Mindfulness And Meditation: Friends Or Foes Of Faith?

There is a range of opinions on mindfulness and meditation among Christians. While some Christians believe that mindfulness and meditation are compatible with their faith, others disagree. Some Christians believe that mindfulness and meditation can be beneficial for their spiritual health and transformation, while others argue that these practices contradict Christian teachings. Some Christians accept that mindfulness can be beneficial for mental health, but only if it is approached in a wise, biblical way.

The main concerns that Christians have with mindfulness and meditation include their Eastern origins and the belief that these practices:

- Are based on an unhealthy degree of self-focus.

- Promote a one-with-the-cosmos worldview.

- Support emptying the mind, which can leave people exposed to demonic influences.

- Encourage escape from reality.

Mindfulness is rooted in Buddhism, so it contradicts Scripture

While mindfulness is a loosely defined term, it is generally understood as a technique of focusing one's attention on the present moment, without judgement of thoughts, feelings, physical sensations, and emotions. Mindfulness is often used as a means of reducing stress and increasing well-being. However, it is important to note that the concept of mindfulness is rooted in Buddhism, and promoters of mindfulness practices readily admit this origin.

From a Christian perspective, the Buddhist foundation of mindfulness raises concerns about its compatibility with Scripture. Some Christians argue that mindfulness contradicts Scripture because it is based on the assumption that individuals can create their own peace and achieve stillness and balance of the mind through their own efforts. This notion contradicts the biblical perspective that true peace can only come from God and that humans are born slaves to a sinful nature, unable to control their emotions or thoughts without the power of the Holy Spirit (John 14:27; Philippians 4:7; Romans 6:17–23).

The biblical view emphasizes that satisfaction and peace are found in Jesus Christ, and that any attempt to find these through secular means, such as mindfulness, is contrary to Scripture. While the word "mindful" can be interpreted as "attentive," which is not inherently wrong, the Christian concern lies in the Buddhist meditation techniques often associated with mindfulness practices.

Additionally, critics of mindfulness from a Christian perspective point out that the practice can lead to an unhealthy degree of self-focus, promote a one-with-the-cosmos worldview, and encourage escape from reality. They argue that secular mindfulness directs attention horizontally, towards oneself, rather than vertically, towards God and Jesus, as taught in Scripture.

In conclusion, while mindfulness may offer some benefits in stress reduction and increased self-awareness, Christians who adhere strictly to Scripture may view it as contradicting their faith due to its Buddhist roots and potential conflict with biblical teachings.

Mindfulness can be misused

• Promotes an unhealthy degree of self-focus.
• Encourages a worldview that is one-with-the-cosmos.
• Supports emptying the mind, which can leave people exposed to demonic influences.
• Encourages an escape from reality.

These concerns are valid, and Christians should be cautious of the secular form of mindfulness. However, it is possible for Christians to practice mindfulness in a way that is compatible with their faith. This involves ensuring that it is rooted in Scripture and focused on connecting with God.

Secular mindfulness is horizontal, meaning that the individual only pays attention to themselves. This contradicts Scripture's teaching to have the mind of Christ and evaluate everything in light of our vertical relationship with God and Jesus. However, Christians can practice mindfulness by paying attention to who God is and their relationship with Him through His grace. This adds a vertical dimension to the practice.

Additionally, mindfulness can be misused by Christians if it becomes a replacement for other spiritual disciplines such as Bible study, prayer, and worship. While mindfulness can be a valuable tool for Christians, it should not become the primary means of spiritual growth or connection with God.

Furthermore, while mindfulness can be beneficial for reducing stress and increasing self-awareness, it should not be seen as a cure-all leading to self-awareness and self-fulfillment. Only God can meet our deepest needs and give us true peace. Mindfulness techniques may contribute to reduced stress and increased well-being, but they cannot satisfy the longings of our souls.

In conclusion, while mindfulness can be misused by Christians, it can also be practiced in a way that aligns with their faith. It is important for Christians to be mindful of God's presence, His care, and the power He has provided to face each moment. By approaching mindfulness in a biblical and God-centred way, Christians can benefit from its positive effects without compromising their faith.

Secular mindfulness is horizontal, not vertical like Scripture

Secular mindfulness is often characterised as a horizontal practice, as opposed to the vertical nature of Scripture. This means that mindfulness is seen as a personal and individual endeavour, where the focus is on the self. In this way, it is argued that mindfulness is at odds with the teachings of Scripture, which emphasise the importance of a vertical relationship with God and Jesus.

The horizontal nature of secular mindfulness is seen as encouraging an unhealthy degree of self-focus. It is also believed to promote a one-with-the-cosmos worldview, which is not in line with the teachings of Scripture. Critics of secular mindfulness argue that it supports emptying the mind, which can leave individuals exposed to demonic influences and encourage escape from reality.

However, it is important to note that the concept of mindfulness is not inherently secular or tied to any particular religious tradition. Mindfulness practices can be adapted to be compatible with a biblical worldview, as long as they are rooted in Scripture and focused on connecting with God. This is sometimes referred to as "Christian mindfulness".

Christian mindfulness introduces a vertical dimension to the practice, where individuals are paying attention to their relationship with God and Jesus. This is seen as a way to cultivate Christian maturity and strengthen their relationship with Christ. Prayer is often seen as a form of mindfulness or meditation, and Christians are encouraged to be mindful of God's presence in their daily lives.

While some Christians may be suspicious of mindfulness due to its Eastern origins and potential conflicts with Scripture, others find it to be a beneficial tool for stress management and spiritual growth. Ultimately, the interpretation and integration of mindfulness into Christian practice may vary among individuals and denominations.

Mindfulness can be compatible with a biblical worldview if rooted in Scripture

While mindfulness is rooted in Buddhism, it is often adapted for secular purposes. Some Christians are sceptical of mindfulness because of its Eastern origins and believe that it:

• Is based on an unhealthy degree of self-focus.
• Promotes a one-with-the-cosmos worldview.
• Supports emptying the mind, which can leave people exposed to demonic influences.
• Encourages escape from reality.

However, mindfulness can be compatible with a biblical worldview if rooted in Scripture. The Bible has a lot to say about calming the mind and maintaining a vertical focus on God. For example:

• The apostle Paul reminds Christians that they’re called to be mindful and live with an awareness of the present (Philippians 2:1-5).
• Prayer is one very practical way Christians apply mindfulness to daily life (1 Thessalonians 5:17).
• Meditation appears in the Bible in the context of spending time studying the Word of God (Psalm 48:9; Psalm 63:6).
• We should look to Jesus and think about true, admirable things (Hebrews 12:2; Philippians 4:8).
• Christians shouldn’t let themselves be distracted by worry about the future (Matthew 6:25-34).
• Scripture teaches us to “take every thought captive” (2 Corinthians 10:5).
• Paul tells us to “be transformed” by renewing our minds (Romans 12:2) and to practice God-honouring thoughts (Philippians 4:9).

In addition, Jesus engaged in regular times of solitary contemplation during his ministry, and contemplative practices subsequently flourished among early Christian monks (the Desert Fathers and Mothers, 300-400 AD). Meditation has continued to thrive within several Christian traditions over the centuries, including Benedictine and Trappist monasticism, the Eastern Orthodox Church, and Quakerism.

Christians who meditate often speak of the practice as a component in maturing and deepening their Christian faith, a method for opening the heart to intimacy with God, and for cultivating Christian maturity within a fast-paced and busy world.

Mindfulness can be practised in a Christ-integrated way as a therapy tool

The Bible has a lot to say about calming the mind and focusing on the present moment, which is a key aspect of mindfulness. For example, the apostle Paul reminds Christians that they are called to be mindful and live with an awareness of the present (Philippians 2:1-5). Prayer is one way that Christians can apply mindfulness to daily life (1 Thessalonians 5:17). Additionally, meditation appears in the Bible in the context of spending time studying the Word of God (Psalm 48:9; Psalm 63:6).

Christians who practise mindfulness in a Christ-integrated way ensure that it is rooted in Scripture and focused on connecting with God. They might use mindfulness as a way to increase attentiveness to God's presence, create space to hear God's voice, or move prayer beyond words into a more intimate relationship with God.

Some Christians may be wary of mindfulness due to its Eastern origins and the belief that it promotes a one-with-the-cosmos worldview or an unhealthy degree of self-focus. However, mindfulness can be practised in a way that is compatible with a biblical worldview. It is about more than just emptying the mind; it is about observing one's thoughts, feelings, physical sensations, and emotions without judgement.

In conclusion, while there may be valid concerns about the potential negative impacts of mindfulness on mental and spiritual health, it can also be a valuable tool for Christians when approached in a wise, biblical way.

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