A Beginner’s Guide to Daily Devotions

Firstly, congratulations on desiring to develop the daily habit of seeking the Lord through an intentional time of Bible reading, prayer, and reflection! The Lord delights when His children desire to spend time with Him, and He promises that “He draws near to those who draw near to Him” (James 4:8).

If you’re new to daily devotions, you may be wondering:
How do I actually do this? Where do I start? Is there a right or wrong way?

You’re not alone; and we’ve got you covered.

Below is a simple, practical guide to help you cultivate daily devotions that are personal, meaningful, and doable. Most importantly, this rhythm can be transformational over time.

1. Begin with the Right Frame of Mind and Posture of Heart

Daily devotions are not about earning points with God. There is nothing we can do to earn His love or acceptance—it is freely given to us through Jesus.

We seek the Lord daily in response to His unfailing and perfect love. We desire Jesus’ Lordship over our lives, and we want Him to guide us each day. As we spend time in God’s Word, our minds are renewed with truth, our hearts are shaped and purified by the Holy Spirit, and we grow in understanding God’s will.

Come to Scripture and prayer with humility, expectancy, and gratitude—not pressure or performance.

2. Choose a Bible Reading Plan You Can Commit To

A Bible reading plan removes guesswork and decision fatigue, making it easier to show up consistently.

There are many excellent plans available on the YouVersion Bible App, including the Seek First 365 Plan, a one-year Bible reading plan designed to help you develop meaningful and impactful time in God’s Word every day.

For the paperback and digital versions of the Seek First 365 Plan that include additional daily devotional content and prayers, you can explore them here.

3. Begin by Meditating on a Characteristic of God

Before you start reading Scripture, take a few moments to shift your focus off yourself and onto God.

Reflect on who He is—His love, faithfulness, power, holiness, mercy, and majesty. Allow your heart to settle in His presence. This simple practice creates space for peace, faith, and attentiveness before you open the Word.

4. Read the Bible Passage for the Day

Read the assigned Scripture slowly and attentively. You may find it helpful to:

• Read the passage more than once
• Read it in another Bible translation
• Read it aloud to better absorb what you’re reading

5. Reflect on What You Read

Reflection is where Scripture begins to move from information to transformation. Consider questions like:

• What stood out to me?
• What is happening in this passage?
• What seems surprising or unusual?
• Are there repeated words or phrases?
• Are there commands or promises?
• What does this show me about God? About humanity? About myself?

6. Journal Your Reflections

Writing helps you slow down, process, and remember what the Lord is showing you. Jot down observations, questions, prayers, or personal applications.

The Seek First Journal is a perfect companion for daily devotions and reflection, and you can order yours here.

7. Pray in Response to God’s Word

Prayer doesn’t have to be complicated or polished. Keep it honest and simple. Respond to what you read by praising God, confessing, asking for help, or praying Scripture back to Him.

You may also choose to journal your prayers as part of your devotional time.

8. Commit to Action

Ask yourself how you can apply what you read today. What step of obedience is God inviting you to take?

Ask the Holy Spirit to empower you to live out God’s Word in your daily life through your thoughts, actions, relationships, and decisions.

9. End with Gratitude

Close your time by thanking the Lord for His Word, His presence, and the many blessings He has given you. Gratitude anchors your heart in truth and joy as you step into your day.

A Final Encouragement

Daily devotions can take as little as 15 minutes, or longer if you’re able to slow down and linger. Remember, the goal is not doing it “perfectly,” but seeking the Lord genuinely.

If you miss a day, don’t quit! Just jump back in. Invite friends, family, or your spouse to support and encourage you, and ask them to help keep you accountable.

For more resources and articles to help you seek the Lord daily, visit:
👉 https://seekfirstresources.com/pages/resources

May your time with the Lord be rich, life-giving, and deeply transformative.