“Consider what I say, and may the Lord give you understanding in all things” (2 Timothy 2:7).
What does it mean to consider, reflect, or meditate in the context of 2 Timothy 2:7? In considering this question, it’s important to recognize the difference between a Biblical definition of meditation and some other types of meditation. For example, a Biblical definition of meditation means to think, consider, and reflect upon the subject of God and His Word.
The Scriptures encourage this kind of meditation as evidenced by the following quote from Psalm 1:1-2…
“Blessed is the one who does not walk in step with the wicked or stand in the way that sinners take or sit in the company of mockers, but whose delight is in the law of the Lord, and who meditates on his law day and night” (NIV).
The New Testament book of Philippians also has something important to say about this type of meditation as well…
“And now, brothers, as I close this letter, let me say this one more thing: Fix your thoughts on what is true and good and right. Think about things that are pure and lovely, and dwell on the fine, good things in others. Think about all you can praise God for and be glad about” (TLB).
On the other hand, the “New Age” or eastern religious concept of meditation often involves “emptying” one’s mind to achieve a desired physical response or altered state of consciousness. This kind of meditation may involve the use of mantras (a word or syllable that is chanted or sung as a prayer [Hinduism] or as an aid in concentration [Buddhism]). It might also include breathing exercises or specific body postures to help achieve a feeling of spiritual enlightenment.
These differences illustrate the need to define a word like “meditation.” One type of meditation acknowledges and honors God while the other one doesn’t. While many seek to enter a transcendent state through the use of various meditation techniques, the right kind of meditation involves learning about God through His Word and thinking about how that knowledge should affect our lives.
So just as Paul the Apostle encouraged Timothy to think about the things he had written under the inspiration of the Holy Spirit, the Old Testament book of Joshua echoed a similar theme…
“Always remember what is written in the Book of the Teachings. Study it day and night to be sure to obey everything that is written there. If you do this, you will be wise and successful in everything” (Joshua 1:8 NCV).