Day 7: Lectio Divina on Exodus 34:6–7

Lectio Divina is a an invitation to engage deeply with Scripture through four stages: Reading, Meditation, Prayer, and Contemplation. During this time, we can open our hearts to really hear God’s word; we take time to read it slowly and allow it to transform us.

Today, let’s reflect on Exodus 34:6–7 since we have learned so much this last week about God’s character and how he is both love and justice. Let's take time to listen to his Word and allow it to speak to our hearts.

“And he passed in front of Moses, proclaiming, ‘The Lord, the Lord, the compassionate and gracious God, slow to anger, abounding in love and faithfulness, maintaining love to thousands, and forgiving wickedness, rebellion and sin. Yet he does not leave the guilty unpunished; he punishes the children and their children for the sin of the parents to the third and fourth generation.’” Exodus 34:6–7

1. Reading (Lectio)

Take a moment to read through the passage slowly, allowing each phrase to settle in your heart. Read it again, paying attention to any words or phrases that stand out to you.

• What words or descriptions of God catch your attention today?
• Is there a particular aspect of God's character that speaks to you at your current life stage or in your current struggles?

2. Meditation (Meditatio)

Reflect on the passage and think about how God’s character is described in these verses. What do these attributes mean for us today?

• Compassionate: God’s compassion is not just an emotion but an active response to our suffering. It is like the love of a mother who rushes to comfort her child. How does God's compassion invite you to rest in his love today?
• Slow to Anger: God is patient with us, not quick to punish. He doesn’t lash out in anger, but allows space for repentance. What does this tell you about how God is patient with your own weaknesses and mistakes?
• Abounding in Love & Faithfulness: God’s love is not limited or conditional; it is a covenantal love that never fails. How might you be experiencing God’s faithful love right now, even in difficult circumstances?
• Forgiving: God is ready to forgive, even the most rebellious and sinful actions. In what areas of your life do you need God’s forgiveness and how does his mercy offer freedom?
• Justice: God is also just and he does not leave the guilty unpunished. What does God's justice mean for you as you reflect on the world around you?

3. Prayer (Oratio)

Take the time to respond to God in prayer. Speak to him about the words you’ve read and how it has impacted your heart:

• Praise God for his compassion and mercy. Thank him for being patient with you and for his abounding love that never fails.
• Confess areas in your life where you have failed to reflect God's compassion, patience, or justice. Ask for his forgiveness and strength to live out these qualities with others.
• Pray for others. Ask God to reveal his mercy and justice to those in your life who are struggling to accept circumstances beyond their control.

4. Contemplation (Contemplatio)

In this final step, sit quietly and rest in God's presence. Let the passage and your prayer time settle in your spirit. Allow the Holy Spirit to bring peace, comfort, or conviction as you reflect on how this passage speaks to your life today.

• What do you sense God saying to you through this passage?
• How can you apply the truths about God’s love and justice in your life today?

Closing Prayer:

Lord God, you have revealed so much to me about your character through this passage! I want to praise you for your wonderful character. I pray that you would shape me to become more like you in every area of my life. May I also grow towards you in all things! Thank you, Lord! Amen