“I consider the days of old, the years long ago. I said, “Let me remember my song in the night; let me meditate in my heart.” Then my spirit made a diligent search:” Psalm 77:5-6 ESV
Reflection: why should a Christian meditate?
When we think of the word “meditation”, Eastern religions and practices most likely come to mind, such as Yoga. The use here of the word meditation generally means to “emptying” of mind, to achieve relaxation or an “alternate state” by focusing on a single item. Almost hypnosis. And while we as followers of Christ must be very clear about the dangers, and what these religions and practices represent and do, meditation in a biblical context has a very different purpose and meaning. It actually was and is a common practice that we too should be practicing. So, just because it is used by the enemy for his purposes, we shouldn’t shy away from something God has created for good.
Did you know that God has actually commanded us to meditate?
So we must learn about it, and specifically learn how to practice meditation as God instructed. Psalms 77 is a great example, teaching us proper practice of meditation. We learn that the writer Asaph was going through something very difficult, and he is crying out to God for help. “I cried out to God for help; I cried out to God to hear me. When I was in distress, I sought the Lord; at night I stretched out untiring hands, and I would not be comforted. I remembered you, God, and I groaned; I meditated, and my spirit grew faint.” Psalms 77:1-3 NIV. Notice that he doesn’t say anything about “what” he was meditating on. Let’s keep reading.
“You kept my eyes from closing; I was too troubled to speak. I thought about the former days, the years of long ago; I remembered my songs in the night. My heart meditated and my spirit asked: “Will the Lord reject forever? Will he never show his favor again? Has his unfailing love vanished forever? Has his promise failed for all time? Has God forgotten to be merciful? Has he in anger withheld his compassion?”” Psalms 77:4-9 NIV. The first dimension of his meditation was to think back, to remember past. As he was asking himself if God had forgotten to be merciful in his current situation, his meditation led him to remember what God had done before, in the past. “Then I thought, “To this I will appeal: the years when the Most High stretched out his right hand. I will remember the deeds of the Lord; yes, I will remember your miracles of long ago. I will consider all your works and meditate on all your mighty deeds.” Psalms 77:10-12 NIV
Notice the clear difference here of eastern meditation practices, of emptying the mind, versus the Biblical meditation of filling your mind, and focus on what God has done in the past; for you or for others, then to focus on His word and His promises. In fact, God commands us to meditate on His word. “Keep this Book of the Law always on your lips; meditate on it day and night, so that you may be careful to do everything written in it. Then you will be prosperous and successful. Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.”” Joshua 1:8-9 NIV.
Asaph’s meditation leads him to know and declare the greatness of God, and who He is. Leads him to worship of God. “Your ways, God, are holy. What god is as great as our God? You are the God who performs miracles; you display your power among the peoples. With your mighty arm you redeemed your people, the descendants of Jacob and Joseph.” Psalms 77:13-15 NIV.
What are you meditating on these days? I suggest to spend some time today, to consider and practice proper, biblical meditation. It will lead us to a deeper relationship and the worship of our God.