Meditation and Introspection Part II

26 Likewise the Spirit helps us in our weakness. For we do not know what to pray for as we ought, but the Spirit himself intercedes for us with groanings too deep for words. 27 And he who searches hearts knows what is the mind of the Spirit, because the Spirit intercedes for the saints according to the will of God. Romans 8:26-27 English Standard Version

When I was in late elementary school, like many young boys, I was easily distracted. My penchant for being “off-task” led my parents to seek help and have me tested. This was back in the late sixties, before such acronyms as ADD or ADHD and the associated medications. After a substantial regimen of tests and counseling, they told my parents that I had no issues regarding intellect, but I did have issues with discipline. So, my parents embarked upon a long effort to instill discipline in their distracted son, with intermittent good results. Eventually, I developed enough discipline to do well in university and professionally; but, I still am quite easily distracted; much like the dog in the Pixar movie “Up.” This personal penchant makes prayer and meditation challenging, but the Holy Spirit helps me.

Often while praying or meditating, I find my mind wandering into odd places or focusing on things that I think I must do. While I find this frustrating and disappointing, it does not bother God. He understands and has set His Holy Spirit in my heart and soul to deal with this issue. Paul tells us that one of the works of the Holy Spirit is to help us in ways that we do not understand or even realize. The Spirit intercedes for me, turning my feeble attempts to meditate into something that glorifies the Lord. So do not worry if you feel distracted or unfocused. God understands and has made a way past our weakness. That said, here are four questions you might ask yourself to shape your introspection. Start easily by picking one of the questions to contemplate alone, without distractions for ten minutes. I’ve also included some scriptures that would help focus your initial meditation.

1. Does the manner of my life reflect my ongoing walk with the Lord? We do not want to slip into some sort of legalistic works salvation; but, we do want to comport ourselves in a way that points others to the Lord. As Paul puts it, “Do not be conformed to this world…” We do not earn our salvation; however, our salvation experience changes us. Are there things in our lives that we need to alter or perhaps give up to better reflect the holiness of God? Here are a few scriptures that might help you as you consider this issue:

a. II Corinthians 7:1

b. I Peter 2:9

c. I Thessalonians 4:7

2. Do I set aside time each day for prayer and reading scripture? Our modern life places many demands on our time. I’m surprised at how busy I am even though I’ve retired. I’ve reconciled myself to the fact that I will die with an unfinished “to-do list.” If we are not careful, the pressures and needs of this daily life will crowd out time for personal devotions. How do you manage your time so that you can listen to God? Again, here are some passages to help you as you consider this question:

a. II Timothy 2:15

b. Philippians 3:12-14

c. Psalm 119:105

3. Am I thankful for the blessings of God? Do I stop and thank the Lord for the many blessings that I enjoy. I so easily fall into the habit of focusing on the things that I do not have instead of thanking God for what I do have. Contemplating the blessings God gives us despite our failed state will help us live with a grateful heart. Here are some verses that encourage gratefulness:

a. II Timothy 3:16

b. Psalm 119:11

c. James 1:5-6

4. Do I trust the Lord to meet my needs, physical, spiritual, and emotional? As we move forward in this, and any other, endeavor do we look to the Lord as our source for all our needs? It is quite easy to place our trust in things of this world, bank-balances, education, hard work, and others. God calls us to place our dependance on Him, to trust Him to meet our needs. This is why prayer, individual and corporate, is so important. Before we lift our hands to any task, we need to approach the throne of God, seeking His help. Let us close this meditation on some passages that encourage us to trust God in all things:

a. Proverbs 3:5-6

b. Romans 15:13

c. Jeremiah 17:7-8

d. Isaiah 26:3

e. Psalm 37:5

f. Mark 5:36

As we fold meditation into our daily walk, these questions might help us get started. They give us some structure to guide our thoughts. I hope they help you. They help me, especially the scriptures about being thankful. I often find that when I stop and take the time to thank the Lord, He surfaces other things in my mind, helping me to meditate effectively. Whatever the case, I hope that you make the time to focus on the Lord. The Holy Spirit will meet you there and render your efforts, time well spent. 

Thought Questions:

1. Why are we so easily distracted when praying or meditating?

2. What steps could we take to cut down on distractions?

3. Are you a thankful person?

4. Do you have time in your day to set aside for meditation?

5. What would you have to do to find time for meditation?