Quote:
Originally Posted by n david
You do what you do, Aquila. I've read enough to show me the root of contemplative and soaking junk is not based in scripture, but in eastern and catholic mysticism. But go ahead and chant or focus on your words if that makes you feel better.
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But what you've read is anti-Pentecostal anti-Spirit Filled rubbish.
It's not about how it makes anyone feel. It's simply about silencing our buzzing minds, which are reeling from our hectic and crazy work-a-day world, and learning to simply rest and be in God's healing and empowering presence.
Here's what's funny about your position. If I described how I chose to just lay prostrate on the floor and wait on God, desiring only to feel God's healing and empowering presence... you'd not think a single negative thing about it. But that's what "soaking prayer" is. LOL
The reality of this disagreement is that you've allowed the unfamiliar coined phrase, and the opinions of theological bubble heads who don't even believe in visions or speaking in other tongues, to get in the way of understanding the essence of what is being discussed.
So, here's the question:
Would you condemn me if I were to say that I'm going to lay down on my couch after work, play some soft instrumental worship music, clear my head, and simply seek to experience God's healing presence?
Or, would you condemn me if I were to say that I'm going to lay down on my couch after work and adore the name of Jesus while considering all that it means to me?
If not, you've been hoodwinked.
How dare we learn to wait upon the LORD?! LOL
Isaiah 40:31
But they that wait upon the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run, and not be weary; and they shall walk, and not faint.
Psalm 46:10
Be still, and know that I am God:
Those are the two verses I'll be contemplating when I enter contemplative prayer tonight ('tis the Sabbath,
). Eliminate all distractions for about 40 minutes to an hour. Dim the lights. Cast all your cares from the day and any cares you might have for tomorrow upon the Lord by releasing them to him. You can imagine selecting them and letting them go as you inhale and exhale, you can speak them out softly to Him, or you can release them by simply opening or raising your hands in surrender. Thank Him for always being there, even when you're unable to immediately sense Him. Offer your personalized words of worship and adoration. What is He to you right now? Is He your king? Is He your Father? Is He your healer? Is He your defender? Is He your teacher? Identify what you need Him to be for you right now, and praise Him for being all that you could ever need. There is no script. Use your own words out loud or quietly in your heart. Enter a relaxed and prayerful state of mind. Feel free to have prepared some soft and relaxing worship music, burn a soothing aromatic candle, take a hot bath and lay down (or do all three). Whatever you have to do to relax and balance your entire being (body, soul, and spirit). Read these verses slowly. With eyes closed, picture any imagery used by the writers in each text. Reflect on the statements made. Contemplate their context. Contemplate what these verses meant to the original readers. Then contemplate their implications and how they might apply to you. Contemplate how they might help you be conformed into the image and likeness of Christ. As the realization of spiritual truth dawns upon you, hold on to it and contemplate it. Own it. Receive it. Allow the living Word of God to fill your mind. Allow it to saturate you to the core of your being, your spirit. Focus on this truth. Seek to remember and practice this truth when necessary. Welcome to contemplative prayer.
Scary New Age stuff, huh?
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