Ruminating Cows

…I will meditate on your wonderful works. They tell of the power of your awesome works—and I will proclaim your great deeds. They celebrate your abundant goodness and joyfully sing of your righteousness.

Psalm 145:5-6

My daughter recently discovered a synonym for the word ‘meditate’—ruminate. When I casually mentioned that cows ruminate when they ‘chew their cud’ she burst out laughing. She said she’ll always have the association of meditating on God’s Word with cows chewing their cud! 

Sheep also chew their cud, chewing on grass they ate earlier in the day while they rest mid-day or evening. King David did a lot of ruminating while shepherding his father’s flocks. Maybe that’s why he referenced this spiritual discipline so often in his Psalms. I noticed that after a time of reflection, David recounts an impressive list of God’s attributes in Psalm 145: God’s greatness, mighty acts, glorious splendor, majesty, wonderful works, great deeds, abundant goodness, righteousness, graciousness, compassion, loving kindness, goodness to all, trustworthiness, faithfulness, nearness, and uplifting and satisfying ways. 

I’m enjoying developing the art of meditating on God’s Word. Since my thoughts are easily distracted, I’ve discovered using earbuds with soft instrumental music helps quiet my mind and focus on God’s Word. Getting enough rest so I don’t doze off while I’m meditating also helps! As I meditate on Psalm 145 and this amazing list of God’s qualities, I’ve decided I’d like to add some of my own. The God I’ve come to know is also forgiving, powerful and redemptive. Through the years, I’ve seen His righteousness, compassion, faithfulness and trustworthiness in His redemptive acts. What joy to witness the creative ways He’s redeemed all the disappointments and mistakes I’ve experiences. He’s turned them into blessings and experiences that bring Him glory. Now that’s a God whose works, precepts, glory and promises are worth meditating upon. Take time to meditate upon Psalm 145 and join me in discovering the power and joy of “ruminating” on God’s Word!

Linda Les-