This document provides guidance on developing a regular practice of private devotions. It suggests that great men of the Bible, including Isaac, David, Daniel, and Jesus himself engaged in private prayer and meditation. Private devotions are important to draw near to God, receive spiritual nourishment from His word, and find peace and stability. The document recommends setting aside a consistent time and place for devotions, and engaging in prayer, meditation on scripture, and praise during that time. It closes by emphasizing the importance of having a personal relationship with God through faith in Jesus Christ.

1. Private Devotions

2. Many Examples of Private Devotions Great men of God are noted for such devotions… Isaac… Gen. 24:63 David… Psalm 55:17; 63:6 Daniel… Dan. 6:10 Jesus Himself… Sought to do so early and late Mk 1:35; Lk 6:12 Taught disciples to pray in secret Mt 6:6

3. Why Have Private Devotions? To draw near to God!!! James 4:8 God is drawn to those who seek Him… David to Solomon… 1 Chron 28:9 Azariah to King Asa… 2 Chron 15:2 To receive spiritual nourishment… Mt. 4:4 Spiritual growth comes from the word of God… 1 Pet. 1:23; 22 God’s word provides spiritual strength… Eph. 6:10-17; Ps. 119:7-11

4. Why Have Private Devotions? To find peace and stability… Prayer supplies the antidote for anxiety… Phil. 4:6-7 God is our rock and we’re to go to Him for help… Hebrews 4:16 God’s word keeps us from falling… Ps. 119:105; 165

5. How To Have Personal Devotions Find a time and place… Time will vary for individuals – early bird or night owls Place also will vary for different people… May prefer outdoors like Jesus… Mark 1:35 Or inside as Jesus said in Mt. 6:6 It’s best to develop a habit, time and place being the same each day.

6. How To Have Personal Devotions Engage in prayer, meditation on God’s word, and praise! Approach God in prayer… With thanksgiving… Col. 4:2 Confess your sins… 1 Jn. 1:9 Make supplication for your needs… Phil. 4:6 Intercede on behalf of others… 1 Tim. 2:1-2

7. How To Have Personal Devotions Meditation: contemplate on things like The Lord himself… Ps. 63:6 His wonderful works… Ps. 77:12 His revealed word… Ps. 119:15, 23, 48, 97-99, 148 Things that are wholesome, praiseworthy… Phil. 4:8 Praise God in Song: A natural response to joy in the heart… James 5:13 Making melody in your heart… Eph. 5:19

8. Your Personal Relationship with God: Got Jesus? Gal. 2:20 The most important personal decision you’ll ever make is to become a Christian! Acts 16:30 Jesus blood can glue you back together from what sin has tore apart. Isa. 59:1-2; Eph. 1:7 How? Hear the gospel Rom. 10:17 believe it Heb. 11:6 repent of sin Acts 2:38 confess Jesus Rom. 10:10 Be baptized 1 Pet. 3:21; Acts 22:16