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What is Contemplative Prayer?

...Read; meditate; pray; contemplate I would never defend, nor advocate, any practice of emptying your mind, as this would be contrary to Scripture. What the bible repeatedly states is that we should be filling our minds with the things of God and scripture; focussing purely on God!   So let's take a look at the three basic tenets of this type of praying: silence, waiting, and meditating.   Silence Being silent before the Lord is not an unbiblical position. Nor is finding some quiet alone time with yourself and God. In fact, this is what Jesus instructed (and did: Luke 5:16)!   Matthew 6:6But whenever you pray, go into your room and s...

Spiritual Disciplines of the Early Church: Ancient Practices for the 21st Century

...d them to meditate continually on the Apostle’s word… Life of Anthony (356 – 362) …but his delight is in Yahweh’s law. On his law he meditates day and night. Psalms 1:2 (WEB) If you’re interested in trying to live out a more meditative life, but feel overwhelmed by the business of modern life to know where to start, I recommend reading this book by Abbot Christopher Jamison, Finding Sanctuary: Monastic steps for Everyday Life.   Constant Prayer Keeping within the monastic tradition for spiritual disciplines are Prayer Ropes. Prayer ropes, like Rosaries, are simply a tool to help keep you focused in prayer. The traditional ropes, often...

The Neuroscience Of Resisting Temptation

...Have you ever wondered why God asks us to resist temptation and practise self-control? At first glance, it might seem like God is just trying to limit our enjoyment of life, especially when the world tells us to “follow your heart” and “give in to what feels good.” But what if I told you that resisting temptation is not about taking away your joy, but about protecting and blessing your life — spiritually, emotionally, and even mentally? I was recently watching a TV series with my wife (called Perception, if you’re interested) about a neuroscience professor who consults for the FBI. The series often gives some interesting facts about the brain...

The Reality of Sin

...read and meditate on these verses and let them sink in as the Holy Spirit speaks to you and brings a deeper revelation of God to you through this reality and what he expects of us as his children: Romans 12:1I appeal to you therefore, brothers and sisters, by the mercies of God, to present your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and acceptable to God, which is your spiritual worship. 1 Peter 1:15-16Instead, as he who called you is holy, be holy yourselves in all your conduct; for it is written, “You shall be holy, for I am holy.”   Amen....