Meditate and Meditation

Christian meditation is a transformative practice of focused reflection on God and His Word, distinct from Eastern forms of meditation that empty the mind. Through thoughtful contemplation of Scripture, believers gain deeper understanding, strengthen their relationship with God, and are progressively changed into Christ's likeness.

The Nature of Christian Meditation

Christian meditation is concentrated thoughtful reflection, focusing our attention on God as we ponder the Scriptures to gain greater insight and understanding of Him and His ways (Ps 1:1-2, 4:4, 63:6; 2 Tim 2:7). The goal is not merely to obtain more information, but rather that we might be changed by fixing our thoughts on the Living Word—Jesus—and the written Word of God (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 instructed 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).

The Word of God has the power to transform us

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).

The Blessings and Benefits of Meditation

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 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)

Meditation renews the mind and transforms character

Eastern Meditation: A Word of Caution

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 focuses on a single word with certain yoga postures, breathing exercises, guided imagery, or chanting also being followed. It produces an altered state of awareness through focusing the mind on a particular object, thought, or sensation to cultivate mindfulness and calm the mind instead of turning it toward God. This wrong approach opens the participants up to the ungodly spiritual realm.

Unlike Christian meditation which fills the mind with God's truth, Eastern meditation seeks to empty the mind, potentially leaving it vulnerable to deceptive spiritual influences. The believer is called to set their minds on things above (Col 3:2), not to detach from rational thought.

Christian meditation fills; Eastern meditation empties

Reflection and Application:

Consider what Scripture you are currently meditating on and how it is shaping your thoughts and actions.
Practice the discipline of meditating on a single verse throughout your day, returning to it in quiet moments.
Begin a journal to record insights gained from your meditation on God's Word.
Pray Psalm 19:14 as a daily invitation for God to guide your meditations and words.