(This post includes a free printable to use as a tool to meditate on Scripture.)

According to Psalm 1, the person who delights in and meditates on God’s Word will be “blessed.” Deep spiritual truth fills this short, introduction to the book of Psalms. But, what does it mean to be blessed? And what does it look like to meditate on Scripture?  Let’s take a quick look at both.

What does it mean to be “blessed?”

The Hebrew word translated “blessed” in Psalm 1:1 describes an overall state of lasting joy and deep satisfaction that comes from experiencing right relationship with God and enjoying His ongoing presence. We learn even more from the word picture the psalmist paints in Psalm 1:3.

He is like a tree planted by streams of water that yields its fruit in its season and its leaf does not wither. In all that he does, he prospers.

This image teaches that the person who delights in and mediates on the living water of God’s Word will thrive spiritually even in times of difficultly. Our souls will be well-fed and healthy. In God’s timing we will be useful for His Kingdom, producing fruit of good works, service, and evangelism. (Also see “How to Understand the Metaphors and Similes in the Bible.”)

Overall, our lives will “prosper.” This is not a promise of material wealth, but rather the fulfillment of God’s purpose for our lives. We will grow into Christlikeness, glorify God, and make a positive impact on His kingdom. God uses His Scripture to accomplish this.

I want my life to “prosper” in that way, what about you? If so, let’s foster a delight in His Word and learn to meditate on it.

What is biblical meditation?

True biblical mediation is NOT anything like the meditation of Eastern religions and mysticism. The goal of Eastern meditation is to empty the mind of conscious thought. When a Christian mediates on Scripture, her goal is to fill her mind with spiritual truth in order to better understand it, apply it, and be transformed by it.

The Hebrew word translated as “meditate” in Psalm 1:2 means “to ponder, give serious thought to, review, consider.” We meditate by deeply contemplating the truth taught in a Scripture passage. We can reflect on it, think it through, journal about it, talk to others about it. We can thoroughly inspect a passage from every angle to discover everything God has for us within it. (See also this post on 5 reasons to meditate.)

If we want God’s Word to do its best and most comprehensive work in us, we must meditate on Scripture. Like tough meat requires low, slow heat to tenderize it, we stubborn humans need to ruminate on the rich truths of God’s Word in order to get the most life-changing benefits.

Some of this we can do during our formal, structured time in God’s Word. And some we can do throughout the day as our mind returns to those truths again and again.

One simple tool to help us mediate on Scripture

Start by thoroughly observing the passage to see what it says. (See “Helpful Characteristics of Good Bible Observation.”) One of the best ways to meditate on Scripture is to ask questions of a verse or passage that particularly impacted you as you read. Linger over that verse or verses and ask God questions. “Listen” for His answers and record what He says in a journal. Below are five “starter” categories you can ask of the passage as you meditate on it. These five categories of questions form the acronym PROBE:

1. Pray – How can I use this Scripture to pray for myself? Others? (See also “The 5 Ps of the Lord’s Prayer.”)
2. Repent – What sin or area of disobedience does this Scripture call to mind of which I need to repent?
3. Obey – Does this Scripture point out decisions I need to make? Directions I need to follow? Commandments I need to obey?
4. Believe – What does this Scripture teach about God’s character, nature, or ways? About the nature of man? The way of salvation? (See also “10 Observation Tips for Better Bible Study.“)
5. Express – In what ways does this Scripture prompt praise or thanksgiving?

Feel free to print the PROBE meditation sheet for future use!

This is just the beginning. The Bible tells us we can mediate on God’s Word “day and night.” Those moments we spend with the printed Word in front of us, plants it in our hearts and minds so we can turn our thoughts back to it again and again throughout the day. We can speak it to ourselves and talk about it to others.

What are the results of biblical meditation?

As we consistently and constantly meditate on the truth of God’s Word, we will not remain the same. God will use His truth to transform, use, and bless us! (Also see “4 Ways You Can Apply Scripture to Your Life.“)

Oh, the joys of those who do not follow the advice of the wicked, or stand around with sinners, or join in with mockers. But they delight in the law of the Lord, meditating on it day and night. They are like trees planted along the riverbank, bearing fruit each season. Their leaves never wither, and they prosper in all they do. Psalm 1:1-3, NLT

Let’s talk: Have you ever spent time meditating on Scripture? If so, what tools or helps have you used?

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