Meditation Part 1: Psalm 1

Biblical text

Biblical meditation is a great way of both 'getting the Word in' and 'praying out' what the Holy Spirit shows you...

What follows is an example of how I approach things.  Over the next four months I will provide some more in-depth examples of Biblical Meditation and give you an opportunity to put your skills into practice.  These examples are not all-inclusive or all-encompassing.  They are not theological studies or in-depth studies of a particular topic. Rather, the observations made are those going on in my heart and mind at the time.  You will notice that prayer, worship, praise and thanksgiving are part of my meditation.

Prayer and Meditation: Psalm 1

Biblical meditation is a great way of both 'getting the Word in' and 'praying out' what the Holy Spirit shows you.  My 'Introduction to Biblical Meditation' provides a guide intended as a helpful tool to use and practice with, and thus help you in the above disciplines.

We are going to use the Psalms, and there is no better place to start than Psalm 1.  As you go through the month, continue through the Psalms; however, don't rush things.  If you want to stay in one Psalm for a few days, that is fine; remember 'quality is better than quantity'.

Some thoughts and observations on Psalm 1:

What is this Psalm saying?  Are there contrasts or comparisons?  For example: day and night; fruit-bearing trees and worthless chaff; the wicked and the godly.

Note in the first line of v1 'Blessed'.  What does 'blessed' mean?  One definition of 'blessed' is 'happy'.  Who is 'blessed'?  You may want to read Matthew 5: 3-10.  Note the certainty of the blessing – 'is', not 'might be', or 'could be', but 'is the man who...'  Such are the promises of God!

What promises are made here, and are there any conditions to receiving these promises?  Repent where and if appropriate.

Think about the visual imagery within the psalm.  Other scriptures may come to mind concerning trees, rivers and fruit.  Look them up and see what you discover. 

Remember that as you meditate on the scriptures you will find various streams of thought flowing that will serve as foci e.g. God, you, others, praise, adoration, repentance, forgiveness (self/others), intercession and requests.  There will be an ebb and flow of these foci.

Responding to Psalm 1:

  • Praise and thank God for the blessings He gives.
  • Ask His forgiveness where we take blessings for granted.
  • Pray for His blessing on others, or for needs known to you.
  • Praise, rejoice, and ask Him to will help you in your walk.

Next month I will provide a more in-depth meditation on Psalm 30 and I encourage you to come with me as we move deeper into the journey of Biblical Meditation.