Setting aside time every morning to read and meditate on the Word is a precious endeavor. However, it is not always a fluid, grace-filled experience.
There comes a moment when meditation feels like a mere obligation. It happens when you open the Bible reluctantly, treating it mechanically like a chore to be done. Sometimes, you force yourself to squeeze out a reflection simply because you have to share it with your community. In those moments, countless thoughts cross your mind.
Will God Accept a Forced Meditation?
“Will God accept something done so reluctantly, without my heart in it?” “If it’s going to be like this, it might be better not to do it at all.”
We are often captivated by these thoughts. But do not be deceived. The Pharisees in the Bible kept all sorts of laws and formalities, feeling a sense of superiority. But your heart—agonizing over opening the Bible, even if reluctantly—is entirely different from such pride. God, who searches your inner being and your broken heart, already knows it all.
Stagnant Faith, Unchanging Life
Does your life remain unchanged despite your meditation, and does your heart feel as dry as before? You might feel frustrated, thinking there is no spiritual growth.
However, as long as we live on this earth, engaging in constant spiritual warfare to protect our faith is completely natural. The very struggle to maintain a life of godliness is precious in itself. Even in the exact moment you think your life hasn’t changed at all, God is shaping and refining you. How could you possibly fathom the great love and infinite providence of God, who works ceaselessly for you from heaven? Therefore, do not worry, and do not be afraid.
It Doesn’t Have to Be Perfect; Just Open It
You don’t need to perfectly follow every step and sequence of meditation. If even reading repeatedly feels too burdensome, simply opening to today’s passage is what matters.
If the meaning of the Word doesn’t come to you, just coming up with a title for the passage is enough. Simply reading it aloud is fine, or even just calling out His name, “Lord.” The most important thing is not giving up and simply opening the text. The One who grants grace and brings understanding is the Holy Spirit alone. Through the crack of that Word you struggled to open today, the Holy Spirit will begin His work.