Praying continually seems like a bit of a far fetched concept at times. In fact, most of us probably believe deep down the idea of praying continually will only be achieved once we are in heaven. But once you start practicing Christian meditation, you quickly realize praying continually is achievable for us all.
In fact, meditation is an avenue you see used all throughout scripture as a means to walk continually with God. But before we jump too far into practicing Christian meditation, it is important to understand that Christian meditation is different from the Eastern meditation you see practiced in most places in the world. For a clearer definition of the differences, this post can help.
Once you understand the differences, it is easy to see how throughout the scriptures, Christian meditation is how God’s peace was felt, His joy was experienced, and His presence was known. Psalm 49:3 demonstrates this benefit best when it states “My mouth speaks wisdom; my heart’s meditation brings understanding.” It is through this meditation, the Psalmist
In fact, meditation was mentioned so often in the Bible, it was never even really explained because the expectation was that everyone was already meditating!
But the truth of the matter is, we aren’t anymore. And most of us, while we desperately want to experience God more, we don’t even know where to start.
Practicing Christian Meditation: Practical Helps
Engaging your Imagination:
Pick a passage of scripture and imagine your are in that scene. Use all 5 of your senses as you imagine it. What does it smell like, feel like, what sounds are there? Really put yourself in that passage and experience it through your imagination.
Read through a Psalm and notice an attribute of God that stands out to you. Then imagine how Jesus might have exemplified that attribute while he walked on earth.
Put on a worship song and use your imagination to put yourself at the throne of Jesus singing directly to him.
Prayer:
Instead of going through a list of prayer requests, sit in silence and think of one thing you need to give over to God. Your anger? Your fear? You insecurity? Your schedule for the day? Then imagine yourself taking that and handing it to God. Next imagine God handing you back something that He has promised to give you in scripture to replace what you gave him. Maybe peace or patience or love for someone else or spiritual eyes to see your day as He sees it.
Scripture:
Read through a passage that you have studied in the past very slowly. Maybe even read through it several times. Don’t be so concerned about study at that moment. Instead take that passage and slowly ingest it. Several times throughout your day, think through that passage and ask God to continue to help you understand it in deeper ways. You can write it out and put it where you can easily see it, or simply take a picture of it and use it as your phone background for your day. Whatever it takes in order to keep the passage visible. The point is to just let the passage dwell in your mind and let the Holy Spirit use it to draw you close.
Apps for Your Phone:
The app world is exploding with various apps to help you with Christian meditation as well. And while not all meditation apps are designed to attach your mind to Christ, there are several that do help you practice Christian meditation. This article in Christianity today has listed several different ones you might find helpful!
While meditation isn’t the only way to draw near to God, it is an excellent way for you to be aware of his presence throughout your day. So pick one of these ways and spend some time this week letting God fill your mind with him!
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