The Lost Art Of Meditation

In our fast-paced society, the art of meditation is quickly becoming a lost art. True biblical meditation focuses on the things of the Lord, and its purpose is to renew our minds (Romans 12:1-2) so that we think and act more like Christ (Romans 8:28-29; cf. 2 Corinthians 3:18; Gal. 2:20; 1 Peter 2:19-22; 1 John 2:6).

Its objective is to reflect on what God has said and done (Psalm 77:12; Psalm 119:15-16,97), and on His characteristics (Psalm 48:9-14). In essence, we are to "set" our minds on spiritual things ["things above"] rather than things on the earth (Colossians 3:1-3,10; cf. Ephesians 4:23-24).

Meditating on God's word, causes us to fill our mind with Scripture, focusing on the Lord's commands, promises, and goodness.

In Psalm 19:14, David wrote: "Let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be acceptable in Your sight, O Lord, my strength and my Redeemer."

Meditation on other Psalms, causes us to reflect on God's loving kindness (Psalm 48:9); His deeds (Psalm 77:12); His law (Psalm 119:97); and His testimonies (Psalm 119:99).

As the apostle Paul so aptly stated: "Whatever is true, noble, just, pure, lovely, and of good report, if there is any virtue and if there is anything praiseworthy — meditate on these things" (Philippians 4:8).

Question: How often do we need to meditate on God's word?

Answer: "Day and night" (Psalm 1:1-2; cf. Joshua 1:8).

—Mike Riley, Gospel Snippets