What comes to your mind when I mention Bible Study or Quiet Time?
While recently visiting with some young moms, the question of a “proper” quiet time arose. The idea that there is a certain or right way of having a quiet time surfaced. One young mother shared that her current Bible reading is via a Bible app on her phone while she nurses her newborn. It is more manageable for her to hold her phone and the baby than it is for her to hold her Bible and the baby. She asked if that was valid or if studying directly from her Bible was better.
Another mother, with a demanding schedule, shared that she listens to her Bible and devotions during her morning workout before waking her children & getting ready for work. Is that OK? A friend of mine schedules her quiet time right before she goes to bed. She’s not a morning person, so she puts the Word of God in before her light goes out & it’s fresh on her mind when she awakes. I currently spread my Bible and other reading across my lap or table and dig into it most often in the mornings, but sometimes in the afternoon. My child rearing years have passed, and I have more time and flexibility in my schedule now.
Consistency is the Key
None of us study in the same manner. I think that’s OK. Much has been written on the importance and the methods a believer can employ to spend her quiet time. There are many great options available. But I question if there is a single “proper” way. I’ve discovered that consistency in the Word accompanied by prayer has been the marker of growth in my walk with the Lord. Over the years the methods and length of time have varied. But what has been consistent is the habit of reading and meditating on God’s Word. God has been so faithful with what I’ve given Him in the various seasons I’ve experienced.
Supplemental Reading
My current quiet time has been spent in the book of Mark. In addition to that, the following books have richly blessed me over the last several months. Perhaps they’ll interest you.
My current devotionals are Truth For Life Vol II by Alistair Begg and Streams in the Desert by L.B. Cowman. Everyday Faithfulness by Glenna Marshall offers encouragement toward daily faithfulness in the Christian walk. Milton Vincent’s A Gospel Primer is a tremendous reminder for Christians to preach the gospel to themselves daily. We have a tendency to forget that. And finally, Gentle and Lowly by Dane Ortlund unfolds The Heart of Christ for Sinners and Sufferers. I can’t recommend this book enough!
Whether our quiet time is delivered on a screen or tied to a devotional or occurs at noon isn’t the central point. The Psalmist reminds us: Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path. (Psalm 119:105 ESV) Let us consistently bathe our paths with the light of God’s word!
Life Application
What does your quiet time look like? Have you found a time, place or method you’d like to share that could inspire others? Do you have a favorite supplemental book that has been instrumental to your walk? Please share with us. We’d love to discover how you delight in God’s word.
