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What does the Bible say about quiet time?

Bible Topic · WEB

The Bible teaches that believers should regularly seek God in quiet trust, prayer, and attentive dependence, finding rest not in self-sufficiency but in His sovereign grace. Jesus commends private prayer in Matthew 6:6 and Himself withdraws to pray in Mark 1:35 and Luke 5:16. Psalm 46:10 calls God’s people to be still and know that He is God, while Isaiah 30:15 locates strength in returning, rest, quietness, and trust. Such time is not an attempt to earn God’s favor, but a response to His mercy in Christ. As James 4:8 says, we draw near to God, trusting that He draws near to us.

Top passages, ranked by readers

Rankings: OpenBible.info Topical Bible (CC BY) · Scripture: World English Bible

  • Psalms 46:10 8 votes

    "Be still, and know that I am God. I will be exalted among the nations. I will be exalted in the earth."

  • Matthew 6:6 7 votes

    But you, when you pray, enter into your inner chamber, and having shut your door, pray to your Father who is in secret, and your Father who sees in secret will reward you openly.

  • Mark 1:35 5 votes

    Early in the night, he rose up and went out, and departed into a deserted place, and prayed there.

  • Isaiah 30:15 4 votes

    For thus said the Lord Yahweh, the Holy One of Israel, In returning and rest shall you be saved; in quietness and in confidence shall be your strength. You would not:

  • James 4:8 4 votes

    Draw near to God, and he will draw near to you. Cleanse your hands, you sinners; and purify your hearts, you double-minded.

  • Luke 5:16 4 votes

    But he withdrew himself into the desert, and prayed.

  • Psalms 37:7 4 votes

    Rest in Yahweh, and wait patiently for him. Don't fret because of him who prospers in his way, Because of the man who makes wicked plots happen.

  • Psalms 131:2 4 votes

    Surely I have stilled and quieted my soul, Like a weaned child with his mother, Like a weaned child is my soul within me.

  • Exodus 14:14 3 votes

    Yahweh will fight for you, and you shall be still."

  • Psalms 23:2 3 votes

    He makes me lie down in green pastures. He leads me beside still waters.

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