In Biblical times, the heart was considered the very essence of who a person was. From the books of Psalms and Proverbs, we see that as Christians we should possess hearts that are to be pure, clean, broken, contrite, upright, guarded, blameless, steadfast, secure, free, humble, peaceful, cheerful and full of wisdom. Yeah right, you say, but I live in the twenty first century with a cell phone clipped to my ear, heavy traffic, media invasions of every kind and a maze of chaotic people that I can’t seem to escape from. Still, for each of us as Christians we are given both the command and responsibility for managing the state of our hearts.
Practically speaking a quiet heart can never be properly cultivated without a plan. Just as a plant will never grow without good soil, water, air, light, and food, so it is with our hearts. Cultivating a quiet heart requires planning for the right conditions that will help it function more clearly and efficiently. In the Bible we see many Christian leaders setting aside specific times during the day for prayer, thanksgiving and study of God’s Word. These characters sought out quiet places that were free of distractions to listen as God spoke to their hearts. Many of us find these types of “Quiet Times”, to be most beneficial in the mornings as a positive way to set the course for the day. But if you’re a night person perhaps evening hours would be better suited to your situation. Regardless of the time of day I can’t recommend strongly enough to make quiet times part of your regular daily routine.
In the beginning I found it hard to focus so prayer lists, a daily Bible reading plan, and a notepad were helpful to keep me from becoming distracted. Ten or fifteen minutes may be all you can handle in the beginning but the important thing is to make the effort and begin the process of cultivation. At various times in my Christian walk I have found Christian Conferences or Retreats helped jump start the routine and ignited my passion for wanting to experience God in a deeper way.
Regardless of how you get the cultivation process started it is important that you begin yearning to hear from God. In 2 Timothy 3:16 we see that “All scripture is God Breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting, and training in righteousness.” As we let God breath His words upon us we begin to see insights and solutions to our problems. We are challenged to grow stronger and deeper with Him. But even more important God’s Word helps us deal with our attitude, good and bad. Hebrews 4:12 reminds us that His Word is …”sharper than any two edged sword penetrating even the dividing of soul and spirit, joints and marrow. It judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart.”
I know many of you are thinking that finding a quiet place is impossible. One mother I know locks herself in the bathroom for ten minutes every afternoon and turns on the water to help block out the noise of her school age kids. Others find the library a nice hide away where children can be occupied with books or other exploration activities. If your work place is hectic try having lunch with God in your car or take a nature walk. Many of us plant enthusiasts find tending a garden or caring for landscape plants a good excuse for communing with Him. Joggers or bikers often report these solo trips as opportunities of daily prayer. I’ve found the most important thing to remember about hearing from God is for me to remember to stop talking and focus on hearing Him. What friend would share something good with me if I never stopped talking?
One new thing I have been doing throughout the day is trying to mediate on the lyrics of a hymn. I also like quotes and sometimes reflect on these from time to time. One friend taught me the Hand Prayer method. Each finger is used as part of the prayer process (Confession, Petition, Intercession, Thanksgiving and the thumb representing Praise.) I also like keeping a listing of short scriptures on my car dashboard and in between the red lights trying memorize one verse or use it as a reflection moment.
Regardless of the methods or tools you might choose the important thing is taking time to spend time with God each day. Recognize that even Jesus thought it was important to spend time praying to the Father, (see Matt. 26, Mark 1:35, and Luke 5:16). Whether you’re using various Bible translations and commentaries or fishing on a quiet lake our Lord is always with you and wants to speak to your heart. It may be under the soothing waters of a warm steamy bath, taking a drive, listening to music or watching a bird feeder, but He speaks when we are prepared to listen. As you practice these tips, I’m sure you will find that old roadblocks can quickly be replaced with new inspirations for your future. Take the challenge to grow forward and become a more happy and peaceful Christian.
When I’ve often asked my fifteen year old son what he and his friends did that day Brad would often respond with, “we just hung out Dad.” At first it use to upset me until I realized one day that what we do with our time is often inconsequential, but what’s most important is that we are spending time getting to know each other. It’s that way with God too. I hope you will find these ideas helpful in developing a richer time with Him.
