Scripture Meditation

Written by Cami Gerdes

Meditating on the Word

The Hebrew word for meditate, “Hagah”, means to mutter or speak quietly. To meditate on scripture is to ponder on it daily, long enough that it begins to form you. The bible leads us deeper into what life in Jesus looks like, and when we allow these ancient writings to find home in our minds and on our lips, what is God-breathed (2 Tim. 3:16) begins to come alive and breathe on us. It is not only through posture and slow breathing that our thoughts find focus, but also through repetition and delight. By repeating scripture in our minds, we actively allow the living Word to form us. Becoming increasingly aware that every time we think of and whisper those words throughout our days, we move closer to Jesus and find deeper delight in the forming power of His words.

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Scripture

Before beginning this practice, take a moment to read the scripture below.

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All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting, and training in righteousness, so that the servant of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work.
2 Timothy 3:16-17

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I have hidden your word in my heart that I might not sin against you. Praise be to you, Lord; teach me your decrees. With my lips, I recount all the laws that come from your mouth. I rejoice in following your statutes as one rejoices in great riches. I meditate on your precepts and consider your ways. I delight in your decrees; I will not neglect your word.
Psalm 119: 11-16

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How to Meditate on Scripture

  1. Simply start with 5 minutes
  2. Pray and welcome the Holy Spirit into this practice with you. Thoughtfully welcome God into this new rhythm.
  3. Begin by choosing a verse from scripture. Do you notice where the world or enemy is feeding you lies? Consider where your mind may be meditating on things not of God.
  4. Read your chosen verse a couple of times through.
  5. Now, quietly whisper the verse for the rest of your allotted time.
  6. As the day and week go on, continue to ponder this verse. Mutter it at lunch, during your daily drive, or even as you prepare to go to sleep.

Question

Return to these questions after doing the practice. Take your time thoughtfully answering each question. You may want to write down your answers, ponder them quietly, or even talk about them with someone else.

  1. What have you found yourself meditating on in your day-to-day? Maybe think back to praying The Examen in Week 1, what feelings and thoughts arise during your day?
  2. How has meditating on scripture changed you? Have your thoughts shifted? What about any anxieties or feelings?
  3. How does this practice fit into your daily life?

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