Contemplative Prayer

by ROBINSON, J. | Category: N/a | Feb 2007

This is a time deliberately and purposely given to God. It is simply to be in the presence of God; to delight in God; to hear His voice. Our prayer life is usually filled with requests, petitions, supplications, spiritual warfare, thanksgiving, praise, adoration, and worship. All of these are right and needful. Contemplative prayer requires time, and a place. Contemplative prayer also requires (i) a knowledge of the written Word (2 Tim.3:16-17) and (ii) a personal relationship with the Living Word (John 1:14). This is a way in which we can know God in a deeper way. It is not a quick process. We cannot rush in and rush out: �Be still, and know that I am God� (Ps.46:10).

We must be quiet within and without. We all live in a busy, noisy world. To find time for contemplative prayer requires discipline. There is no Scripture which helps us to decide how much time. It is an individual decision to be made before God. Mary sat at Jesus' feet and listened (Luke 10:39). Jesus sometimes prayed all night (Luke 6:12). God wants us to spend time with Him. How sad that often we are too busy to hear His voice! It is difficult to find time, but it is vital.

As God is omnipresent (everywhere), does it really matter where we have that secret special time with God? Jesus was very directive. "But you when you pray, go into your room, and when you have shut your door, pray to your Father who is in the secret place and your Father who sees in secret will reward you openly" (Mat.6:6).

In prayer, there has to also be openness and willingness to respond to God and to obey His Word. In regular contemplative prayer, our relationship with our God becomes deeper, more meaningful, and more real.

ROBINSON, J. | Feb 2007
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