MEDITATION
It is a subject that can stir uncertainty, mystery, and apprehension in the minds of some Christians. It can usher in thoughts of something strange and mystical, linked to eastern religions such as Buddhism and Hinduism. But meditation is mentioned in the Bible about 30 times (depending on the translation). Followers of Christ are advised and encouraged to meditate. However Biblical-based Christian meditation differs from eastern religion meditations. In those, a person is guided to empty the mind and then focus on breathing, their body, objects, or chanting mantras. Biblical meditation has the person quiet their surroundings and focus on the Word of God and nature of God, and how God’s Word applies to them. Bible-based meditation should be based solely on the Word of God and what it reveals about Him and His works.
A general definition of meditating is to focus thought on; reflect or ponder. Biblical meditation directs us to focus on scripture and the nature of God. Following are a few verses discussing meditation.
Psalm 119:15 I meditate on your precepts and consider your ways.
Psalm 119:27 Help me understand the meaning of your commandments, and I will meditate on your wonderful deeds.
Psalm 1:2 But they delight in the law of the Lord meditating on it day and night.
Psalm 19:14 May the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be pleasing to you O Lord
Biblical meditation actively engages the mind for the purpose of understanding God’s Word and His nature. It is a way to internalize God’s Word… to take it into our hearts.
Meditation takes time and effort. It cannot be rushed. You must plan to withdraw from distractions so that you can fix your thoughts on God and His Word. Here are some ways to get started:
1. Carve out a time and place free from distractions
2. Begin by thinking about one or more verses of scripture
3. Ask for God to give you understanding
4. Ponder. Reflect. Let it weigh on your mind.
Sometimes you may find it difficult to narrow down or figure out what to meditate on. Let me respond by ending this lesson with one of my favorite scriptures, from the Apostle Paul:
Philippians 4:8 And now, dear brothers and sisters, one final thing. Fix your thoughts on what is true, and honorable, and right, and pure, and lovely, and admirable. Think about things that are excellent and worthy of praise.
It is a subject that can stir uncertainty, mystery, and apprehension in the minds of some Christians. It can usher in thoughts of something strange and mystical, linked to eastern religions such as Buddhism and Hinduism. But meditation is mentioned in the Bible about 30 times (depending on the translation). Followers of Christ are advised and encouraged to meditate. However Biblical-based Christian meditation differs from eastern religion meditations. In those, a person is guided to empty the mind and then focus on breathing, their body, objects, or chanting mantras. Biblical meditation has the person quiet their surroundings and focus on the Word of God and nature of God, and how God’s Word applies to them. Bible-based meditation should be based solely on the Word of God and what it reveals about Him and His works.
A general definition of meditating is to focus thought on; reflect or ponder. Biblical meditation directs us to focus on scripture and the nature of God. Following are a few verses discussing meditation.
Psalm 119:15 I meditate on your precepts and consider your ways.
Psalm 119:27 Help me understand the meaning of your commandments, and I will meditate on your wonderful deeds.
Psalm 1:2 But they delight in the law of the Lord meditating on it day and night.
Psalm 19:14 May the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be pleasing to you O Lord
Biblical meditation actively engages the mind for the purpose of understanding God’s Word and His nature. It is a way to internalize God’s Word… to take it into our hearts.
Meditation takes time and effort. It cannot be rushed. You must plan to withdraw from distractions so that you can fix your thoughts on God and His Word. Here are some ways to get started:
1. Carve out a time and place free from distractions
2. Begin by thinking about one or more verses of scripture
3. Ask for God to give you understanding
4. Ponder. Reflect. Let it weigh on your mind.
Sometimes you may find it difficult to narrow down or figure out what to meditate on. Let me respond by ending this lesson with one of my favorite scriptures, from the Apostle Paul:
Philippians 4:8 And now, dear brothers and sisters, one final thing. Fix your thoughts on what is true, and honorable, and right, and pure, and lovely, and admirable. Think about things that are excellent and worthy of praise.
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