As believers in the Lord Jesus Christ, we often hear the importance of reading the Bible, but how many of us truly take the time to meditate on it? Meditating on God’s Word isn’t just about reading through the Bible quickly, it’s about soaking in the truths of Scripture, allowing them to sink deeply into our hearts and minds. Psalm 1:2-3 (NLT) encourages us to meditate on God’s Word: “But they delight in the law of the Lord, meditating on it day and night. They are like trees planted along the riverbank, bearing fruit each season. Their leaves never wither, and they prosper in all they do.” Meditating on Scripture is something we should prioritize in our spiritual lives. When we make time for this practice, we allow God’s Word to be anchored deeply within, so that it becomes a part of us, as we live according to His Will.
Meditation on the Word is a Priority
Meditating on God’s Word should be a priority for every believer. In Joshua 1:8-9 (NLT), God commands Joshua to “Study this Book of Instruction continually. Meditate on it day and night so you will be sure to obey everything written in it. Only then will you prosper and succeed in all you do. This is my command—be strong and courageous! Do not be afraid or discouraged. For the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.” Our Heavenly Father commanded Joshua to study His Word continually. This is His command to us as well. It isn’t a one-and-done type of thing. Studying and meditating on the Scriptures is a lifestyle for the Christian.
God also tells Joshua that meditation on His Word is the key to success and prosperity in life. And this isn’t only about material success; it’s about growing spiritually in love, strength, courage, and faith. When we make meditating on God’s Word a priority, we set ourselves up for a life that is drenched in God’s presence and His blessing. Psalm 138:2 tells us that He has elevated His Word above His name. This tells us all we need to know about how God views His matchless Word, and how important it is that we know it as deeply as we can. It’s in His Word that we find guidance, encouragement, and wisdom for everything we face in life.
The Purpose of Meditating on God’s Word
But what is the purpose behind this command? Why does God want us to meditate on His Word? Simply put, it’s for transformation. Psalm 1:2-3 reminds us that when we meditate on God’s Word, we start to align our thoughts and actions with what He says. We become like strong, healthy trees, rooted deeply in the Word, bearing fruit, and flourishing spiritually. So, the goal isn’t just about obtaining knowledge—it’s to live out God’s Word, allowing it to transform our hearts and minds.
Meditation is meant to go beyond mere reading. The goal isn’t to skim over Scripture and move on. Instead, it’s about taking a verse or passage and chewing on it, fully digesting it by reflecting on what it truly means. Psalm 119:15 (NLT) gives us a great picture of this: “I will meditate on your commandments and reflect on your ways.” When we reflect, we’re not just recalling the words, but we’re considering how they apply to our lives, our struggles, and our relationship with God. We move from being passive listeners of the Word to active doers who reflect God’s character in every area of our lives.
Meditating on God’s Word also enables us to grow in wisdom. Psalm 119:98-100 (NLT) says, “Your commands make me wiser than my enemies, for they are my constant guide. Yes, I have more insight than my teachers, for I am always thinking of your laws. I am even wiser than my elders, for I have kept your commandments.” We can see clearly here that God’s Word is not just for information; it’s meant for transformation. The more we meditate on it, the more wisdom we gain, and this strengthens us as we walk by the Spirit’s guidance.
The Plan for Meditation
No matter how well we think we might be navigating through life, there are some situations that stump us. They might be strongholds that challenge us in ways we never imagined. God’s Word is the answer to every question. 2 Peter 1:3 (NLT) says, “By his divine power, God has given us everything we need for living a godly life. We have received all of this by coming to know him, the one who called us to himself by means of his marvelous glory and excellence.” Everything that we need to know about living a life that pleases God and fulfills our hearts is contained in the Scriptures. We have the distinct privilege to explore God’s promises by praying for guidance from the indwelling Holy Spirit. Often, the Spirit will lead us to the very promise and wisdom that speaks to what we’re facing.
The psalmist offers a simple yet powerful prayer in Psalm 119:18 (NLT): “Open my eyes to see the wonderful truths in your instructions.” As you read, take the time to stop and think: What is God saying through this verse? How does this apply to my life? Don’t rush through it. Let the words marinate in your heart, and let the Holy Spirit guide your thoughts.
One of the most effective ways to meditate on God’s Word is through repetition. When you find a verse that speaks to you, read it over and over. Speak it aloud, write it down, and think about it from different angles. Let it sink deeply in your heart. Repetition is one of the best ways to keep God’s Word constantly before us. This doesn’t just help us memorize Scripture—it helps us internalize it, making it a part of who we are.
God wants us to meditate on His Word. It’s a powerful tool for growth, transformation, and deeper intimacy with Him. So, making this a priority is one of the greatest things we can do to increase our faith and commitment to God. As we meditate on Scripture, we become more like Christ, reflecting his love, truth, and grace. This is how we become rooted in God’s truth, growing stronger in our faith, and living a life that glorifies Him. ■
Scripture quotations marked (NLT) are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright © 1996. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Inc., Wheaton, Illinois 60189. All rights reserved.
“Meditating on God’s Word”, written for Springfield Fellowship © 2024. All rights reserved. All praise and honor to God through Jesus Christ, our Lord and Savior.