Sometimes the idea of meditation sounds a little spooky and even abstract to Christians. It brings to mind that transcendental, New Age stuff with the chanting ("Ohm") and we start to worry. As Christians, meditation for us is different.

The New Age approach is meant to simply empty the mind of all thoughts. But as followers of Christ, our aim is to free it of distractions and then go one step further by filling it with the words and promises of God. We need to re-invite His Holy Spirit to not just visit, but take up residence within us. When we sleep, we replenish our physical strength. Meditation forces us to take the time to allow our spirits to rest in the presence of God. Meditating in and on God and His word and allowing His presence to surround us is an invaluable resource and habit (at least it should be) in our daily walks with God.

For many of us, our time with God is predominantly us doing the talking. Making requests, seeking direction, etc. (Not that there is anything wrong with these things. He encourages us to do so). However, we have to take time to be still and give Him a chance to get a word in edgewise. When we allow Him the time (unrushed, without mulling through the laundry list of other things we could be doing) to truly infuse His word into our hearts and our mindsets, it fosters a sensitive conscience which steers us away from sin ("Your word I have hidden in my heart, that I might not sin against You." Psalm 119:11).

If only we can set aside some time every day, at whatever point works well for you, to just relax in the presence of God. Read His Word and allow it/Him to do its work, we will begin to reach higher heights and deeper depths in Him. The level of intimacy between us can reach places we've never even imagined for ourselves. Think about it! Even as I write, I feel a sense of excitement and anticipation at the potential that this kind of silence in God can afford us.

I challenge us to not only spend time in worship and praise before God, but following that up with a time of silence (while keeping pen and paper handy to jot down what He places on your heart). Asking Him to grant us revelation knowledge of His Word and then being still before Him to HEAR what He has to say. You might learn something

"Finally brethren, whatever things are true, whatever things are noble, whatever things are just, whatever things are pure, whatever things are lovely whatever things are of good report, if there is any virtue and if there is anything praiseworthy-meditate on these things." - Philippians 4:8

Shari Grant is a Registered Nurse in South Florida, where she was raised in a (very!) Jamaican home. Some of the loves of her life are words (both reading and writing them) and missions work. She enjoys spending time with friends and family while living for a good laugh - one that makes her belly ache and her eyes water. Her bottom line goal in life is to make the Lord smile and maybe even serve Him up a chuckle from time to time, too.