Quiet Time Redefined
For years, we have been told a lie. We have told that quiet time needs to look a certain way. But this just isn’t true. Quiet time does not have to include an early morning routine with a Bible and a journal. While there’s nothing wrong with this picture, it often leaves us feeling inadequate when our lives or personalities don’t fit that mold. Here's the truth: quiet time isn’t prescriptive; it’s descriptive. It’s not about following a formula—it’s about finding a rhythm that connects you to God in your own unique way.
Debunking the Myths of Quiet Time
Myth 1: Quiet time has to be early in the morning.
While morning can be a great time to start your day with God, not everyone thrives early in the day. Mornings are personally my favorite, so this is the time I choose to connect with God. Yet, some connect better during a peaceful lunch break, while others feel closest to God in the stillness of the evening.
Myth 2: Quiet time must involve sitting quietly for an hour.
Life gets busy, and that’s okay. And, some days, an hour is just unrealistic. Quiet time can be a 5-minute pause to center your thoughts, a walk where you pray and reflect, or even worshipping through music during your drive.
Myth 3: You’re not doing it right if you’re not reading the Bible cover to cover.
Spending time in Scripture is vital, but it doesn’t mean you have to tackle it all at once. There are several ways to study scripture. Meditate on a single verse, reflect on a short passage, or use a devotional guide to focus your reading.
The Beauty of a Personalized Quiet Time
Quiet time should be a life-giving practice that meets you where you are. God designed us uniquely, and that means our connection with Him will look different too. This means that we can personalize our quiet time for what works for us. Whether you’re an extrovert who finds God in community or an introvert who craves solitude, your quiet time can and should reflect your personality and life season.
Tips to Create Your Unique Quiet Time
Identify your best time of day.
When do you feel most present and focused? Use that time to connect with God.
Choose a method that resonates.
Whether it’s reading Scripture, journaling, meditating, or even creating art, find what helps you engage most deeply. And remember this can change in different seasons.Start small and grow.
A 5-minute pause is better than skipping it altogether. Build your rhythm gradually.Incorporate variety.
Some days you might read and reflect; other days, you may pray during a walk or listen to a worship song. Keep it fresh and engaging.
Reflection Questions
What time of day do you feel most connected to God?
What activities help you feel centered and focused during your quiet time?
How has your understanding of quiet time been shaped by expectations, and how might you reshape it to fit your current season?
Conclusion
Quiet time isn’t about checking it off a spiritual to-do list; it’s about creating space to dwell with God in a way that nourishes your soul. Embrace the freedom to explore, experiment, and establish rhythms that fit your unique journey.
Let’s talk in the comments! What’s one way you’ve made quiet time work for you?
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