In scripture we are encouraged to study the Word of God and meditate on it daily. In this way, Christian meditation differs from Eastern meditation in both application and goal. Eastern meditation, in essence, is attempting to relax and quiet the mind and body to such an extent you experience “oneness” with universal energy, inner “Christ consciousness,” etc. As practiced, Eastern meditation induces a trance-like or altered state of mind. This allows for all manner of seducing or deceptive spirits to enter into a person’s life, drawing them away from the truth of the gospel of Jesus Christ.

Christian meditation, however, is very different. An active practice, the idea is not to clear the mind of thought, but to ponder and consider scripture, applying it to our lives. It allows the Holy Spirit to guide and speak to our minds and hearts as we read the words, contemplate what they mean, and imprint them on our memory. Christian meditation can also be considered an active, learning form of prayer and is often how God speaks to us through His “living word.”

With that in mind, I ran across this model for meditating on the full armor of God. You can take one "piece" every day and meditate on it individually, considering what it means, and how it effects your daily life and interactions with others. Ask the Holy Spirit to strengthen you daily with His holy word as you memorize and study Ephesians 6:13-18.

The Full Armor of God

• The Belt of Truth: Jesus is the Way, Truth, and Life.
• The Helmet of Salvation: Bringing every thought into captivity through Christ.
• The Breastplate of Righteousness: We are called to a holy life, honoring God in all we do. Living according to His purpose.
• Feet Fitted with the Readiness: We are called to go out to all the world, proclaim the truth of Christ and share His love, and the peace that good news brings. Love God, love people.
• Shield of Faith: We are to walk daily in faith, trusting God’s grace. Standing firm against the wiles and temptations of the evil one.
  
• Sword of the Spirit: The Word of God—read it, study it, know it!
  
• Prayer: Holy Lord, help me remember to put on the full armor every day. Protect my mind from temptation and wrong thinking. Guard my heart from acting on my desires only rather than following Your Holy Spirit. Remind me who I am in Christ Jesus ... my identity as Your disciple and adopted child. When the fiery darts of the wicked one come against me, help me stand firm and to resist. Remind me of the truth of Your word every day, and write it on my heart. In Jesus' Name, Amen

Use every piece of God’s armor to resist the enemy in the time of
evil, so that after the battle you will still be standing firm. Stand
your ground, putting on the sturdy belt of truth and the body armor
of God’s righteousness. For shoes, put on the peace that comes from
the Good News, so that you will be fully prepared. In every battle
you will need faith as your shield to stop the fiery arrows aimed at
you by Satan. Put on salvation as your helmet, and take the sword of
the Spirit, which is the Word of God. Pray at all times and on every
occasion in the power of the Holy Spirit. Stay alert and be persistent
in your prayers for all Christians everywhere. —Ephesians 6:13-18 (NLT)

Copyright © by Kristine McGuire Share