Meditation is often associated with New Age practices, but it's actually rooted in ancient Christian traditions. Many modern Christians may hesitate to engage in meditation due to its association with Eastern religions or mystical practices. However, meditating on God and His Word has been a significant part of Christian spiritual life for centuries. Christian figures like St. Francis of Assisi, Brother Lawrence, and Charles Spurgeon all practiced and promoted meditation as a way to deepen their connection with God.
If you're ready to try biblical meditation but are unsure where to start, here are 10 practical tips inspired by contemporary Christian writers to help guide you.
1. No Strict Rules – Just Be with God
Leah Bulfin, a blogger at GodCentredMeditation.com, emphasizes that meditation is not about following a strict method or formula. It's simply about being still and present with God.
“There’s no power in whether you sit a certain way or hold your hands a particular way,” she says. “The power comes from taking time to meet with God and spend time in His presence.”
In other words, Christian meditation is more about intention than method. It's about quieting your mind and heart to connect with God.
2. Keep It Simple
Christian meditation doesn't require lofty goals or dramatic outcomes. Thomas Merton, a well-known Catholic writer, advised that contemplative prayer should always be simple.
Rather than trying to achieve profound revelations or instantly transform your life, focus on being still in God’s presence. Leah Bulfin suggests letting go of the to-do lists and worries of life, and entering into a "spirit-space" where you can rest in God.
3. Meditation Is for Everyone
Meditation isn’t reserved for monks or mystics. It’s for anyone—busy parents, students, and professionals alike. Leah Bulfin, who is a mother of three and runs a business, found meditation deeply transformative, even in her busy life.
Phil Fox Rose, a Christian columnist for Patheos.com, also encourages everyone to try it, stating, “I have no reservations saying everyone should meditate.”
4. Find a Quiet Space
While you can meditate anywhere, it's best to find a quiet place free from distractions. Leah suggests creating a dedicated space, even if it’s as simple as a corner of a room or a car. She personally sets aside a room in her house for meditation each morning.
Whether you meditate at home or somewhere else, the key is to choose a place where you can be still and focus on God without interruptions.
5. Allow Enough Time
For your mind to settle and connect with God, it's essential to set aside adequate time. Leah suggests starting with 20 minutes, while seasoned practitioners like her meditate for up to 40 minutes or longer.
Phil Fox Rose notes that it usually takes about 10 to 15 minutes for the mind to settle into stillness. If you cut the session short, you might miss the most profound moments of peace and connection.
6. Use a Timer
To avoid constantly checking the clock, set a gentle alarm to signal the end of your meditation session. This way, you can fully focus on being with God. After the timer sounds, take a moment to ease back into your day. Many Christian practitioners recommend ending with a closing prayer.
7. Get Comfortable, But Stay Alert
Comfort is important for meditation, but don’t get too cozy, or you might drift off to sleep. Leah prefers sitting on the floor, while others opt for a simple chair or even a peaceful walk in nature.
Rick Warren, a pastor and author, also emphasizes relaxation, explaining that when your body is relaxed, your mind is more open to hearing God. Just ensure you remain alert and focused during your meditation time.
8. Let Your Thoughts Pass
Unlike Eastern meditation, where the goal is often to empty the mind, Christian meditation focuses on God. When distracting thoughts come up (as they inevitably will), simply let them pass by and gently return your attention to God.
Phil Fox Rose advises, “When you realize you’re engaged with a thought, you let it go… resist no thought, retain no thought, react to no thought.” Don’t force your mind to be empty, but gently guide it back to God’s presence.
9. Use a Simple Word or Image to Focus
Having a short word or phrase to repeat can help keep your attention on God. Words like “Amen,” “Peace,” “Abba,” “Grace,” or simply “Jesus” can be used. Phil Fox Rose stresses that it’s not a magical mantra; it’s simply a tool to keep your focus.
You can also picture an image of Christ or heaven in your mind, or even focus on the rhythm of your breathing to help maintain a connection with God.
10. Be Patient and Don’t Give Up
If you’re someone who finds it hard to sit still or easily gets bored, don’t let that stop you. Christian meditation takes practice, and over time, it will become more natural.
Leah Bulfin compares it to falling in love with God, explaining that once you experience the depth of connection, time will fly by. Pastor Rick Warren also encourages patience, as echoed in Psalm 37:7, “Be still before the Lord and wait patiently for him.”
Charles Spurgeon, a famous preacher, reminds us that meditation gets easier the more we do it: “When we have mused a little, then the fire begins to burn.”
Final Thoughts
Christian meditation is a powerful way to deepen your relationship with God. While it requires patience and practice, the benefits are immense. By focusing on God’s presence, quieting your mind, and dedicating time each day, you’ll find yourself growing closer to Him in ways you never imagined.
Start small, be patient, and remember—God is always with you, waiting for you to meet Him in the stillness.
