From Samantha: A Prayer Journal for Your "Quiet Time"

It is much easier than you think!

I have been a part of many conversations with young women telling me that they desire to take on a daily quiet time but do not quite know how to start it or how to even do it.

Don't you think it's awesome that a lot of people have that desire to genuinely connect with God? I think half the battle has already been fought. It is a great attitude to start with.

I thought of giving simple steps on how to get started on this daily quiet time with the Lord.

1) Buy a Bible, a clean notebook that is large enough for you to comfortable write in and a pen. Your Bible does not have to be fancy. If you must do quiet time now and have no access to a Bible, go to Biblegateway.com and see the verse for the day.

2) Read for a couple of minutes. Open to where your heart leads you. I personally suggest that you start with the book of Proverbs.

3) Write down a key verse or main idea from the reading.

4) Write out your prayer requests in response to what you have read.

5) Spend time in prayer. Communicate to God the requests you wrote. Just talk to Him the way you would to a close friend. Keep in mind that God is so delighted when you spill your beans to Him. It's that simple.

6) Wait for a personal word from the Lord. This step takes time to develop so do not get frustrated if it takes you a while to "hear" from Him.

Wait before the Lord in silence and allow Him to speak to your heart. Don't be surprised if you think you don't hear anything at first. Most people (myself included) report that it takes time to learn how to be quiet before the Lord and listen for His voice.

With time, you will develop your spiritual hearing and you will feel impressions in your heart as to what He is trying to tell You.

Disclaimer: This is not the ONLY way to spend time with the Lord. The options are endless. This is just meant for people who want to connect directly with God by getting a daily quiet time session. If you have any more tips that worked for you well, please share it with us in the comment page.

Thank you: Stephen Arterburn and Dr. Linda Mintle.