Biblical Meditation
Sometimes great teachings and principles of the Bible are ignored or not practiced because they have been hijacked. One of these Biblical teachings is meditation. Meditation has been hijacked by eastern mysticism. "Glassy stares, monotonous chants, and the fragrance of burning incenses-these are images that often come to mind when we hear the word meditation." 1 What does the Bible say about meditation?
- But his delight is in the law of the Lord, and on his law he meditates day and night. Psalm 1:2
- May the words of my mouth and the meditations of my heart be pleasing in your sight, O Lord, my Rock and my Redeemer. Psalm 19:14
- Within your temple, O God, we meditate on your unfailing love. Psalm 48:9
- One generation will commend your works to another; they will tell of your mighty acts. They will speak of the glorious splendor of your majesty, and I will meditate on your wonderful works. Psalm 145:4-6
Here are some ideas that will help you meditate on scripture and guide your time. It is as simple as using the letters: A-E-I-O-U. "For example, if you were meditating on the verse 'The Lord is my shepherd' (Psalm 23:1), you would:
A–Ask questions: (What is the function of a shepherd? In what way is the Lord my shepherd?)
E–Emphasize words: (The Lord is my shepherd. Not a Lord, but the Lord-the only true God.)
I–Illustrate: (Draw a picture of the verse or link it with a story you've heard)
O–Other Scriptures: (What else does the Bible say about this?)
U–Use: (How can I apply this verse to my life?)"2
King David wrote about meditation and found solace through his meditation on God and with God. Do you agree: we need to practice Biblical meditation and not let the mystics hijack our time with God?
posted by Dr. R. W. Bobby Martin
Dallas Baptist Association exists to assist our churches individually and cooperatively in fulfilling the Great Commission of making disciples of all nations.
1. http://voices.yahoo.com/christian-meditation-tips-teaching-biblical-meditation-361379.html?cat=34
2. http://voices.yahoo.com/christian-meditation-tips-teaching-biblical-meditation-361379.html?cat=34
Good thoughts. As we wait quietly and patiently on the Lord and allow Him to focus His Word into our hearts, we find that Scripture comes alive in new ways and with a transforming power that is astounding!