The following is a simple way to pray using lectio divina:

Before beginning – Take the text with reverence and pray to the Holy Spirit to guide your prayer. “The Spirit, too, helps us in our weakness . . .” (Rom. 8:26)

During the time of prayer: First, read (“Lectio”) a passage from the Sacred Scriptures for ten minutes or more. Read aloud so that you hear with your ears, listening to what the Lord, who is present in his Word, may be saying to us. Reread the text slowly, pausing whenever something strikes you – no matter how it strikes you.

Second, think (“Meditatio”) about what you have read. Is there something in particular that grabs your attention? Is there something that unsettles or disturbs you? Is there something that is not clear? Consider these texts in the light of your own experience and lived reality. [If it is helpful, use your imagination to place yourself in the scene presented in the reading, especially from the Sacred Scripture. See what is happening. Who are the people there? What are they saying, doing? What are the odors, the sounds? Use all your senses. Let your imagination lead you as you relate to the people and the scene. What are you feeling, saying? What are the emotions you experience: for example, attraction, courage, rejection, love, fear, praise, gratitude, shame?]

Third, talk (“Oratio”) to God about what you have read, thought, questioned, experienced. Share your thoughts and feelings openly and frankly, whatever they may be. Be as honest as possible in opening up your heart to God. Think about what you hear and allow yourself to respond to him.

Fourth, sit in silence (“Contemplatio”). Rest peacefully in silence and in the presence of God without the need to think or feel anything. Feel free just to be there with him, being one with him.

If you wish, go back to the beginning and begin the process again: read, think, talk to God, sit in silence. However, do not feel that it is necessary to “finish” the scripture passage. After you finish the prayer time – Ask the Holy Spirit to show you what you have really experienced, felt, thought, prayed about during the time of prayer. Take about 15 minutes for this exercise. Many find it helpful to keep a prayer journal where they briefly write down some thoughts on their prayer experience.