To Ponder God

Once the human mind gains a measure of knowledge, it often becomes impressed with its achievement. This is as true in the spiritual realms as in other areas of life.

It is also tricky, because firmly-understood truth—which should be positive—becomes a foundation for well-defined mental precepts. And well-defined precepts could (not will, but could) become rigid, offensive dogmas.

Scripture says, Knowledge puffs up, but love builds up. The man who thinks he knows something does not yet know as he ought to know. (I Cor. 8:1b,2 NIV)

When people become rigid, they lose their desire to search—to think deeply or to meditate further. There is a danger of reducing everything to rules and regulations. And God cannot be defined by precepts, dogmas, or regulations.

A psalmist said, Great are the works of the Lord; they are pondered by all who delight in them. (Ps. 111:2)

To truly know God is to know He will never be fully known.

Originally published July 6, 1984.

Active Meditation

A psalmist wrote, Within your temple, O God, we meditate on your unfailing love. (Ps. 48:9 NIV)

The word meditate or meditation means different things to different people. Eastern religions promote passive meditation—emptying of the mind to receive outside impulses.

In contrast, Christian meditation is active. When we practice Christian meditation, nothing overrules our minds or our self-control. God never forces Himself.

Christian meditation could be defined as deep thought, studying, pondering, focused thinking—over an extended period of time.

But although Christian meditation is active, it is more than mental exercise. When we truly meditate, Scripture becomes personal. We may focus deeply on God—think deeply about any aspect of His person. We may have a specific question. We may become interested in a Biblical character. If, as a result of our thinking, God somehow reveals Himself so He is more real—more vital—we are meditating.

Originally published June 6, 1986.
Picture: Como Park Conservatory, St. Paul, 2009. Photo by Solveig.