One day recently, I realized that I’m not breathing like I normally do. As in, literally. I discovered that I’m holding my breath a lot and not breathing deep most often. Life and the world around me has been stealing my breath. Stress and the strain of so much unknown in life has robbed my breath. Uncertainty at the kid’s school and all of the new restrictions, makes me feel like I’m being smothered. Chris’ work situation continues to make me feel like I can’t breathe. Stepping out in faith and moving into new places in ministry takes my breath away too, only that’s not a bad thing.
Whatever the reason, I have intentionally had to stop myself and take several deep breaths on multiple occasions. In fact, it’s becoming a new exercise…Sit still, breathe several deep breaths and then carry on with the day. Repeat as needed.
Isn’t it crazy that this would ever become necessary? I once heard someone say that breathing is the most natural thing we do, and our bodies do it effortlessly for us. Well, that might be true most often, but it’s not right now.
What am I to make of this? Isn’t it a slight bit interesting that our breath has been the topic of much conversation, as of late? With covid there have been so many restrictions made to our breath. Constantly being under scrutiny for wearing or not wearing a mask makes me feel worn out. It makes me feel short of breath.
Something occurred to me though, for me to have a voice I must have breath. For me to sing God’s praises, I must have breath and breath support. I find it no coincidence that breath is the threat. The enemy knows our greatest strength is the ability to praise and proclaim God’s faithfulness. We sing to proclaim His goodness. We pray to see healing…we pray to even receive salvation.
You see friend, the enemy is trying to steal something far greater and more significant than you could imagine.
So, I encourage you, when you feel short of breath or under a lot of stress, stop and take a couple of deep breaths. If you feel anxiety or fear of the future, stop and breathe. If you feel something trying to steal your voice, stop and use that same breath to praise God. Use your breath while you have it.
Prayer Moment: God, steady my breathing. Help me to take long and purposeful breaths so I can remain fully focused on You and Your plan for my life. Lord, I release all into Your hands. I know that only You can sustain my life. Surround me with a cloud of Your Presence. Let me never walk alone. Let the testimony of Your faithfulness in my life, serve as a steady rhythmic breath to my lungs. I trust You. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
My heart, O God, is steadfast, my heart is steadfast; I will sing and make music. Awake, my soul! Awake, harp and lyre! I will awaken the dawn, I will praise You, Lord, among the nations; I will sing of You among the peoples. For great is Your love, reaching to the heavens; Your faithfulness reaches to the skies. Psalm 57:7-10
365 Days in the Presence 