Yesterday we considered why we should meditate on Scripture. Today let’s look at how to meditate.
1. Limit
- Set apart no more than 5-10 minutes to begin with
- Start with one short verse or part of a verse
2. Vary
- Some days chose a theological verse, others a practical or devotional text.
3. Write
- Write the text on a small index card
- Put it in a place you will come across regularly (purse or pocket?)
4. Memorize
- Memorize the text in 2-3 word blocks
- Say it out loud
- Set specific times in the day to recall verse (coffee/meal times)
5. Focus
- Pick out the key words and look them up in a dictionary (English or Bible)
- Substitute some words with parallel meanings or even opposite meanings
6. Question
- Interrogate the verse (who, what, where, when, why, how?)
7. Explain
- How would you explain the verse to a child or someone with no Christian background
8. Pray
- Use the verse in prayer (worship, confession, thanks, petition)
9. Review
- File the cards and every Sunday read them and test your memory of them
10. Do
- Not just an intellectual exercise but let it lead to practice (believe, repent, hope, love, etc.)
Picture: 2008 © Laurin Linder. Image from BigStockPhoto.com