Meditate/Meditation

<<ponder, mull over>>

Christian meditation is concentrated thoughtful reflection, focusing our attention on God, as we ponder on the Scriptures to gain greater insight and understanding of Him and His ways, so our soul may increase in love of God and holiness of life (Ps 1:1,2, 4:4, 63:6; 2 Tim 2:7). The goal is not to obtain more information but rather that we might be changed by fixing our thoughts on the Living Word – Jesus – and the Bible (Jn 1:1,14; Heb 3:1, 4:12). “I will meditate on your word all day long” (Ps 119:15,18,97,98). Memorising Scripture is of great value, as it gives the mind fuel and engrafts the truths into our souls. The object of our meditation will determine the course of our life. Joshua was told to speak the Word of God and meditate on it day and night so it directed whatever he did, resulting in Him being prosperous and successful (Josh 1:8). Mary, the mother of Jesus, contemplated or meditated on what she had been told (Lk 2:19). As we meditate on His works and what He has done, we have much to praise Him for, besides considering where we fit into His plans to affect this world for Him (Ps 143:5; Jer 29:11).

Such meditation is to be encouraged and practiced and will result in much personal blessing, as the mind is renewed, replacing negative destructive thought patterns with good, positive and uplifting ones (Josh 1:8; Rom 12:2; Phil 4:8). As these insights are translated into our own situations, it will lead to the transformation of our character into

The Word of God has the power to transform us

knowing and doing the will of God, for “The measure [of thought and study] you give [to the truth you hear] will be the measure [of virtue and insight] that comes back to you” (Mk 4:24). It is important not just to read the Bible daily, rather meditate on what is read so its message becomes imbedded in your spirit. Journaling, the writing down of insights gained, can be an aid to reflection and prayer. What a prayer to pray – “May the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be acceptable to you Lord” (Ps 19:14).

Eastern meditation (such as Transcendental Meditation or TM) should be avoided. This has its roots in Hinduism and is a relaxation response technique, which often focus on a single word with certain postures also being followed. It produces an altered state of awareness through emptying of the mind instead of turning it toward God.