I will ponder all your work, and meditate on your mighty deeds. –Psalm 77:12
Most Americans are familiar that baseball is connected to the popular phrase “America’s Favorite Pastime.” Whether or not you agree if baseball still holds that title, the idea of pastime is what is important. (Here is an interesting article advocating 20 reasons why baseball is hailed over football.)
The word ‘pastime’ means there is an activity that one does in order to make time pass pleasantly. The activity is often some form of entertainment or enjoyment. Knowing this we could create some substantial dialogue around the question, “What is American’s favorite pastime?”
For those who have been called by God, regenerated, and love Christ a favorite pastime ought to be meditating upon the words given to us from the one who made time itself. How wonderful and mesmerizing it is to meditate and ponder on things eternal, promised, and applicable to life.
The following are some important verses to think about in reference to meditation, which are adapted from Robert Dingley (1619-1660).
- It strengthens our knowledge. Psalm 119:99 I have more understanding than all my teachers, for your testimonies are my meditation.
- It satisfies the soul and brings joy. Psalm 63:5–6 5My soul will be satisfied as with fat and rich food, and my mouth will praise you with joyful lips, 6when I remember you upon my bed, and meditate on you in the watches of the night;
- It
enflames our love. Psalm 119:97 Oh how I love your law! It is my meditation all the day. - It cherishes time with God. Psalm 119:148
- My eyes are awake before the watches of the night, that I may meditate on your promise.
- It maintains a true and childlike faith with God. Psalm 4:4 Be angry, and do not sin; ponder in your own hearts on your beds, and be silent. Selah
- It hushes and quiets the soul in afflictions. Psalm 119:23 Even though princes sit plotting against me, your servant will meditate on your statutes.
- It promotes prayer. Psalm 143:5–65I remember the days of old; I meditate on all that you have done; I ponder the work of your hands. 6I stretch out my hands to you; my soul thirsts for you like a parched land. Selah
“The soul that can meditate on God is never less alone when alone.” – Robert Dingley.