Private Communion with Christ refers to the personal and intimate fellowship that a believer experiences with Jesus Christ outside of corporate worship settings. This communion is characterized by prayer, meditation on Scripture, and a deep, personal relationship with the Savior. It is a vital aspect of the Christian life, fostering spiritual growth, strength, and guidance.

Biblical Foundation

The concept of private communion with Christ is rooted in Scripture, where believers are encouraged to seek a personal relationship with God. In Matthew 6:6, Jesus instructs, "But when you pray, go into your inner room, shut your door, and pray to your Father, who is unseen. And your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you." This verse highlights the importance of private prayer as a means of connecting with God.

In the Gospels, Jesus Himself often withdrew to solitary places to pray, setting an example for believers. Mark 1:35 states, "Early in the morning, while it was still dark, Jesus got up and slipped out to a solitary place to pray." This practice underscores the significance of solitude in nurturing one's relationship with God.

Prayer and Meditation

Private communion with Christ involves both prayer and meditation on God's Word. Prayer is the believer's direct line of communication with God, allowing for confession, thanksgiving, supplication, and intercession. Philippians 4:6-7 encourages believers, "Be anxious for nothing, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus."

Meditation on Scripture is equally important, as it allows believers to internalize God's truths and apply them to their lives. Psalm 1:2-3 describes the blessed man whose "delight is in the law of the LORD, and on His law he meditates day and night. He is like a tree planted by streams of water, yielding its fruit in season, whose leaf does not wither, and who prospers in all he does."

Spiritual Growth and Transformation

Private communion with Christ is essential for spiritual growth and transformation. As believers spend time in the presence of Christ, they are conformed to His image. Romans 12:2 exhorts, "Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to discern what is the good, pleasing, and perfect will of God."

This transformation is facilitated by the Holy Spirit, who works within believers to produce the fruit of the Spirit, as outlined in Galatians 5:22-23: "But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control."

Strength and Guidance

In times of trial and decision-making, private communion with Christ provides strength and guidance. Isaiah 40:31 promises, "But those who wait upon the LORD will renew their strength; they will mount up with wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary; they will walk and not faint." Through communion with Christ, believers receive the strength to persevere and the wisdom to navigate life's challenges.

James 1:5 assures believers of divine guidance: "If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives generously to all without reproach, and it will be given to him." In private communion, believers seek and receive the wisdom necessary for righteous living.

Conclusion

Private communion with Christ is a cornerstone of the Christian faith, providing believers with a personal and transformative relationship with their Savior. Through prayer, meditation, and the work of the Holy Spirit, believers are strengthened, guided, and conformed to the image of Christ, enabling them to live lives that honor God.