Bible Question:
Is there a difference between “Quiet Time” and “Devotion Time?”
Bible Answer:
Christians usually use “Quiet Time” and “Devotions” to refer to the same thing. “Devotions” has the idea of spending time that is devoted to God, while Quiet Time implies spending time with God when there is silence. That is what the terms usually mean. Another term that Christians use sometimes is “to meditate on God’s Word.” One of the Hebrew words for meditate is SIAM. It is sometimes translated as “to consider,” “prayer,” and “study.”
Shall we look at some verses where syh occurs? One of the most wonderful places in the Bible that talks about syh is found in Psalm 119,
My eyes anticipate the night watches,
That I may meditate (syh) on Thy word. Psalm 119:148 (NASB)
This is wonderful. Here is someone who loves God and desires to know Him so much that look forward to the night time so that in the quiet of the night, when few are awake, he can meditate undisturbed on the Word of God. Other passages that talk about “quiet time” or “devotions” speak of dwelling on God’s precepts (Psalms 119:15) and God’s statutes (Psalms 119:48).
Syh also includes a time to ponder or think about what one has read in the Bible,
I will remember my song in the night; I will meditate with my heart; And my spirit ponders. Psalm 77:6 (NASB)
The reason for a quiet time is to know God more and to learn what pleases Him – not for the purpose of earning salvation – but because we love Him. Joshua gives us another reason to spend time in God’s word,
Do not let this Book of the Law depart from your mouth; meditate on it day and night, so that you may be careful to do everything written in it. Joshua 1:8 (NASB)
Conclusion:
“Quiet Time” or “Devotions” should be a desire of the heart and can include: prayer, reading and the study of God’s Word and confession of your sins. Enjoy God. Wait for a peaceful and undisturbed time to spend with your Creator.
Suggested Links:
Why should I read the Bible?Bible Teaching For Spiritual Maturity
How do we seek first God’s kingdom and His righteousness?
Growing The Saints, part 1
Growing The Saints, part 2
Growing The Saints, part 3