Christian Meditation

Meditation is mentioned a few times in the bible in relation to keeping in mind the word of God. Modern meditation has been linked to eastern religions and most christians don’t consider the benefits of this practice. I learnt about the use of deep breathing exercises and meditation to calm anxiety and this led me to do some further reading on the topic. “Meditation is the act of remaining in a silent and calm state for a period of time, as part of religious training, or so that you are more able to deal with the problems of everyday life” (Collins.com).

Meditation has been found to relieve stress and fatigue and promotes discipline and helps to regulate emotions. I also read before that meditation and deep breathing opens up the spirit man and the physical senses. So when I do practice deep breathing and meditation, I am conscious about what I am taking in through my physical senses. Using instrumental worship is the most effective method for me, because then I can guarantee that I am taking in the word of God. Some people use scriptures or other God centred activities in the background such as prayer to focus their spirit man.

“Oh how I love your law! It is my meditation all the day” (Psalm 119:97). David made several references to meditating on the word of God and we know that David had an early career as a musician in Saul’s court. David’s music helped to keep Saul calm when he was troubled by an evil spirit. “And whenever the harmful spirit from God was upon Saul, David took the lyre and played it with his hand. So Saul was refreshed and was well, and the harmful spirit departed from him” (1 Samuel 16:23).

Music has often been linked to meditation and it is interesting how David’s music helped to bring deliverance to Saul. In Joshua 1, meditating on the word of God was linked to prosperity and success. Incorporating meditation into your daily routine and especially during your quiet time of prayer and reading the word, can help you find inner peace, help you to hear the voice of God and help you to focus on the word to bring you good success.

A.P.-Y.