Empower Your Mornings: A 60-Day Spiritual Challenge
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Chapter 1: The Spiritual Conflict
In his writings, Paul cautioned that our true adversary is not of this world; it is spiritual in nature. To deepen our faith beyond mere surface-level beliefs, we must explore the inner realms of prayer and meditation. I invite you to embark on a 60-day challenge focused on prayer and meditation, where you can invigorate your mornings by reflecting on God's Word.
Our Spiritual Battle
As it is stated in Ephesians 6:12 (NIV), "For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms." This highlights the importance of introspection and spiritual readiness.
Carl Jung once noted, “Hurry is not of the Devil; it is the Devil.” Meanwhile, Plato articulated, “The unexamined life is not worth living.” Both of these thinkers recognized that failing to pause for profound reflection may lead to turmoil.
A Christian who neglects meditation often finds themselves in a state of spiritual deficiency.
Section 1.1: The Importance of Meditation in Scripture
Meditation is a well-known concept in the Bible, referenced through two distinct Hebrew terms used a total of fifty-eight times. These terms encompass listening to God, contemplating His works, and reflecting on His laws, emphasizing that our interactions with God should lead to changed behaviors.
Isaac is described as having “gone out to meditate in the field in the evening” (Genesis 24:63, NKJV). Other biblical figures such as Moses, David, Isaiah, Jeremiah, and Daniel are also depicted practicing meditation. The Psalms frequently call for meditation, as seen in verses like Psalm 63:6 (NIV): “I think of thee upon my bed and meditate on thee in the watches of the night.”
Jesus frequently engaged in meditation (Mark 1:35, 45; Luke 5:16) and encouraged His disciples to do the same (Acts 10:10; 11:15; 2 Corinthians 12:1–4). The ultimate aim of Christian meditation is to allow Jesus to fill us completely, creating a space within ourselves where His spirit can reside.
Chapter 2: Getting Started with Meditation
To ensure that you connect with Jesus through meditation, I suggest beginning with what devotional masters term Meditatio Scripturarum, or the meditation on Scripture. My 60-Day Quiet Time Challenge is designed to help you establish a daily routine of Scripture reading and meditation. This resource is free and requires no personal information for access.
While studying the Bible focuses on understanding the text's original context, meditating on Scripture is about internalizing and personalizing it. The written word transforms into a living dialogue addressed to you.
Foster notes that this practice is not about technical analysis or gathering material for sharing. Instead, it is a humble acceptance of the Word as it speaks to you (Celebration of Discipline, p. 29).
Meditation serves to fulfill your desire to hear God's voice, sanctify your imagination, and connect you to the heart of Jesus.
Dietrich Bonhoeffer aptly stated, “Just as you do not analyze the words of someone you love, but accept them as they are said to you, accept the Word of Scripture and ponder it in your heart.” This practice of contemplation can serve as an excellent starting point for those looking to meditate on Scripture while remaining grounded in the spirit of Jesus.
The first video, "Wake Up to Win: Start Your Day Like the World's Most Successful People," provides insights on how to begin your day with intention and purpose.
The second video, "Morning Habits to Jump Start Your Brain | Jack Canfield," shares practical tips on establishing morning routines that can enhance mental clarity and productivity.
Section 2.1: The 60-Day Challenge
Research indicates that consistently engaging in an activity for sixty to seventy days can solidify it as a habit. I challenge you to embark on a 60-day journey of Scripture meditation, where I will guide you daily. Together, we can cultivate a routine of reading and meditating on Scripture.
Beginning each day with God's Word over the course of sixty days can profoundly transform your life. Join me on this rewarding journey!