Practical QTSample

 #13 Measured responses

The Bereans are a great example to us.  The Scriptures had become their reference tool.  The word “canon” (from which we get the word “canonical”) means “reed” or “measuring staff.”

The Bereans had learned to measure Paul's teaching with Scripture and not human opinion or philosophy.  They had a daily pattern of interaction with Scripture which provided a solid base from which they could interpret all the inputs that came their way.

Scripture remains the most reliable foundation for our Quiet Times.  Without Scripture, our QTs can become

• narcissistic (too much journalling and reflecting on ourselves)


• too mystic (too focussed on our experiences)


• unbalanced (relying too heavily on popular authors)

We need a regular diet of Scripture, reflected on and applied to our lives.

Here are two more tools for reading Scripture.  As with the “Kairos” method (in Tip #10), these are based on reading a chapter or two as part of a systematic plan and then using these questions to reflect (it is best to do it in writing).

Dramatic (good for the Gospels — Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John):

1. Imagine the scene.  The smells, sounds, etc.


2. Imagine the people.  How do they look?


3. What's the mood?


4. What are the hidden agendas?


5. What effect does what Jesus says/does have on them?


6. Who do YOU identify with?

Devotional method:

1. Is there any sin to forsake?


2. Is there a command to obey?


3. Is there an example to follow?


4. Is there a new truth to grasp?


5. Is there an error to avoid?


6. Is there any promise to claim?


7. Is there any prayer to pray?


8. Is there any passage to commit to memory?

Remember that the method should never overcome meaning.  These methods are meant to be aids to concentration and helps to unlock meaning.  Rotate, amend and be innovative with the methods —  don't ever become a slave to the methods — their purpose is to assist without getting in the way.