Reflection Questions for October 16

1. On p. 17, Foster defines Christian meditation as “the ability to hear God’s voice and obey his word.” In what ways have you actualized this experience in your life?

2. How does Foster distinguish between Eastern and Christian forms of Meditation (pp. 20–21)? Do you agree with his distinctions?

3. Foster observes that many Christians leave meditation and prayer to professional intermediaries as a way of avoiding direct interaction with God (p. 24). Have you noticed this tendency in your own spiritual life? If so, what lies at the root of this behavior for you?

4. Describe your favorite times, places and postures for personal meditation and prayer in light of Foster’s comments (pp. 27–29).

5. Spend some time this week using one or more of the forms of meditation Foster describes on pp. 29–32. Describe your experience.

6. Foster states, “To pray is to change” (p. 33). In what ways has prayer changed you? In what ways have your prayers changed others?

7. What is your reaction to Foster’s observation about the assertiveness of those praying for others in the New Testament (pp. 37–38)? How should the notion of “if it be God’s will” enter into this dynamic?

8. Spend some time this week using one or more of the forms of prayer Foster describes on pp. 41–45. Describe your experience.