Synchronizing my Breath with God’s
When I began learning about ancient Christian prayer practices, I struggled with them. I was used to talking to God, and even listening for His voice and direction. But these practices were inviting me to take a break from endless worries and questions for God, even if only for a few minutes, to focus on His simple loving presence. It sounded easy enough, yet when I tried, even 2 minutes of silence and stillness was difficult. Then, by God’s grace, I found breath prayer. It became my proverbial ‘toe in the water’ of contemplative prayer practices.
Some people worry that breath prayer is synchronizing New Age or Eastern mantras with Christianity. However, breath prayer is not simply a mantra for meditation. It is actual prayer. And because it is the briefest of prayers, it can be practiced easily throughout even the busiest of days.
There is something synchronistic about scripture-based breath prayer; but in the best possible way! It synchronizes our breath with the very manifestation of God’s breath – His Word. “All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness…” (2 Tim. 3:16-17). [1]
So, when I take a short scripture and pray it in rhythm with my breath, I am not only calming my emotions by regulating my breathing; I am also focusing my mind, body and spirit on God’s presence… as close as my breath.
Here are a few examples:
Jn. 14:27 Breathe in saying “Jesus” Breathe out saying “give me Your peace”
Ps. 23:1 Breathe in “The Lord” Breathe out “is my Shepherd”
Jn. 15:5 Breathe in “Jesus, You’re the vine” Breathe out “I am a branch”
Breathe in “I am in You” Breathe out “You are in me”
If you have never tried it, there is a link under Resources with a downloadable pdf giving instructions on a couple types of breath prayer. If you already practice breath prayer, what are some of your favorites?
[1] For more on this idea listen to this presentation by Dr. Ben Franklin from Healing Care Ministries, https://www.healingcare.org/june-livestream
