The concept of reflection in the Bible is deeply intertwined with the call to meditate on God's Word, to examine one's life in light of divine truth, and to mirror the character of Christ. This call is not merely an intellectual exercise but a spiritual discipline that transforms the believer's heart and mind.

Biblical Foundation

The call to reflect is rooted in the Scriptures, where believers are encouraged to meditate on God's Word continually. In Joshua 1:8, the Lord commands, "This Book of the Law must not depart from your mouth; you are to meditate on it day and night, so that you may be careful to do everything written in it. For then you will prosper and succeed in all you do." This verse underscores the importance of constant reflection on God's commandments as a means to live a prosperous and obedient life.

Similarly, Psalm 1:2-3 describes the blessed man whose "delight is in the law of the LORD, and on His law he meditates day and night. He is like a tree planted by streams of water, yielding its fruit in season, whose leaf does not wither, and who prospers in all he does." Here, reflection is likened to a tree's deep roots, drawing sustenance and stability from the living waters of God's Word.

Reflection and Self-Examination

Reflection also involves self-examination, a theme prevalent in the New Testament. In 2 Corinthians 13:5, Paul exhorts the believers, "Examine yourselves to see whether you are in the faith; test yourselves. Can’t you see for yourselves that Jesus Christ is in you—unless you actually fail the test?" This call to self-examination is a vital aspect of reflection, urging believers to assess their faith and alignment with Christ's teachings.

James 1:23-25 further illustrates this by comparing a hearer of the Word who does not act on it to a man who looks at his face in a mirror and immediately forgets his appearance. "But the one who looks intently into the perfect law of freedom, and continues to do so—not being a forgetful hearer, but an effective doer—he will be blessed in what he does." Reflection, therefore, is not passive but active, leading to transformation and blessing.

Reflecting Christ's Character

The ultimate goal of reflection is to mirror the character of Christ. In 2 Corinthians 3:18, Paul writes, "And we, who with unveiled faces all reflect the glory of the Lord, are being transformed into His image with intensifying glory, which comes from the Lord, who is the Spirit." This transformation is a progressive sanctification, where believers, through reflection and the work of the Holy Spirit, become more like Christ.

Philippians 4:8 provides a practical guide for reflection: "Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think on these things." By focusing on these virtues, believers align their thoughts with the mind of Christ, fostering a life that reflects His holiness and love.

Practical Application

The call to reflect is a daily discipline. It involves setting aside time for prayer, meditation on Scripture, and self-examination. Believers are encouraged to seek the guidance of the Holy Spirit in this process, asking for wisdom and insight to understand and apply God's Word to their lives.

Reflection also extends to the community of faith, where believers are called to encourage and admonish one another in love. Hebrews 10:24-25 states, "And let us consider how to spur one another on to love and good deeds. Let us not neglect meeting together, as some have made a habit, but let us encourage one another, and all the more as you see the Day approaching." Through fellowship and accountability, the body of Christ supports each member in the call to reflect and grow in godliness.

In summary, the call to reflect is an integral part of the Christian life, urging believers to meditate on God's Word, examine their hearts, and mirror the character of Christ. Through this ongoing process, they are transformed into His likeness, bringing glory to God and edification to the church.