Personal Devotions and Quiet Time with God

Introduction

• Challenges for New Believers: No set way to do it; different ways to connect with God.
• Purpose: Building a relationship with God.
• Guidance: 7 steps for spending quiet time with God.

Step 1: Create a Space for God

• Scripture Reference: Matthew 6:6
• Key Point: Pray and communicate with God privately.
• Recommendation: Dedicate a special place for building a relationship with God (e.g., backyard, room, dining table).
• Personal Example: Walking around the block, praying on a rug, specific places for Bible reading.

Step 2: Choose a Reading Plan

• Scripture References: 2 Timothy 3:16; Ephesians 6:17
• Benefits of Scripture: Teaches, corrects, gives clarity, and helps fight spiritual battles.
• Reading Plan Suggestions:
  • Four chapters per day (3 OT, 1 NT) - finish in a year.
  • Two chapters per day - finish in two years.
  • Reading at one's own pace from Genesis to Revelation.
• Personal Example: Two chapters a day; one quick read, one detailed.
• Starting Point: Gospel of John, then the rest of the New Testament.
• Additional Resource: "How to Study the Bible" series (beginner, intermediate, advanced).

Step 3: Grow in Your Prayer Life

• Scripture Reference: Matthew 6:9-13 (Lord's Prayer)
• Key Point: Authentic, sincere prayers over repetitive ones.
• Lord's Prayer as a Guide:
  • Introduction: Acknowledge God as Father, thank Him.
  • Praise: Reflect on God's names and roles.
  • Submission: Dedicate daily tasks to God's will.
  • Requests: Pray for personal needs and others' needs.
  • Confession: Seek forgiveness, forgive others.
  • Protection: Ask for help against temptations.
  • Conclusion: Surrender to God, for His kingdom and glory.
• Method: Can be quick or lengthy; praying on a rug, while walking, journaling prayers.

Step 4: Know What You're Applying for the Day

• Scripture Reference: Matthew 7:24
• Key Point: Apply God's Word to build a strong foundation.
• Danger of Inaction: Like building a house on sand - vulnerable to storms.
• Recommendation: Identify how the Bible reading affects daily life.
• Resource: "Spectrum" acronym for scripture applications (covered in "How to Study the Bible: Beginner Level").

Step 5: Respond to God in Love

• Scripture Reference: Romans 5:8
• Key Point: Motivated by love, not obligation.
• Example: Thank God for blessings to overcome unmotivated feelings.
• Analogy: Without love, actions are mere duty, like a roommate relationship.

Step 6: Make It a Habit to Connect to God Every Day

• Scripture Reference: Luke 5:16
• Example: Jesus often prayed in solitude.
• Encouragement: Make quiet time with God a daily routine.
• Reality Check: We have time; it's about prioritizing God.
• Personal Story: Missing quiet time led to a stressful day; felt God's guidance when finally read.
• Scripture Reference: Ephesians 6:13 (armor of God).

Step 7: Learn How Others Follow God

• Scripture Reference: Ephesians 4:11-12
• Key Point: Learn from pastors, teachers, evangelists, prophets, apostles.
• Example: Personal devotions evolve with new methods from others.
• Advice: Ask respected Christians about their prayer and study habits.

Conclusion

• Summary of Steps:
  1. Create a space for God.
  2. Choose a reading plan.
  3. Grow in your prayer life.
  4. Know what you're applying for the day.
  5. Respond to God in love.
  6. Make it a habit to connect to God every day.
  7. Learn how others follow God.
• Final Encouragement: Draw near to God, knowing Jesus loves you.