Meditation is a practice that has been around for centuries and is commonly associated with Eastern religions. However, meditation can also be practiced by Christians as a way to deepen their relationship with God and find inner peace. As an evangelical Christian, the Bible is our guidebook for life, and it provides us with clear instructions on how to meditate as a Christian.
To meditate as a Christian, we first need to understand what meditation is. Meditation is a process of focusing our thoughts and attention on something specific. For Christians, that something is God’s word. In Psalm 119:15, the psalmist says, "I will meditate on Your precepts and regard Your ways." This verse shows us that meditating on God’s word is a way to draw closer to Him and understand His will for our lives.
One way to meditate on God’s word is through the practice of lectio divina. This is a method of reading and meditating on Scripture that involves four steps: reading, meditation, prayer, and contemplation. In Joshua 1:8, God commands us to "meditate on [His word] day and night, so that you may be careful to do according to all that is written in it." This verse reminds us that meditating on God’s word is not a suggestion but a command.
Another way to meditate on God’s word is through the practice of mindfulness. Mindfulness involves being fully present in the moment and focusing on our thoughts and feelings without judgment. As Christians, we can use mindfulness to help us focus on God’s presence in our lives. In Colossians 3:2, we are instructed to "set your mind on the things above, not on the things that are on earth." This verse reminds us that our minds should be focused on God and His kingdom, not on the distractions of this world.
Finally, we can also meditate on God’s word through the practice of prayer. Prayer is a way of communicating with God and seeking His guidance. In Philippians 4:6-7, we are instructed to "be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all comprehension, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus." This verse shows us that through prayer, we can find peace and comfort in God’s presence.
In conclusion, as Christians, we can meditate on God’s word through the practices of lectio divina, mindfulness, and prayer. By meditating on God’s word, we can deepen our relationship with Him and find inner peace. As we meditate on God’s word, let us remember the words of Psalm 19:14, "Let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be acceptable in Your sight, O Lord, my rock and my Redeemer."
