Go Deeper: Meditate on the Word
The concept of meditation has been flipped on its head in our culture. It’s one of those words I used to read and assumed had no place in the Bible. However, nothing could be further from the truth.
Throughout Scripture, we are repeatedly told what to meditate on, what to think about, and where to set our minds—the list goes on. Meditation itself is deeply biblical; it is the object of our meditation that truly matters.
The object: God. His Word. His works. His ways.
The Hebrew word for meditate, siach (שִׂיחַ), alludes to inward pondering and denotes quiet meditation or careful consideration. ‘The Psalms supply the richest vein of usage. Eight verses in Psalm 119 alone portray meditation on God’s precepts as the steady rhythm of covenant life (Psalm 119:15, 23, 27, 48, 78, 148). ‘I will meditate on Your precepts and regard Your ways’ (Psalm 119:15). Similar language appears in Psalm 77:12; Psalm 143:5; and Psalm 145:5, where reflection on the Lord’s mighty deeds fuels worship. Far from passive daydreaming, siach is an active, deliberate engagement with revelation—one that shapes our affections and our conduct.’ [1]
This concept doesn’t stop in the Old Testament; it flows directly into the New Testament. We see it in passages like Colossians 3:16:
“Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly, teaching and admonishing one another in all wisdom, singing psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, with thankfulness in your hearts to God.”
And again in Philippians 4:8:
“Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable—if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise—think about these things.”
This year, I have a goal—a resolution of sorts—not merely to read or study God’s Word, but to meditate on it. I don’t want to read Scripture in the morning only to forget it as the day goes on. I want to call it to mind, to ponder it, and to let it shape my thoughts throughout the day.
If man shall not live on bread alone, but on every word that comes from the mouth of God (Matthew 4:4), why would we think one meal a day is enough to sustain us?
So, friend—will you join me?
Suggestions for Meditating on God’s Word
Be intentional with your time. Prayerfully plan and schedule moments in your day to meditate on Scripture, even if they’re short.
Memorize one verse each week. Focusing on a single passage helps God’s Word sink deeper into your heart and mind.
Meditate on Scripture in sections. For example, while memorizing Philippians 4:8, spend each day reflecting on one phrase, such as “whatever is true” or “whatever is lovely.”
Keep Scripture visible. Write the verse you’re meditating on and place it on a Post-it note near your workspace to keep it top of mind.
Pray throughout the day. Take short breaks to pray over the Scripture you’re meditating on and ask God to help you live it out.
I pray these simple, practical steps help make meditating on God’s Word achievable each day.
