Below is a list of some methods and practices that might help you slow down, read carefully, and think deeply about what you see in God's Word. There is nothing magical in these methods. They are simply ways to help you meditate. Click here for a downloadable pdf version.
Methods of Meditating on Scripture
An adapted summary
of the methods of meditation on Scripture taught by Don Whitney
1. Repeat the verse or phrase with emphasis on a different
word each time (reflect on what each word adds to the meaning and possible
applications).
Whatever He
says to you do it (John 2:5).
Whatever He
says to you do it.
Whatever He says
to you do it.
Whatever He says to
you do it.
Whatever He says to
you do it.
Whatever He says to
you do it.
2. Rewrite the verse or phrase in your own words.
3. Look for applications of this text – what should you do
in response to it?
4. Formulate a principle from the text.
5. Pray through the text.
6. Ask the Philippians 4:8 questions.
What is true or
what truth does it exemplify?
What is lovely
about it?
What is honorable
about it?
What is admirable
or commendable about it?
What is right about
it?
What is excellent
about it?
What is pure or how
does it exemplify purity?
What is
praiseworthy about it?
7. Ask the “Joseph Hall” questions [abbreviated by me].
What is it (define
and/or describe what it is)?
What are its
qualities and attachments?
What are its
divisions or parts?
What is contrary,
contradictory or different to it?
What causes it?
What compares to
it?
What does it cause
(its fruits and effects)?
What are the
testimonies or examples of Scripture about it?
8. Discover a minimum number of insights into the text (set
the number in advance).
9. Find a link or common thread between all the chapters of
paragraphs you’ve read.
A few additional methods I’ve used over the years
1. Write out each phrase of the verse separately and spend
time making your own “commentary” on it, including word meanings, logical
connections, applications, questions you have, etc.
2. Write a poem reflecting the beautiful truth you observed
in the passage (your poem might not be great, but it is an expression of the
beauty you see and experience). Ex. You might do this with the “I am”
statements of Jesus. Study them in depth. Then write a poem expressing one
facet of the reality.
3. Write out the verse in a way that attempts to show its
structure (main points and supporting points). You might also use spacing,
underlines, capital letters, and various colors to emphasize things.
Isaiah
41:10
FEAR NOT
For I am with you;
BE NOT DISMAYED
For I am your God
I will strengthen
you
I will help you
I will uphold you
With
my righteous right hand
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