In our journey of faith, we invariably encounter practices that promise to deepen our connection with God. One such practice is meditation, leading you to ask, “What is Christian meditation?” Let’s delve into an exploration of Christian meditation, guided by the wisdom of the Bible and the teachings of Christian spiritual leaders.
Verse about Christian Meditation
“Blessed is the one… whose delight is in the law of the LORD, and who meditates on his law day and night.” (Psalm 1:1-2, NIV)
What the Bible Tells Us About Christian Meditation
When seeking understanding, the Word of God is our faithful guide. This passage from Psalm talks about meditating on God’s law, highlighting the importance of deep, focused contemplation on God’s Word in Christian tradition.
In the collective wisdom of Christian teachers like Thomas Merton and Richard Foster, Christian meditation is described as a practice of stillness and attentiveness to God, allowing His Word to dwell richly within us.
Biblical Life Application for Christian Meditation
Applying this Biblical wisdom to our faith journey entails incorporating Christian meditation into our spiritual practice. At its heart, Christian meditation focuses on engaging the mind and heart in a loving devotion to God, reflecting upon His Word, and being receptive to His influence in our lives.
Unlike eastern meditation, which often focuses on emptying the mind or achieving a state of consciousness, Christian meditation is about filling the mind with God and His Word.
Steps to Practice Christian Meditation
- Choose a Quiet Place: Find a quiet setting where you can be free from distractions.
- Select a Passage: Choose a Bible verse or passage. You may wish to start with key verses like Psalm 23, John 15, or Romans 8.
- Relax and Quiet Your Mind: Take a few minutes to relax, take deep breaths, and quiet your mind from everyday concerns.
- Read the Passage: Read the verse or passage slowly and reflectively, allowing its words to resonate within you.
- Meditate and Listen: Ponder the words, visualize the images, and listen for what God may be saying to you through the Scripture.
- Pray: Respond in prayer, expressing your thoughts, emotions, and desires to God.
- Rest in God’s Presence: After your prayer, spend a few moments resting in God’s presence. Open to His influence in your life.
Choosing a Better Way:
In choosing to practice Christian meditation, you’re choosing a spiritual discipline that can deepen your relationship with God. Enrich your understanding of His Word, and transform your life from within. By incorporating meditation into your spiritual practice, you’re inviting God’s Word to shape your thoughts. It also guides your actions, and deepen your love for Him.
A Prayer for Christian Meditation
Our Father in Heaven, as I embark on the journey of Christian meditation. I pray that Your Word may dwell richly within me. Open my mind and heart to receive Your truth and love. As I meditate on Your Word, let it shape my thoughts, guide my actions, and deepen my love for You. May Your Kingdom come, and Your will be done, on earth as it is in Heaven. Amen.