Meditating on God's Word

Turn to Joshua 1

Reflecting on something, pondering on something

Ponder to stop and think

Thinking what to do

video of me pondering the flavor

No need to know what he is thinking.…

As we see in God’s word we’re going to look at Meditate . Now this is not some meditation on how the world looks at it but how God’s word looks at it .

When I look up to Meditate this is what I found as just doing a search .

To meditate, especially in the biblical sense,

means to deeply ponder (weighing its significance),

reflect upon,

internalize the truths of Scripture.

It involves focused and intentional engagement with God's Word

Thinking over,

Mulling,

Even quietly repeating it to yourself

All of this so it shapes your heart, mind, and actions. 

The world and Eastern religions on some forms of meditation

Emphasize emptying the mind,

seeking escape

transcendental meditation

TM is rooted in the broader, classical tradition of yoga

where yoga is understood as a path to union

specifically, the union of the individual mind with deeper, inner consciousness or being.

Need to be aware

biblical meditation is about filling your mind with God's truth, considering what it means, and letting it guide your life.

Read Joshua 1:8

Let us pray

Joshua 1:8

Joshua 1:8 NKJV

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. For then you will make your way prosperous, and then you will have good success.

There are other verses about meditating in the Bible .....

Psalm 4:4 Be angry, and do not sin. Meditate within your heart on your bed, and be still. Selah

Psalm 77:6 I call to remembrance my song in the night; I meditate within my heart, And my spirit makes diligent search.

Psalm 119:15 I will meditate on Your precepts, And contemplate Your ways.

Philippians 4:8 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.

So we are going to really try to understand what does it mean to meditate on God’s word

What Does It Mean to Meditate on God's Word?

Meditating on God's Word is more than just reading the Bible—it's about thinking deeply, reflecting, and letting God's truth sink into your heart and mind

When we meditate, we take time to focus on what God is saying, ask questions, and listen for His voice in our lives

The Bible encourages us to meditate "day and night," meaning we should let God's Word shape our thoughts, actions, and attitudes throughout the day

Why Should We Meditate on God's Word?

From the instructions that Joshua was given

How can Joshua align his conduct with Moses teaching

A document that according to Deuteronomy Moses wrote shortly before his death.

Moses instructed the Levite to place it besides the arc of the covenant has a witness against Israel dramatically pointing a finger at this book Yahweh urges Joshua so to speak to prove Moses wrong by engaging rather than ignoring it.

To not depart from your mouth means that the book is always to be in his mouth to be read aloud

At least and perhaps by implication talked about constantly or shaping all of one’s words.

The metaphor implies that Joshua should treat the book’s content as something to read in the hearing of others.

To be shared with the community rather than be hoarded to oneself.

Most important success will follow Joshua only if he meditates under law day and night.

To meditate under law probably means to murmur audibly while reading it.

We already imagined soft oral recitation or a quiet reading so intense as to produce audible whispering day and night is a Hebrew expression for always In any case the phrase implies eager focused study free of distractions

it is not enough simply to read it think about it or even talk about it Joshua must be careful to act on it to put Moses instruction into practice live it out and give it feet in the real world.

It helps us know God better: When we slow down and reflect on Scripture, we get to know who God is and what He desires for us

It transforms our thinking: Meditating on verses like Philippians 4:8 helps us replace negative thoughts with God's truth, bringing peace and hope even when Meditate on God's word we're stressed or overwhelmed

It guides our actions: As we soak in God's Word, it changes how we live, helping us make wise choices and treat others with love and respect

It brings success God's way: Joshua 1:8 promises that meditating on God's Word leads to a life that is prosperous and successful—not just by the world's standards, but in God's eyes

How Can We Meditate on God's Word?

1. Pick a Verse or Passage

Choose a verse that stands out to you or one you want to understand better. If you don't have a favorite, try Philippians 4:8 or Psalm 46:101.

2. Read and Reflect

Read the verse slowly, several times.

Ask yourself:

What does this say about God?

What does this say about me?

How does this apply to my life today?

3. Write or Draw

Write down your thoughts or draw a picture of what the verse means to you. This helps you remember and apply it

4. Pray

Talk to God about what you read. Ask Him to help you understand and live out His Word

5. Memorize and Repeat

Try to memorize the verse. Repeat it throughout the day—when you wake up, before a test, or when you're feeling anxious

Real-Life Applications for Middle Schoolers

Facing Stress: When you feel overwhelmed, meditate on Philippians 4:8. Focus your thoughts on what is true, good, and praiseworthy. Let God's peace fill your mind1.

Dealing with Others: If you're struggling with a friend, meditate on verses about kindness and forgiveness. Ask God to help you act with love.

Making Decisions: Before making choices, reflect on what the Bible says about wisdom and trust. Let God's Word guide you, not just your feelings or what others say.

Follow-up Questions

How do you think meditating on God's Word can help you this week?

What is one verse you want to focus on? Why?

What challenges do you face when trying to meditate on Scripture, and how can you overcome them?

Response time

Meditating on God's Word isn't just for adults or pastors—it's for you, right now. As you make it a habit, you'll discover God speaking to your heart, guiding your steps, and giving you strength for whatever comes your way. Remember, God wants to work in your life as you dwell in His Word—so start today and see how He changes you from the inside out.