by Stefani Yorges, Ph.D. ~
In this world of busy schedules, noisy offices, and invasive technology, people are hungry for the peace that quiet meditation can bring. But meditation has become associated with a mystical ritual practiced by eastern religions, so most Christians have removed the word from their vocabulary.
The word is actually used frequently in the Bible:
- David said, “Oh how I love your law! I meditate on it all day long,” “I meditate on all Your works,” and “I meditate on You in the night.” (Psalm 119:97, 143:5, 63:6). He was also concerned about the quality of his meditation, saying, “Let the words of mouth and the meditation of my heart be pleasing in Your sight” (Psalm 104:34, 19:14).
- Joshua encouraged the Israelites to meditate on the Book of the Law all day long for it would bring them prosperity and success (Joshua 1:8).
- Paul told the Philippian church to meditate on whatever is true, noble, just, pure, lovely, and praiseworthy (Philippians 4:8).
Biblical meditation is reflecting on God’s Word. It involves calling to mind, thinking over, and dwelling on the ways of God. Meditation is defined as focused thinking – a skill obviously useful in prayer and Bible study. It is a means to let His truth have a full and proper impact on your heart.
Proper meditation involves filling your mind with God’s truth, rather than emptying your mind as in Eastern practice. Eastern-style meditation involves repeating a mantra, which Webster’s dictionary defines as “a mystical formula of invocation or incantation (as in Hinduism).” The goal is to move into a trance-like state and progress to the point where “spirit guides” appear to lead and instruct you.
In true meditation, there is only one Holy Spirit you should be seeking, not multiple spirit guides. You only want the Holy Spirit speaking over your life; anything else is going to lead you astray. Satan has always tried to imitate the power of the Holy Spirit by offering deceptive alternatives. But the Bible says, “Beloved, do not believe every spirit, but test the spirits, whether they are from God…Every spirit that confesses that Jesus Christ has come in the flesh is of God, and every spirit that does not confess that Jesus Christ has come in the flesh is not of God” (1 John 4:1-3).
If you open up your spirit for guidance and direction, make sure it is not a counterfeit. In true meditation, the Holy Spirit can lift your burdens, change your perspective, and renew your mind. Psalm 119 lists some of the benefits of meditation including guidance, wisdom, discernment, insight, and heightened obedience. Exactly what we need today!
For more from Stefani:
1. Follow her on Twitter here.
2. Get a FREE guide on how to renew your mind here.
3. Check out her coaching services here.
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