When you hear the word “meditation” what do you think of? Sitting cross-legged, hands up, saying “oooohhhmm”? For so many of us, the idea of meditating has a weird connotation, particularly if you grew up, as I did, in a conservative, evangelical culture.
Here’s the thing, though, the Bible speaks of meditation — and it speaks of it often. So maybe we need to reevaluate our understanding and figure out what biblical meditation is and why it’s important for us to practice it as believers.
What is biblical meditation?
My favorite definition from meditation comes from an article Kristen Wetherall wrote, “To meditate, then, is to think deeply about what God has said to us in Scripture and to prepare our minds and hearts for prayer. Scripture fuels meditation, and meditation fuels prayer.” (source)
When we meditate on Scripture, we are giving ourselves space and time to allow what we have read and studied to soak deep into our hearts and minds. This practice aids us as we embed GOd’s Word on our lives and pursue obedience.
Why should we practice biblical meditation?
First, we should engage in this practice because Scripture clearly instruct us to do so.
This book of instruction must not depart from your mouth; you are to meditate on it day and night so that you may carefully observe everything written in it. For then you will prosper and succeed in whatever you do.
Joshua 1:8 CSB
Second, this practice assists us in staying focused on the Lord and His instruction.
Instead, his delight is in the Lord’s instruction, and he meditates on it day and night.
Psalm 1:2 CSB
Third, meditation helps us keep our hearts in alignment with God and His Word.
May the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be acceptable to You, Lord, my rock and my Redeemer.
Psalm 19:14
Clearly, meditation is a valuable discipline in the life of a believer. But maybe you are still wondering how to add this practice into your life.
If so, you will want to join my Scripture Dig group. We’re spending the next four weeks exploring How to Meditate on Scripture: 20 Ways to Linger in God’s Word. We’d love for you to join us!
Get more information and join the group by clicking the button below!
Hope to see you in the Scripture Dig group!
xoxo,
Teri Lynne
Exactly! Thanks for this post Teri. We need to understand meditation in the biblical sense of the word and be filled with God’s word in our hearts. Amen
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