to read the first Psalm. Read (oratio) the text slowly and silently a few times. Take your time and seek out God's voice in the reading by observing if a word or phrase catches your attention.

4. Meditate (meditatio) on the word or phrase from Step 3. Memorize and repeat it to yourself. Reflect on what these sacred words may convey to you or look for any personal insights. This prepares you to enter into a dialogue with God.

5. Pray (oratio) to God in words or images. Open your heart and express whatever spontaneous prayer comes to you after meditating on the text. It can be a prayer of praise or thanksgiving.

6. Contemplate (contemplatio) and rest silently in God's presence. Be receptive to the experience and let go of any ideas or words. Wait and listen for God to speak to you. Allow enough time for this part of the practice and then slowly return to your daily activities.

7. Continue to practice lectio divina on a daily basis in the manner outlined from Step 1 to Step 6 until you finish the Book of Psalms. There are 150 Psalms so this practice should take 150 days. Choose another book from the Bible and then continue with the practice. Be consistent in your practice and you can become closer to God with this technique.