Daniel's Prayer

Daniel 9:3-19

Self-control - Nov. 26, 2007

• 1 Corinthians 6:12- All things are lawful for you, but not all things are profitable.
• 1Corinthians 6:19,20- Your body is the temple of the Holy Spirit, and so you should glorify God with it.
• 1 Thessalonians 4:3,4,5- You should learn to control your body in a holy and honourable way, not in passionate lust like the heathens.
• 2 Peter 2:19- You are a slave to whatever has mastered you.
• James 4:17- If you know you should do something, but fail to do it, it’s sin.

Lectio Divina: Contemplative Bible Reading

From STINT 2007 at Copper Village, Colorado

Contemplative Bible reading is one of the oldest methods of Bible study. Its traditional name is lectio divina, a Latin phrase (pronounced lex-ee-oh di-vee-muh) that can be translated "divine reading," "spiritual reading," or "sacred reading." Contemplative Bible reading is both a simple and a profound way to approach Scripture. It consists of a four-part movement beginning with the text and ending in prayer. This style of Bible reading can be used by both individuals and groups. The four steps that make up contemplative Bible reading are:

Reading/Listening: Read aloud a short passage of Scripture. As you read, listen for the word or phrase that speaks to you. What is the Spirit drawing your attention to?

Meditating: Repeat aloud the word or phrase to which you are drawn. Make connections between it and your life. What is God saying to you by means of this word or phrase?

Praying: Now take these thoughts and offer them back to God in prayers, giving thanks, asking for guidance, asking for forgiveness, and resting in God's love. What is God leading you to pray?

Contemplating: Move from the activity of prayer to the stillness of contemplation. Simply rest in God's presence. Stay open to God. Listen to God. Remain in peace and silence before God. How is God revealing Himself to you?