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While Catholics hear the readings at Mass, we don’t always know how to approach the Word of God in our personal prayer. But we need to.
St. Ambrose, one of the Doctors of the Church, said: “We have been given Sacred Scripture so that God and man may talk together; for we speak to Him when we pray; we hear Him when we read the divine saying.”
Scripture isn’t a collection of stories and wise sayings–it’s the Word of God Himself. He speaks to us through it, and He has a lot to say, if only we will listen.
What the Saints said about Praying with Scriptures
Ignorance of the Scriptures is ignorance of Christ.
“He will find there in much greater abundance things that are to be found nowhere else, but can be learnt only in the wonderful sublimity and wonderful simplicity of the Scriptures”
“Learn the heart of God from the word of God”
“The person who thirsts for God eagerly studies and meditates on the inspired Word, knowing that there he is certain to find the One for whom he thirsts”
How to Pray with Scriptures
There are many ways to incorporate the Scriptures into your prayer.
You can pray a Scriptural Rosary, meditating on the words of Scripture for each mystery. You can pray with the Psalms with the Liturgy of the Hours. Or you can meditate on a passage from the Bible using Lectio Divina.
Lectio Divina (Latin for “Divine Reading”) is an ancient practice most commonly found in Western Monastic communities, but don’t let that intimidate you. It’s accessible for everyone, just follow these simple steps:
- Lectio
Begin with prayer, particularly to the Holy Spirit inviting Him to be your guide, and then read a passage of Scripture slowly and deliberately; you may even want to read it twice. If you aren’t sure where to start, pick a story from the Gospels. - Meditatio
As you read, pay attention to the word or phrase that stands out to you. Consider the meaning of this passage. - Oratio
Next, turn a listening ear to God. Ask the Lord what He wants you to learn from the passage. - Contemplatio:
Finally, take some time for silent contemplation; simply dwell in the presence of God. Allow what had been stirred up during this time of prayer to take root in your soul.
The Scriptures facilitate an encounter with Christ–the Word Made Flesh. He reveals Himself through the words of the Bible so praying with Scriptures is essential to the Christian life.
Catholic Author, Speaker, and Spiritual Director Karen May delved deeper into how you can pray with the Scriptures and how you can hear the voice of God for the Pray More Novenas Lenten Retreat. You can listen to the full talk below:
