A Tranquil Life

Step #1: Lectio / Read

Click the link below or open your Bible to the passage and read through the reading at least once, paying attention to what is happening in the text. 

1 Thessalonians 4:9-11

---

Step #2: Meditatio / Meditate

Use the following meditation to help you reflect more deeply on the Scripture (you may want to read the passage again).

In a time when most of the world seems consumed with living life through social media, the first reading hits like a slap to the face! 

We’ll be fine without the likes. We’ll survive without the attention. Everything we need to focus on is in front and around us. 

Don’t get me wrong. It’s easier said than done....but it’s not impossible. Paul tells the Thessalonians that if we show love to our neighbors, and the feeling is reciprocated, then we’re fulfilling the will of God. 

Ignore the gossip. 
Sidestep the uncharitableness. 
Focus on being the best you and lifting others up too. 

---

Step #3: Oratio / Pray

These questions are to be used to talk to God; have a conversation with the Lord about these questions and what is going on in your heart as you pray today.

What are some of the distractions in your life that cause you to have anxiety or stress instead of peace and tranquility?

How often do you compare yourself to others, especially on social media? How much better would your life be if you stopped that or at the very least, cut it down significantly? 

How can you practice minding your own affairs more, instead of comparing yourself to others or falling into the sin of gossip?

---

Step #4: Contemplatio / Contemplate

In this step, you listen. Stop talking, let God speak to your heart. You may repeat one of these short phrases to focus your mind on the Lord.

"Here I am Lord."

"All I am is Yours, Lord."

"I give it all to You, God

---

Step #5: Actio / Act

In light of today's reading and your time spent in prayer with the Lord, what concrete action or actions will you take to let this encounter with the Lord bear fruit in you today?

Cut your social media time in half today, and anytime you catch yourself comparing yourself to others or gossiping about someone, pray for them instead.

---

Smartphone Lock Screen

The following image is here for you to save and use as a background or lock screen on your smartphone or device to help you carry today's Lectio Divina with you the rest of the day.

---

Today's prayer was prepared by Brandon Hudson, a news reporter in Philadelphia, PA.

If you have anything you'd like our team to pray for, please go to the page of our website called "Prayers" and let us know how we can pray for you today.