What is Lectio Divina and How to Practice It

If Lectio Divina sounds more like a term used in a Harry Potter book than a method for reading the Bible and praying, let us introduce you to a simple and powerful way to not only reflect on scripture, but to listen to the leading of the Holy Spirit when you do.

What is Lectio Divina exactly?

Lectio Divina is a contemplative method of praying with the Bible that involves reading a short passage slowly and reflectively, and then meditating on, praying with, and contemplating the passage. The Latin phrase lectio divina translates to “divine reading.” This is an ancient practice that dates back to the early centuries of the Christian Church. It was established as a monastic practice by Benedict in the 6th century. 

 

Here are the steps of Lectio Divina when exploring a passage of scripture:

1. Lectio: Read the passage of scripture slowly and meditatively, and pause on a word or phrase that resonates with you.

2. Meditatio: Reflect on the word or phrase that stood out to you.

3. Oratio: Pray with the passage, asking what God is saying to you, what you want to say to God, and what feelings the passage evokes in you.

4. Contemplatio: Contemplate what gift God has given you from the prayer, and what action the Holy Spirit might be inviting you to take.

 

Here’s one example of Lectio Divina  in a journal reflection of Psalm 23:

Lectio:

1 The Lord is my shepherd, I lack nothing.

2 He makes me lie down in green pastures,
he leads me beside quiet waters,

3 he refreshes my soul.
He guides me along the right paths
    for his name’s sake.

4 Even though I walk
    through the darkest valley,
I will fear no evil,
    for you are with me;
your rod and your staff,
    they comfort me.

5 You prepare a table before me
    in the presence of my enemies.
You anoint my head with oil;
    my cup overflows.

6 Surely your goodness and love will follow me
    all the days of my life,
and I will dwell in the house of the Lord
    forever.

-Psalm 23 NIV

Meditatio:

he refreshes my soul. (vs 3)

Oratio:

Lord, 

You are the One who refreshes me, and my soul longs for Your refreshing. So often I look to things and other people to refresh me. Forgive me for trying to find in others what only You can give me. Help me turn to You to refresh my soul. Every day, my soul needs the refreshing You bring. 

I need You. May Your love and goodness nourish and sustain me. Refresh me when I am tired and weary. Renew strength within me. 

In Jesus’ Name, 

Amen

Contemplatio:

Thank you for speaking to me through Your Word, Lord! Thank you, for refreshing my soul!

I sense that you are inviting me to find renewal in You daily. Help me to prioritize time in Your Word and in prayer every day, and not just when I feel I have the time.

____

That’s it! Why not give this practice a try sometime this week? When you meditate on God’s Word and prayerfully listen to His leading, the Lord will speak to you and minister to you in deeply personal and meaningful ways.