Tim Challies
I am a Christian, a husband to Aileen, and a father to two girls in their teens and one son who is waiting for me in heaven. I worship and serve as an elder at Grace Fellowship Church in Toronto, Ontario. I am a book reviewer, co-founder of Cruciform Press.
Do you seek to have a daily 'quiet time'? If so, what does this time look like?
First thing in the morning. I start my day by kicking the blog out the door (and sipping coffee), then head upstairs to read and pray.
How do you read the Bible?
I have two routines. The first is to sit and read about 4-5 chapters of the Bible based on a 5-day reading plan. Then I pray using the PrayerMate app to guide me. The second routine is to go for a walk and pray as I walk, then read the Bible when I get home.
What practices have you found helpful for engaging with the Bible?
I find varying between listening and reading can be helpful. I read bigger swaths of scripture for my devotions, so don't take notes. I am going for the complete Bible every year and emphasizing quantity rather than quality. If I want to study deeper, I do that in different times and in different ways.
What does your prayer life look like?
I use PrayerMate to guide me. I typically pray silently, though sometimes I'll pray aloud.
Who has been an example to you?
I saw my parents reading and praying most days, so saw daily devotions as a normal part of life. They set me on the habit when I was young. I broke from it at times in my younger days but have been pretty consistent as an adult.
What wisdom would you share with a younger Christian?
Make the habit and stick to it. Don't only do it when it's convenient or feels attractive. Don't beat yourself up when you fail for a day or a week.
What do you find helpful when you feel spiritually dry?
I do it anyway. Joy comes through doing it, not through anything else (in my experience).
