Guide to Quiet Times on Campus Part 1

Whether you just have an extra fifty minutes between classes or a full lunch hour, this time can be used wisely by studying the Word instead of scrolling through facebook.  Here are my suggested steps to making it happen!

Step 1: leave your house prepared
This means pack your Bible, journal and writing utensil in your purse or backpack. This is unless you have one of those fancy phones with a Bible app.  I prefer the real deal. 

If you plan on eating during this break, pack your food too.  Standing in line takes at least 20 minutes not counting the time it takes you to eat the food.  For some reason I cannot eat and read at the same time. 

I would suggest eating things that only take one hand. My lunch favorites are crackers and apples, almonds and yogurt, crackers and juice, coffee, and the occasional pb&j. Anything that is quick and mess free is the best bet, especially if your doing the quite time outside with the Oklahoma wind blowing 50 mph.

Step 2: plan the location
There are a ton of places you can go for a successful quite time.  Later I will rate the places I have found. Expect the full list of places and ratings in mid-June.

Think about where you would like to go between your other classes or when you're getting ready in the morning that way you can head straight there and not waste any time.

If you need to run an errand do so before you start your quite time and then pick a place close by to do it at.  For instance, today I need to run to the post office located in the basement of the student union.  There are several chairs and couches in the basement perfect for quite times.  So I'll have it there.

Step 3: set your alarm
Everyone one has a phone attached to their hip these days.  Go in and set an alarm for 5-10 minutes before your next class (that is unless you are in the quite section of the library).  This keeps you focused on reading the Word and not checking your phone every 7 verses to see what time it is.

Just because I'm allowing you to use your phone does not mean it's okay to use it for any other purpose other than the alarm during this time.  Let those texts and phone calls wait.  You're spending time with the Father.  Don't answer.

Step 4: relax
Stop thinking about your last class or your next class or the homework you need to do.  Just stop, take a deep breath, and say a little prayer.  Get focused and transfer yourself into a time of Word reading.

Step 5: launch quite time
Your in a comfortable position with food at hand.  Begin reading and meditating on what the Word of God is saying. Put it into your own words and come up with ways you can apply it to your life.