Our Forty Day Adventure

Today is the first day of a 40-day adventure.  No, this adventure is not about a mission trip to Haiti or a hike down the Appalachian Trail.  This 40-day adventure is a time set aside to discover more about the Lord and to learn, specifically, how to listen when He speaks and how to hear His voice.

That’s right, it’s my desire during this adventure to draw closer to the Lord than I’ve ever been before and to learn to hear His voice. I’m not talking about hearing Him speak to me through His Word, which is wonderful.  But I long for something more personal, more intimate.  I long to hear Him speak to me like He has others in Scripture, and as He has also done for me several times in the past.  In fact, those times of hearing His voice are some of the high points in my spiritual life.

Learning How to Hear His Voice

I know what many of you may be thinking.

“Oh, here we go again.  It looks like somebody else wants to move beyond the sufficiency of Scripture.  I guess Scripture’s not enough for Steve and now He wants more than God has already provided for him.  Maybe he wants an encounter like the one described in The Shack?  Or maybe he wants to hear God speak like Sarah Young claims in Jesus Calling or something like that?  Doesn’t he know that God only speaks today through His Word?”

No, I don’t know that.  In fact, I see many places in Scripture where God speaks to His children in other ways than through the Scriptures.  Let me give you a few examples.

The Damascus Road

In Acts 9, we find Jesus verbally speaking to Paul on the Damascus Road.  It wasn’t just a command or some proclamation declared from heaven.  It was a conversation where both He and Paul spoke to each other.  And in this conversation, Jesus did not limit Himself to speaking only through the written Word, which for Paul would have been the Old Testament.  Instead, He verbally communicated His personal message and will to Paul.  And that personal message could not be found from reading, for example, the Psalms or Isaiah.

Acts 9:4-6 – Then he fell to the ground, and heard a voice saying to him, “Saul, Saul, why are you persecuting Me?” And he said, “Who are You, Lord?” Then the Lord said, “I am Jesus, whom you are persecuting.  It is hard for you to kick against the goads.” So he, trembling and astonished, said, “Lord, what do You want me to do?” Then the Lord said to him, “Arise and go into the city, and you will be told what you must do.”

“Got it,” you say. “But that’s the apostle Paul.  He was an apostle and could, therefore, hear God speak to him verbally in ways He doesn’t do today, to anybody, ever.  You and I are not apostles.  We don’t even have apostles anymore.  So how God spoke to Paul back then was just for Paul— and not for us today.”

Really?  So how do we explain God speaking, just a few verses later, to a non-apostle named Ananias?  He was not an apostle like Paul.  He was just a faithful disciple of Jesus who lived in Damascus that God had chosen for a specific task.  And how was Ananias to know what specific task God had in store for him unless, somehow and in some way, God spoke to him personally?

Ananias

The Scriptures say God spoke to Ananias in a vision (Acts 9:10).  Yet it was more than a dream or vision, it was actually a conversation.  God spoke, and Ananias responded.  God gave a command, and Ananias had some questions about God’s command.  Then God answered those questions and sent Ananias on his way.  Watch the give and take of this conversation.

Acts 9:10-16 – Now there was a certain disciple at Damascus named Ananias, and to him the Lord said in a vision, “Ananias.” And he said, “Here I am, Lord.” So the Lord said to him, “Arise and go to the street called Straight, and inquire at the house of Judas for one called Saul of Tarsus, for behold, he is praying.  And in a vision, he has seen a man named Ananias coming in and putting his hand on him, so that he might receive his sight.”

Then Ananias answered, “Lord, I have heard from many about this man, how much harm he has done to Your saints in Jerusalem.  And here he has authority from the chief priests to bind all who call on Your name.” But the Lord said to him, “Go, for he is a chosen vessel of Mine to bear My name before Gentiles, kings, and the children of Israel.  For I will show him how many things he must suffer for My name’s sake.”

More Than a Daily Devotion

This conversation did not happen from Ananias reading the Old Testament during his time of daily devotions.  This was a verbal communication from God that gave direction, instruction, and explanation to a human being and occurred outside of His written Word.  It was personal, meant only for Ananias, and communicated God’s direct will to one of His children.  Not to each of us, but only to Ananias.

That’s what I’m striving for over the next 40 days.  I want my relationship to be so close to the Lord that when He speaks, I will hear and listen.  And I want to know His voice so well, like a child does his mother’s, that I won’t make the mistake of confusing His voice with my own.

Words of Encouragement

But there’s more.  In the very next chapter, we find God speaking to Peter regarding a vision he had about whether he should eat ceremonially unclean animals.  Again, this is a conversation between Peter and the Lord. It’s not Peter coming to this conclusion by reading Leviticus or Deuteronomy or some other Old Testament text and gleaning principles from them to help him make up his mind. It’s a direct conversation between God and a human being.  God gives a command and Peter responds with an objection.  Then God gives another command and addresses Peter’s objection.  Plus, the text says God had to do this three times.  Read it for yourself.

Acts 10:12-16 – In it were all kinds of four-footed animals of the earth, wild beasts, creeping things, and birds of the air.  And a voice came to him, “Rise, Peter; kill and eat.” But Peter said, “Not so, Lord!  For I have never eaten anything common or unclean.” And a voice spoke to him again the second time, “What God has cleansed you must not call common.” This was done three times.  And the object was taken up into heaven again.

Still Not Convinced?

But some may still be unconvinced that God can, and desires, to speak to us personally and directly and not necessarily always through His written Word.  After all, He is God and can do whatever He wants (Psalm 115:3).  And if it is possible to learn how to hear His voice, it seems that it should be right at the top of our to-do list.  But often it’s not.  So what do we do?

Often, when we read accounts like the one above with Peter, sometimes we conclude these encounters with God were in a dream state or vision or an early morning stupor and not a direct conversation, from lips to ears, between God and a human being. It’s true that often, in Scripture, God speaks in a dream or through a vision.  But that’s not always the case.  Consider how Jesus encouraged Paul in Acts 23.  This was a personal, intimate, one-on-one message of encouragement that was not revealed through a dream and was meant for Paul alone.  In fact, the text says the “Lord stood by him” when He spoke.

Acts 23:11 – But the following night the Lord stood by him and said, “Be of good cheer, Paul; for as you have testified for Me in Jerusalem, so you must also bear witness at Rome.”

This was not a message Paul received from reading Proverbs or the creation account in Genesis.  It was a direct, personal word from the lips of the Lord to Paul.  And it shows that sometimes God speaks to us about specific needs that we have outside of, or in addition to, His Word.  It doesn’t mean God ever violates His Word or contradicts His Word, but sometimes He speaks to each of us outside of and in cooperation with His Word.

It appears the Lord has more tools in His tool belt than we allow Him to use.

Seems Logical

Think about it, you have a decision to make about taking a job offer.  Should you stay and accept the offer at Bank of America in Charlotte, North Carolina, or should you move and accept a competing offer with Capital One in McLean, Virginia?  You don’t know what to do so, as a Christian who desires to be in the center of God’s will, you ask God to tell you what offer He wants you to take.  Not to give you wisdom so you can make the decision based on salary incentives and benefits, or the relative cost of living in each area, or maybe the availability of affordable housing, and the professional growth potential each position offers— but to tell you specifically what offer He wants you to accept.

How does God do that through the Old or New Testament?  How does He communicate His desire directly to you?  Is there any verse, or passage, or story that specifically reveals to you the answer God has for you regarding the move?

Probably not.  Now there are principles in the Scriptures that may guide you in making the decision.  And there may be passages that talk about the wisdom God gives you to help you decide your future.  But for those of us who want a deeper intimacy with the Lord, we hunger for more.  I want to know exactly, precisely, specifically what God’s will is for my life and I believe I can know that best from His lips alone.  How?  Through the Scriptures?  Absolutely.  But also by His direct communication— in whatever manner He chooses to reveal Himself to me.

Because I can’t think of a particular passage in Ezekiel or Amos or 1 Corinthians that will tell me to either stay in Charlotte or move to Virginia.  Can you?

To Hear His Voice

My desire during this 40-day adventure is to learn to hear God’s voice on an ongoing basis.  Not every once in a while, but daily, hour by hour, much like a loving son longs to hear soothing words from his father. I’ve heard Him speak to me in the past, and these times have become cherished memories.  But I’m tired of living on the memories of good times, long past.  I hunger for more.  And I believe the default position for the Christian is for our Father to speak clearly to us as He has to others in His Word, and for each of us to be able to hear and understand what He is saying.

I believe we should be able to ask Him questions and receive from Him answers, much like the disciples did of Jesus.  It was natural for the disciples to ask Jesus a question and expect an answer.  Why should we expect otherwise?  After all, Jesus gave us “another (állos) Helper, that He may abide with you forever” (John 14:16).  And this “another (állos) Helper” is the Holy Spirit, who is just like Jesus.

But that’s something we’ll look at tomorrow.

If you’re so inclined, join with me and let’s discover together what God wants to do during this 40-day adventure with Him.  Hop on board.  It should be quite a ride.

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Other Resources:

The Higher Christian Life
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Faith Prepper

How to Meditate on God’s Word

Biblical Meditation is a spiritual practice that involves deeply focusing on a specific subject, text, or verse in Scripture to gain a greater understanding and personal connection to what the Lord is trying to say to us.  This practice allows us to grow closer to Him in ways we may have never discovered before.  And this spiritual practice has been used for centuries by great Christian leaders such as Oswald Chambers, Charles Spurgeon, George Muller, Amy Carmichael, and Dietrich Bonhoeffer. So, it seems we are in very good company.

While reading is a valuable tool for gathering information and familiarizing yourself with a text, meditation goes beyond surface-level comprehension to engage with the deeper meanings and personal applications of God’s Word.  When meditating on Scripture, the goal is not merely to acquire knowledge but to internalize His teachings, allowing them to shape our character and guide our actions.

Meditating vs Reading or Studying

Meditating on Scripture differs from simply reading in several ways:

Depth of focus:  While reading, we might be tempted to quickly move from one verse or passage to another, often seeking to cover as much material as possible.  In contrast, meditation involves a more focused and deliberate approach, concentrating on a specific verse or passage to uncover all it has to say to us.

Personal application:  Reading Scripture might provide an intellectual understanding of the text, but meditation seeks to go beyond understanding to apply the teachings to our life.  This involves reflecting on how the Scripture relates to our experiences, challenges, and spiritual growth, and determining our specific actions to implement its teachings.

Prolonged engagement:  Meditation requires spending an extended amount of time with a particular verse or passage.  This may involve reading and re-reading the text, pondering its meaning, and praying for guidance and understanding.  This extended engagement allows the Scripture to take root in our heart and mind, fostering a more profound and lasting impact.

Prayerful approach:  When meditating on Scripture, prayer plays a vital role in inviting the Holy Spirit to guide our understanding and application of the text.  This prayerful approach acknowledges that true wisdom and insight come from God and deepens our connection with Him.

Seven Steps to Biblical Meditation

Here are seven practical steps to learn how to meditate on God’s Word (we will present these in outline form):

1.  Choose a Passage or Verse:  Selecting a Scripture that speaks to your heart or relates to a specific area in your life is important for focused meditation.  Here are some suggestions for choosing a passage:

a.  Follow a Bible reading plan:  Many Bible reading plans can guide you through the entire Bible or specific themes over a set period.  Following a plan can expose you to various scriptures and provide a structure for meditation.

b.  Use a devotional:  Devotionals often provide a daily or weekly scripture selection, accompanied by a brief commentary or reflection.  These can serve as an excellent starting point for your meditation.  I would suggest the classic, “My Utmost for His Highest” by Oswald Chambers.  You can find an online version of it at www.utmost.org.

c.  Seek Scriptures related to your current situation:  If you are experiencing challenges, search for Scriptures that address those issues, such as verses on faith during times of doubt, or verses on comfort during times of grief.

d.  Select verses that align with your spiritual goals:  If you aim to grow in a specific aspect of your faith, choose Scriptures that encourage that growth, such as verses on forgiveness, love, or patience.

e.  Explore the teachings of Jesus:  The Gospels are filled with the teachings and parables of Jesus, which can provide profound insights for meditation and reflection.

2.  Pray for Guidance:  Before you begin, pray for the Holy Spirit to guide you in understanding the chosen passage.  Proverbs 3:5-6 states, “Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct your paths.”  Prayer is essential when meditating on God’s Word, as it opens our hearts and minds to the Holy Spirit’s guidance.  Here are some suggestions for prayer:

a.  Begin with gratitude:  Start your prayer by thanking God for the gift of His Word and the opportunity to learn from it.

b.  Ask for understanding:  Request that the Holy Spirit grants you wisdom and discernment as you read and meditate on the chosen scripture.  Proverbs 2:6 reminds us, “For the Lord gives wisdom; from His mouth come knowledge and understanding.”

c.  Seek personal application:  Pray for guidance in applying the teachings of the scripture to your life.  James 1:22 encourages us, “But be doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving yourselves.”

d.  Pray for transformation:  Ask God to use His Word to transform your heart and mind, conforming you more closely to His image.  Romans 12:2 says, “And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what is that good and acceptable and perfect will of God.”  Remember, transformation to the image of Christ is the goal of Biblical meditation, and just about everything else in your spiritual life.

3.  Read and Re-read the Passage:  Read the selected Scripture slowly and intentionally, allowing the words to sink in.  And then re-read the passage multiple times to gain a deeper understanding.  Here are some suggestions for effectively reading and re-reading the passage:

a.  Read aloud:  Reading the passage aloud can help you focus on the words and their meaning, as well as create a more immersive experience.

b.  Use different translations:  Comparing multiple translations can provide fresh perspectives and clarity on the passage’s meaning.  Consider reading the passage in a few translations other than the New King James Version (NKJV), such as the New International Version (NIV), English Standard Version (ESV), or New American Standard Bible (NASB).  The Bibles listed above are all in the top ten most read in the US.

c.  Break the passage into smaller sections:  Divide the passage into smaller sections or individual verses, and focus on one section at a time, or one verse at a time.  This can help you delve deeper into the meaning of each part of the Scripture and not get overwhelmed.

d.  Notice keywords and phrases:  As you re-read the passage, take note of recurring words or phrases, as they can reveal key themes and messages.  Look for the small words, for they often pack the most meaning.

4.  Reflect and Ponder:  Consider the meaning and implications of the passage in your life.  Joshua 1:8 tells us, “This Book of the Law shall not depart from your mouth, but you shall meditate in it day and night, that you may observe to do according to all that is written in it.”  Note, you shall not read it day and night, but meditate in it.  There must be something to this time-honored spiritual discipline.  Here are some ways to reflect and ponder on the Scripture:

a.  Ask questions:  As you read, ask yourself questions about the passage, such as “What is the main message?” or “How does this apply to my life?”  Remember, all Scripture is given for you to grow in your faith and become the man or woman of God He intended you to be. (2 Tim. 3:16-17).  So ask questions, fully expecting God to give you the answers.  Because He will.

b.  Consider historical and cultural context:  Gaining an understanding of the passage’s historical and cultural context can help you better grasp its meaning. Consult Bible commentaries, study notes, or other resources to learn more about the context in which the Scripture was written. You can utilize the free resources online at www.blueletterbible.org or consider purchasing deeper Bible study tools such as www.logos.com.

c.  Connect the passage to other Scriptures:  Look for connections to other parts of the Bible, as this can help you gain a broader understanding of the passage and its themes.  Cross-references and study notes can be helpful in identifying these connections.  A Thompson Chain-Letter Reference Bible can be an invaluable resource for doing this.

d.  Meditate on specific words or phrases:  If a particular word or phrase stands out to you, spend time meditating on its meaning and significance.  Consider how it relates to the overall message of the passage and how it might apply to your life.

5.  Write Down Your Thoughts and Discoveries:  Write down your thoughts, insights, and any questions that arise during meditation.  This will help you process and remember what you’ve learned.  Here are some suggestions for doing just that:

a.  Summarize the passage:  Write a brief summary of the chosen scripture to help solidify your understanding of its main message.  Put this in your own words.

b.  Record personal insights:  Jot down any insights, revelations, or personal connections you make during your meditation.  You may want to put these in the margins of your Bible, along with the date, so you can go back later and see how you’ve grown in your relationship with the Lord.

c.  List questions and areas for further study:  Note any questions or areas you’d like to explore further, either through personal study or with a spiritual mentor.  And then make it a priority to find the answers to your questions before moving on to another topic.

d.  Write a prayer:  Express your gratitude, requests for guidance, and commitment to applying the passage to your life through a written prayer.

6.  Apply the Scripture to Your Life:  Consider how the passage can be implemented in your daily life, and make a commitment to put it into practice.  This is where transformation takes place. Here are some ways to apply the passage:

a.  Identify specific actions:  Determine concrete actions you can take to implement the Scripture’s teachings in your life.  And then don’t let the sun go down until you have taken actions to align your life with the truths that have been revealed to you.  To quote Nike:  Just Do It!

b.  Set goals and create a plan:  Establish spiritual goals based on the passage and develop a plan to achieve them.  This may include daily habits, accountability partners, or other strategies to help you stay on track.  If you drop the ball at this point, your meditation becomes simply intellectual learning and not life transforming.

c.  Reflect on progress:  Regularly assess your progress in applying the Scripture to your life, and make adjustments as needed to stay aligned with your spiritual goals.  Do this often, even daily.

d.  Pray for perseverance:  Ask God for strength and perseverance as you strive to live out the teachings of the passage.  If you ask, He will provide.  But He does require us to ask.

7.  Share What You Have Learned (Your Transformation):  Discuss your meditation experience with a trusted friend or spiritual mentor to gain additional insights and encouragement.  And then share it with other believers in a small group setting or at church.  Be an encouragement to others as they see your determination and progress.  Here are some suggestions for sharing your insights:

a.  Join a small group or Bible study:  Engaging in regular fellowship with others who are also committed to spiritual growth can provide a supportive environment for discussing your meditation experiences.  This is one of the greatest blessings that comes from being involved in a home Bible study, separate from Sunday School or church services.  Make this a priority.

b.  Seek out a spiritual mentor:  Find a mature Christian who can provide guidance, wisdom, and encouragement as you share your insights and spiritual journey.  Remember, it is not the mature Christian’s responsibility to seek you out; it is your responsibility to seek them.  So take this to heart and make the first move by seeking them out.

c.  Share your experience with a friend:  Discussing your meditation experience with a friend can lead to deeper conversations and strengthen your relationship.  It’s always good to have someone in your corner, cheering you on as you grow closer to the Lord

d.  Testify to God’s work in your life:  Share your insights and the impact of meditating on God’s Word with your faith community, giving glory to God for the work He is doing in your life.  If they can see your transformation, which they should, they will want to know more about it.  So give God glory by telling others what He has done in your life.

Summary

In conclusion, meditating on God’s Word is an invaluable spiritual practice that allows us to draw closer to our Heavenly Father and grow in all aspects of our faith.  By intentionally and prayerfully meditating on Scripture, we can uncover deeper meanings, apply God’s truth to our lives, and experience the transformative power of His Word like never before.  And we will learn to hear His voice in the process.

I encourage each of you to make meditating on God’s Word a priority in your spiritual journey.   Set aside dedicated time each day to immerse yourself in Scripture, selecting passages and verses that resonate with your heart and speak to your current circumstances.  Engage in prayerful reflection and meditation, inviting the Holy Spirit to guide your understanding and reveal the personal applications of God’s truth.

Remember, the ultimate goal of meditating on God’s Word is not merely to gain knowledge, but to cultivate a deeper, more intimate relationship with our Creator.  As we meditate on Scripture, let us allow it to transform our hearts, renew our minds, and conform our lives to the mind and image of Christ (1 Cor. 2:16).

And let us take to heart the words of Psalm 119:105, which says, “Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.”  May God’s Word continually illuminate our path, guiding us in our walk with Him and equipping us to be a light in this world.  May we delight in God’s Word and meditate on it day and night, finding strength, wisdom, and encouragement in its pages.  Together, let’s embrace the life-changing power of meditating on God’s Word and experience the abundant blessings it brings to our spiritual lives.  And let’s be transformed into His likeness (Rom. 12:2).

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Other Resources:

The Higher Christian Life
Small Time Pastor
Faith Prepper

Why Should We Meditate on God’s Word?

As you know, the Bible is God’s Word and provides for us His wisdom, insight, and guidance for our lives. While reading the Bible is an essential part of our spiritual growth (along with prayer and worship), meditating on God’s Word takes our understanding to a much deeper level. Today, we will explore the advantages of meditating on God’s Word as compared to just reading it, and highlight the benefits of this spiritual discipline.

Advantages of Meditating on God’s Word

Meditating on God’s Word involves taking time to reflect, ponder, and internalize what we read in the Bible. It’s like Bible study on steroids, with no time limit. You can take as long as you want to squeeze everything out of a particular passage or truth, without feeling guilty or pressure to continue. It is not like reading, which is intellectual in nature. No, meditation is contemplative and affects the deeper part of you, the spiritual part.

In the Old Testament, the Hebrew word for meditate, as found in Joshua 1:8, is hāg̱āh which means “to groan, growl, muse, ponder, or to reflect deeply on something.” And in the New Testament, the Greek word for meditate, taken from Philippians 4:8, is logízomai and means “to ponder, to reflect, to reason, to impute, calculate, or reckon,” which is far more involved than simply reading.

Remember, God commands us to internalize His Word by meditating on it and not by just casually reading it (Jos. 1:8). So there must be something to it. Meditating on Scripture offers us several benefits that go beyond reading alone. Let’s look at just a few.

We Gain a Deeper Understanding of God’s Word and Ourselves

First and obviously, meditation helps us to gain a deeper understanding of God’s Word. It enables us to contemplate the meaning of the text and how it applies to our lives. This, in turn, helps us to grow in wisdom, knowledge, and spiritual maturity. When we read the Bible, we are primarily focused on gathering information and knowledge. We may learn about the history of God’s people, the teachings of Jesus, and the promises of God. However, when we meditate on these same truths, we move beyond gathering information and seek to understand the meaning of the text and how it applies to our lives. We are seeking something more than history or doctrine. We are seeking transformation.

Meditation involves reflecting on the words of Scripture, even the small ones, and considering their context and significance as we seek to understand their deeper meaning. As we meditate on God’s Word, we gain insight into the character and personality of God, His plan for our lives, and His will for the future. We come to understand the significance of Jesus’ life, death, and resurrection and how it impacts our lives more than we ever could by just reading. It’s like we no longer “see in a mirror dimly,” but finally “face to face” (1 Cor. 13:12). And nothing can help you experience His Word quicker than meditation.

Meditation also allows us to explore the amazing nuances of Scripture. It helps us understand how different passages relate to each other and how they all fit into the broader narrative of the Bible. For example, we may read a passage about forgiveness and understand the concept on an intellectual level. Maybe we have experienced forgiveness in our own lives. However, through meditation, we can come to understand the depth of God’s forgiveness, what it truly costs Him, and how it applies to our lives in a practical way previously unknown to us. We can almost feel the pain and joy forgiveness brings. Biblical meditation opens up the floodgates of intimacy with God in ways difficult to describe. You’ll simply have to experience it yourself.

Through meditation, we also gain a deeper insight into ourselves, our hidden sins, our unforgiveness, and our deception. As we reflect on God’s Word, we see ourselves in light of His truth and come to understand our strengths, weaknesses, and areas of growth. We may be challenged to confront our sin and seek forgiveness or to cultivate a particular virtue or character trait. Our lives are open before Him, exposed to His truth in ways that demand a change in us. And change is good, especially if it brings us closer to being like our Lord.

We Have a Deeper Desire and Ability to Memorize Scripture

The second advantage of meditating on God’s Word is that it helps us to memorize scripture. As we meditate on the text, we repeat it to ourselves and ponder its meaning, allowing it to take root in our hearts and minds. This, in turn, makes it easier to recall in times of need.

Memorizing scripture is essential for spiritual growth and is particularly helpful when facing challenges or temptations (Ps. 119:11). In times of stress or uncertainty, we may feel overwhelmed and unsure of what to do. However, if we have stored God’s Word in our hearts and minds, we can draw on it for guidance and comfort.

For example, if we are facing a difficult financial decision, especially during these troubling times, we can recall from memory the words of Jesus in Matthew 6:33, “But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added to you.” This verse reminds us to seek God’s will above all else and trust that He will provide for our needs, no matter how big or insurmountable they may seem. Remember, in context, when Jesus said that “all these things shall be added to you,” He is talking about everything we worry about, food, clothing, housing, how we are going to live, etc., and He gives us clear instructions on how to trust Him for everything. If you meditate on this truth, it will change the way you view the future. But don’t take my word for it, try it for yourself.

Similarly, if we are struggling with fear or anxiety about an uncertain future, we can recall from memory, 24/7, the familiar words of Psalm 23:4, “Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil; (why) for You are with me; Your rod and Your staff, they comfort me.” This verse reminds us that God is with us even in the darkest times and always offers comfort and strength to His children. And this truth alone should put a smile on our face.

Furthermore, memorizing Scripture helps us to internalize God’s Word and apply it to our lives. As we store it in our hearts and minds, it becomes a part of who we are, shaping our thoughts, attitudes, and behavior. We become more like Christ, we have our mind renewed by His Word (Rom. 12:2), and we find ourselves thinking like Jesus (1 Cor. 2:16). This, in turn, leads to spiritual growth and transformation. And even if we are unaware of it, transformation is what we are looking for the most.

Meditation Leads to Transformation

Finally, meditation on God’s Word leads to transformation. As we meditate on God’s Word, we allow it to shape our thoughts, attitudes, and behavior. This leads to spiritual growth and a closer relationship with God. Through meditation, we become more like Christ, reflecting His character in our lives.

How is that done, specifically?

When we meditate on God’s Word, we are intentionally focusing on its meaning, significance, and implication for our lives. This practice of meditation leads to transformation in several ways.

First, biblical meditation allows us to understand God’s will for our lives. As we reflect on the words of Scripture, we gain insight into God’s character, His plan for salvation, and how we should live as His followers. We are challenged to confront our sin and seek forgiveness, to cultivate virtues such as love, kindness, and compassion, and to prioritize our relationship with God above all else. This understanding of God’s will leads to transformation as we align our lives with His truth and seek to follow His guidance.

Second, Biblical meditation allows us to internalize God’s Word. As we meditate on Scripture, we store it in our hearts and minds, making it a part of who we are. This internalization of God’s Word shapes our thoughts, attitudes, and behavior, leading to spiritual growth and transformation. We begin to see the world through the lens of God’s truth, and we are better equipped to make decisions and respond to challenges in a way that pleases Him.

Third, Biblical meditation leads to a closer relationship with God. Always. It’s a given. As we meditate on God’s Word, we draw closer to Him and experience His presence and guidance in a deeper way than we may have ever done before. Our hearts become aligned with His will, and we begin to reflect His character in our lives. We become more like Christ, growing in humility, love, and compassion, and reflecting His grace and truth to those around us.

This is why it is called a transformation, for that is exactly what it is. We become less. He becomes more. And the whole world will see the change we have allowed Christ, through His Word, to make in us.

Summary

Meditating on God’s Word is a powerful, time-honored spiritual practice that offers amazing benefits for our growth and spiritual transformation as followers of Christ. But it takes time. This is not a sprint, but a marathon. By taking time to reflect on the words of scripture, we deepen our understanding of God’s Word, naturally memorize key verses, and allow God’s Word to transform us from the inside out. Through meditation, we draw closer to God, experience greater peace and joy, and are better equipped to resist temptation. While reading the Bible is an essential part of our spiritual growth, meditating on it takes us deeper, transforming our hearts and minds and bringing us into a closer relationship with God.

And isn’t that what we are all striving for? To be more like Christ? So again, don’t take my word for it. Try it yourself. And to help you do just that, next time I will give you some practical steps to help you meditate on His Word and reap the amazing benefits that come with it.

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Faith Prepper

What Does it Mean to Live by Faith?

As we strive to become more of a faith prepper, we know the most important thing we can do is learn to live by faith, and not just give faith lip service.  After all, the single verse that changed Martin Luther’s life and led to the Reformation was Romans 1:17, which states, “The just shall live by faith.”  We focus on the “just’ and “faith” aspect of this passage.  But what about “live”?  How do we “live by faith”?

The answer is simple.  To live by faith, we have to trust our Lord in everything, in every aspect of our life, and not just in the areas we can’t seem to take care of ourselves.  God is not our co-pilot or a genie in a bottle.  We have to accept and live as if we truly believe what the Lord says about His Word and our relationship with Him.  And when we begin to understand that relationship, from a Biblical perspective, we may find ourselves surprised at how much we have missed the mark and fallen for something our pride demands and not what the Word reveals.

Let me give you one example (we’ll look at more in the days to come).

Crucified with Christ

One of the hallmark truths of the Higher Christian Life is found in Galatians 2:20. This powerful verse says:

“I have been crucified with Christ; it is no longer I who live, but Christ lives in me; and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave Himself for me.”

I know you are probably familiar with this passage and may have memorized it at Vacation Bible School many years ago.  But often familiarity breeds contempt.  And many times we fail to understand a passage because we already think we know what it says and have become comfortable with our own interpretation.  This verse is no exception.  But what does it actually say?  And what does it mean?

Clearly, Galatians 2:20 states we have been (past tense) “crucified with Christ” and have experienced, at least spiritually, the death of our flesh.  He died and, therefore, we died with Him.  And He rose again and, therefore, we are “born again” (John 3:3).  This is not a new truth.  In fact, we affirm this every time we baptize someone.  Remember what is spoken?  They talk about being dead and buried with Christ (as the person is submerged into the water), and then raised to a newness of life in Him (as they are brought back up).  The imagery is of the death, burial, and resurrection of Christ that is now applied to us as we are “born again” in His image.  Do you see Galatians 2:20 portrayed in this?

But it goes on and addresses the practical side of salvation.  Since we have been “crucified with Christ” we now no longer have a life of our own, but it belongs to Christ who now lives in us.  Read it carefully.  Slowly.  And let each word speak truth about our dependent relationship with Him.

“I have been crucified with Christ; (therefore) it is no longer I who live, (so who now lives in my place?) but Christ lives in me.”

Or, as Colossians 3:3 says so emphatically, “For you died, and your life is hidden with Christ in God.”  This is the perfect description of what it means to be “in Christ,” which is a phrase used in the New Testament over 85 times, so it must be an important concept for us to understand.

Christ Lives in Me

So I have died with Him, or I am now identified with His death.  This is a vital concept to grasp in understanding the breadth of our salvation.  And since I have died, like He died, the living part of me does not live for its own glory or purpose or benefit.  No, “it is no longer I who live, but Christ lives in me.”  The breath I take, the thoughts I think, the decisions I make, the essence of who I am in my own eyes has now died in order for a greater good to redeem and take control of what I once was.

It is called the Great Exchange.  I give all that I am (broken, sinful, plagued by pride and selfishness, and unable to stand in the presence of a holy God because of my iniquity, unrighteousness, and lack of holiness), and I receive by grace, as an underserved gift, all that Christ is (holy, blameless, perfect, complete, and righteous).  And now, because of this exchange and His death on the cross, which paid the penalty for my sins, I no longer fear God, but have bold access to His throne (Heb. 4:16), where I find grace, mercy, love, and forgiveness, and where God no longer holds my sins against me because when He sees me, He no longer sees my unrighteousness, but the imputed righteousness of His Son given to me (2 Cor. 5:21).  When God sees me, He sees His Son.

Does it get any better than this?  I think not.

But the conditions of this Great Exchange are determined by God and they are, like most things with Him, all or nothing.  God does not promise to make us better.  He promises to put us to death and then raise us up in the image of His Son.  Let that sink in for a moment.  There is nothing in our life God wants to upload into the new creation He makes in us (2 Cor. 5:17).  Nothing.  He starts with a clean slate, a fresh beginning.  Therefore, our flesh, and all that word entails, must be put to death in order for Christ to live His life in us.  Light and darkness cannot co-exist.  Why?  Because darkness hates the light, for light exposes its evil deeds (John 3:19-21).

The more we die to ourselves, the more He lives in us.  And the more we hold on to what we want or what our flesh craves, the more we grieve the spirit (Eph. 4:30) and live a life of spiritual defeat, shame, and lukewarmness (Rev. 3:16).  And there is no victory in living a life of compromise, of hedging our bet, of having a Plan B, or a lack of commitment.  Heroes are not made by compromise, but by total abandonment to something greater than themselves.  And for us, that something is Christ.

Where the Rubber Meets the Road

So how does this play out in real life?  Just like it plays out in every aspect of life, by faith and commitment.  Or, as Yoda said, “You do, or you don’t do, there is no try.”  Victory is all or nothing.  In or out.  Hot or cold, with nothing in between.  That is the only way to experience victory in our spiritual life.

Let’s close by looking at the practical side of Galatians 2:20.

“and the life which I now live in the flesh (after I have been crucified with Christ and He now lives in me) I live (how) by faith in (what) the Son of God, who loved me and gave Himself for me.”

There is really not much more to add to what this truth already says.  The life we live now, today, in the flesh, we live by faith (trust, confidence, assurance) in Christ, the Son of God.  Not faith in our ability to will ourselves, by sheer determination, to do good things.  Not faith in the innate goodness in our hearts, no matter what Disney might say (Jer. 17:9).  And not faith that God will judge on a sliding scale and measure our good stuff against our bad stuff and be pleased that His child scored a C- on our final report card.  As if He gave us the Holy Spirit to help us barely pass.

No.  It is faith in Christ Jesus, the Son of God.  It is faith in His promises that all (that’s you and me) who the Father gives Him will come to Him (John 6:37), and that no one can snatch us out of His hand (John 10:28-29).  It’s faith in the character of God.  That He is longsuffering, loving, patient and kind, and not willing for any to perish, but all to come to repentance and eternal life (2 Pet. 3:9).  And faith in His Word, that it means what it says and our life should line up to its truth, and not what we conceive in our minds or what we want it to say.

And this faith cannot be in words only or simply mental assent to this truth.  Faith must be acted upon.  It must be exercised and lived out in real-time.  And it has to be tested to grow strong.  But God has not left us alone, as orphans, to live this life of faith (John 14:18).  No, He has given us Himself, in the person of the Holy Spirit, to live the life of Christ in us.  And we will explore the Spirit’s role in our life of faith next.  So stay tuned.

Remember, “the just shall live by faith” (Rom. 1:17).   And so can you.

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Faith Prepper

What Does it Mean to Surrender to Him?

To totally surrender to the Lord means to surrender your entire self, including your thoughts, desires, and actions, to God by recognizing and acknowledging His sovereignty and trusting in His plan for your life.  It involves letting go of control and submitting to God’s will, as well as striving to daily live in obedience to His teachings and commands.  And make no mistake, it is a very hard thing to do and can only be done by faith.

After all, it takes faith to truly surrender to God and accept that He knows what’s best for you and has your best interests at heart.  Therefore, surrendering means you must let go of all doubts, anxieties, and fears in order to trust Him fully.  And that, for many, is a difficult thing to do.  It requires you to put aside your ego and pride (which is difficult), and to trust in God that you cannot see or fully understand (which is even more difficult).

That is why total surrender is an act of faith.  It requires humility and understanding that God is sovereign— He creates, sustains, and ultimately controls all things, even you. This means that no matter how bad things seem, you know God will not abandon you during your trials (Heb. 13:5), and He will always be with you, no matter what (Matt. 28:20).  All you have to do is cry out for His help and strength, and He will give you the courage, hope, and grace you need, even in your darkest hour (Heb. 4:16).

In Scripture, Jesus often speaks about the need for complete surrender to His will.  When He says “Abide in me,” (John 15:4), Jesus is showing how you need to stay close to Him, connected to Him, by trusting His plan for your life as if you had no control over any of it whatsoever.  You are called not only to accept, but also embrace and delight in Him as your Lord and Savior; otherwise, nothing else matters, not even your own desires or ambitions.

Totally surrendering means tuning out the world’s voice (and your voice) and instead choosing to listen intently only to what God whispers within you— then choosing, often minute by minute, to live in obedience according to His commands.  His voice may call you toward what seems like darkness or difficulties, but it will eventually lead you towards everlasting light.  The journey itself might feel difficult at times, but when you rely on Him completely, knowing everything will turn out for your good in the end no matter how hard it gets along the way (Rom. 8:28)— that is true faith, inspired by the courage of Christ Himself, which proves invaluable when facing hardships like He did.

To surrender your life and will is to turn away from the world and its temptations, and instead focus on living a life full of faith in Jesus Christ.  It involves trusting that God has a plan for you that may not be immediately clear, but is ultimately for your best.

When you are willing to fully surrender your life and will to Him, you must come before God with an open heart and mind.  You must acknowledge that He knows more than you do; that His wisdom is greater than yours; and that His commands are above all else. This requires humility and a deep understanding of how much God loves you, even when His commands seem difficult or counter-intuitive.  You must also take time to quiet yourself before Him so that you can recognize the Holy Spirit’s promptings within you, which will guide you toward living out His will in the most meaningful way imaginable (Eph. 3:20-21).

How Can I Surrender My Life to Him?

Surrendering your life to Jesus means making Him the priority in all areas of your life.  This may seem daunting, but there are many practical ways you can cultivate this priority in your day-to-day routine.

First, establish a regular prayer and devotional time that is specifically set aside for speaking with God, studying His Word, and reflecting on His promises.  As you commit to spending intentional time in the presence of the Lord each day, you will grow more aware of how He wants you to live out your faith in every area of your life.  And you will learn to hear His voice.

Second, seek counsel from others who are further along the journey of surrender than you are. When you’re struggling with something and feel overwhelmed by your circumstances, it’s helpful to talk to someone who has already gone through what you’re experiencing.  Consider connecting with mentors for advice or join a Bible study group. This will provide an additional source of strength as you learn from those who have been down similar roads before you.  After all, there are no bragging rights for making the same mistake someone else did.  So learn from the victories and mistakes of others.

Third, put into practice what Jesus has taught you— even when it’s difficult or uncomfortable to do so. While it may be convenient to ignore some inconvenient truths laid out in Scripture, true surrender requires you to take up your cross daily and live according to His commands (Luke 9:23).  You must also be willing to practice love towards others even when they hurt you— as Jesus did when He was crucified for you on the cross— and serve selflessly with no expectation of reward or recognition here on earth (Matt. 5:44).

Fourth, you need to evaluate the content of your entertainment.  We all have down time where we relax and watch TV or scroll through our phones, but it’s important to make sure you’re not allowing the media to shape your mind in ways contrary to God’s will.  Instead, use that time to read books or listen to messages that challenge your faith and spur you on in living a life wholly surrendered to Jesus (Heb. 10:24).

Fifth, choose people who are also pursuing surrendering their lives to Jesus as companions and mentors.  Having a supportive group of like-minded individuals around you can help you stay focused on what truly matters— living a life devoted entirely to your Lord (Rom. 12:1-2).

Sixth, engage in consistent ministry and spiritual activities, such as serving those who are less fortunate than you and getting involved in local church initiatives.  As you put others first, just as Jesus did, you get a glimpse of how He wants you to live out your faith each day.  And this shows you that when you put Him first, He will take care of everything else (Matt. 6:33).

Seventh, be honest with God and practice personal confession.  You can’t expect to be surrendered to Jesus when you’re not willing to take responsibility for your shortcomings. When you confess your sins and admit the times you have fallen short, it allows you to forgive yourself and receive forgiveness and healing from God (1 John 1:9).

Finally, give thanks in all things.  When you make Jesus your priority, it becomes easier to recognize the blessings He has given you even in difficult times. This awareness helps you stay grounded in gratitude, which leads you closer in relationship with Him every day (Col. 4:2).

A life committed wholly to Jesus requires commitment because true discipleship follows none other than Him completely.  Ultimately, when you choose to surrender to God by turning away from distractions and submitting your entire life into Christ’s care, you are naturally reminded daily that Jesus is worth more than anything else you could ever desire or achieve.  And as long as you keep Him at the center of all things, nothing will stand in your way when striving for complete surrender.

So why don’t you surrender your life to Him now?

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Other Resources:

The Higher Christian Life
Small Time Pastor
Faith Prepper