Communing With the Lord

Thy Kingdom Come ^ | 9/16/09 | Dave Smith

[DaveMSmith]

At this point, it may be useful to some if I document my prayer and meditation routine. It also helps me set down the path I took to reach the stage that I'm at so I may return to the routine if I become lost or go astray.

Besides my study of Swedenborg's Heavenly Secrets (I'm now up to Genesis 41), my morning prayer routine consists of centering prayer where I set my intention on God. If I find my mind preoccupied with replaying the tapes and memories of the past, I close my eyes and begin contemplative prayer. It's at these times I find some inner healing is needed and examining my own thoughts at this stage helps a lot.

I found it easiest to keep a journal of the train of thought in the beginning to return to in the future. The key is to slow down and examine what is bubbling up from the unconscious. It's very telling! The truth about self is revealed and any lies that may be harbored are exposed. I consider this a rewiring exercise that leads to living in the moment. When we are at that point, that is when we can hear God's voice within.

Open Mind and Open Heart by Thomas Keating is a wonderful little book to get in the habit of centering prayer. Highly recommended.

After things are quiet or if things are quiet when I wake up, I start with the Lord's prayer followed by reading and meditating on the Word. I started with Psalms or the New Testament but now have been led to other books (specifically Job and Chronicles). During the meditation that follows I really listen for God's voice... looking at all the angles possible to see His truth... drawing meaning, substance and purpose from His Word.

Again, it may be good for some to jot down these revelations and share them freely as they will sure to light someone else's path. For myself, it sets the path for the day. A spring that can be returned to again and again -- it's always flowing with eternal divine truth!

[DaveMSmith]

My daily prayer routine. I'd love to hear what others have found as useful ways to hear God's voice within. Inspiring readings from their individual faith traditions.

Come and share!