Here’s a walkthrough of a contemplative scripture reading using the “Journaling Meditation” method:
Preparation:
- Setting: Find a comfortable and quiet space where you won’t be interrupted.
- Materials: Gather your Bible or a printout of the passage you’ll be reading, a journal or notebook, and a pen or pencil.
- Scripture: Choose a passage that speaks to your current situation, spiritual needs, or interests. It can be a Psalm, a Gospel passage, a prophetic text, or any other part of the Bible that resonates with you.
- Prayer: Begin with a brief prayer, inviting the Holy Spirit to guide your reading and meditation, and to open your heart and mind to God’s Word.
Reading & Meditation:
- Read the Passage Slowly and Attentively: Take your time, savoring each word and phrase. Pay attention to any specific verses or ideas that stand out to you.
- Journal Your Thoughts and Feelings: As you read, pause periodically to jot down your thoughts, questions, or emotions that arise.
- What words or phrases particularly resonate with you?
- What questions does the passage raise for you?
- How does the passage make you feel?
- Are there any connections to your own life or experiences?
- Reflect on Specific Verses: Choose one or two verses that particularly speak to you and write a more extended reflection on them in your journal.
- What is the deeper meaning of these verses?
- How do they challenge or encourage you?
- What do they reveal about God’s character or His will for your life?
- Dialogue with God in Writing: Use your journal to engage in a written conversation with God.
- Express your gratitude, concerns, or requests related to the passage.
- Ask questions and seek guidance.
- Share your heart with Him openly and honestly.
Example:
Let’s say you’re reading Psalm 23:
“The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want. He makes me lie down in green pastures. He leads me beside still waters. He restores my soul. He leads me in paths of righteousness for his name’s sake. Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me. You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies; you anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows. Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life, and I shall dwell in the house of the Lord forever.”
Your journal entries might look something like this:
- “The image of the Lord as my shepherd brings me comfort. I feel safe and cared for, knowing He provides for all my needs.”
- “I long for those green pastures and still waters, a place of rest and refreshment for my soul. Lord, lead me to those places of peace in my life.”
- “The valley of the shadow of death feels all too real right now. But I cling to the promise that You are with me, even in the darkest moments.”
- “Thank you, Lord, for your goodness and mercy that pursue me every day. Help me to live in the awareness of Your constant presence and love.”
Living the Word:
- Review your journal entries regularly: Revisit your reflections and prayers to deepen your understanding and connection to the passage.
- Apply the insights to your life: Look for concrete ways to live out the message of the scripture in your daily choices and actions.
- Continue the conversation: Keep your journal handy and continue to dialogue with God throughout the day.
Remember:
- The goal of journaling meditation is to engage with the scripture on a personal and reflective level.
- Be honest and open in your writing, allowing your true thoughts and feelings to flow.
- There’s no right or wrong way to journal; let the Holy Spirit guide your process.
By incorporating this method into your contemplative scripture reading, you can create a deeper connection to God’s Word and allow it to transform your life from the inside out.
Here are 10 scripture passages that lend themselves well to Journaling Meditation, each offering unique themes and opportunities for personal reflection and dialogue with God:
Old Testament:
- Psalm 23: “The Lord is my shepherd…” This beloved psalm offers comfort, assurance, and a deep sense of God’s loving care. Reflect on your relationship with God as your shepherd and how He provides for your needs.
- Psalm 46:10: “Be still, and know that I am God…” This verse invites you to find stillness in God’s presence and surrender your worries to Him. Journal about what it means to “be still” and how you can cultivate a deeper trust in God’s sovereignty.
- Isaiah 40:31: “But they who wait for the Lord shall renew their strength…” This verse offers hope and encouragement in times of weariness or discouragement. Reflect on what it means to “wait” on the Lord and how you can find renewal in His presence.
- Ecclesiastes 3:1-8: “There is a time for everything…” This passage explores the rhythms and seasons of life. Journal about the different seasons you’re experiencing and how you can find God’s purpose in each one.
- Micah 6:8: “He has shown you, O mortal, what is good. And what does the Lord require of you? To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God.” This verse offers a clear and concise summary of God’s expectations for His people. Reflect on how you can live out these principles in your daily life.
New Testament:
- Matthew 6:25-34: “Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life…” Jesus’ teaching on worry and anxiety invites you to trust in God’s provision and prioritize His kingdom. Journal about your worries and how you can surrender them to God.
- John 15:1-17: “I am the true vine, and my Father is the gardener…” This passage explores the believer’s connection to Christ and the importance of abiding in Him. Reflect on your relationship with Jesus and how you can bear more fruit in your life.
- Romans 8:28: “And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.” This powerful verse offers hope and perspective in the midst of trials. Journal about how you can trust God’s purposes even when circumstances are difficult.
- Philippians 4:6-7: “Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” This passage encourages you to bring your anxieties to God in prayer and experience His peace. Journal about your anxieties and how you can find peace in Christ.
- 1 John 4:18: “There is no fear in love. But perfect love drives out fear…” This verse explores the connection between love and fear. Reflect on how God’s perfect love can cast out your fears and anxieties.
Remember: The most important thing is to approach the text with an open heart and a willingness to listen. Let the Holy Spirit guide your reflections and deepen your relationship with God through journaling meditation.
Sharing
Jesus last words on Earth were to his disciples, can be found in Matthew Chap 28 when Jesus told his disciples, “Then Jesus approached and said to them, “All power in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Go, therefore, and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. And behold, I am with you always, until the end of the age.”
Jesus calls all of us to share in his redemptive mission here on Earth. I would ask you to share this Scripture reflection with your family, your friends and your acquaintances, and then share it with a couple of individuals that you may may not be comfortable sharing with, keeping in mind always the words of Jesus, And behold, I am with you always, until the end of the age
Contemplative Scripture Prayer Page
Author was assisted by AI in the drafting of this Post