Lectio Divina - Beginner's Guide

Step 1 - Oratio: Pray and focus your attention on God's presence.  Invite the Holy Spirit to lead you to the Father through Jesus and to guide your prayer. Breathe deeply and be still before him. 

Step 2 - Lectio: Read the passage twice.  Listen for any word or phrase that provokes a response or stands out to you.

Step 3 - Meditatio: In silence, meditate on the word(s) or phrase that stood out to you.  Do not analyse.  Simply repeat it in your mind or under your breath and let it sink into your heart.

Step 4 - Lectio: Read the passage again.  Pay attention and be open to the thoughts and responses that you experience; trust the Spirit's capacity to speak to you.

Step 5 - Meditatio: Hold before God the words from your meditation along with the responses that are emerging within you.  What do you believe God is saying to you, or drawing your attention to? How do you feel, and what do you think about it?  Are there particular promises, desires or invitations he is extending to you?

Step 6 - Lectio: Read the passage again.  Consider how you will respond to God's word to you.

Step 7 - Oratio: Respond to God in prayer as honestly and freely as you can.