Christian Meditation Techniques for Spiritual Growth and Enhanced Well-Being

Christian meditation techniques are aimed at spiritual union with the Lord. While many techniques in Christian meditation are similar to Hindu and Buddhist meditation techniques, Christian meditation rejects the idea of emptying the mind to experience nothingness - instead the focus is to connect to the Lord, contemplate on his words and overcome suffering. The idea is to purify the mind and ego so that the Lord shines within the heart.

The meditation techniques are very well suited to those who are opposed to far-East traditions and want to stay within the dictates of Christianity. A good book that explains about Christian Meditation techniques in depth is "Christian Meditation: Experiencing the Presence of God" by James Finley.

All forms of Christian meditation begin with sitting upright in solitude. Usually a session is 20 minutes to an hour long. The meditation session may be guided by a teacher or carried out by oneself. When guided, the teacher gives simple instructions to lead the seeker's mind and keep it from wandering. The instructions are usually interspersed with silence so that in those moments of quiet, deeper communion with the Lord may be attempted.

Based on his/her frame of mind, the seeker may decide on one of the following commonly practiced Christian meditation techniques.

Contemplating on specific verses in the scriptures.

Using a Mantra such as "Ma-Ra-Na-Tha" (Aramic for the "Lord Has Come") to bring the wandering mind back to focus on the Lord.

Focusing on a devotional phrase of his/her choice such as "Lord I am Yours", "Lord, please fill my heart with your Love", etc.

Seeking to visualize the Light of the Lord.

Expressing love and gratitude to the Lord.

Learning to be deeply aware of things within and outside.

Practicing patience through meditation to purify the mind and cultivating greater forgiveness for other and the self.

Letting go of ones negative emotions without fighting or resisting them.

Scanning the body from the toes to the head to gradually calm and still the mind.

Visualizing energy flowing freely throughout the body.

A group "Be Still and Know" advocates many of these Christian meditation techniques. Roy Masters teaches this meditation and offers workshops, counseling, books and CDs on the technique (http://www.fhu.com/roy-masters-meditation-exercises.html). A sample of his meditation technique is available at http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nkJhVHLQv1Y. Similarly, other groups use one or a combination of these techniques. All these forms of meditation help in surrendering the ego to the Lord, calming the mind and creating a sense of contentment. This facilitates physical and mental healing. People that practice this form of meditation report wholesome benefits such as the following. Roy Masters' books and audio CDs also report these health benefits.

Decreased anxiety, stress, frustration

Ease of overcoming addiction

Happiness and fullness of the heart

Better control of emotions such as anger, hate, etc.

More love and acceptance of people and situations.

Greater concentration and productivity in daily activities

Higher levels of physical and mental energy

Sense of improved physical well-being

Try these techniques to advance your spiritual goals and improve your overall well-being.