My Quiet Time Supplies: Duct Tape Bible, Jetstream Uniball, Journal from Target

If you really want to grow as a Christian, you have got to read your Bible.  You've got to have a quiet time.  Not just on Sunday when the pastor preaches.  Not just on Saturday morning when you don't have go to work or rush the kids out the door.  But regularly, consistently, and preferably every day.

The problem is, most Christian women know that having a regular quiet time is important, but they don't know how to do it.  And, they think they should know how to have a quiet time, so they don't ask anyone.  That would be too embarrassing.  Or they are procrastinating perfectionists and live with the illusion that to have any quiet time at all, everything has to be absolutely perfect - early morning before anyone is up, candle lit, soft music playing ... Of course that rarely happens, so they never have regular quiet times.

Over my years of following Jesus, I've learned how to have regular, consistent, and nearly every day quiet times.  This week I'd like to share my method with you.   Step 1:  Gather Supplies.

First, you'll need a Bible, a pen, and a journal.  Here are my preferences:

Bible - My preference is a hardcover ESV Study Bible.  I like the ESV.  I've used both the NASB and the NIV, but my preference is for the ESV.   The maps, charts, notes, cross references, book introductions in the ESV Study Bible are fantastic.  I like a hardcover better than leather cover because the pages are thicker in the hardcover allowing you to write in your Bible with a pen.  However, with use, the hardcover does begin to fall apart, but that's okay because then you can bind it yourself with duct tape.

I need to do a few repairs.  :)

Pen - Of course you can use any type of writing utensil you like.  But, here's my favorite.

The Jetstream Finepoint Retractable Rollerball Pen.  I like them because I can't lose the top, they write smoothly, and they feel great in my hand.  My family knows that these are "my pens" and that if they are ever at a loss as to what to buy me for Christmas (hint-hint) this is a great option.  They write thinly enough and precisely enough to allow you to underline and take notes in your Bible.  See?

Journal - My favorite journal is this one from Target.   

I like the size, the feel, the ribbon marker, and the elastic closure.  The lines are perfectly spaced for the size of my handwriting.  And they're not too expensive.  I fill up about four of these each year.  

If you already have your supplies, then you are all set.  If not, go shopping and meet me back here on Wednesday for The "How Tos of a Quiet Time."  I'll have my Duct Tape Bible, Jetstream Uniball, and Journal from Target.  

Meanwhile, I'd love to hear from you.  What are the challenges you have for having regular consistent quiet times?  What victories have you had?  What questions about quiet times would you like to see me address?  And most importantly, what are your quiet time supplies?