Meditating on His Word

What do you think of when you hear the word “meditate?”

When some people talk about meditation, they have something very different in mind than we do as followers of Christ.

My friend, Cyndi, brought up this difference in a recent discussion for our fellowship group. She said this:

As worldly standards tell us to empty our minds through meditation, God's Word takes us down a completely different road! When we fix our eyes on Jesus, our minds are filled, (not emptied!) with the things of the Lord!

"Finally, brethren, whatever things are true, whatever things are noble, whatever things are just, whatever things are pure, whatever things are lovely, whatever things are of good report, if there is any virtue and if there is anything praiseworthy—meditate on these things"

Are you full (of His Word)? Or are you empty?

I personally love the verses about meditating on His Word.

One passage is found in Psalm 1 (BSB):

1Blessed is the man

who does not walk in the counsel of the wicked,

or set foot on the path of sinners,

or sit in the seat of mockers.

2But his delight is in the Law of the LORD,

and on His law he meditates day and night.

3He is like a tree planted by streams of water,

yielding its fruit in season,

whose leaf does not wither,

and who prospers in all he does.

Do you meditate on His Word day and night?

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Here’s a response from Dr Mike Murphy on this topic:

“I will meditate on Your precepts and regard Your ways.” Psalm 119:15

The Hebrew word for “meditate” is the word “siach”, which means, “to pray or speak with, an act of devotion”. In Hebrew it represented an act of reflection and communication, as it finds someone reflecting on His works and His words, and on seeking the wisdom that only He can offer.

The Bible views meditation far differently than this world defines meditation. This world sees meditation as one taking a pose and clearing one’s mind of all things. Scripture teaches us the very opposite with meditation, as it leads us to fill our mind, only with His teachings and His ways as we seek Him.

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What other verses mention meditation?

In Psalm 4, you will find this idea. But there are a number of chapters which talk about meditation on His Word.

Please share in the comments some of your favorites.

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When I take time to reflect and really consider His Word and the truth He’s conveying, my heart is strengthened.

What hinders you from meditating on His Word regularly?

If you find yourself often distracted, consider what would help you reduce distractions.

Many people have digital addictions, whether they recognize this or not. A couple of guys in their twenties started a company to help with distractions of this kind.

I recently read an article about Brick, LLC, and decided to try their little device and accompanying App to help me focus with fewer distractions.

I can “Brick” my phone any time, which involves setting up profiles on the app to block access to whatever Apps tend to distract me. Once “bricked” I can use my phone as a simple tool for other necessary things without those particular distractions being accessible. I set mine up to block Substack and one other platform. Otherwise, I don’t feel drawn to the phone.

Today I will Brick my phone again for some hours, which will make it easier to focus on my Saturday routine and not feel distracted by reading all of the wonderful Substack articles until I have time.

In order to deeply focus and accomplish things, this tool may be helpful.

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Psalm 119:148 says—

My eyes anticipate the night watches, So that I may meditate on Your word.

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What helps you set aside time to meditate on His Word regularly?

I love listening to the Bible and use a Bible App called Dwell. It’s a joy to reflect on His Word any time I can listen to passages. When I run my dog, I often play passages from His Word and reflect on the meaning.

I have enjoyed music that accompanies Scripture in various forms. One series of CD’s is called Hidden in My Heart, and it’s primarily Scripture set to peaceful music. Originally released as lullabies, it’s one of my favorite ways to meditate on His truth.

What about you?

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Father,

Thank You for the gift and calling to meditate on Your Word day and night.

I am strengthened and encouraged by Your Word.

Life holds so much more peace and joy as I meditate on Your precepts.

In His Precious Name,

Amen