Isaiah 30:15 For thus saith the Lord GOD, the Holy One of Israel; In returning and rest shall ye be saved; in quietness and in confidence shall be your strength: and ye would not.
In a world of ever-changing trends, unending notifications and consistent demand for our attention, the practice of remaining still in God’s presence is gradually becoming extinct in the Body of Christ.
According to a survey, 23 percent of adults check their phones in less than than 60 seconds after waking up, another 34 percent wait five to 10 minutes. Conversely, about six percent wait at least two hours.
In this virtual world that we live in, it is so easy to succumb to the convenience of “instant”. Technological advancement is so important to us as Christians, online platforms provide wonderful opportunities for relate with friends and family, they open doors for us to share our thoughts with a wide network of people globally and grant us access to an endless pool of resources. However, have we allowed them to take, bit by bit, a little of our quiet time? Have we lost the ability to turn down the noise and spend time in prayer and reflection with God?
How often do you stop and pray first, asking God for strength and wisdom or thanking Him for the blessing? Does any other thing often take precedence over spending time reflecting in prayer?
The Bible reminds us how wonderful it is to take all our needs to God in prayer.
Philippians 4:6-8 Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God.
And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.
In his letter to the Philippians, Paul encourages us to meditate upon a list of wonderful things.
Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things.
The nature of meditation requires us to step aside from the hustle and bustle. Then we can rest and quieten our hearts and minds. ChurchGist
When we do pray and spend time in quiet reflection, we find the peace of God that passes all understanding, we gain more insight into God’s Word and we receive strength for the day ahead.
How amazing! Why wouldn’t we choose to take time to switch off the phone or the computer and meditate upon these things?
HOW TO MAKE MEDITATION A PART OF YOU
1) Understand That God Deserves the Best of Your Attention
2) Always Be Specific:
Why do you want to meditate? Of course, it is strengthening your relationship with God but why do you want to do this in the first place? Do not be afraid to write your answer down on a piece of paper and put it somewhere in which you intend to practice your daily Christian meditation. Knowing your intention is a good way to maintain profound, essential focus.
2) Fill Your Space With Godly Content
- Ensure that both your physical and social media spaces are constantly filled with the Word of God. Paste scriptural quotations around your environment and follow good Christian platforms that will keep you in remembrance of God’s Word whenever you use the internet.
3) Have a Journal (Revelation 1:19)
4) Be Consistent: When it comes to any form of spiritual practice, one of the most crucial things is consistency. In other words, meditation that is only done half-heartedly is not going to be meditation that pays off to any degree. ChurchGist. Working at this can be challenging, but it is work that you can enjoy by trusting that God will get you to where you want to be. As you remain consistent in your meditation schedule, it will become easier and easier to see this.
5) Be Selfish : Your spiritual health is YOUR RESPONSIBILITY, you should not try to be everywhere, everytime for everyone! Always ensure that you have at least 30 minutes each day for just you and the Holy Spirit.
6) Take Advantage Of Your Free Time
- Each day, we are often presented with opportunities to do nothing but think. Take advantage of the time spent in transit, breaks and other opportunities. ChurchGist. Pick a scripture and think about it even if it is just for few minutes.
May we receive grace to remain steadfast in God’s Word in Jesus name.
Ayodeji V.O for Church Gist
SOURCES:
Christaudio.com
Studyfinds.org
Wccm.org
#TuesdayTips
#ChristianMeditation
#ChurchGist
