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The practice of dedicating a specific time each day for prayer, studying the Bible, and nurturing spiritual growth and alignment, known as Quiet Time, has been adhered to by Born Again Christians for many years. In this article, we will delve into the significance of this practice in today’s fast-paced world heavily influenced by technology. Additionally, we will outline the advantages of incorporating Quiet Time into one’s daily routine and provide suggestions on how to optimize these efforts.
Is quiet time still relevant in today world?
Yes, in today’s fast-paced and technology-driven world, quiet time holds immense relevance for every Christian. It is particularly crucial given the increasing prevalence of emotional disorders, fears, negativity, and direct or indirect subtle attacks on the Christian faith, both offline and on social media.
The advent of social media has made information sharing and constant electronic connectivity easily accessible throughout the day. In a busy tech-driven world, where constant connectivity is the norm, carving out this sacred time becomes even more essential, it offers an invaluable opportunity for Christians to detach themselves from the perpetual noise and distractions that come with modern life.
By adopting daily moments of waiting upon God, individuals can foster a sense of inner peace, clarity, and tranquillity amidst the chaos and busyness of the world. It is during these serene moments that one can deepen their relationship with God, gain profound spiritual insights, and find solace and strength in times of adversity.
Prioritising quiet time allows Christians to nurture their faith, replenish their souls, and maintain a balanced and grounded perspective in their day-to-day lives.
5 biblical reasons we need a quiet time!
- God wants to fellowship with us, Exodus 34:27-29
- We need God’s power and instructions to cope with daily activities – Proverbs 3:5-6; Isaiah 40:31.
- We Learn, daily, how to walk with God, by following Christ’s lifestyle and by the leading of the Holy Spirit. Mt.14:23, MK.6:46;
- We strengthen our spirit over the flesh and over the power of darkness. Eph. 3:16-20
- To evaluate and direct our physical and spiritual growth. 2cor.3:18
9 requirements for a quiet time
- Hunger – faith to seek the Lord for a deeper relationship; the hungrier you get, the deeper your experience would be.
- The Holy Bible; a Translation you can easily understand.
- Biro, Notebook, a Journal or any means of documenting insights from scriptures, revelations and other spiritual encounters.
- Hymn/song book or music for the newer generations.
- A Devotional or Bible Study Aid – examples of some devotional are Everyday with Jesus, open heavens, Daily power, Daily manna
- List of prayer points if need be. (The holy spirit can supply streams of prayer points as you wait on the lord)
- A lot of Time/ Patience to wait upon the lord; Plan to hold a quiet time, at least, once in a day; preferably in the mornings- Ps 5:3; Gen. 19:27.
- A quiet place; no distractions.
- Start with 15mins daily; gradually increase the time for higher experience.
8 Practical ways to keep a consistent Quiet time
Schedule your Daily Activities
Adhering to a daily schedule can minimize the time wasted on unproductive tasks. It enables you to anticipate and prepare for upcoming activities or information, ensuring that every available moment is wisely utilized for holistic development encompassing spiritual, mental, and physical well-being.
Cut Down on some Tv and social media time
Using television programs and social media can easily become addictive, and if we engage with them without a clear focus, plan, and purpose, it would be a waste of our limited time resources.
It is important to avoid aimlessly watching TV and using social media. Instead, prioritize them based on your needs. For example, eliminate negative media from your daily routine and only schedule programs or content that align with your goals.
Sleep and Rise early.
Making a habit of going to bed early every day is a beneficial practice. This ensures that you obtain sufficient sleep and wake up early enough to have ample time for solitude and reflection.
Some individuals may choose to reserve their quiet time for the evening before bed, while I personally prefer having my quiet time in the early morning to avoid any sleep difficulties.
Take out some of your Lunch time
Some people also prefer their lunch period for their quiet time but this option has a limited time frame, about 15 minutes, that can be allocated to the quiet time.
Useful Partnership for accountability.
Collaborating with a family member or close friend can prove highly advantageous when it comes to maintaining accountability. It involves mutual monitoring, where you keep an eye on your accountability partner’s activities and they do the same for you. Your accountability partner should be aware of the specific time you have allocated for using social media, watching TV, and having quiet time. They are authorized by you to step in and intervene if you begin to exceed the allocated time for any particular activity.
Set a goal
You can set achievable daily goals, such as reflecting on the previous day’s activities and planning for the next day, reading at least one chapter of the Bible each day, aiming to complete the Bible in a year by reading 8 to 9 chapters daily, or opting for a two-year plan by reading 4 to 5 chapters daily.
When the daily goals are attainable, it will provide motivation to maintain the routine until it becomes a habit. Recent research suggests that it takes approximately two months to one year to form a habit.
Reward or Incentives
Implementing a form of reward system, such as granting yourself a day off from your regimented routine, allows for a leisurely day with no specific goals to accomplish. This day can be spent indulging in any activity of your choosing. It is crucial to emphasize that a reward system plays a pivotal role in maintaining high levels of motivation.
Prep your mind (take advantage of technology )
You could feed the mind with useful spiritual substance, while in transit or while a waiting opportunity arises as you carry out your daily activities, by listening to sermons, audio bibles, audio books or spiritual songs leveraging the power of the internet, social media and mobile apps and devices. With an already prepared mind, when the time of quiet reaches, you can seamlessly switch to the appropriate mood.
In summary, Quiet time is important for Christians in a changing, technology-focused world.
- It allows for stillness and connection with God.
- Sacred moments of solitude help with spiritual rejuvenation, seeking guidance, and deepening the relationship with God.
- Despite technology, our spirit and soul need nourishment beyond the digital realm.
- To maintain a consistent quiet time practice:
- Find a dedicated space.
- Use devotionals or scriptures.
- Embrace prayer or meditation.
- Prioritize quiet time and experience its transformative power.
- Share thoughts and reflections in the comments below and with friends. God bless.
Related Posts
- Prayer is the Master Key to a victorious Christian Life
- How to Pray in the Spirit
- Quiet Time Alone with God