Resting with God

I’ve recently been introduced to the concept of breath prayers. For those of you unfamiliar with this form of prayer, here is a definition of its purpose from Jennifer Tucker’s book, Breath as Prayer:

Breath prayers combine deep breathing exercises with prayers of meditation on God’s Word to help calm your body while focusing your mind on truth.

When prayed regularly, these prayers can transform how you respond to anxiety and can help you experience a deep and abiding peace.

One of the greatest gifts God gives us is rest. It is just as valuable as all the other spiritual disciplines, especially when we rest in God’s grace and peace.

I’ve often struggled with focusing while reading the Bible. When I read it to complete a plan or just to squeeze in some time with God during a busy season of life, I end up leaving the quiet time without feeling stirred or drawn closer to God.

Given the significance of the Bible in our relationship with and understanding of God, it’s important to be prepared going into our time in the Word. But how can we do that without making quiet time feel like a chore?

For me, breath prayers have helped so much. Before opening the Bible, settling my soul through focusing on a simple phrase or verse allows me to rest in God’s promises.

Then, after receiving a moment of peace, I am able to focus and appreciate what I’m reading. Deep breathing practices allow for more oxygen to go to the brain, so your body may also thank you for this gift!

If you have never done breath prayers before (or if you would like to resume them), try one with me:

As you inhale through your nose, pretend you’re smelling roses and allow your belly to expand. Closing your eyes may help as well.

When you exhale, pretend you’re blowing out birthday candles by pursing your lips in an “O” shape. Make sure your exhale is longer than your inhale.

Given that you are breathing, you will repeat this prayer internally rather than saying it aloud.

Inhale:

I wait for you, Lord.

Exhale:

My hope is in your Word.

It can help to repeat this process a few times, about 5-10 times or more if you’d like.

Going forward, I hope you can allow God’s gift of rest to fill your heart and release you from the burdens and anxieties plaguing your mind. You are so loved. ❤

Therefore, since the promise of entering his rest still stands, let us be careful that none of you be found to have fallen short of it. ² For we also have had the good news proclaimed to us, just as they did; but the message they heard was of no value to them, because they did not share the faith of those who obeyed.

For the word of God is alive and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart. ¹³ Nothing in all creation is hidden from God’s sight. Everything is uncovered and laid bare before the eyes of him to whom we must give account.

Hebrews 4:1-2; 12-13

I wait for the Lord, my soul waits, and in His word I hope.

Psalm 130:5