Biblical Meditation

Christian meditation isn't the same as other forms of meditation. Here's an excerpt from an email I sent to a  ministry recipient about how some engage in  Christian meditation: 

1) Take a seat: Find a place to sit that feels calm and quiet to you.

2) Set a time limit: If you’re just beginning, it can help to choose a short time, such as five or 10 minutes.

3) Notice your body: You can sit in a chair with your feet on the floor, you can sit loosely cross-legged, you can kneel—all are fine. Just make sure you are stable and in a position you can stay in for a while. It also helps to create a space specifically for Christian Meditation. It should be clean, clutter free, and  refreshing. You can use incense and include plants, a fountain, or scented candles. Its important that this isn't a space that is used for other forms of meditation.

4) Breathe: Take several cleansing breaths until you feel fully relaxed (at least three). Breathe in through your nose, out through your mouth. Breathe deeply. Hold each breath a few seconds. Breathe out intentionally through pursed lips. Don't hold the last breath. Fully fill your lungs and blow out the last breath hard and fast.

5) Open your bible: Read  a short  scripture- perhaps 1-4 verses. Usually the shorter the better. It's good to take small bites of scripture for meditation. Write down the words which really jump out and resonate with you. Perhaps 4 or 5 words.  Think about why these words jumped off the page. Ask God what God is saying? Be still. Be quiet. Write down what you think the message is. Ask God to help you understand the message and apply it to your life. Be still. Be quiet. Write down what you understand. Write down how you will  apply this. Be still. Be quiet.

You may ask "How do I decide what to read?" You may 1- Ask the Holy Spirit, 2- Follow an established reading plan, 3- Read a scripture that is relevant to your circumstances, 4- Read a scripture that focuses on a specific topic, 5- "Randomly" select one. 

7) Close: When you’re ready, gently lift your gaze (if your eyes are closed, open them). Take a moment and notice any sounds in the environment. Notice how your body feels right now. Notice your thoughts and emotions.