What does it mean to ponder? The dictionary says it means “to think about (something) carefully, especially before making a decision or reaching a conclusion.” I don’t think we ponder enough in our world today. We are an impulsive society which wants everything now. We need to learn to ponder.
What are some things we should ponder over? I think we should ponder over who we should marry. We would have much less heartache in our world if we were more careful before saying the words, “I do.” I have noticed young people don’t discuss the important issues before they get married. Many don’t even know if their special sweetheart wants to have children. They don’t know their political persuasion, and worst of all, they don’t even know if the one they have chosen to spend their life with is a Christian or not. Oh, they may have asked, but they don’t seek for real evidence. They never asked when, where, how, and why about their salvation experience and walk with God. This leads to a road filled with trouble.
We should also ponder over financial decisions. We need to think carefully about going into debt. I really like that house, but the payments are over half my monthly income. I really want a new car, but I am still paying for my old one. Unfortunately, many people I know who are in financial trouble seem to nickel and dime themselves to death. If they would think before they bought the new shoes, they might decide the money would be better spent elsewhere.
Americans had a great opportunity to ponder last year. We had a nasty election year. Candidates were throwing jabs at each other in any way they could. As citizens, we need to be careful not to get caught up in the drama. We must not forget to ask the question, where does each candidate stand on the issues? We have a responsibility to find out where they stand and vote accordingly-not because of a party affiliation. It is America’s only hope. Citizens need to learn to ponder.
Parents have an awesome responsibility when it comes to their children. Should they not ponder over every decision they make where their children are concerned? It is so important to keep them in a church, school, and home where God is at the center. Every act of discipline and love needs to be thought through carefully.
We all need to ponder and be so careful where we go to church. Our church family needs to believe the Word of God and practice it, too. Our church is the place we go to worship our Savior. Should it not be a place that is sacred to us–a place that honors God in music and His Word?
The Bible speaks of Mary pondering in her heart on several occasions. On one occasion she thought about things the shepherds said. (Luke 2:19) Another time was when Jesus was a boy at the temple. (Luke 2:51) I am sure there were countless occasions when Mary thought about the things Jesus did or said. I can only imagine how carefully she thought of these things. She was the mother of the Son of God. That would be pretty heavy. I think it would be the greatest honor but also the greatest intimidation a woman could experience.
It is great to ponder over life’s challenges. If we are impulsive, life will be much more difficult. I do believe a Christian has an even greater source to draw from. As a Christian, I have my Heavenly Father and His Holy Spirit. I have the privilege of prayer. As Christians we do not have to rely on our own instincts, intuitions, and thought processes. We have the Lord to guide us through the miry clay on this earth. Our greatest problem is we don’t want to wait on the Lord. We don’t want to ponder or pray. Isaiah 40:31 tells us to wait upon the Lord. That doesn’t mean to sit and do nothing. He wants us to wait upon Him and serve Him. As we are serving, He will give us instructions.
We need to be still and listen for God’s instruction. (Psalms 46:10) Our Christian community today is so busy running about doing good, we don’t take time to listen to God. How can we listen if we don’t take time to read His Word and pray? Prayer isn’t always talking, it is listening, too!
Before we make a decision, shouldn’t we talk with the One who knows? Our Heavenly Father loves us and wants what is best for us. He knows if it will be good to buy the car or the candy bar. He knows how to handle our children. He knows our future. Why don’t we ponder over our Lord and talk with Him about our problems? Should we not worship Him? Should we not praise His name? Should we not get to know Him? That is all He wants from us. He wants our love, obedience, and praise.
Ponder over the things the Lord has done for you. Make Him a priority in your life. Slow down. Be still and know that He is God.
“Ponder the path of thy feet, and let all thy ways be established.”
Proverbs 4:26
Mrs. Worthington has five children and ten grandchildren. She serves as
Principal of Pathway Christian Academy in Goldsboro.