Explore the practice of contemplative prayer and its importance in spiritual formation. Learn about the obstacles to this form of prayer and how to overcome them. Discover the pathway to union with God through prayer and the transformative power of gazing upon His glory. Hear a personal story highlighting the significance of having a correct view of God and the power of contemplative prayer. Find encouragement to keep coming back to God's love and allow transformation into a person of love.
Contemplative prayer is a practice of gazing at God's beauty and presence, rewiring our brains to be more compassionate and loving.
By centering ourselves, eliminating hurry, and redirecting distractions, contemplative prayer allows us to experience healing and transformation.
Deep dives
The Power of Contemplative Prayer
Contemplative prayer is a practice that goes beyond speaking or listening to God. It involves gazing at God's beauty and presence, receiving His love and returning it in worship. It is a slow, meditative process that requires stillness and patience. Through contemplative prayer, our brain is rewired to be more compassionate and loving. Distraction, hurry, and inner turmoil are common challenges in this type of prayer, but they can be overcome with dedicated practice and a contemplative lifestyle. Ultimately, contemplative prayer allows us to experience the transforming love of God in our lives.
Looking, Yielding, and Resting - Three Dimensions of Contemplative Prayer
Contemplative prayer involves three dimensions: looking at God's love, yielding to His will, and resting in His presence. By attending to our breathing and using a prayer word, we can center ourselves and focus on God. Distraction is a normal part of the practice, but it is important to redirect our attention back to God. Slowing down and eliminating hurry from our lives is crucial in cultivating a contemplative lifestyle. Inner turmoil may arise during prayer, but it is an opportunity for God's love to bring healing and transformation.
Becoming Like What We Contemplate
As we gaze at God and contemplate His love, we are transformed into people who reflect His character. Our brain is rewired to be more compassionate, peaceful, and joyful. What we contemplate shapes our thoughts, attitudes, and behaviors. It is important to be intentional about what we focus on, particularly the beauty and love of Jesus. The practice of contemplative prayer allows us to slow down, rest in God's love, and become more like Him in every aspect of our lives.
The Gift of Daily Prayer
Daily prayer is a commitment to show up and make space for God's transformative love in our lives. It is not a technique or a quick fix, but a lifelong practice. Through daily prayer, we experience God's presence, mercy, and grace. It is a reminder that despite our failures and shortcomings, His love is always available to us. When we make daily prayer a priority, we open ourselves to be transformed and live a life of love and compassion.
How do we pray when we run out of words? John Mark talks about the practice of contemplative prayer and it's importance in our spiritual formation. He concludes with three primary obstacles to this form of prayer, offering ideas on how to move past these and embrace the depth of this path to life with God.
Key Scripture Passages: 2 Corinthians 3v7-18
This podcast and its episodes are paid for by The Circle, our community of monthly givers. Special thanks for this episode goes to: Shirley from Carnegie, Pennsylvania; Trish from Houston, Texas; Keith from Flowood, Mississippi; Chris from St. Louis Park, Minnesota; and Trevor from Damascus, Oregon. Thank you all so much!
If you’d like to pay it forward and contribute toward future resources, you can learn more at practicingtheway.org/give.
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