To meditate means to ponder, think about, mull over, or thoughtfully consider. In a biblical sense, meditation typically focuses on the works of God or on the unique characteristics of the Almighty, such as holiness, omnipotence, mercy, forgiveness, and pure love.
We don’t know if our earliest ancestors meditated, but the Bible first mentions this early practice with the son of Sarah and Abraham:
“And Isaac went out to meditate in the field at the eventide…,” Genesis 24:63, King James Version.
Simply being in nature, as Isaac was, reminds us of God’s work in the beauty and variety of creation. At eventide, a gorgeous sunset might have been a reminder too.
Another early reference to meditation comes in Joshua 1:8, which says, “
Study this Book of Instruction continually. Meditate on it day and night so you will be sure to obey everything written in it. Only then will you prosper and succeed in all you do,” New Living Translation.
This doesn’t mean we’re to be legalistic, but to think about God’s principles, so we can live in line with His will. Similarly, King David points out how people who are blessed often focus on God’s Word.
“They ·love [delight in] the Lord’s ·teachings [laws; instructions],
and they ·think about [meditate on] those ·teachings…day and night.” Psalm 1:2, Expanded Bible. Indeed, every verse of Psalm 119, the longest chapter in the Bible, focuses on some aspect of the teachings of God.
Then Psalm 143:5 reminds us to reflect on all the wonderful things God has done for His people in the past and is continuing to do.
“I remember the days of old; I meditate on all Your accomplishments; I reflect on the work of Your hands,” New American Standard Bible.
In the New Testament, we hear how Jesus’ mother Mary personally experienced awesome encounters with God and the unforgettable events surrounding her Son’s birth. The Bible lets us know that Mary held onto those treasured moments and gave them a lot of thought.
“But Mary treasured up all these things, pondering them in her heart,” Luke 2:19, English Standard Version.
Can you see how these biblical examples of meditation strengthen faith and deepen trust in God?
Our thoughts influence our words and actions, so we do well to ask God to guide whatever occupies our minds. The Apostle Paul apparently understood this, for he gives us a good place to start a regular practice of meditation:
“Finally, beloved, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is pleasing, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence and if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things,” Philippians 4:8, New Revised Standard Version, Catholic Edition.
Amen.