Teach Us To Ponder

What would happen if we thoroughly ruminated about something before reaching a conclusion? Reviewed, churned over, dwelt on the pros and cons of certain decisions. Or say, shopper’s remorse, resulting from impulsive behavior. Like having items we don’t want, can’t use, doesn’t fit, don’t need to sleep with, don’t need to divorce…you get the picture. Might I suggest one of many solutions? Meditation. Okay, I know it’s outdated and a lost art, but what about the old paths (Jeremiah 6:16)? Purposeful thinking can slow things down a bit, making room for discernment—a fancy word meaning ‘judging correctly.’ When a sorrow-tossed individual sits still, relaxes and adopts healthy habits, soon peace will manifest. Reflection or contemplation is found mainly in the Old Testament. From the start, we understand God brooded (hovered) over the face of the waters (Genesis 1:2), setting forth creation and the biggest plan. Ever.

‘As a man thinks in his heart, so is he’…Proverbs 23:7 warns. If we concentrate on negative ideas, we turn sour, pessimistic, and calloused. Yet, in the first Psalm a man is blessed when he contemplates God’s statutes. Moses’ successor Joshua meditated on the Torah for the purpose of obedience and guidance (Joshua 1:8). Similarly, filling our minds with God-thoughts, cause us to see the world as He sees it. Believe me, good happens when we absorb trustworthy goals and put them into practice.

Notice, if you will, Mary’s careful reflection over the events of Jesus’ birth as well as his life (Luke 2:9). The young virgin thoroughly ingested Gabriel’s words. Thus, giving her strength through many years. An inner poise brought silence as she relegated God the responsibility of clearing her virtue. Patiently waiting and working, while others misunderstood her ministry. Goodness gracious, what a lesson! Mary teaches us to remain calm and not jump to conclusions prematurely. She knew about appointed seasons, and a time for every purpose under heaven (Eccl 3:1).

Perhaps we would be delivered from more errors in judgment with dedicated mindfulness (2 Corinthians 4:18). Once we determine to let the peace of God rule and reign within, a wholesome life awaits. Corrupt impressions that invade our thinking will dissipate. Past memories of bone-crushing hurts will no longer spill forward, poisoning others.

Summing up, wouldn’t it be better to set our minds on true, noble, and lovely things (Phil 4:8, Col 3:2)? Or, do you find yourself dwelling on revenge instead? I confess. Most of my thoughts are selfish and I don’t like it. Do you agree these habits are hard to lay down? During the coming week, how might we change our thought-life in order to please God?