Christian meditation—What is it?

TL;DR:

Unlike other religions that use meditation as a way of emptying the mind, Christian meditation focuses on intentionally and diligently filling the mind with the things of God, such as His Word, character, works, and promises.

what does the bible say?

Christian meditation differs from other religious practices by focusing on filling the mind with God’s Word, character, works, and promises, rather than emptying the mind. The Bible, especially in the Psalms and Joshua 1:8, emphasizes diligent meditation on God’s law and works to align our lives with His will and to live according to His ways. Meditation is a form of prayer and reflection, remembering God’s goodness and mighty deeds, following the example of Jesus who sought solitude to pray and meditate. Unlike Eastern meditation, aimed at emptying the mind, Christian meditation centers on concentrating on God’s greatness to deepen our relationship with Him. This spiritual discipline brings glory to God and strengthens believers by focusing their hearts and minds on His presence and promises.

from the old testament

In the Bible, the leader Joshua was specifically commanded by God to meditate on God's Law: "This Book of the Law shall not depart from your mouth, but you shall meditate on it day and night, so that you may be careful to do according to all that is written in it. For then you will make your way prosperous, and then you will have good success" (Joshua 1:8). Meditation is a great spiritual discipline for everyone, especially those who are leading others.
Psalm 1:2 states, "His delight is in the law of the LORD, and on his law he meditates day and night." Meditation is not something we can “wing.” It takes time and concentration.
Psalm 119 includes many examples of meditating on God's Word: "I will meditate on your precepts and fix my eyes on your ways" (Psalm 119:15); "Even though princes sit plotting against me, your servant will meditate on your statutes" (Psalm 119:23); "Make me understand the way of your precepts, and I will meditate on your wondrous works" (Psalm 119:27); "I will lift up my hands toward your commandments, which I love, and I will meditate on your statutes" (Psalm 119:48); "I will meditate on your precepts" (Psalm 119:78); and "My eyes are awake before the watches of the night, that I may meditate on your promise" (Psalm 119:148).
In many ways, meditation can be seen as a form of prayer. In Psalm 77:12, we read, "I will ponder all your work, and meditate on your mighty deeds." Meditation remembers or reflects on God's goodness or His Word as an aspect of prayer and praise.
Christians can specifically meditate on God's great works: "On the glorious splendor of your majesty, and on your wondrous works, I will meditate" (Psalm 145:5).

from the new testament

The New Testament does not explicitly use the word "meditation" as often as the Old Testament does. However, Jesus modeled intentional, solitary prayer and reflection, such as when He went to a quiet place to pray (Mark 1:35), showing the value of focused time with God.
Believers are encouraged to fix their minds on whatever is true, noble, right, pure, lovely, and admirable (Philippians 4:8), which aligns with meditating on God’s truth and character.
Scripture also calls Christians to be transformed by the renewing of their minds (Romans 12:2), which involves ongoing reflection on God’s Word and ways.
Paul’s letters encourage believers to think deeply about Scripture and God’s promises, living out their faith with intentional focus and dependence on God (2 Timothy 3:16–17; Romans 15:4; Colossians 3:16).

implications for today

It is important to differentiate Christian meditation from the concept of meditation found in Eastern religions. In Eastern traditions, the focus is often to empty oneself, let go, and focus on achieving enlightenment. In contrast, Christian meditation is designed to help a person focus specifically on God and His greatness. Christian meditation is not a bad thing or something to be feared because it sounds similar to Eastern mysticism. Instead, Christians are called to meditate upon God, His works, His greatness, and His Word as a form of prayer and remembrance that brings God glory in our lives. As we lie down at night, we can say, as the Psalmist wrote, "I remember you upon my bed, and meditate on you in the watches of the night" (Psalm 63:6).

Christian meditation nurtures a deeper intimacy with God by continually refocusing our thoughts on His truth, love, and faithfulness. This practice strengthens our spiritual resilience, calms anxieties, and renews our perspective by helping us focus on God. As we meditate, we become more aware of His presence in daily life, helping us respond to challenges with wisdom and peace. Moreover, regular meditation cultivates a mind that delights in God’s Word, producing fruit in our character and actions that reflect His glory. Ultimately, Christian meditation transforms us from the inside out, shaping how we live and witness to the world around us.

understand

Christian meditation focuses on filling the mind with God’s Word and character, not emptying it.
Scripture calls believers to meditate on God’s law and works to live according to His will.
Biblical meditation deepens intimacy with God, strengthens faith, and transforms how we live.

reflect

How often do you intentionally set aside time to meditate on God’s Word and character?
How has meditating on God’s promises affected your daily decisions and responses to challenges?
How might focusing your mind on God’s greatness help you overcome anxiety or distractions in your life?

engage

How can we differentiate Christian meditation from other forms of meditation?
What are some practical ways we can encourage one another to meditate on Scripture regularly?
How does meditating on God’s character and works impact our walk with God and our spiritual growth?