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Meditation, as mentioned in the Bible, is practiced for the purpose of developing a deeper understanding and relationship with God. One particular verse in 1 Timothy 4:15, KJV, says it this way: "Meditate upon these things; give thyself wholly to them; that thy profiting may appear to all". Within this context, meditating on biblical principles is the means through which the Christian walk is found.
As with the general practice of meditation, a primary function of Christian meditation is to still the mind and heart, making both more open to the principles of the faith. This stillness then allows a centering and grounding of our attention in prayer or reading. The lasting effects of this practice are seen in the everyday events of living, as the Christian grows closer in her walk with God. -
Within the context of Bible reading, prayer or quiet time; focusing on verses, music, images, or symbols is the means by which this meditation is carried out. Unlike eastern meditation practices where the purpose is to empty oneself of daily concerns, the Christian is seeking a closer experience, or relationship with God, as portrayed in the verse, "Be still and know that I am God," (Psalm 46:10, KJV).
Particular relaxation techniques used in the process are
· breathing;
· visualization of a symbol, word, or image; and
· short, repeated prayer phrases.
Many of the techniques used are similar to traditional relaxation techniques, however the focus is always intentional and directed toward God. In practice, meditating becomes one of many forms of worship, such as prayer and fasting. -
As a formal practice, meditation was embraced by the Christian church as far back as the fourth century in the form of the lectio divina. Monastic religious orders continue to implement this four-part meditation process, which involves the reading of a biblical text, thinking on it, prayer, and then a meditative resting inside God's presence.
With the twentieth century advent of transcendental meditation, eastern religions, and the new age movement in American society, the practice of meditation as a form of worship became taboo. New age mystical modalities took on the label of demonic within the Christian religion--primarily the fundamental and evangelical denominations--and were seen to hold strong associations with the practice of occult.
Nonetheless, Christian meditation as a form of worship has survived within its own sect of the Christian religion. And while Christianity as a whole does acknowledge biblical references to meditation, it is only in this specific sect where meditation is incorporated as a vital form of worship. -
The benefits of practicing Christian meditation are, foremost, a deeper relationship with God, however other areas of an individual's life are also enhanced. Not unlike the effects of meditation in general, consistent practice leads to a more balanced and controlled thought life, as well as an overall improvement in a person's emotional and mental well-being. The old adage, "you are what you think", addresses the basis behind meditating on Scripture. It becomes the mind's reference for everyday living and relating with others.
A calmed and meditative state of being is conducive to the opening of mind and heart needed to understand the deeper principles of the Divine. When incorporated on a daily basis, an emotional and mental calm begins to take root as we draw closer in our walk with God. -
Meditation in any form can be a loose and unstructured practice, and many have made use of spiritual directors to act as guides within their Christian walk. Spiritual directors can assist with discerning the meanings within meditations through prayer and discussion. Such a person should have a solid experience and understanding of meditation as a form of worship. Individual temperaments do matter, so compatibility with your spiritual director is important.
As an alternative, there are global, national and local organizations purposed to bring Christian groups together for meditative worship. These can be found online. However, many Christians are content to practice this form of meditation on their own.
