Spiritual Practices: Lectio Divina
Lectio Divina, or Diving Reading, is a method of reading, reflecting on, and praying the Scripture that has been used by the church for centuries. It focuses on communing with God in Scripture rather than simply studying Scripture for intellectual understanding. Click here for more information on how to practice Lectio Divina. Here are some suggested verses in this passage that may lend themselves to conversation with God through the practice of Lectio Divina.
Suggested Verses
O Lord, God of Israel, there is no God like you, in heaven above or on earth beneath, keeping covenant and showing steadfast love to your servants who walk before you with all their heart; (1 Kings 8:23)
But will God indeed dwell on the earth? Behold, heaven and the highest heaven cannot contain you; how much less this house that I have built! (1 Kings 8:27)
Lectio Divina, or Diving Reading, is a method of reading, reflecting on, and praying the Scripture that has been used by the church for centuries. It focuses on communing with God in Scripture rather than simply studying Scripture for intellectual understanding. Click here for more information on how to practice Lectio Divina. Here are some suggested verses in this passage that may lend themselves to conversation with God through the practice of Lectio Divina.
Suggested Verses
O Lord, God of Israel, there is no God like you, in heaven above or on earth beneath, keeping covenant and showing steadfast love to your servants who walk before you with all their heart; (1 Kings 8:23)
But will God indeed dwell on the earth? Behold, heaven and the highest heaven cannot contain you; how much less this house that I have built! (1 Kings 8:27)
Spiritual Practices: Breath Prayer
Overview
After Solomon completes the construction of the temple, he calls the people of Israel together to dedicate it to God. They had a feast and celebrated the completion of the new temple. Solomon had the Ark of the Covenant and the other holy objects placed in the temple and offered sacrifices beyond counting. Finally, he offers this prayer of dedication. As you read through the prayer, notice the emphasis that Solomon places on God's hearing them. Praying makes no difference at all unless there is a living God who hears and answers prayer. This is the essence of Solomon's request; he asks that when the people pray, God will hear. That is also the essence of this breath prayer.
Prayer
Abba Father, hear us when we pray.
Overview
After Solomon completes the construction of the temple, he calls the people of Israel together to dedicate it to God. They had a feast and celebrated the completion of the new temple. Solomon had the Ark of the Covenant and the other holy objects placed in the temple and offered sacrifices beyond counting. Finally, he offers this prayer of dedication. As you read through the prayer, notice the emphasis that Solomon places on God's hearing them. Praying makes no difference at all unless there is a living God who hears and answers prayer. This is the essence of Solomon's request; he asks that when the people pray, God will hear. That is also the essence of this breath prayer.
Prayer
Abba Father, hear us when we pray.