Carl Holmes has a post where he quotes Richard Baxter:

“It is not improper to illustrate a little the manner in which we have describe this duty of mediation, or the considering and contemplating of spiritual things. It is confessed to be a duty by all, but practically denied by most. Many, that make conscience of other duties, easily neglect this. They are troubles if the omit a sermon, a fast, or a prayer, in public or private; yet were never troubled that they have omitted meditation perhaps all their lifetime to this very day; though it be that duty by which all other duties are improved, and by which the soul digests truth for its nourishment and comfort. It was God’s common to Joshua, “this book of the law shall not depart out of your mouth, but you shall meditate on therein day and night, that you may observe to do according to all that is written therein.”

What really struck me was Richard's summation statement:

"Meditation turns the truths received and remembered into warm affection, firm resolution, and holy conversation."

This helps me understand that for scripture to be most effective, it needs to seep into the crevasses of my soul, to wash out the secret sin and water the dormant dreams. As Psalm 1 says "the righteous man's delight is the law of the LORD, and on that law he meditates day and night."

The struggling church that turns first to management books and church growth models should reconsider their methods. Yes, buy my book (if I ever get it published), but don't wait to preach the authentic Word of God, to spend time in prayer and meditation, and lead your congregation to make these things a habit. No method will energize a church more than God showing up.