While Christian meditation is becoming more popular, many people are wondering if Christian’s should even be meditating. In this article on how to do scripture or sacred word meditation, I discuss why Christians should meditate. I also explain how to get started in 5 easy steps.
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What does it mean to meditate?
Before we answer whether Christians should meditate, let’s be clear about what meditation is. Dictionary synonyms include ponder, reflect, ruminate, contemplate, and mull over. Those aren’t spiritual exoticisms — they’re everyday activities. The difference for a Christian is what we hold in our minds when we ponder.
The problem: ordinary thinking that robs our peace
Most people meditate all the time—only they often dwell on things that steal joy: worry, fear, anger, comparison, and replaying hurts. Christians are not immune. Left unchecked, those thoughts become habits that drown out quiet listening with God. Scripture reminds us, “I will keep him in perfect peace whose mind is stayed on me.” (Isaiah 26:3) and Joshua 1:8 urges us to meditate on God’s Word day and night for success. The call is clear: we are meant to be a people who meditate on God.
So should Christians meditate?
Yes. The Bible assumes it. But the better question is how should we meditate? That depends on what you hope for: peace, renewed thinking, deeper intimacy with God, or strength to resist harmful patterns. Christian meditation aims to re-order the mind around God’s truth.
What Scripture tells us about our thoughts
2 Corinthians 10:5 says to “cast down every thought and imagination that exalts itself against the knowledge of God and bring every thought into captivity to the obedience of Christ.” That is a spiritual discipline—and a practice that takes time. Many of us carry unhelpful mindsets. Meditation trains us to notice those thoughts and replace them with God’s truth.
What Christian meditation looks like in everyday life
If worry or negative thinking plagues you, meditation helps you take authority over those patterns. Anchoring your attention on a sacred word, a brief Scripture, or a short passage creates space to quiet the inner noise. This practice—sometimes called scripture, passage, or mantra meditation—teaches the mind to rest in truth rather than spin on fear.
Being still is learned, not automatic
Psalm 37:7 says, “Be still before the Lord and wait patiently for him.” In our culture, busyness has become a badge of honor. Many of us don’t know how to relax into God’s presence without striving or getting distracted. Regular silence and solitude—even small, consistent pockets of it—help us learn to be still before the Lord. When we dwell in God’s presence, we are changed. Encounters with Jesus never left people the same.
Reading Scripture vs. meditating on Scripture
Psalm 119:11 says, “I have hidden Your word in my heart that I might not sin against You.” Reading is essential, but meditation is deeper. Reading can be surface grazing; meditation lets the Word penetrate the heart and bear fruit. You can read slowly and reflect, asking how a verse applies today, or you can quietly repeat a short Scripture and listen for what God wants to show you. Both approaches transform us if practiced faithfully.
How to begin: practical steps
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Choose a short Scripture or sacred word that is meaningful and easy to hold.
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Find a quiet spot and a comfortable, alert posture.
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Breathe naturally; let the breath be an anchor when your thoughts wander.
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Slowly repeat the verse or sit with it, asking, “What is God saying to me in this line?”
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When intrusive thoughts come, gently return to your chosen phrase without condemnation.
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Practice regularly—daily if possible—even if it’s only ten minutes to begin.
Why this practice matters
Meditation enlarges the space God has to work in your life. It is how we cooperate with the Spirit to renew our minds, resist temptation, and receive guidance. Isaiah 50:4 speaks of God awakening us “morning by morning” to listen—and meditation trains the ear of the heart to hear. The depth of our fellowship with God grows in proportion to the time we abide in Him.
Scripture Meditation in 5 Easy Steps
Step One: Choosing a Mantra, Sacred Word, or Scriptural Phrase
Most meditative practices use what is called a mantra or a sacred word. A mantra is a word or phrase that is repeated throughout the meditation in order to focus the mind. Without a mantra, our thoughts tend to wander and become restless. For Christian meditation, we will use a scriptural passage or sacred word as our mantra. Examples of mantras or sacred words might include:
* Jesus
* Maranatha (an ancient Christian prayer word)
* Peace Be Still
* Jehovah
* The Lord Is My Shepherd
Step Two: Find a Place to Meditate
The next step should be to find a place where you can meditate. Many people like to meditate outdoors where they can contemplate the works of God. This can include parks, beaches, or hillsides. It is important if you choose a place outdoors, you won’t be disturbed during your meditative practice. You can also choose to meditate inside of your own home. Choose a quiet room where outside noise or other members of your household won’t distract you.
Step Three: Preparing for Christian Meditation
You want to sit with your back straight and your eyes lightly closed. It’s important to have a straight back because breathing is a major part of your meditation practice. You may want to use a cushion or a straight-back chair. Often, it is also best to start by relaxing your body. Move your mind to focus on different parts of your body, starting with your toes and working upwards. In your mind, mentally “relax” each part of your body. Next, focus on your breathing. Simply observe your breaths as they come in and out of your body.
Step Four: Using Your Sacred Word
Using the sacred word that you have chosen, repeat it out loud or inside your mind. You will stay with the same mantra throughout your entire meditative practice. As you are meditating, other thoughts will come into your mind. This is completely natural. When these thoughts come into your mind, observe them, and then allow them to drift out of your consciousness. Simply return to your sacred word or scripture and continue to repeat it.
To start with, it is a good idea to meditate for only 5 to 10 minutes at a time. Each day extend your meditation time by a minute until you are meditating between 15 to 20 minutes a day. When you have finished your meditative practice allow yourself a couple of minutes to unwind before re-entering your day-to-day life.
Step Five: Keeping the Practice
It is recommended that you try to meditate at least once a day, preferably twice. Generally, it is best to practice meditation in the morning or in the evening. A morning meditation session can help focus your mind and prepare you for your day’s activities. It is more important to be consistent in your meditative practice than it is to meditate for a long time. A 10-minute meditation session once every morning will have a bigger impact on your life than meditating for an hour only once a week.
Struggling to Meditate? Read this: Christian Meditation for Beginners to Get More Tips!
Ready to go deeper? Join the 5-Day Christian Meditation Bootcamp
If you’d like guided support to help you build a consistent, Christ-centered meditation practice, the 5-Day Christian Meditation Bootcamp is a wonderful next step.
This short, faith-based experience walks you through daily meditation sessions designed specifically for beginners. Each day includes Scripture, gentle guidance, and practical tools to help you quiet your mind and connect with God—without overwhelm or pressure.
It’s especially helpful if you want structure, encouragement, and a clear starting point that fits into a busy life.
You can learn more and join here:
https://thechristianmeditator.com/christian-meditation-boot-camp/
