The meditation method of bible study is where you ponder a word, verse or passage in order to gain a full understanding. As part of this method you’ll want to use elements of the word study method and the character study to help with the practical understanding. Then the meditation method to allow God, through the Holy Spirit, to provide a spiritual understanding.

Meditation – God’s way vs. the world

Worldly Meditation is commonly know throughout the world as a transient state of emptying your mind allowing a spirit or energy to fill it. This practice is widely known and practiced by eastern religions as a way to find peace. However, this peace only lasts while you remain separated from the corruptive influences.

1 John 4:1  Beloved, believe not every spirit, but try the spirits whether they are of God: because many false prophets are gone out into the world.

2 Hereby know ye the Spirit of God: Every spirit that confesseth that Jesus Christ is come in the flesh is of God:

3 And every spirit that confesseth not that Jesus Christ is come in the flesh is not of God: and this is that spirit of antichrist, whereof ye have heard that it should come; and even now already is it in the world.

Biblical meditation is not the emptying of your mind. (like eastern religions teach); but rather filling your mind with the thoughts and knowledge of God. Note:

Philippians 4:8  Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things.

Biblical meditation is when you think on spiritual things, filling your mind with things that are true, honest, just, pure, lovely and of a good report.

Note: The meditation method is not, nor will it provide any “additional revelation” of the scriptures. Through reading and pondering on a word, verse or passage it allows God time to show you things that have always been there; but your were just too busy to notice.

Steps of Biblical Meditation

Define any words you don’t understand. (See Word Study)

To have a practical understanding of a passage you need to make sure that there are no stumbling blocks for the understanding, so take the time to identify any words you do not understand. It is also important to note that the bible is deep in Jewish history and tradition. Make sure you discern the scriptures accordingly.

Determine the context and setting.

Every verse or passage has a context and setting. By taking some time to look at who the passage was written by, who it was written to, why it was written and when it was written; may indeed give you the facts, but often not the understanding. To properly experience the scriptures and meditate on the understanding of a verse or passage you must place yourself in their situation to truly get the best understanding.

Pray that God gives you greater understanding

Spiritual discernment is a valid and important element of biblical learning. Praying that God, through the Holy Spirit, give you greater understanding is literally like asking the author Himself to explain what the verse or passage meant. Where spiritual discernment comes into play is the aforementioned contextual path. God reveals things to you as you mature in the scriptures. The context you get through reading provides the foundation needed for God to reveal things to you that you could not see before.

Give God the time

The largest part of the meditation method it that it takes time. Trying to meditate on the scriptures while trying to work or do school or watch TV will not allow for the depth of understanding to be presented that you are desiring.

Hebrews 11:6  But without faith it is impossible to please him: for he that cometh to God must believe that he is, and that he is a rewarder of them that diligently seek him.

Be still and wait for the answer

Setting aside the time to meditate on the scriptures is only the first part. You need to also be patient and quiet to hear that “still small voice” speak to you.

Isaiah 40:31  But they that wait upon the LORD shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run, and not be weary; and they shall walk, and not faint.

1 Thessalonians 4:11  And that ye study to be quiet, and to do your own business, and to work with your own hands, as we commanded you;