It's the first day of 2013 and what better way to start the day (and every day) on firm footing by meditating on God's past, present and future works? The work of His hands is truly an extension of His character.
Psalms 143:5-6 says, "I remember the days of long ago;I meditate on all your works and consider what your hands have done. I spread out my hands to you; my soul thirsts for you like a parched land" (NIV).
The original word for meditate in this passage means to "to moan, growl, utter, speak and muse".
After Moses died, Joshua was to lead the people of Israel into the Promise Land. In Joshua 1:8 God commands him to "Study this Book of Instruction continually. Meditate on it day and night so you will be sure to obey everything written in it. Only then will you prosper and succeed in all you do" (NLT).
True meditation isn't emptying out your negative thoughts, crossing your legs, humming to yourself and thinking up pretty pictures. No, it's rooted in studying the Scriptures, thinking and reflecting on them and most importantly, obeying what the Lord has revealed to you through His word. He gives us the grace and power to live out the truth He has deposited within us!
Mediation doesn't mean it always passive and relaxing. When we meditate it might mean we moan (as a result of repentance)or growl(remember Romans 8:26, the Spirit groans in intercession on our behalf)or we might rehearse back to the Lord what we believe the Scriptures are saying to our hearts(utter, speak and muse).
But always, true meditation on God's word cultivates a heart of obedience. It's not a self directed or self serving meditation, but a submitted mind and heart to God for His will and purposes to be fulfilled in and through us.
For the 1st day in 2013, let's think about the wonder and splendor of the Lord and as we do, we are changed from the inside out.
When Moses came down from Mount Sinai with the two tablets of the Testimony in his hands, he was not aware that his face was radiant because he had spoken with the LORD. Exodus 34:29 (NIV).
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