Spiritual Disciplines ~ Contemplation?

Today, in our time of hearing and responding to God’s Word, we will discuss the spiritual discipline of contemplation and its significance within the Spiritual Disciplines for deepening our faith and relationship with Christ.  We will talk more about the daily examen to prepare hearts for encountering God urging us to seek and meditate on God’s presence in daily life.  We will explore the biblical foundations of meditation, differentiating Christian contemplation from other practices and highlighting its rich history among believers throughout history.  Finally, we will emphasize the importance of slowing down, focusing on Jesus, and internalizing His teachings, guiding us as listeners toward a life of peace, communion, and intimacy with God.

Recording

((Audio Only))

Study Guide

Take the sermon further with friends and family with these discussion questions.

1 – How can the practice of daily examen help in deepening our relationship with God?
– Application: What specific moments in your day can you reflect on where you encountered God or recognized His presence?

2 – Why is it important to meditate on God’s Word and what are the benefits of doing so?
– Application: Can you identify a Scripture passage or verse that you can begin to meditate on this week and commit to memory?

3 – What sets Christian meditation and contemplation apart from meditation practices in Eastern religions and New Age philosophy?
– Application: How can you ensure that your meditation and contemplation practices are centered on Jesus and grounded in Scripture?

4 – How can making space for contemplation in our lives help us experience a deeper sense of peace and communion with God?
– Application: What specific steps can you take to create quiet moments in your day for contemplation and connecting with God?

5 – Based on Psalm 1:1-2, what qualities does a blessed person possess and how can we apply this to our lives?
– Application:  What changes can you make in your daily routine in order to consistently meditate on Scripture and walk in the counsel of fellow believers?

Scripture References

Psalm 42:1-2
Jeremiah 29:13
Psalm 139
Genesis 24:63
Psalm 63:5-7
Psalm 119:148
Psalm 1:1-2
Matthew 6:6
Hebrews 12:1-2
Revelation 3:20
Philippians 4:8
Luke 11:24-26
John 10:27-28
Philippians 4:9