Meditation is a lost art in this modern, hurry-up world. As Christians we need to revive it, but not by endlessly repeating some mantra to get into some other frame of mind. Instead we need to simply and silently wait before our Faithful God. “Be still in the presence of the Lord, and wait patiently for him to act.” (Psalm 37:7).

Start by reading a passage of Scripture, like Psalm 34:4-7, and let it speak to you. “I sought the Lord, and he answered me and delivered me from all my fears. Those who look to him are radiant, and their faces shall never be ashamed. This poor man cried, and the Lord heard him and saved him out of all his troubles. The angel of the Lord encamps around those who fear him, and delivers them.” (Psalm 34:4-7). Now, say nothing. Just sit silently and think about what you just read. Let God talk to you. Let Him reassure you that you are fully and completely loved and forgiven and that your shame is gone. Feel His arms around you. Understand the cleansing that He’s bringing. Feel again the freshness and relief of His presence as He tells you, “Be still, and know that I am God.” (Psalm 46:10).

God will give you a fresh start if you’ll stop rushing around and doing all the talking. It works. I know. Just submit to Him and accept His grace.

Pray this – Our Precious Heavenly Father, forgive me for when I have put other things before spending quiet time with You. It is an honor that I can come boldly before the throne of our Gracious God where I will receive mercy and find grace to help in time of need. (Hebrews 4:16). I am going to make it a priority every morning to get alone with You, open Your Word, come before you and kneel quietly in Your presence. I proclaim, “O God, you are my God; I earnestly search for you. My soul thirsts for you; my whole body longs for you in this parched and weary land where there is no water.” (Psalm 63:1). Father, You are always faithful, quiet my heart and mind, lead me in paths of righteousness, show me how to walk upright and blameless, comfort me with Your love, and rejoice over me with loud singing as I kneel before You in silence and I meditate on Your Word. In Jesus’ Name, I pray, Amen.