Under the guidance of the Holy Spirit, the imagination is a powerful tool that God wants to use. Through the imagination we can experience God in a real way. In no other book is this more evident than in the Psalms written by David. Utilizing vivid imagery, words that create mental images that tap into our senses, we are able to share with David his numerous experiences with God. These imagery can also enhance our meditation. In Psalm 23, David uses pastoral images to convey the protection and sufficiency he feels in God.
Since I have never had any personal experiences with green pastures and shepherds, here is how my meditation of Psalm 23 would read:
The Lord is my Lifeguard
I have Everything I need.He lets me rest in a hammock under coconut trees.
He leads me down to the turquoise tranquil seas.
He gives me new strength.He leads me on paths that are right
For the good of his name.If I swim in treacherous water or I find myself in the deep
I will not be afraid
Because you are with me.
Knowing your lighthouse and lifeline are there comforts meYou take care of me during seasons of recession in the midst of
Everyone, including my enemies.
You pour oil of blessing on my head.
I am filled with joy as a result
Like an overflowing fountain.Surely your goodness and love
Like the warm sunshine and crisp fresh breeze
Will be with me all of my life.
And I will vacation in your beach house forever.
By meditating on God’s words consistently, we learn to cultivate God’s Peace. We can also experience the same protection and confidence that David experienced in a God who fulfilled every need of his life. Not only was David’s needs met but also he encountered a sense of peace even in the midst of trouble. Allowing our minds to be guided by the Holy Spirit in the use of imagery can be a strong vehicle for enabling us to connect more fully with God through our senses.
