What is Meditating from the Heart?

Meditation has seen exponential growth with its evolution into a secular practice in modern times due to the increasing awareness of mental health, mindfulness practices, and technology, including apps like Calm, Abide, Headspace, Insight Timer, etc. As a secular practice, meditation typically focuses on the mind and thoughts, but research says that meditation has spiritual roots in all the World religions, including Christianity.

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Biblical mediation is rooted in seeking a closer relationship with God. It is deep reflection and pondering on God’s word to align one’s heart and actions with God’s will. The Hebrew Scriptures, or the Tanakh, frequently mention the heart (lev in Hebrew) as a central aspect of human nature. In ancient Hebrew, the heart was often associated with thinking and decision-making, not just emotions. The heart represents the inner person and their true intentions.

Psalm 19:14 says, “May the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be acceptable in your right, O Lord, my rock and my redeemer.”

In Biblical meditation, God allows us to bring the innermost parts of ourselves into meditation through the scriptures, which have the power to renew and transform the heart.