Meditation on Meditation

One thing I have asked from the LORD, that I shall seek: That I may dwell in the house of the LORD all the days of my life, To behold the beauty of the LORD And to meditate in His temple. (Psa 27:4)

David wrote that. Beautiful. A singular aim. To "dwell in the house of the LORD all the days of my life, To behold the beauty of the LORD And to meditate in His temple." But ... to "dwell in the house of the LORD"? How? Well, the last answers the first. By meditation.

Lots of people see meditation as "Eastern mysticism" or the like. To be sure, they do it there. But it's biblical, too.

How long will you love what is worthless and aim at deception? Selah. But know that the LORD has set apart the godly man for Himself; The LORD hears when I call to Him. Tremble, and do not sin; Meditate in your heart upon your bed, and be still. Selah." (Psa 4:2-4)

I will meditate on Your precepts And regard Your ways. (Psa 119:15)

On the glorious splendor of Your majesty And on Your wonderful works, I will meditate. (Psa 145:5)

Just to list a few. (There are five references to meditating in Psalm 119 alone.) Different words are used in different places. One means "to plough". You know, turn that soil over and refresh it. One means "to murmur" -- to tell yourself the truth. One means "to say". For instance, in the Psalm 2:4 reference, it is translated in some versions as "commune" -- "commune in your heart" -- and others "speak" or even "ponder". You get the idea. This isn't some "transcendental meditation". This is letting your mind and heart dwell on God's Word and God's truth. And it appears, given the frequent reference to it, that this is a recommended practice for believers.

Of course, in order to do this, you have to ... you know ... have to have God's Word and truth available. Maybe it's out of the Book. Better yet, out of your memory. Another factor is time. This isn't a "quiet time", a short time spent reading God's Word. It's ... stewing in it. It's embracing, examining, turning it over, considering, repeating, over and over. It's a lifestyle, not an event. It's a practice.

David considered it his one desire. We tend to think of it as our once-a-week-if-absolutely-necessary obligation. And, if we're really diligent, once a day for a short time. David thought it was the place to live. So should we. -- to live there in God's Word, God's truth, observing God's glory and God's beauty. Scripture says it will change your life. It prevents sin, produces peace, anchors the soul in times of distress and false teaching, and enhances your relationship with God, to name a few effects. As it was David's prayer, it, too, is my prayer. And my prayer for you.