Philippians 4:8 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
Christian meditation dwells on what has already been revealed in creation or inspired revelation. Whereas other forms of meditation are seeking some new truth to be revealed. It is very important to not confuse the two. The purpose of Christian Meditation is to nourish man with an understanding of God and His revealed will (not to seek for some unrevealed truth), and to give man spiritual joy and strength through such nourishment. See Psalm 1:1-3 and Isaiah 40:28-31. This same nourishment was what Jesus was talking about when tempted by Satan: Matthew 4:4 But He answered and said, “It is written, ‘Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that proceeds from the mouth of God.’ ”
We should reflect on God’s Word in a thoughtful way, accept Its truths personally and apply them to our life. Below are some examples or meditation in the Bible. I have linked to each passage on Bible Gateway for ease of finding the passages. I urge you to read passages for yourself, and see what they are saying to you.
- Isaac meditated in the field - Gen 24:63
- Joshua was told by God to meditate day and night - Joshua 1:8
- A blessed man is one who meditates day and night - Psalm 1:1-2
- David became wiser than his teachers through meditation - Psalm 119:99
- Paul commanded Timothy to meditation - 1 Timothy 4:15
This is just a brief start on learning what Christian Meditation is and Bible says about it. Please refer to the wiki article Christian Meditation for more information and references.
Sample routine for meditation:
- Choose a place that is quiet and free from distractions
- Choose a time that will allow you to no feel rushed or be rushed
- Wear comfortable clothing
- Pray prior to your meditation, perhaps even read a passage from the Bible to help you focus for your meditation
- Do 6 to 8 rounds of Regular Breathing (breathe while counting to 6, hold the breath and count to 6, then breathe out while counting to 6). (NOTE: This breathing exercise is suggested to help you clear your mind of thoughts and to get focused. Focus only on your breathing while doing this to start clearing your mind.)
- Relax your mind and focus all thoughts on Jesus
- Meditate for 10 to 15 minutes (this time can be increased or decreased based on personal preference)
When you are finished this would be a good time to do any stretching or other daily exercise that you do. If you do not exercise this may be a good time for you to write your thoughts out, and if you do exercise then write your thoughts out immediately after you finish exercising. These are just suggestions and each of us have to find what works for us.
One thing I've learned too is that meditation doesn't have to be sitting in a yoga position to do it. It can be while you are sitting comfortably on your favorite couch, or laying down or sitting outside around nature. It's wherever you feel most comfortable at that time and closest to God! This should be something you are comfortable doing, not making it feel like it's a chore to do, or you wont continue with it for long. And for us parents, sometimes the best place is while we are in the shower or in the vehicle before or after work, somewhere our children usually wont bother us lol
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