At the beginning of each session:
God is present with us. As a way for us to be also present with Him, take the next few moments to slow down and be still before Him. As you begin to focus your heart towards the Lord, breathe in deeply, slowly letting it out.
If your mind wanders, silently pray a simple prayer again and again, such as, "I surrender to your love" or "Jesus, son of David, have mercy on me" until the Holy Spirit gives you a sense of peace and focus.
Scripture:
Psalm 23:4-5a
4 Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I fear no evil, for You are with me; Your rod and Your staff, they comfort me. 5a You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies;
God, I know it’s unavoidable to experience darkness, and brokenness. Help me remember there is nothing I should fear in this life.
You are always with me.
Help me remember your correction and discipline are for me, they are for my good. I take comfort in You, not because I always understand, but because I trust You.
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You invite me into abundance in the desert. When I am empty, you fill me. When I am oppressed, you protect me. I am never, ever, alone. No matter what
FIRST Pass:
As the scripture is read, pay attention to a word or phrase that is highlighted to you. In the quiet that follows, meditate upon that word or phrase.
SECOND Pass:
Contemplate this text, through asking the following questions or by praying the following prayers that relate this passage of scripture to your life.
THIRD Pass:
Pay attention to the invitation here that God might be asking you to respond to. Is there something I am being asked to do or share with others in response to what I have heard today?
At the end of each session:
Take a moment to thank God for the work He is doing in you.
As you go from this time, may your heart and your mind continue to relate to God, fixing your eyes on Jesus through each step of your day. Amen.