How to Have a 5-Minute Quiet Time with God
Here’s something about quiet time that might come as a surprise to you: even just a few minutes every morning can help you begin your day with peace, purpose, and presence.
I learned that fact during my years as a mom and wife on our busy Iowa farm. Sure, the farm fields outside look peaceful on any given morning, as the sun slides up the eastern sky. But on the inside of the house? That was another story! Many mornings felt like a race before my feet even hit the floor.
I imagine the same is true for you: Whether you’re rushing to get kids out the door, heading to work, or trying to remember where you left your keys, spending meaningful time with God can feel impossible some days.
That’s why I created a simple, printable 5-Minute Quiet Time Template (CLICK HERE FOR ACCESS) – to help you start your day with intention, even when life is loud and chaotic. (This template is based off of core principles outlined in my book, How to Love Your Morning.)
Maybe this is the truth you need to know today:
You don’t need an hour. And you don’t need an Instagram aesthetic either — with color-coded journals, matching coffee mugs, and harp music.
All you need is a quiet heart, a little space, and a willingness to meet with God, right where you are.
Why Does It Matter How You Start Your Morning?
The first few moments of your day are powerful. They set a rhythm — for your thoughts, your reactions, your attitude, and even your sense of peace. That’s why I have become a morning evangelist, touting the benefits of th first hour of the day. Because I have come to learn that when we begin the day by connecting with God, we’re not just forming a habit. We are placing our trust, our schedules, and our hearts in His hands.
Scripture says,
“Let the morning bring me word of your unfailing love, for I have put my trust in you” (Psalm 143:8, NIV).
Even five minutes in the presence of God can shift the atmosphere of your entire morning, helping you put your trust in God at the start of the day, as the psalmist described.
Can a 5-Minute Quiet Time with God Really Make a Difference?
Yes. Because it’s not about quantity — it’s about quality and consistency. Jesus isn’t timing your devotional. He’s after your heart.
Whether you’re sitting with a hot cup of coffee or whispering short prayers in the car, a five-minute pause can help you:
- Re-center your thoughts
- Connect with God’s Word
- Receive peace before the day rushes in
This is especially helpful for:
- Busy moms
- Working professionals
- People rebuilding a morning routine
- Anyone who feels spiritually stuck or overwhelmed
What’s Inside the 5-Minute Quiet Time Template?
This one-page template is so useful. It walks you through a simple, structured process:
Read (1 minute): Open your Bible to a short passage — maybe a Psalm when you need comfort, a Proverb when you need wisdom, or the words of Jesus when you need direction.
Reflect (1 minute): Jot down a word or phrase that stands out. Ask, “What is God saying to me today?”
Respond in Prayer (1 minute): Use this moment to thank God, ask for help, or simply say, “I’m here.”
Carry a Thought (1 minute): Choose one truth to take with you into meetings, school drop-off, errands, or the kitchen sink.
One Small Step (1 minute): Faith grows through action. Ask, “How can I live out what I just read?” Then write it down and go do it.
It’s short, grace-filled, and doable.
Download Your Free 5-Minute Quiet Time Template:
Click here to get the 5-Minute Quiet Time Template.
On the Freebies sign-up page, enter your email, and you’ll be immediately directed to all of my free resources. The Quiet Time Template is included under the heading “Resources for your Morning.”
Download, print off, and then keep it near your Bible or planner.
Want to Go Deeper?
This printable for your quiet time is part of a larger invitation to love your mornings, one step at a time. If you’re longing to start your day with more clarity, peace, and purpose, check out my book How to Love Your Morning. (Now available for preorder!)
It’s not about becoming a perfect morning person.
It’s about meeting a perfect God, right where your day begins!
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What if I miss a day?
A: Friend, grace always wins here.
This template is a tool, not a rule. God’s not keeping score. He delights in spending time with you. If you miss a day (or five), don’t feel guilt; feel loved no matter what. God will meet you the moment you turn toward Him.
Q: What if I don’t know what Scripture to read?
A: You’re not alone! A great starting point for your quiet time is to open the Psalms when your heart is heavy, Proverbs when you need wisdom, or the Gospels when you want to see Jesus more clearly. You could also choose a verse from your church’s Sunday message or follow a simple reading plan. There are so many reading plans available online! This Quiet Time Template works with any passage.
Q: Can I use this at night instead of in the morning?
A: Yes! While this template was designed for morning quiet time, it’s really about intentional connection with God — anytime, anywhere. Many people find that doing a quiet time before bed helps them reflect on the day and sleep in peace.
Related Resources You Might Love:
Written by Jennifer Dukes Lee.
This post contains an Amazon affiliate link, which means I may earn a small commission if you purchase through it, at no extra cost to you. Thank you for supporting my work!
