Meditation: this word unnerves some Christians. They think it is Eastern-New-Age woo-hoo mysticism. But is all meditation … bad?
On the daily it seems a new yoga studio opens in town or a mindfulness article pops up online. In a 2012 survey by the National Institute of Health, 21 million adults and nearly 2 million children practice yoga, a mind-and-body practice with origins in ancient Indian philosophy. Mindfulness has roots in religious and philosophical systems, too.
BUT … Christian meditation focuses on the Word of God (Joshua 1:8; Psalm 1:2). It is a truly awesome Christian discipline when you fill your mind with God’s truths. Underline: fill your mind with God’s truth! Click & Tweet!
So the important question is this: What are you meditating on? Three quick questions to consider:
- What is Christian meditation?
- Can Eastern meditation hurt you?
- How to begin Christian meditation.
What Is Christian Meditation?
The dictionary’s defines meditation this way: “To focus on one’s thoughts on; to ponder, think on, or muse.” But focus on what? Christian meditation has a very clear focus: God and his glory. Here are a few verses:
Let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be acceptable in your sight, O LORD, my rock and my redeemer. Psalm 19:14
And,
May my mediation be pleasing to Him, for I rejoice in the Lord. Psalm 104:34
So what kind of meditation is acceptable and pleasing to God? Click & Tweet!
Psalm 1:2 and Philippians 4:8 provide answers.
But his delight is in the law[ of the Lord,
and on his law he meditates day and night.Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things.
Can Eastern Meditation Hurt You?
No doubt you’ve heard that meditation lessens anxiety as one empties her mind of the cares of the world and “turns inward.” The focus: your feelings.
But relying on your feelings leads you away from the God’s truth. Here’s a crucial question:
- What happens when you dwell on your fears or difficult circumstances?
You lose your peace, don’t you? And you may forget the freedom you have in Christ. And turning inward and focusing on your feelings, rather than God’s loving truth, creates havoc in your soul, doesn’t it? Your heart may be filled with despair or anger or fear.
The antidote: Meditate on God’s promises and presence!
Colossians 3:2-4 says;
Set your minds on things that are above, not on things that are on earth. For you have died and your life is hidden with Christ in God. When Christ who is your life appears, then you also will appear with Him in glory.
How to Begin Christian Meditation
Christian meditation is focusing on Scripture. Like any new habit, you’ll need to stick with it for it to become second-nature, but you can do it! God will help you! Here are a few ideas on getting started.
Time and Place
Set aside a specific time for reading God’s Word daily. Ideally, choose the same spot to read and meditate on God’s Word. Begin with prayer.
Choose Scripture
It may be tempting to read the latest Christian bestseller. Don’t. Instead, choose a book of the Bible to read through slowly or a section of Scripture.
Read and Reread
Read your selected Scripture once, then read it again. Slow down the second time.
Ask Questions
After reading your selected Scripture twice, ask questions:
- Who is the author and who is he addressing?
- Why is he writing?
- What do the verses say about God? about his audience?
- How does it apply to living a godly life today?
Write a Verse to Meditate On
Now write one of the verses in your selected Scripure to meditate on throughout your day. You may prefer a notecard or the “notes” section of your smartphone.
Pray
Thank God for revealing his truth to your mind. And ask him to help your walk in the loving truth he has revealed.
Counseling Hearts to Hope!
