Christian Meditation Podcast: Recent Episodes
Chaplain Jared
Christianmeditationpodcast.com is dedicated to helping people find peace, be open to making positive change in their lives through the spirit of God, and looking at the biological nature of change as well.
810 For Which Of Those Works Do You Stone Me, A Guided Christian Meditation on John 10:31-33 with the Recenter With Christ app
The purpose of this podcast is to help you find more peace in and connect with the true source of peace, Jesus Christ.
Outline: Relaxation, Reading, Meditation, Prayer, Contemplation and Visualization. You can sit comfortably and uninterrupted for about 20 minutes.You should hopefully not be driving or anything tense or unrelaxing. If you feel comfortable to do so, I invite you to close your eyes. Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation: Breathe and direct your thoughts to connecting with God. Let your stomach be a balloon inflate, deflate.
Scripture for Meditation
ESV 31 The Jews picked up stones again to stone him. 32 Jesus answered them, “I have shown you many good works from the Father; for which of them are you going to stone me?” 33 The Jews answered him, “It is not for a good work that we are going to stone you but for blasphemy, because you, being a man, make yourself God.”
NABRE 31 The Jews again picked up rocks to stone him. 32 Jesus answered them, “I have shown you many good works from my Father. For which of these are you trying to stone me?” 33 The Jews answered him, “We are not stoning you for a good work but for blasphemy. You, a man, are making yourself God.”
Reflection on Scripture:
Just previous to this, as we covered last week, Jesus had just claimed to be one with the Father. According to the law of Moses this was a clear example of Blasphemy which would be punished with stoning to death. The Jews then picked up rocks to throw at him to kill him. What an intense moment full of aggression. Instead of Jesus clarifying the faulty accusation of these people answered indirectly. He did not correct them that it was not actually blasphemy if He is one with the Father.
He responds about His works. He declared the good works he did and redirected the punishment of blasphemy as though his works would offset blasphemy. He then corrected that it wasn't the works for which they wanted to kill him but because he made himself God. The Irony is that Jesus was the only person who could equate Himself with God. Jesus standing before them was God. So in a direct sense it was not blasphemy. Jesus was making a statement about the intent of His works. They were meant to be a sign that He was the promised Messiah and the Son of God.
They said something wrong. You are a man and are making yourself God. If It is blasphemy for someone who is not God to call themselves God it seems like an equally great sin for the people to tell Jesus he was not God, when He was. Some sort of reverse blasphemy. The takeaway for us is that Jesus is who He claimed to be. He showed His power through His works that were witnessed by so many people and he chose to show those miracles and also to use those works as a demonstration that He was. Jesus didn't need the people to believe Him but He wanted to give them enough of a demonstration to be a testimony and witness.
Jesus is our saviour and He has the power to save. Everything that he said was true and came true. Most important of all is that He is one with the Father and also something super crucial for us is the Jesus loves us enough to prepare a plan to save us and offer that salvation to us. Embrace the love of Jesus and submit and trust your eternal future to His grace.
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit.
Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:
I invite you to sit in silence feeling patient for your own faults and trials.
Summarize what insights you have gained during this meditation and meditate and visualize positive change in your life:
This is a listener funded podcast at patreon.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Final Question: If you consider the invitation and command to persevere in the faith, what change in your life does that bring to your mind?
FIND ME ON: Download my free app: Recenter with Christ Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com Voicemail - (602) 888-3795 Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
KJV 26 But ye believe not, because ye are not of my sheep, as I said unto you. 27 My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me: 28 And I give unto them eternal life; and they shall never perish, neither shall any man pluck them out of my hand. 29 My Father, which gave them me, is greater than all; and no man is able to pluck them out of my Father's hand. 30 I and my Father are one.
808 No One Is Able To Snatch Them Out Of The Father’s Hand, A Guided Christian Meditation on John 10:26-30 with the Recenter With Christ app
The purpose of this podcast is to help you find more peace in and connect with the true source of peace, Jesus Christ.
Outline: Relaxation, Reading, Meditation, Prayer, Contemplation and Visualization. You can sit comfortably and uninterrupted for about 20 minutes.You should hopefully not be driving or anything tense or unrelaxing. If you feel comfortable to do so, I invite you to close your eyes. Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation: Breathe and direct your thoughts to connecting with God. Let your stomach be a balloon inflate, deflate.
Scripture for Meditation
NASB 26 But you do not believe, because you are not of My sheep. 27 My sheep listen to My voice, and I know them, and they follow Me; 28 and I give them eternal life, and they will never perish; and no one will snatch them out of My hand. 29 My Father, who has given them to Me, is greater than all; and no one is able to snatch them out of the Father’s hand. 30 I and the Father are one.”
KJV 26 But ye believe not, because ye are not of my sheep, as I said unto you. 27 My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me: 28 And I give unto them eternal life; and they shall never perish, neither shall any man pluck them out of my hand. 29 My Father, which gave them me, is greater than all; and no man is able to pluck them out of my Father's hand. 30 I and my Father are one.
Reflection on Scripture:
Many things came to mind reading this passage. It has so much meaning. It deals with questions that have been questioned in Christianity for a huge amount of time. Its also a bit nerve wrecking. If we are not God’s sheep it seems there is no hope for us. With that said what is the distinguishing factor on wether we are His sheep? That we hear His voice and follow Him. Yet with that said it seems to miss an incredibly important element of Grace if we feel that we save ourselves through our choice of following God. That feels off. The only reason we are even able to be considered His sheep is because the Father gave the Son us as sheep. When I sat pondering what devotional message we could pull out of this, perhaps the best thing that we could focus on is gratitude.
What profound gratitude we should feel to the loving God we have who offers redemption. I am so very grateful for that! When you ponder the offer that He gives it should fill you with gratitude. He offers eternal salvation and forgiveness from a profound grace in the face of our moral failure. Whatever fear you feel for not being considered one of God’s speed, you should feel equally encouraged by the profound Love that God offers. In that gratitude embrace faith in Jesus. Not a faith that he arbitrarily goes around saving people, but a faith that what He says will happen. That faith is us hearing His voice.
Nobody will be able to pluck you out of His hand. There is no secret angry Father God behind the scenes who wants to destroy you but Jesus makes that God reluctantly forgive you. There is one perspective of God, one where you are loved and he wants you to live forever in heaven. Reject fear and move toward a kind of faith that aligns with believing in Jesus but also believing him enough do follow what He says.
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit.
Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:
I invite you to sit in silence feeling patient for your own faults and trials.
Summarize what insights you have gained during this meditation and meditate and visualize positive change in your life:
This is a listener funded podcast at patreon.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Final Question: If you consider the invitation and command to persevere in the faith, what change in your life does that bring to your mind?
FIND ME ON: Download my free app: Recenter with Christ Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com Voicemail - (602) 888-3795 Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
RSV 22 It was the feast of the Dedication at Jerusalem; 23 it was winter, and Jesus was walking in the temple, in the portico of Solomon. 24 So the Jews gathered round him and said to him, “How long will you keep us in suspense? If you are the Christ, tell us plainly.” 25 Jesus answered them, “I told you, and you do not believe. The works that I do in my Father’s name, they bear witness to me;
NET 19 Another sharp division took place among the Jewish people because of these words. 20 Many of them were saying, “He is possessed by a demon and has lost his mind! Why do you listen to him?” 21 Others said, “These are not the words of someone possessed by a demon. A demon cannot cause the blind to see, can it?”
804 A Demon Cannon Cause The Blind to See, A Guided Christian Meditation on John 10:19-21 with the Recenter With Christ app
The purpose of this podcast is to help you find more peace in and connect with the true source of peace, Jesus Christ.
Outline: Relaxation, Reading, Meditation, Prayer, Contemplation and Visualization. You can sit comfortably and uninterrupted for about 20 minutes.You should hopefully not be driving or anything tense or unrelaxing. If you feel comfortable to do so, I invite you to close your eyes. Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation: Breathe and direct your thoughts to connecting with God. Let your stomach be a balloon inflate, deflate.
Scripture for Meditation
NET 19 Another sharp division took place among the Jewish people because of these words. 20 Many of them were saying, “He is possessed by a demon and has lost his mind! Why do you listen to him?” 21 Others said, “These are not the words of someone possessed by a demon. A demon cannot cause the blind to see, can it?”
NASB 19 Dissension occurred again among the Jews because of these words. 20 Many of them were saying, “He has a demon and is insane. Why do you listen to Him?” 21 Others were saying, “These are not the words of one who is demon-possessed. A demon cannot open the eyes of those who are blind, can it?”
Reflection on Scripture:
When Jesus made audacious claims about his role and about his power, he was accused of being possessed by a demon. This was meant to be an accusation that would make his comments illegitimate. This was an attack on his divinity by accusing him of being part of the opposition. This was among the most extreme inaccuracies in the history of inaccuracies, to accuse God of being possessed by the Devil. This is not just a claim that was meant to be over the top, it was meant to discredit the true works of Jesus Christ. The logical and principled teachings of Jesus were compared to the confused evil theological ramblings of a demon.
Another thing that makes this so impactful is because evil does exist. Each of us must grapple with forces of evil acting in the world. We encounter ideas inspired by evil in public discourse and societal perspectives. It would be unsafe to assume that evil is metaphoric or that the devil doesn't really exist. It is oft repeated that the Devil tries to convince us he does not exist. But he does exist. Just as God inspires our minds with the still small voice of His spirit of peace, the enemy will whisper words of destruction, self hatred, temptation to sin and many other evil whisperings. The chatter of your mind that discourages you does not come from God.
With that said it is not necessary we live in fear of that. It is a reality of the world that Satan has existed the whole time, even in moments when we feel the peace of God the devil has existed. When we feel the joys of love of family, or the joy in Grace, the feeling of victory in the Lord, the devil existed then too. When Jesus healed and performed miracles, the devil existed then too. We cannot turn down the level of the darkness, but we can look to the light and the darkness will vanish. The whisperings of the evil one are always a lie, just as they were in this scripture. Jesus is the source of true light and will always win in the long run. If we turn to the light, the darkness must flee and eventually be destroyed.
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit.
Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:
I invite you to sit in silence feeling patient for your own faults and trials.
Summarize what insights you have gained during this meditation and meditate and visualize positive change in your life:
This is a listener funded podcast at patreon.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Final Question: If you consider the invitation and command to persevere in the faith, what change in your life does that bring to your mind?
FIND ME ON: Download my free app: Recenter with Christ Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com Voicemail - (602) 888-3795 Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
KJV 16 And other sheep I have, which are not of this fold: them also I must bring, and they shall hear my voice; and there shall be one fold, and one shepherd. 17 Therefore doth my Father love me, because I lay down my life, that I might take it again. 18 No man taketh it from me, but I lay it down of myself. I have power to lay it down, and I have power to take it again. This commandment have I received of my Father.
802 There Will Be One Fold, and One Shepherd, A Guided Christian Meditation on John 10:16-18 with the Recenter With Christ app
The purpose of this podcast is to help you find more peace in and connect with the true source of peace, Jesus Christ.
Outline: Relaxation, Reading, Meditation, Prayer, Contemplation and Visualization. You can sit comfortably and uninterrupted for about 20 minutes.You should hopefully not be driving or anything tense or unrelaxing. If you feel comfortable to do so, I invite you to close your eyes. Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation: Breathe and direct your thoughts to connecting with God. Let your stomach be a balloon inflate, deflate.
Scripture for Meditation
KJV 16 And other sheep I have, which are not of this fold: them also I must bring, and they shall hear my voice; and there shall be one fold, and one shepherd. 17 Therefore doth my Father love me, because I lay down my life, that I might take it again. 18 No man taketh it from me, but I lay it down of myself. I have power to lay it down, and I have power to take it again. This commandment have I received of my Father.
ESV 16 I have other sheep that do not belong to this fold. These also I must lead, and they will hear my voice, and there will be one flock, one shepherd. 17 This is why the Father loves me, because I lay down my life in order to take it up again. 18 No one takes it from me, but I lay it down on my own. I have power to lay it down, and power to take it up again. This command I have received from my Father.”
Reflection on Scripture:
In a world filled with so much conflict and warring theologies, philosophies and ideologies, it is crucial to remember that Jesus declared there is one fold of God. There is only one Shepherd. He gathers His sheep. If there is any message that is needed by the world it is the words of Jesus. The world becomes more challenging as more people abandon what Jesus said, and turn their trust to other things to form their personal ethics. In the absence of the word of God as the direction humans are left to cling to whatever floating driftwood of values they find in society. Many people grasp to ideas they hear and allow those ideas to form how they see themselves. Earthly ideologies replace heavenly theologies. The truth is though that there is one Shepherd that decides what your identity is. The perspective of the world does not change that. The philosophies of the world cannot provide a better foundation for how people should exist with each other than to know we are all the same sheep. We are all lost without our Shepherd.
That Shepherd is master of life and death. Jesus descended from Heaven to gather his flock. He taught powerful truths about how to live and what He expects of us. He taught us how to trust and how to seek God’s spirit. He chose to lay down His own life in the great culmination of His earthly ministry. He gave His life. He laid it down. Nobody could take it from Him. God allowed for the people to crucify Him. God allows for people to make evil choices but never stops calling for people to leave their sin. He sent his Apostles into all the world to preach the gospel because there are other sheep yet we are all to be part of one flock and all this was God’s plan from the beginning. You are meant to be united with all God’s children. Our highest priority should be to live the way Jesus would have us live, even when we exist in the world. Do not allow the sin of the world to discourage you. God will be victorious. God’s purposes will be worked even through the incorrect choices we all make on earth. Trust in the Lord and he will lead you to His heart.
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit.
Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:
I invite you to sit in silence feeling patient for your own faults and trials.
Summarize what insights you have gained during this meditation and meditate and visualize positive change in your life:
This is a listener funded podcast at patreon.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Final Question: If you consider the invitation and command to persevere in the faith, what change in your life does that bring to your mind?
FIND ME ON: Download my free app: Recenter with Christ Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com Voicemail - (602) 888-3795 Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
800 I Know My Own, A Guided Christian Meditation on John 10:13-15 with the Recenter With Christ app
The purpose of this podcast is to help you find more peace in and connect with the true source of peace, Jesus Christ.
Outline: Relaxation, Reading, Meditation, Prayer, Contemplation and Visualization. You can sit comfortably and uninterrupted for about 20 minutes.You should hopefully not be driving or anything tense or unrelaxing. If you feel comfortable to do so, I invite you to close your eyes. Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation: Breathe and direct your thoughts to connecting with God. Let your stomach be a balloon inflate, deflate.
Scripture for Meditation
NIV 13 The man runs away because he is a hired hand and cares nothing for the sheep. 14 “I am the good shepherd; I know my sheep and my sheep know me— 15 just as the Father knows me and I know the Father—and I lay down my life for the sheep.
NET 13 Because he is a hired hand and is not concerned about the sheep, he runs away. 14 “I am the good shepherd. I know my own and my own know me— 15 just as the Father knows me and I know the Father—and I lay down my life for the sheep.
NASB 13 He flees because he is a hired hand and does not care about the sheep. 14 I am the good shepherd, and I know My own, and My own know Me, 15 just as the Father knows Me and I know the Father; and I lay down My life for the sheep.
Reflection on Scripture:
God knows you. God knows you as God the father knows the Son. Although you struggle to understand yourself, your God perfectly knows you. Do you know Him? What are signs in your life that you know Him? When you know someone it is often because you spend a lot of time with them. You spend time thinking about them. You spend time sharing interests. You spend time thinking about what they think about. You spend time wondering what they like and prefer. When I first started dating my wife I became very interested in the things that she found interesting. Her personality became a puzzle I tried to unlock. I would spend time just looking at her and wondering what she was thinking. Do we do the same with God? Do we love God as much as we love someone we begin to date?
After two decades of being happily married to my wife she is so much more known to me now, and yet, she still says things that surprise and delight me. We are often thinking similar things and we know each other’s likes and dislikes. We finish each other's sentences and we often start singing the same song at the same time, in the same key. Yet with all that said, there is no way our limited human understanding can predict everything. In some ways we will always remain a mystery to each other. But we are not a mystery to the Lord. You are perfectly known by at least one being in the universe. And with all of God’s knowledge and wisdom, with all his perfect awareness of your weakness and sin, He in wisdom, chose to love you. He chose to be your shepherd. God does not make errors. His decision to love you is not an error.
His decision to help you is not an error. He does not run when times get tough. When you encounter struggles God is not fearful and does not run away. He remains by your side and as long as you are willing to look to Him, you will find Him because He is your shepherd. I invite you to ponder on the Character of a God who has created such a complex earth, has set down irrefutable law, and yet has chosen to love you. Ponder on God now. Think of Him and get to know him.
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit.
Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:
I invite you to sit in silence feeling patient for your own faults and trials.
Summarize what insights you have gained during this meditation and meditate and visualize positive change in your life:
This is a listener funded podcast at patreon.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Final Question: If you consider the invitation and command to persevere in the faith, what change in your life does that bring to your mind?
FIND ME ON: Download my free app: Recenter with Christ Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com Voicemail - (602) 888-3795 Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
RSV 10 The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I came that they may have life, and have it abundantly. 11 I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep. 12 He who is a hireling and not a shepherd, whose own the sheep are not, sees the wolf coming and leaves the sheep and flees; and the wolf snatches them and scatters them.
NET John 10 7 So Jesus said again, “I tell you the solemn truth, I am the door for the sheep. 8 All who came before me were thieves and robbers, but the sheep did not listen to them. 9 I am the door. If anyone enters through me, he will be saved, and will come in and go out, and find pasture.
776 I Am The Door, A Guided Christian Meditation on John 10:7-9 with the Recenter With Christ app
The purpose of this podcast is to help you find more peace in and connect with the true source of peace, Jesus Christ.
Outline: Relaxation, Reading, Meditation, Prayer, Contemplation and Visualization. u can sit comfortably and uninterrupted for about 20 minutes.You should hopefully not be driving or anything tensing or unrelaxing. If you feel comfortable to do so, I invite you to close your eyes. Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation: Breathe and direct your thoughts to connecting with God. Let your stomach be a balloon inflate, deflate.
Scripture for Meditation
NET 7 So Jesus said again, “I tell you the solemn truth, I am the door for the sheep. 8 All who came before me were thieves and robbers, but the sheep did not listen to them. 9 I am the door. If anyone enters through me, he will be saved, and will come in and go out, and find pasture.
NASB 7 So Jesus said to them again, “Truly, truly I say to you, I am the door of the sheep. 8 All those who came before Me are thieves and robbers, but the sheep did not listen to them. 9 I am the door; if anyone enters through Me, he will be saved, and will go in and out and find pasture.
Reflection on Scripture:
From time to time I have seen videos of farm animals being groomed or cared for. They often have the animal secured and bound up with machinery as they do their work because the animal does not understand what is happening and is frightened. Even though the caretakers have only the best intentions and the animal will be far better off for the experience, even if there is some pain involved. The animal does not understand the long term intentions of the people caring for him or her. In that moment, all they want is to be unbound and free to run away from the hoof clipping or whatever else is happening.
They lose all sight of what they truly want in a long term sense. These animals surely have some sort of desire to be reunited with their animal family and to be able to once again enjoy the green grass and sunlight they normally get exposed to. In that moment they would throw that all away if it wasn't for a wise caretaker that allows for their momentary concerns to exist because that caretaker knows what is in their best interest.
So it is with us. In an eternal sense we have no idea what we truely want. We think about the things on earth that we want and we are like a cow caught up being groomed. We want nothing more than to escape what we see as the worst thing possible. What we don't realize is that there are things that are far worse than that. We also dont realize the path necessary to get us to those things that we truly want eternally. In this scripture Jesus declares to us that He is the Way. Jesus is the method whereby we get what we truly want deeply and longingly although we have limited ability to understand it. Jesus knows what we most want, even when we can't see it. He knows how to give it to us. If we come unto Him and trust Him as our shepherd, then we will be able to receive the finest pastures available. He is a good God and will guide us to a beautiful existence we cannot now comprehend. Unfortunately at times it requires that we are in situations we don't want here on earth. So the invitation stands. Trust Him as our shepherd. Trust that God knows what he is doing as he allows the struggles of life to challenge and try you because he knows what you will become, through Him.
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit.
Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:
I invite you to sit in silence feeling patient for your own faults and trials.
Summarize what insights you have gained during this meditation and meditate and visualize positive change in your life:
This is a listener funded podcast at patreon.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Final Question: If you consider the invitation and command to persevere in the faith, what change in your life does that bring to your mind?
FIND ME ON: Download my free app: Recenter with Christ Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com Voicemail - (602) 888-3795 Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
NABRE 3 When he has driven out all his own, he walks ahead of them, and the sheep follow him, because they recognize his voice. 5 But they will not follow a stranger; they will run away from him, because they do not recognize the voice of strangers.” 6 Although Jesus used this figure of speech, they did not realize what he was trying to tell them.
774 A Stranger They Will Not Follow, A Guided Christian Meditation on John 10:4-6 with the Recenter With Christ app
The purpose of this podcast is to help you find more peace in and connect with the true source of peace, Jesus Christ.
Outline: Relaxation, Reading, Meditation, Prayer, Contemplation and Visualization. u can sit comfortably and uninterrupted for about 20 minutes.You should hopefully not be driving or anything tensing or unrelaxing. If you feel comfortable to do so, I invite you to close your eyes. Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation: Breathe and direct your thoughts to connecting with God. Let your stomach be a balloon inflate, deflate.
Scripture for Meditation
NABRE 3 When he has driven out all his own, he walks ahead of them, and the sheep follow him, because they recognize his voice. 5 But they will not follow a stranger; they will run away from him, because they do not recognize the voice of strangers.” 6 Although Jesus used this figure of speech, they did not realize what he was trying to tell them.
KJV 4 And when he putteth forth his own sheep, he goeth before them, and the sheep follow him: for they know his voice. 5 And a stranger will they not follow, but will flee from him: for they know not the voice of strangers. 6 This parable spake Jesus unto them: but they understood not what things they were which he spake unto them.
Reflection on Scripture:
As we know, Jesus is the shepherd. We are the crazy sheep. Those who respond to the shepherd are the sheep of the shepherd. We hear the voice of that shepherd and respond. This analogy works if we look deeper also. From the perspective of the sheep they choose to trust the master. They choose to overcome their fear and respond to His words of calm. They think that it is a natural thing for them to be loved and protected. Of course they don't need to worry too greatly for predators because predators don't ever overcome them. The sheep that have put their trust in the shepherd may even think themselves quite clever.
Yet at the end of the day it is the wisdom of the shepherd that taught the sheep. The sheep would not have anyone to trust if it wasnt for the wisdom of the Shepherd. The shepherd has patience and has given protection. All the things that the sheep have learned to assume is just the normal way of things, are actually the agency of the shepherd. The decision of the shepherd is what makes the relationship meaningful. If the shepherd was uncaring or unreliable then the sheep would not trust that person.
The sheep do not trust a stranger because there is nothing trustworthy for them to see. The only reason we can even try and follow God’s commands is because he is powerful enough to create a universe, he was wise enough to create a law and then a new law that would bless us, and ultimately he had the love enough to help us overcome our failures. It is the wisdom and agency of the shepherd that makes it even possible for the sheep to listen. The sheep would not even be alive without the shepherd.
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit.
Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:
I invite you to sit in silence feeling patient for your own faults and trials.
Summarize what insights you have gained during this meditation and meditate and visualize positive change in your life:
This is a listener funded podcast at patreon.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Final Question: If you consider the invitation and command to persevere in the faith, what change in your life does that bring to your mind?
FIND ME ON: Download my free app: Recenter with Christ Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com Voicemail - (602) 888-3795 Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
NIV 1 Very truly I tell you Pharisees, anyone who does not enter the sheep pen by the gate, but climbs in by some other way, is a thief and a robber. 2 The one who enters by the gate is the shepherd of the sheep. 3 The gatekeeper opens the gate for him, and the sheep listen to his voice. He calls his own sheep by name and leads them out.
772 He Calls For All His Own Sheep By Name, A Guided Christian Meditation on John 10:1-3 with the Recenter With Christ app
The purpose of this podcast is to help you find more peace in and connect with the true source of peace, Jesus Christ.
Outline: Relaxation, Reading, Meditation, Prayer, Contemplation and Visualization.
Get into a place where you can sit comfortably and uninterrupted for about 20 minutes.You should hopefully not be driving or anything tensing or unrelaxing. If you feel comfortable to do so, I invite you to close your eyes. Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation: Breathe and direct your thoughts to connecting with God. Let your stomach be a balloon inflate, deflate.
Scripture for Meditation
NIV 1 Very truly I tell you Pharisees, anyone who does not enter the sheep pen by the gate, but climbs in by some other way, is a thief and a robber. 2 The one who enters by the gate is the shepherd of the sheep. 3 The gatekeeper opens the gate for him, and the sheep listen to his voice. He calls his own sheep by name and leads them out.
RSV Truly, truly, I say to you, he who does not enter the sheepfold by the door but climbs in by another way, that man is a thief and a robber; 2 but he who enters by the door is the shepherd of the sheep. 3 To him the gatekeeper opens; the sheep hear his voice, and he calls his own sheep by name and leads them out.
Reflection on Scripture:
One thing we can get caught up in while doing devotional reading is the idea that we need a profound and unique insight in order to make a devotional meaningful. I know I have encountered many clever and nifty thoughts reading devotionals. Although this can be fun, none of that should take us away from the simplest idea that is the central core of the gospel of Jesus Christ. An all knowing loving God, chose to love you before you were even created. In that love he also created a method by which we can learn and grow and be redeemed.
The life mission of Jesus Christ is the outpouring of that love and it is offered to you. We are his sheep. He is both the shepherd and also the gate by which we come in and out. He is the way but he also shows us the way. There is a door specifically designed for us sheep. A door and a path that if we use, we will find safety. We can complicate it but ultimately there is no important message that can ease our burden than that. Anything you are facing in this world is a temporary challenge. God does not shout down answers at us from heaven but has shown us the way to live through the example of Jesus’ life. He shows us how to overcome challenge with love and patience. He shows us strength in the face of overwhelming odds. He shows us that good will always win over evil.
If you are listening to scripture and responding to it then you are following the good Shepheard. I encourage you to continue in that walk. The path he has laid out will guide us to victory and safety. He is your loving savior and will never leave you or forsake you.
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit.
Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:
I invite you to sit in silence feeling patient for your own faults and trials.
Summarize what insights you have gained during this meditation and meditate and visualize positive change in your life:
This is a listener funded podcast at patreon.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Final Question: If you consider the invitation and command to persevere in the faith, what change in your life does that bring to your mind?
FIND ME ON: Download my free app: Recenter with Christ Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com Voicemail - (602) 888-3795 Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
RSV 7 so that you became an example to all the believers in Macedo′nia and in Acha′ia. 8 For not only has the word of the Lord sounded forth from you in Macedo′nia and Acha′ia, but your faith in God has gone forth everywhere, so that we need not say anything. 9 For they themselves report concerning us what a welcome we had among you, and how you turned to God from idols, to serve a living and true God, 10 and to wait for his Son from heaven, whom he raised from the dead, Jesus who delivers us from the wrath to come.
770 You Became an Example to All the Believers, A Guided Christian Meditation on 1 Thessalonians 1:7-10 with the Recenter With Christ app
The purpose of this podcast is to help you find more peace in and connect with the true source of peace, Jesus Christ.
Outline: Relaxation, Reading, Meditation, Prayer, Contemplation and Visualization.
Get into a place where you can sit comfortably and uninterrupted for about 20 minutes.You should hopefully not be driving or anything tensing or unrelaxing. If you feel comfortable to do so, I invite you to close your eyes. Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation: Breathe and direct your thoughts to connecting with God. Let your stomach be a balloon inflate, deflate.
Scripture for Meditation
1 Thessalonians 1:4-6
NET 7 As a result you became an example to all the believers in Macedonia and in Achaia. 8 For from you the message of the Lord has echoed forth not just in Macedonia and Achaia, but in every place reports of your faith in God have spread, so that we do not need to say anything. 9 For people everywhere report how you welcomed us and how you turned to God from idols to serve the living and true God 10 and to wait for his Son from heaven, whom he raised from the dead, Jesus our deliverer from the coming wrath.
RSV 7 so that you became an example to all the believers in Macedo′nia and in Acha′ia. 8 For not only has the word of the Lord sounded forth from you in Macedo′nia and Acha′ia, but your faith in God has gone forth everywhere, so that we need not say anything. 9 For they themselves report concerning us what a welcome we had among you, and how you turned to God from idols, to serve a living and true God, 10 and to wait for his Son from heaven, whom he raised from the dead, Jesus who delivers us from the wrath to come.
Reflection on Scripture:
What does it mean to become an imitator of Jesus Christ? When I was out driving today I saw a sign for a church that said they were a friendly church. Many people point to the acceptance of jesus Christ and claim that he would reach out to all and be friendly. I have heard other Christians resist this notion claiming that Jesus was not nice and that is just us reading our modern sensibilities into scripture and that Jesus holds people accountable and prefers confrontation with the Word to bring people to truth.
Since we are trying to be like Jesus and as Paul says here, to be an imitator of Jesus, it is far from a philosophical point to wonder how Jesus would approach sinners.
Jesus had an amazing ability to make sinners both feel challenged but also loved. I think a characterization that demands we choose between Jesus accepting sinners, and permitting sin is a quite limited perspective that does not align with Jesus’ actions in life. He wanted people to depart from activities that would cause them to be less like Him. Things that God calls sins do not become meaningless just because Jesus is willing to forgive us for them.
I think it is a fundamentally important point that as we turn from our sin and try and reject the idolatry of the word, that this is one of the ways this scripture points to us following the example. Equally important is what it says in the verses we covered in the last episode, that we be filled with the Joy of the Holy Spirit. I believe that as we live in that joy it will pour out of our lives and help others to feel loved, but hopefully to aspire to the kind of relationship with God that feeds this joy. This week I was talking with someone who had engaged in something that they saw as a grievous sin. Both he and I agreed that it was a poor choice but due to the way I engaged with him, he felt completely loved but also completely convicted of that sin. He committed to bring it to God and return his heart to the Lord. I think this is an example of the kind of balance we can make between departing from sin but also rejoicing in the spirit. Above all the greatest invitation is for us to place our trust on the Son who was raised to heaven and will deliver us from the wrath to come. Let us ponder how we are doing with our goals to emulate this kind of loving faith
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit.
Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:
I invite you to sit in silence feeling patient for your own faults and trials.
Summarize what insights you have gained during this meditation and meditate and visualize positive change in your life:
This is a listener funded podcast at patreon.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Final Question: If you consider the invitation and command to persevere in the faith, what change in your life does that bring to your mind?
FIND ME ON: Download my free app: Recenter with Christ Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com Voicemail - (602) 888-3795 Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
ESV 4 For we know, brothers loved by God, that he has chosen you, 5 because our gospel came to you not only in word, but also in power and in the Holy Spirit and with full conviction. You know what kind of men we proved to be among you for your sake. 6 And you became imitators of us and of the Lord, for you received the word in much affliction, with the joy of the Holy Spirit,
768 Our Gospel Did Not Come To You In Word Only, A Guided Christian Meditation on 1 Thessalonians 1:4-6 with the Recenter With Christ app
The purpose of this podcast is to help you find more peace in and connect with the true source of peace, Jesus Christ.
Outline: Relaxation, Reading, Meditation, Prayer, Contemplation and Visualization.
Get into a place where you can sit comfortably and uninterrupted for about 20 minutes.You should hopefully not be driving or anything tensing or unrelaxing. If you feel comfortable to do so, I invite you to close your eyes. Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation: Breathe and direct your thoughts to connecting with God. Let your stomach be a balloon inflate, deflate.
Scripture for Meditation
1 Thessalonians 1:4-6
NIV 4 For we know, brothers and sisters loved by God, that he has chosen you, 5 because our gospel came to you not simply with words but also with power, with the Holy Spirit and deep conviction. You know how we lived among you for your sake. 6 You became imitators of us and of the Lord, for you welcomed the message in the midst of severe suffering with the joy given by the Holy Spirit.
ESV 4 For we know, brothers loved by God, that he has chosen you, 5 because our gospel came to you not only in word, but also in power and in the Holy Spirit and with full conviction. You know what kind of men we proved to be among you for your sake. 6 And you became imitators of us and of the Lord, for you received the word in much affliction, with the joy of the Holy Spirit,
Meditation on Scripture:
You are beloved and chosen of God. Raw intellect is not the complete package in terms of faith. How is it that a testimony of God grows and develops? Is it expressly because a person acquires the right facts? I would suggest that knowledge is an element of faith but it is far from the most important. It is more important to experience God’s spirit. Sometimes we can say that we understand that then we live as though it is true.Through that spirit we receive faith. Through that spirit we are transformed. I think this means that it is important for us to focus on welcoming the Gospel and that Spirit into our heart. I certainly don't claim that our effort dictates the activity of God’s spirit but if we look past God speaking to our hearts we miss much of what he would say to us individually. As God speaks to our heart, this becomes the foundation of our faith.
So I think it is incredibly important that we prioritize our focus on the way God’s spirit speaks to us. A couple days ago I was praying for someone I love. I was praying that they could experience peace. In my heart I felt the answer from the Lord is that this was the phase of life they were in. I then had this distinct answer that any words of comfort would need to come from me. This inspired me to try and be even more thoughtful about my answers to this person. I certainly don't think this sets any systemic theology. In some ways the objective truth of this inspiration doesn't matter, it blessed my life, and as a result blessed the life of the person I was praying for. I think for me, this represented a connection with God’s spirit. The still small voice. It is both subtle but also power.
So in moments of meditation focus on listening to the Spirit of God. Also in moments of prayer and quiet that don't quite ascend to the depth of what we would call mediation, focus on listening also. It is not by words only that God through the gospel came to you and continues to transform your life.
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit.
Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:
I invite you to sit in silence feeling patient for your own faults and trials.
Summarize what insights you have gained during this meditation and meditate and visualize positive change in your life:
This is a listener funded podcast at patreon.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Final Question: If you consider the invitation and command to persevere in the faith, what change in your life does that bring to your mind?
FIND ME ON: Download my free app: Recenter with Christ Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com Voicemail - (602) 888-3795 Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
NASB 1 Paul, Silvanus, and Timothy, To the church of the Thessalonians in God the Father and the Lord Jesus Christ: Grace to you and peace. 2 We always give thanks to God for all of you, making mention of you in our prayers; 3 constantly keeping in mind your work of faith and labor of love and perseverance of hope [b]in our Lord Jesus Christ in the presence of our God and Father,
766 We Remember Before Our God, A Guided Christian Meditation on 1 Thessalonians 1:1-3 with the Recenter With Christ app
The purpose of this podcast is to help you find more peace in and connect with the true source of peace, Jesus Christ.
Outline: Relaxation, Reading, Meditation, Prayer, Contemplation and Visualization.
Get into a place where you can sit comfortably and uninterrupted for about 20 minutes.You should hopefully not be driving or anything tensing or unrelaxing. If you feel comfortable to do so, I invite you to close your eyes. Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation: Breathe and direct your thoughts to connecting with God. Let your stomach be a balloon inflate, deflate.
Scripture for Meditation
1 Thessalonians 1 NIV 1 Paul, Silas and Timothy, To the church of the Thessalonians in God the Father and the Lord Jesus Christ: Grace and peace to you. 2 We always thank God for all of you and continually mention you in our prayers. 3 We remember before our God and Father your work produced by faith, your labor prompted by love, and your endurance inspired by hope in our Lord Jesus Christ.
NASB 1 Paul, Silvanus, and Timothy, To the church of the Thessalonians in God the Father and the Lord Jesus Christ: Grace to you and peace. 2 We always give thanks to God for all of you, making mention of you in our prayers; 3 constantly keeping in mind your work of faith and labor of love and perseverance of hope [b]in our Lord Jesus Christ in the presence of our God and Father,
Meditation on Scripture:
As I have mentioned in the past, my mom experiences a degenerative memory that is progressively worsening over time. I’m visiting with her this week. I’ve been thinking a lot about memory. How much of who we are is generated through memory and Where do memories reside? Some people may say the brain but does that mean if our spirit leaves our body we lose all our memories? It seems that a scriptural understanding of memory suggests that memory is maintained even when we are disembodied, as a result memory is not a human phenomenon.
I love the phrase here in this scripture, to remember before God the work of faith. Our actions in life are objectively seen by God and imperfectly remembered by us. There is a power in our attempts to remember. A powerful way to stay connected to the Lord is to constantly hold Him in our rememberance, to reflect on God’s grave and love toward us.
As I was talking with my loved one I was realizing that without memory we cannot live for the future or the past, but only for the moment. We can actively choose faith in this current moment regardless of how imperfect our human memory is.
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit.
Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:
I invite you to sit in silence feeling patient for your own faults and trials.
Summarize what insights you have gained during this meditation and meditate and visualize positive change in your life:
This is a listener funded podcast at patreon.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Final Question: If you consider the invitation and command to persevere in the faith, what change in your life does that bring to your mind?
FIND ME ON: Download my free app: Recenter with Christ Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com Voicemail - (602) 888-3795 Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
1 Thessalonians 1 NIV 1 Paul, Silas and Timothy, To the church of the Thessalonians in God the Father and the Lord Jesus Christ: Grace and peace to you. 2 We always thank God for all of you and continually mention you in our prayers. 3 We remember before our God and Father your work produced by faith, your labor prompted by love, and your endurance inspired by hope in our Lord Jesus Christ.
764 Your Faith Has Saved you Go In Peace, A Guided Christian Meditation on Luke 7:48-50 with the Recenter With Christ app
The purpose of this podcast is to help you find more peace in and connect with the true source of peace, Jesus Christ.
Outline: Relaxation, Reading, Meditation, Prayer, Contemplation and Visualization.
Get into a place where you can sit comfortably and uninterrupted for about 20 minutes.You should hopefully not be driving or anything tensing or unrelaxing. If you feel comfortable to do so, I invite you to close your eyes. Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation: Breathe and direct your thoughts to connecting with God. Let your stomach be a balloon inflate, deflate.
Scripture for Meditation
Luke 7
ESV 48 And he said to her, “Your sins are forgiven.” 49 Then those who were at table with him began to say among themselves, “Who is this, who even forgives sins?” 50 And he said to the woman, “Your faith has saved you; go in peace.”
NIV 48 Then Jesus said to her, “Your sins are forgiven.” 49 The other guests began to say among themselves, “Who is this who even forgives sins?” 50 Jesus said to the woman, “Your faith has saved you; go in peace.”
Meditation on Scripture:
Today I have a simple and direct message that forms the core of the Gospel of Jesus Christ. There is no more important sentence we more need to hear than this one. Your sins are forgiven. We spend a great deal of time worried about many different outcomes and different decisions, yet this one is by far the most important. The good news of the Gospel is that this sentence is made possible by the redeemer, Jesus Christ. Regardless of the filth of the world, how stained we have become by its sin, or how prideful we are in thinking we dont need forgiveness despite the ample evidence to the contrary, God can forgive.
Jesus performs miracles, we see that in the Gospel accounts. He teaches profound lessons of instruction of moral clarity and righteousness. Yet these people here are baffled that he forgives sins. For those of us who have already accepted that Jesus is the Son of God and as it says in the Gospels that Jesus has take the role of judge. We can forget how unique that is. Here they sat with a man who claimed to forgive sins. Who is Jesus that he can forgive your sins? As you come to truely believe Jesus, not just believe in Him, you come to understand that he certainly is able to forgive sin.
We, just like this woman, can be comforted when we ponder that declaration that OUR sins are forgiven. As our faith in God has allowed us to receive a new heart, willing to do what God has asked, we can also Go in Peace. If you lack peace in your heart, set aside all the things that lessen that peace and accept this statement from Jesus. Your faith has saved you; go in peace.”
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit.
Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:
I invite you to sit in silence feeling patient for your own faults and trials.
Summarize what insights you have gained during this meditation and meditate and visualize positive change in your life:
This is a listener funded podcast at patreon.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Final Question: If you consider the invitation and command to persevere in the faith, what change in your life does that bring to your mind?
FIND ME ON: Download my free app: Recenter with Christ Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com Voicemail - (602) 888-3795 Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
KJV 43 Simon answered and said, I suppose that he, to whom he forgave most. And he said unto him, Thou hast rightly judged. 44 And he turned to the woman, and said unto Simon, Seest thou this woman? I entered into thine house, thou gavest me no water for my feet: but she hath washed my feet with tears, and wiped them with the hairs of her head. 45 Thou gavest me no kiss: but this woman since the time I came in hath not ceased to kiss my feet. 46 My head with oil thou didst not anoint: but this woman hath anointed my feet with ointment. 47 Wherefore I say unto thee, Her sins, which are many, are forgiven; for she loved much: but to whom little is forgiven, the same loveth little.
NET 9 Now when the Pharisee who had invited him saw this, he said to himself, “If this man were a prophet, he would know who and what kind of woman this is who is touching him, that she is a sinner.” 40 So Jesus answered him, “Simon, I have something to say to you.” He replied, “Say it, Teacher.” 41 “A certain creditor had two debtors; one owed him 500 silver coins, and the other fifty. 42 When they could not pay, he canceled the debts of both. Now which of them will love him more?”
760 Which of the Debtors with Love Him More, A Guided Christian Meditation on Luke 7:39-42 with the Recenter With Christ app
The purpose of this podcast is to help you find more peace in and connect with the true source of peace, Jesus Christ.
Outline: Relaxation, Reading, Meditation, Prayer, Contemplation and Visualization.
Get into a place where you can sit comfortably and uninterrupted for about 20 minutes.You should hopefully not be driving or anything tensing or unrelaxing. If you feel comfortable to do so, I invite you to close your eyes. Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation: Breathe and direct your thoughts to connecting with God. Let your stomach be a balloon inflate, deflate.
Scripture for Meditation
Luke 7
ESV 39 Now when the Pharisee who had invited him saw this, he said to himself, “If this man were a prophet, he would have known who and what sort of woman this is who is touching him, for she is a sinner.” 40 And Jesus answering said to him, “Simon, I have something to say to you.” And he answered, “Say it, Teacher.” 41 “A certain moneylender had two debtors. One owed five hundred denarii, and the other fifty. 42 When they could not pay, he cancelled the debt of both. Now which of them will love him more?”
NET 9 Now when the Pharisee who had invited him saw this, he said to himself, “If this man were a prophet, he would know who and what kind of woman this is who is touching him, that she is a sinner.” 40 So Jesus answered him, “Simon, I have something to say to you.” He replied, “Say it, Teacher.” 41 “A certain creditor had two debtors; one owed him 500 silver coins, and the other fifty. 42 When they could not pay, he canceled the debts of both. Now which of them will love him more?”
Meditation on Scripture:
When believers read this part we can be a bit incredulous to the response of the pharisee. Since we have an understanding about who Jesus is and what he knew, it seems silly to question Him. As though this pharisee was more knowledgeable than Jesus regarding this woman and her actions. There is a kind of arrogance that accompanies the judgemental heart. He had his own information and presumed himself to be wiser than Jesus. Since he knew something of the woman’s crimes, that knowledge caused him to doubt Jesus.
Jesus then starts a parable that will teach a valuable lesson. It wasn't ignorance or weakness that led him to welcome this action from this woman. It was grace. When we ignore Jesus’ grace, then we approach the heart position of this pharisee. There are times in our lives when we feel that we know what is just and unjust. We think we have all the facts needed to be clear on how offended to be about something and we end up in a very similar situation as this man.
Jesus invites us into a position of grace with Him and His other children. Whenever we have a feeling of moral superiority over anyone for any reason, this mindset rears its head. We are all debtors to God. None of us have the funds needed to pay that debt. He points out that He is willing to forgive us. God extends his grace to you, and the other people we judge. During this meditation may we embrace grace. Leave to God, the role of offense. Our role is not to be indignant at others but to be grateful to the one who forgives our debt and allow Him to deal with his other debts however he chooses.
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit.
Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:
I invite you to sit in silence feeling patient for your own faults and trials.
Summarize what insights you have gained during this meditation and meditate and visualize positive change in your life:
This is a listener funded podcast at patreon.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Final Question: If you consider the invitation and command to persevere in the faith, what change in your life does that bring to your mind?
FIND ME ON: Download my free app: Recenter with Christ Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com Voicemail - (602) 888-3795 Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
KJV 35 But wisdom is justified of all her children. 36 And one of the Pharisees desired him that he would eat with him. And he went into the Pharisee's house, and sat down to meat. 37 And, behold, a woman in the city, which was a sinner, when she knew that Jesus sat at meat in the Pharisee's house, brought an alabaster box of ointment, 38 And stood at his feet behind him weeping, and began to wash his feet with tears, and did wipe them with the hairs of her head, and kissed his feet, and anointed them with the ointment.
758 She Washed His Feet With Her Hair, A Guided Christian Meditation on Luke 7:35-38 with the Recenter With Christ app
The purpose of this podcast is to help you find more peace in and connect with the true source of peace, Jesus Christ.
Outline: Relaxation, Reading, Meditation, Prayer, Contemplation and Visualization.
Get into a place where you can sit comfortably and uninterrupted for about 20 minutes.You should hopefully not be driving or anything tensing or unrelaxing. If you feel comfortable to do so, I invite you to close your eyes. Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation: Breathe and direct your thoughts to connecting with God. Let your stomach be a balloon inflate, deflate.
Scripture for Meditation
Luke 7
KJV 35 But wisdom is justified of all her children. 36 And one of the Pharisees desired him that he would eat with him. And he went into the Pharisee's house, and sat down to meat. 37 And, behold, a woman in the city, which was a sinner, when she knew that Jesus sat at meat in the Pharisee's house, brought an alabaster box of ointment, 38 And stood at his feet behind him weeping, and began to wash his feet with tears, and did wipe them with the hairs of her head, and kissed his feet, and anointed them with the ointment.
NASB 35 And yet wisdom is vindicated by all her children.” 36 Now one of the Pharisees was requesting Him to eat with him, and He entered the Pharisee’s house and reclined at the table. 37 And there was a woman in the city who was a sinner; and when she learned that He was reclining at the table in the Pharisee’s house, she brought an alabaster vial of perfume, 38 and standing behind Him at His feet, weeping, she began to wet His feet with her tears, and she wiped them with the hair of her head, and began kissing His feet and anointing them with the perfume.
Meditation on Scripture:
If we are not careful or thoughtful we can end up with a misunderstanding of what this message teaches. First we must be careful not to mix up the stories of this occurring. There is another one that shows up later. Jesus corrects people regarding their misunderstanding of the action this woman performs. Jesus accepted her tribute from this woman for various reasons. Jesus calls out the hypocrisy of human judgment. There is certainly a value in this lesson but I think for the moment I would like to focus on the woman and her actions. The humility and love represented are so meaningful. Jesus will go on to compare the actions of this woman to His host but the reason he does so is the devotion this woman displays.
There is a deep devotion she shows. So in this situation it can be helpful to consider ourselves in this role. Do we feel the kind of love and devotion that would inspire us to humble ourselves in front of others? Do we worry too much about what other people would think instead of truly lifting our eyes to glorify God? As you read about her act to glorify God you can really connect with how meaningful Jesus was to her. THis was not a passive act of regular gratitude. This was a profound and gut wrenching description of the value this woman placed on Jesus.
So as we reflect on the disinterested perspective she took on her own pride we have something to reflect on. Are we willing to similarly pour out our love for God? How can we demonstrate his same kind of gratitude for the Lord? Put your heart and mind on the things that God calls to you as things to show Him gratitude.
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit.
Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:
I invite you to sit in silence feeling patient for your own faults and trials.
Summarize what insights you have gained during this meditation and meditate and visualize positive change in your life:
This is a listener funded podcast at patreon.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Final Question: If you consider the invitation and command to persevere in the faith, what change in your life does that bring to your mind?
FIND ME ON: Download my free app: Recenter with Christ Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com Voicemail - (602) 888-3795 Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
NET 31 “To what then should I compare the people of this generation, and what are they like? 32 They are like children sitting in the marketplace and calling out to one another, ‘We played the flute for you, yet you did not dance; we wailed in mourning, yet you did not weep.’ 33 For John the Baptist has come eating no bread and drinking no wine, and you say, ‘He has a demon!’ 34 The Son of Man has come eating and drinking, and you say, ‘Look at him, a glutton and a drunk, a friend of tax collectors and sinners!’ 35 But wisdom is vindicated by all her children.”
756 To What Shall I compare The People of This Generation, A Guided Christian Meditation on Luke 7:31-34 with the Recenter With Christ app
The purpose of this podcast is to help you find more peace in and connect wi h the true source of peace, Jesus Christ.
Outline: Relaxation, Reading, Meditation, Prayer, Contemplation and Visualization.
Get into a place where you can sit comfortably and uninterrupted for about 20 minutes.You should hopefully not be driving jor anything tensing or unrelaxing. If you feel comfortable to do so, I invite you to close your eyes. Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation: Breathe and direct your thoughts to connecting with God. Let your stomach be a balloon inflate, deflate.
Scripture for Meditation
Luke 7
ESV Luke 7 31 “To what then shall I compare the people of this generation, and what are they like? 32 They are like children sitting in the marketplace and calling to one another, “‘We played the flute for you, and you did not dance; we sang a dirge, and you did not weep.’ 33 For John the Baptist has come eating no bread and drinking no wine, and you say, ‘He has a demon.’ 34 The Son of Man has come eating and drinking, and you say, ‘Look at him! A glutton and a drunkard, a friend of tax collectors and sinners!’ 35 Yet wisdom is justified by all her children.”
NET 31 “To what then should I compare the people of this generation, and what are they like? 32 They are like children sitting in the marketplace and calling out to one another, ‘We played the flute for you, yet you did not dance; we wailed in mourning, yet you did not weep.’ 33 For John the Baptist has come eating no bread and drinking no wine, and you say, ‘He has a demon!’ 34 The Son of Man has come eating and drinking, and you say, ‘Look at him, a glutton and a drunk, a friend of tax collectors and sinners!’ 35 But wisdom is vindicated by all her children.”
Meditation on Scripture:
Among the great battlefronts of our generation, I believe that the enemy has a distinct goal of disrupting the family. Mothers and Fathers who raise their children in love of God directly conflicts with Satan’s plans. Our current culture is seemingly designed to erode the strength of that family. Many things which are meant to be sacred our culture holds up as obvious desires of the flesh that must be indulge and event flaunted. The sacred role mothers and fathers fill in a righteous family represent a Godly influence in the child’s life. In past years I have done episodes on Mothers day and as I was pondering this scripture there is a deep divide on the expectations on Godly men.
The temptations of this current generation are so much more complex and profound than have every been in the history of the world. Kings of the past have not had such an access to the temptations of our generation. There are two conflicting messages. Obviously men have to fall into all those temptations because they are men. On the other hand there are equally strong condemnations of men in general for not having the moral strength they once had. It is a divide and confused message.
The division in arguments that Jesus spoke about against the pharisees is equally brought against us in our day. It is left to us as men and women who believe in Christ to discern the truth. God is well aware of the challenges that face us as we attempt to do His will. He knows our temptations and our tendencies, and yet He has expectations that we rise above, lifted by the Cross. I invite you to take whatever struggles you have with this current subject matter to the Lord in peaceful moments of prayer and reflection such as this meditation.
God can take the confusing messages of the world of shame and was them away with our sin. What is left is an inspirational message of grace that lifts us out of the mess we would otherwise be left to. Receive of God’s grace.
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit.
Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:
I invite you to sit in silence feeling patient for your own faults and trials.
Summarize what insights you have gained during this meditation and meditate and visualize positive change in your life:
This is a listener funded podcast at patreon.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Final Question: If you consider the invitation and command to persevere in the faith, what change in your life does that bring to your mind?
FIND ME ON: Download my free app: Recenter with Christ Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com Voicemail - (602) 888-3795 Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
KJV 27 This is he, of whom it is written, Behold, I send my messenger before thy face, which shall prepare thy way before thee. 28 For I say unto you, Among those that are born of women there is not a greater prophet than John the Baptist: but he that is least in the kingdom of God is greater than he. 29 And all the people that heard him, and the publicans, justified God, being baptized with the baptism of John. 30 But the Pharisees and lawyers rejected the counsel of God against themselves, being not baptized of him.
754 I Send My Messenger Before Your Face?, A Guided Christian Meditation on Luke 7:27-30 with the Recenter With Christ app
The purpose of this podcast is to help you find more peace in and connect wi h the true source of peace, Jesus Christ.
Outline: Relaxation, Reading, Meditation, Prayer, Contemplation and Visualization.
Get into a place where you can sit comfortably and uninterrupted for about 20 minutes.You should hopefully not be driving jor anything tensing or unrelaxing. If you feel comfortable to do so, I invite you to close your eyes. Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation: Breathe and direct your thoughts to connecting with God. Let your stomach be a balloon inflate, deflate.
Scripture for Meditation
Luke 7
ESV 27 This is he of whom it is written, “‘Behold, I send my messenger before your face, who will prepare your way before you.’ 28 I tell you, among those born of women none is greater than John. Yet the one who is least in the kingdom of God is greater than he.” 29 (When all the people heard this, and the tax collectors too, they declared God just, having been baptized with the baptism of John, 30 but the Pharisees and the lawyers rejected the purpose of God for themselves, not having been baptized by him.)
KJV 27 This is he, of whom it is written, Behold, I send my messenger before thy face, which shall prepare thy way before thee. 28 For I say unto you, Among those that are born of women there is not a greater prophet than John the Baptist: but he that is least in the kingdom of God is greater than he. 29 And all the people that heard him, and the publicans, justified God, being baptized with the baptism of John. 30 But the Pharisees and lawyers rejected the counsel of God against themselves, being not baptized of him.
Meditation on Scripture:
This passage is a continuation of Jesus’s response to John. Jesus himself declares that John was a prophet and the greatest there was. Specifically because he came to teach about Jesus. He also was testifying that he was greater than John the Baptist, since he also referred to himself as the least in the kingdom. The Son of God descended below all. After this he took on the sin of the world and as a result was both the lowest, but also the greatest. John testified of that.
No matter what Good moral lessons the scriptures teach we should recognize that first and foremost the purpose of scripture is to testify of Christ and our need of Him.
It is interesting that those who would be baptised believed that they were baptised of John saw this statement as a justifying God. and the Pharisees and lawyers, who rejected the baptism of John, did not receive this well. They denied the counsel of God that would have blessed their lives as much as anyone else.
The willingness of the people to be baptised was directly connected with their willingness to believe the words of Jesus. When we do what God asks us to do, that is one way we can demonstrate our faith in God. It is not through thosue actions that we earn some credit score in heaven, but it is a demonstration of faith in Jesus Christ, as James says. Place your faith entirely in Jesus Christ and follow those things He asks you to do. THe new testament is filled with commandments of Jesus. We should seek them out and seek to do them, not to try and earn heaven but to align with the faith that we profess. If we love Him, we will keep His commandments.
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit.
Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:
I invite you to sit in silence feeling patient for your own faults and trials.
Summarize what insights you have gained during this meditation and meditate and visualize positive change in your life:
This is a listener funded podcast at patreon.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Final Question: If you consider the invitation and command to persevere in the faith, what change in your life does that bring to your mind?
FIND ME ON: Download my free app: Recenter with Christ Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com Voicemail - (602) 888-3795 Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
NIV 24 After John’s messengers left, Jesus began to speak to the crowd about John: “What did you go out into the wilderness to see? A reed swayed by the wind? 25 If not, what did you go out to see? A man dressed in fine clothes? No, those who wear expensive clothes and indulge in luxury are in palaces. 26 But what did you go out to see? A prophet? Yes, I tell you, and more than a prophet.
752 What Did You Go To The Wilderness to See?, A Guided Christian Meditation on Luke 7:24-26 with the Recenter With Christ app
The purpose of this podcast is to help you find more peace in and connect wi h the true source of peace, Jesus Christ.
Outline: Relaxation, Reading, Meditation, Prayer, Contemplation and Visualization.
Get into a place where you can sit comfortably and uninterrupted for about 20 minutes.You should hopefully not be driving jor anything tensing or unrelaxing. If you feel comfortable to do so, I invite you to close your eyes. Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation: Breathe and direct your thoughts to connecting with God. Let your stomach be a balloon inflate, deflate.
Scripture for Meditation
Luke 7
NKJV 24 When the messengers of John had departed, He began to speak to the multitudes concerning John: “What did you go out into the wilderness to see? A reed shaken by the wind? 25 But what did you go out to see? A man clothed in soft garments? Indeed those who are gorgeously appareled and live in luxury are in kings’ courts. 26 But what did you go out to see? A prophet? Yes, I say to you, and more than a prophet.
NIV 24 After John’s messengers left, Jesus began to speak to the crowd about John: “What did you go out into the wilderness to see? A reed swayed by the wind? 25 If not, what did you go out to see? A man dressed in fine clothes? No, those who wear expensive clothes and indulge in luxury are in palaces. 26 But what did you go out to see? A prophet? Yes, I tell you, and more than a prophet.
Meditation on Scripture:
John the Baptist did not come to tell the people what they already expected or wanted to hear. He did not come in the way they expected. In some ways he was very surprising. He was dressed very hubly. They referred to him as a “Wild Man.” He had unique elements of life instituted by the Nazarene oath. He was set apart for a purpose. As he said, it was to make straight the path for the Lord, or to prepare the world for the coming of the Lord.
Due to the unexpected message he taught, he amassed a following that ended up being problematic for religious leaders at the time. Jesus makes the point to show, there was a reason that drew the people to John’s message and that drew their hearts and minds to it when they heard it. As a result many more were ready to receive the Messiah.
God uses regular people to do his work. John the Baptist had a very specific calling. It was the work given to John by God that made that calling holy. God makes His work holy. Jesus did not truely need John the Baptist. There are many ways God could have done this but he chose John. Similarly God doesn't need us to do His work, but as we participate in His work, our efforts are made holy by Him. Just as John humbly submitted to Jesus when his work was done, so should we take the same mindset around what God has called us to. What has God called you to in life? How can you learn to hold your calling more humbly like John.
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit.
Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:
I invite you to sit in silence feeling patient for your own faults and trials.
Summarize what insights you have gained during this meditation and meditate and visualize positive change in your life:
This is a listener funded podcast at patreon.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Final Question: If you consider the invitation and command to persevere in the faith, what change in your life does that bring to your mind?
FIND ME ON: Download my free app: Recenter with Christ Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com Voicemail - (602) 888-3795 Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
RSV 19 And John, calling to him two of his disciples, sent them to the Lord, saying, “Are you he who is to come, or shall we look for another?” 20 And when the men had come to him, they said, “John the Baptist has sent us to you, saying, ‘Are you he who is to come, or shall we look for another?’” 21 In that hour he cured many of diseases and plagues and evil spirits, and on many that were blind he bestowed sight. 22 And he answered them, “Go and tell John what you have seen and heard: the blind receive their sight, the lame walk, lepers are cleansed, and the deaf hear, the dead are raised up, the poor have good news preached to them. 23 And blessed is he
FIND ME ON: Download my free app: Recenter with Christ Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com Voicemail - (602) 888-3795 Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
750 Shall We Look For Another?, A Guided Christian Meditation on Luke 7:19-23 with the Recenter With Christ app
The purpose of this podcast is to help you find more peace in and connect wi h the true source of peace, Jesus Christ.
Outline: Relaxation, Reading, Meditation, Prayer, Contemplation and Visualization.
Get into a place where you can sit comfortably and uninterrupted for about 20 minutes.You should hopefully not be driving jor anything tensing or unrelaxing. If you feel comfortable to do so, I invite you to close your eyes. Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation: Breathe and direct your thoughts to connecting with God. Let your stomach be a balloon inflate, deflate.
Scripture for Meditation
Luke 7
NASB 19 And after summoning two of his disciples, John sent them to the Lord, saying, “Are You the Coming One, or are we to look for another?” 20 When the men came to Him, they said, “John the Baptist has sent us to You, to ask, ‘Are You the Coming One, or are we to look for another?’” 21 At that very time He cured many people of diseases and afflictions and evil spirits; and He gave sight to many who were blind. 22 And He answered and said to them, “Go and report to John what you have seen and heard: people who were blind receive sight, people who limped walk, people with leprosy are cleansed and people who were deaf hear, dead people are raised up, and people who are poor have the gospel preached to them. 23 And blessed is he who takes no offense at me.”
RSV 19 Aznd John, calling to him two of his disciples, sent them to the Lord, saying, “Are you he who is to come, or shall we look for another?” 20 And when the men had come to him, they said, “John the Baptist has sent us to you, saying, ‘Are you he who is to come, or shall we look for another?’” 21 In that hour he cured many of diseases and plagues and evil spirits, and on many that were blind he bestowed sight. 22 And he answered them, “Go and tell John what you have seen and heard: the blind receive their sight, the lame walk, lepers are cleansed, and the deaf hear, the dead are raised up, the poor have good news preached to them. 23 And blessed is he who takes no offense at me.”
Meditation on Scripture:
I’ve heard multiple commentaries on this scripture. On the one hand John knew the divinity of Jesus from the womb when he leaped in his mother when she drew near the pregnant Mary. In the book of John it is John the Baptist who confirms to his disciples that Jesus is the lamb of God who came to take away the sins of the world. Yet I have heard other commentaries stating that John was legitimately investigating the divinity of Jesus.
In any case I love this scripture. John points out to these disciples needed to find out for themselves that Jesus was the one they were waiting for. Many times when people start their journey in faith they do so with a tentative and borrowed faith. This is a normal development. The hope is that at some point we all do what these disciples of John did. We need to find out for ourselves.
Additionally the thing that they were comparing was eventually related to prophecy in scripture. When these disciples hear the answer Jesus gave they would have seen Jesus works and compared that to the prophecies Jesus mentioned here. The Messiah would do these things and Jesus had done them. Regardless of how long we have been in the faith it helps to continually confirm our faith in Jesus through scripture, talking to spiritual leaders we trust, and prayer and reflection.
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit.
Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:
I invite you to sit in silence feeling patient for your own faults and trials.
Summarize what insights you have gained during this meditation and meditate and visualize positive change in your life:
This is a listener funded podcast at patreon.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Final Question: If you consider the invitation and command to persevere in the faith, what change in your life does that bring to your mind?
FIND ME ON: Download my free app: Recenter with Christ Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com Voicemail - (602) 888-3795 Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
16 Then fear came upon all, and they glorified God, saying, “A great prophet has risen up among us”; and, “God has visited His people.” 17 And this report about Him went throughout all Judea and all the surrounding region. 18 Then the disciples of John reported to him concerning all these things.
NASB 11 Soon afterward Jesus went to a city called Nain; and His disciples were going along with Him, accompanied by a large crowd. 12 Now as He approached the gate of the city, a dead man was being carried out, the only son of his mother, and she was a widow; and a sizeable crowd from the city was with her. 13 When the Lord saw her, He felt compassion for her and said to her, “Do not go on weeping.” 14 And He came up and touched the coffin; and the bearers came to a halt. And He said, “Young man, I say to you, arise!” 15 And the dead man sat up and began to speak. And Jesus gave him back to his mother.
746 He Had Compassion on Her, A Guided Christian Meditation on Luke 7:11-15 with the Recenter With Christ app
The purpose of this podcast is to help you find more peace in and connect wi h the true source of peace, Jesus Christ.
Outline: Relaxation, Reading, Meditation, Prayer, Contemplation and Visualization.
Get into a place where you can sit comfortably and uninterrupted for about 20 minutes.You should hopefully not be driving jor anything tensing or unrelaxing. If you feel comfortable to do so, I invite you to close your eyes. Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation: Breathe and direct your thoughts to connecting with God. Let your stomach be a balloon inflate, deflate.
Scripture for Meditation
Luke 7
NKJV 11 Now it happened, the day after, that He went into a city called Nain; and many of His disciples went with Him, and a large crowd. 12 And when He came near the gate of the city, behold, a dead man was being carried out, the only son of his mother; and she was a widow. And a large crowd from the city was with her. 13 When the Lord saw her, He had compassion on her and said to her, “Do not weep.” 14 Then He came and touched the open coffin, and those who carried him stood still. And He said, “Young man, I say to you, arise.” 15 So he who was dead sat up and began to speak. And He presented him to his mother.
NASB 11 Soon afterward Jesus went to a city called Nain; and His disciples were going along with Him, accompanied by a large crowd. 12 Now as He approached the gate of the city, a dead man was being carried out, the only son of his mother, and she was a widow; and a sizeable crowd from the city was with her. 13 When the Lord saw her, He felt compassion for her and said to her, “Do not go on weeping.” 14 And He came up and touched the coffin; and the bearers came to a halt. And He said, “Young man, I say to you, arise!” 15 And the dead man sat up and began to speak. And Jesus gave him back to his mother.
Meditation on Scripture:
When I first read this scripture in the past I was impressed by the power Jesus demonstrated over death. It is clear that Luke was intending to highlight Jesus’ power over death and how that impacted the people. They responded with fear and then turned to glorify God. This is the natural response to God’s power. It wasn't until I was reflecting on why this story was written. It is a very short account of what happened. No details except that of a desperate mother. Jesus could have demonstrated His power by moving the mount of Olives or some other visible feat. He chose to save a Mother. At this time of the year we celebrate mother’s day. We can be tempted to think of glorious successes. Perhaps this sets a challenging unrealistic standard for family relationships.
This account from Luke demonstrates a family in agony. It demonstrates a family breaking, being separated by death, and in this time the prospect of a childless mother with nobody to care for her and protect her. Many times in our lives it seems like this can be just an appropriate reflection of Mother’s day also. A mother in desperation before the Lord when her family seemed to be deteriorating. Aside from the miracle the only response Jesus showed was that He felt compassion.
As you struggle in life and things inevitably do not go your way, remember the widow of Nain. When you feel broken or that your hope is fading remember that Jesus demonstrated compassion on this nameless mother. He calmed her weeping, then solved her problems with His touch. I hope and pray that each of us can trust Jesus enough to look to the way in which he chooses to heal us and our relationships. Many times it is not in the method we hope for or suspect, but he does it with compassion. Look to Jesus for healing and know that as your reach out to God wrapped in the blanket of His grace, that he can heal all. In Him you are enough and will be forever more.
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit.
Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:
I invite you to sit in silence feeling patient for your own faults and trials.
Summarize what insights you have gained during this meditation and meditate and visualize positive change in your life:
This is a listener funded podcast at patreon.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Final Question: If you consider the invitation and command to persevere in the faith, what change in your life does that bring to your mind?
FIND ME ON: Download my free app: Recenter with Christ Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com Voicemail - (602) 888-3795 Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
Joshua 1 NIV 16 Then they answered Joshua, “Whatever you have commanded us we will do, and wherever you send us we will go. 17 Just as we fully obeyed Moses, so we will obey you. Only may the Lord your God be with you as he was with Moses. 18 Whoever rebels against your word and does not obey it, whatever you may command them, will be put to death. Only be strong and courageous!”
Joshua 1
ESV 12 And to the Reubenites, the Gadites, and the half-tribe of Manasseh Joshua said, 13 “Remember the word that Moses the servant of the Lord commanded you, saying, ‘The Lord your God is providing you a place of rest and will give you this land.’ 14 Your wives, your little ones, and your livestock shall remain in the land that Moses gave you beyond the Jordan, but all the men of valor among you shall pass over armed before your brothers and shall help them, 15 until the Lord gives rest to your brothers as he has to you, and they also take possession of the land that the Lord your God is giving them. Then you shall return to the land of your possession and shall possess it, the land that Moses the servant of the Lord gave you beyond the Jordan toward the sunrise.”
Joshua 1
NIV 10 So Joshua ordered the officers of the people: 11 “Go through the camp and tell the people, ‘Get your provisions ready. Three days from now you will cross the Jordan here to go in and take possession of the land the Lord your God is giving you for your own.’”
740 Three Day Uncertainty, A Guided Christian Meditation on Joshua 1:10-11 with the Recenter With Christ app
The purpose of this podcast is to help you find more peace in and connect wi h the true source of peace, Jesus Christ.
Outline: Relaxation, Reading, Meditation, Prayer, Contemplation and Visualization.
Get into a place where you can sit comfortably and uninterrupted for about 20 minutes.You should hopefully not be driving jor anything tensing or unrelaxing. If you feel comfortable to do so, I invite you to close your eyes. Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation: Breathe and direct your thoughts to connecting with God. Let your stomach be a balloon inflate, deflate.
Scripture for Meditation
Joshua 1
NIV 10 So Joshua ordered the officers of the people: 11 “Go through the camp and tell the people, ‘Get your provisions ready. Three days from now you will cross the Jordan here to go in and take possession of the land the Lord your God is giving you for your own.’”
NASB 10 Then Joshua commanded the officers of the people, saying, 11 “Pass through the midst of the camp and command the people, saying, ‘Prepare provisions for yourselves, for within three days you are going to cross this Jordan, to go in to take possession of the land which the Lord your God is giving you, to possess it.’”.
Meditation on Scripture:
Many times in our life we don't know what God is planning. Even when we feel like we do know what God wants for us, it is generally a short term plan. Here in this scripture they were told very little. Pack three days food for three days but God did not share intimate details will all those who were going on this trip it seems. I have a lot of experience in the military and it is often the case that most people are far from the decisions being made. They just do what they can with the very limited information they have.
This thought reminded me of the surprise the early disciples must have faced. In preparation for Easter, during this week I have been reading and watching movies about the last week of Jesus’ life I am often struck by how much we benefit from hindsight. When his apostles struggle to understand what Jessu was telling them about His death and resurrection it surprises us that they didnt see it coming. They thought that Jess would be the Messiah to deliver them from Roman occupation. And instead of being triumphant and sitting on the thrown of David, he died. The disciples had such limited understanding and they tried their best. Luckily God understood them.
Similarly it is with us. Most of the time we don't understand what God has in mind for us even in the short term. WE dont know how to plan for His action in our life. WE struggle to understand all His word also. The resurrection shows us several important things. God has a plan and will execute it to bless our lives. It also shows us that we are not owed perfect understanding before we take action with the Lord. As you reflect on the blessing of the resurrection, remember that it is not required for us to understand all of God’s plan in order for that plan to bless us.
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit.
Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:
I invite you to sit in silence feeling patient for your own faults and trials.
Summarize what insights you have gained during this meditation and meditate and visualize positive change in your life:
This is a listener funded podcast at patreon.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Final Question: If you consider the invitation and command to persevere in the faith, what change in your life does that bring to your mind?
FIND ME ON: Download my free app: Recenter with Christ Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com Voicemail - (602) 888-3795 Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
Joshua 1
NIV 7 “Be strong and very courageous. Be careful to obey all the law my servant Moses gave you; do not turn from it to the right or to the left, that you may be successful wherever you go. 8 Keep this Book of the Law always on your lips; meditate on it day and night, so that you may be careful to do everything written in it. Then you will be prosperous and successful. 9 Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.”
738 Be Strong And Very Courageous, A Guided Christian Meditation on Joshua 1:7-9 with the Recenter With Christ app
The purpose of this podcast is to help you find more peace in and connect wi h the true source of peace, Jesus Christ.
Outline: Relaxation, Reading, Meditation, Prayer, Contemplation and Visualization.
Get into a place where you can sit comfortably and uninterrupted for about 20 minutes.You should hopefully not be driving jor anything tensing or unrelaxing. If you feel comfortable to do so, I invite you to close your eyes. Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation: Breathe and direct your thoughts to connecting with God. Let your stomach be a balloon inflate, deflate.
Scripture for Meditation
Joshua 1
NIV 7 “Be strong and very courageous. Be careful to obey all the law my servant Moses gave you; do not turn from it to the right or to the left, that you may be successful wherever you go. 8 Keep this Book of the Law always on your lips; meditate on it day and night, so that you may be careful to do everything written in it. Then you will be prosperous and successful. 9 Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.”
NASB 7 Only be strong and very courageous; be careful to do according to all the Law which Moses My servant commanded you; do not turn from it to the right or to the left, so that you may achieve success wherever you go. 8 This Book of the Law shall not depart from your mouth, but you shall meditate on it day and night, so that you may be careful to do according to all that is written in it; for then you will make your way prosperous, and then you will achieve success. 9 Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous! Do not be terrified nor dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.”
Meditation on Scripture:
I find this scripture to be very interesting it is an idea sandwich or you could call it a small chiasm emphasizing the part in the middle. God’s word is that we should be courageous then he talks about obeying the law, and then he turns back to being courageous. In some ways it may be surprising that in between the commands for courage is adherence to the law. I think many times if we are not careful when we seek to reject the feelings of shame that we feel for past sins we can rush right past the justice of the things God asks us into. Why does God invite us to do certain things? WHy do God’s commandments exist? I certainly don't claim to speak for God but it seems a very large demotion if we think of the law only as the thing we will fail at that Jessus can then forgive us for when we receive His grace. That makes it seem like the law is meaningless.
Although we don't live under the Law of Moses it is valuable to ponder God’s law in general. It is my belief that God invites us into good. He creates laws and rules not to punish but to purify. He gives us commands such as chastity, honesty, faithfulness with the knowledge that as we observe them, we will be transformed and blessed. When we fail to do what God asks us to do we miss out on the blessings associated with the rule. For example if we lie then we come to not be trusted even by ourselves.
So courage is not only to avoid anxiety for things that don't matter but to appropriately to learn to not fear anything that cant touch our soul. Jesus said we should not fear anything that can only kill our bodies. God could kill us and also has control over our very soul and he has offered grace and love to us. If we truly learn to prioritize the things God loves, then we need not fear anything else. If you ever feel fear of emotions, sickness, pain, death, or anything else consider this, what is that compared to the Love of God which has chosen to deliver us from the natural consequences of our failure. So rise up in the strength of the Lord, recommitting to God that you will be courageous in pursuing a life with Him and let every other fear fall away.
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit.
Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:
I invite you to sit in silence feeling patient for your own faults and trials.
Summarize what insights you have gained during this meditation and meditate and visualize positive change in your life:
This is a listener funded podcast at patreon.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Final Question: If you consider the invitation and command to persevere in the faith, what change in your life does that bring to your mind?
FIND ME ON: Download my free app: Recenter with Christ Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com Voicemail - (602) 888-3795 Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
RSV 3 Every place that the sole of your foot will tread upon I have given to you, as I promised to Moses. 4 From the wilderness and this Lebanon as far as the great river, the river Euphra′tes, all the land of the Hittites to the Great Sea toward the going down of the sun shall be your territory. 5 No man shall be able to stand before you all the days of your life; as I was with Moses, so I will be with you; I will not fail you or forsake you. 6 Be strong and of good courage; for you shall cause this people to inherit the land which I swore to their fathers to give them.
736 I Will Not Leave You Or Forsake You, A Guided Christian Meditation on Joshua 1:4-6 with the Recenter With Christ app
The purpose of this podcast is to help you find more peace in and connect wi h the true source of peace, Jesus Christ.
Outline: Relaxation, Reading, Meditation, Prayer, Contemplation and Visualization.
Get into a place where you can sit comfortably and uninterrupted for about 20 minutes.You should hopefully not be driving jor anything tensing or unrelaxing. If you feel comfortable to do so, I invite you to close your eyes. Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation: Breathe and direct your thoughts to connecting with God. Let your stomach be a balloon inflate, deflate.
Scripture for Meditation
Joshua 1
ESV 4 From the wilderness and this Lebanon as far as the great river, the river Euphrates, all the land of the Hittites to the Great Sea toward the going down of the sun shall be your territory. 5 No man shall be able to stand before you all the days of your life. Just as I was with Moses, so I will be with you. I will not leave you or forsake you. 6 Be strong and courageous, for you shall cause this people to inherit the land that I swore to their fathers to give them.
RSV 3 Every place that the sole of your foot will tread upon I have given to you, as I promised to Moses. 4 From the wilderness and this Lebanon as far as the great river, the river Euphra′tes, all the land of the Hittites to the Great Sea toward the going down of the sun shall be your territory. 5 No man shall be able to stand before you all the days of your life; as I was with Moses, so I will be with you; I will not fail you or forsake you. 6 Be strong and of good courage; for you shall cause this people to inherit the land which I swore to their fathers to give them.
Meditation on Scripture:
This time of this scripture was a great transition for Joshua, who was to lead the Israelites into the promised land after Moses. It is interesting how different the demands on these two leaders was. Moses was predominantly responsible for leading the Israelites through the desert. Joshua was a warrior leader. Each had a very different mission. God used their different perspectives, temperaments and strengths do do His important work. Humans dont know what is required to do what God needs but God does.
God guided Moses just enough for him to be able to do what was needed. There were many times when Moses didnt know exactly what to do but worked it out. Sometimes he failed but God helped him resolve the problems. Similarly Joshua received the support he needed to do what God called him to. Whatever God calls us to, He prepares us for. This is what gave Joshua courage. God was fulfilling his promises through Joshua. God would not allow Joshua to fail because He had called him. God will not allow you to fail if you are accomplishing God’s purposes. This is why discernment is so important. When we do our own will we can fail.
Each one of us has things we are called to. Similar to Moses and Joshua, we don't know or understand what those things are until it comes, or even later than that. Also similarly, with God’s help you can accomplish all that God truely calls you to. Have trust and confidence in the Lord. God will never fail or forsake you.
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit.
Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:
I invite you to sit in silence feeling patient for your own faults and trials.
Summarize what insights you have gained during this meditation and meditate and visualize positive change in your life:
This is a listener funded podcast at patreon.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Final Question: If you consider the invitation and command to persevere in the faith, what change in your life does that bring to your mind?
FIND ME ON: Download my free app: Recenter with Christ Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com Voicemail - (602) 888-3795 Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
Joshua 1
NIV 1 After the death of Moses the servant of the Lord, the Lord said to Joshua son of Nun, Moses’ aide: 2 “Moses my servant is dead. Now then, you and all these people, get ready to cross the Jordan River into the land I am about to give to them—to the Israelites. 3 I will give you every place where you set your foot, as I promised Moses
734 I will give you every place where you set your foot, A Guided Christian Meditation on Joshua 1:1-3 with the Recenter With Christ app
The purpose of this podcast is to help you find more peace in and connect wi h the true source of peace, Jesus Christ.
Outline: Relaxation, Reading, Meditation, Prayer, Contemplation and Visualization.
Get into a place where you can sit comfortably and uninterrupted for about 20 minutes.You should hopefully not be driving jor anything tensing or unrelaxing. If you feel comfortable to do so, I invite you to close your eyes. Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation: Breathe and direct your thoughts to connecting with God. Let your stomach be a balloon inflate, deflate.
Scripture for Meditation
Joshua 1
NIV 1 After the death of Moses the servant of the Lord, the Lord said to Joshua son of Nun, Moses’ aide: 2 “Moses my servant is dead. Now then, you and all these people, get ready to cross the Jordan River into the land I am about to give to them—to the Israelites. 3 I will give you every place where you set your foot, as I promised Moses
ESV 1 After the death of Moses the servant of the Lord, the Lord said to Joshua the son of Nun, Moses' assistant, 2 “Moses my servant is dead. Now therefore arise, go over this Jordan, you and all this people, into the land that I am giving to them, to the people of Israel. 3 Every place that the sole of your foot will tread upon I have given to you, just as I promised to Moses.
Meditation on Scripture:
The reflection I have here is more a human one than a theological one. Joshua was given a difficult task. He was commanded to lead the Israelites after the death of Moses. I cannot imagine how difficult it would be to follow in his footsteps. Moses is still considered one of the greatest prophets in history. Imagine carrying the weight of leading such a large group of people who had so recently spent 40 years wandering in the desert. Did Joshua deserve to lead the people? Was he enough to the task
There are times in our lives when we are called to do very difficult things. In those moments we can wrestle with an interesting set of extremes. Part of us doubts our ability to handle it all. I suspect there have been many such circumstances in your life. It seems like a consistent message from the world is that you are enough. On a human level I understand the desire for that though but when it comes down to it, that might miss an important element. We are enough when aligned with the creator of the universe.
To answer the question about Joshua, I would suggest that Joshua in and of himself obviously did not deserve the role he was given. In his own strength he would not have been enough to do what God needed him to do. The other side of the question is that God picked him, so in that sense he did deserve it, not based on his own goodness but the choice of the Lord.
Similarly you have been called and chosen for your time and your station in life. I trust that God will empower you to do those things you have been called to. I firmly believe that God empowers those he calls. As you look at the difficulties you have faced and will face in life know this, wether you deserve to succeed on your own is a completely irrelevant question. The fact is you have been chosen by the almighty and will be able to do EVERYTHING that God asks of you if you learn how to rely on God.
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit.
Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:
I invite you to sit in silence feeling patient for your own faults and trials.
Summarize what insights you have gained during this meditation and meditate and visualize positive change in your life:
This is a listener funded podcast at patreon.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Final Question: If you consider the invitation and command to persevere in the faith, what change in your life does that bring to your mind?
FIND ME ON: Download my free app: Recenter with Christ Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com Voicemail - (602) 888-3795 Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
John 2 NIV 23 Now while he was in Jerusalem at the Passover Festival, many people saw the signs he was performing and believed in his name. 24 But Jesus would not entrust himself to them, for he knew all people. 25 He did not need any testimony about mankind, for he knew what was in each person.
732 He Knows What Is In Each Person, A Guided Christian Meditation on John 2:23-25 with the Recenter With Christ app
The purpose of this podcast is to help you find more peace in and connect wi h the true source of peace, Jesus Christ.
Outline: Relaxation, Reading, Meditation, Prayer, Contemplation and Visualization.
Get into a place where you can sit comfortably and uninterrupted for about 20 minutes.You should hopefully not be driving jor anything tensing or unrelaxing. If you feel comfortable to do so, I invite you to close your eyes. Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation: Breathe and direct your thoughts to connecting with God. Let your stomach be a balloon inflate, deflate.
Scripture for Meditation
John 2
NIV 23 Now while he was in Jerusalem at the Passover Festival, many people saw the signs he was performing and believed in his name. 24 But Jesus would not entrust himself to them, for he knew all people. 25 He did not need any testimony about mankind, for he knew what was in each person.
RSV 23 Now when he was in Jerusalem at the Passover feast, many believed in his name when they saw the signs which he did; 24 but Jesus did not trust himself to them, 25 because he knew all men and needed no one to bear witness of man; for he himself knew what was in man.
Meditation on Scripture:
A common thing that people struggle with is feeling like they constantly wear a mask. People spend a great deal of time to hide who they are from the world. Many people fear that we will not be accepted and that we are not as good as other people, or that there are unique failures that make us especially bad. I see this in the people I counsel often. We also may worry that if people knew what was truly in our heads that they would not accept us.
Various times throughout scripture Jesus reads people’s thoughts and in this passage Jesus confirms that he knew the hearts of the people and this is still true. He is aware of not only your current struggles and sins but also every possible future sin and all past ones together with perfect clarity. He knows every embarrassment, every shame, every trauma, every pain, every scar. I think at times this can be unsettling because those are exactly the things we seek to hide from many people. It is worthless to try and hide who we are from God or to pretend we are something we are not. He knows.
Yet the beauty is that with all that, God loves you deeply and profoundly. He has offered the world to you. Everything that He has can and will be yours if you will turn to him. We don't need to pretend that we are perfect or lie to ourselves to receive God’s love and grace. In fact that gets in the way of the spiritual blessings that God offers. God has already chosen to love you. We love Him because He first loved us. God is perfectly familiar with you. He knows you perfectly and chose to love what you are. Exactly as you are, you have been offered God’s eternal love. Pause for a moment and take that in. God knows your worst parts and showed, through the death of Jesus Christ, that he is willing to wash away all those flaws. Receive His love and drop all fear and shame as you reject weakness.
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit.
Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:
I invite you to sit in silence feeling patient for your own faults and trials.
Summarize what insights you have gained during this meditation and meditate and visualize positive change in your life:
This is a listener funded podcast at patreon.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Final Question: If you consider the invitation and command to persevere in the faith, what change in your life does that bring to your mind?
FIND ME ON: Download my free app: Recenter with Christ Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com Voicemail - (602) 888-3795 Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
NABRE 18 At this the Jews answered and said to him, “What sign can you show us for doing this?” 19 Jesus answered and said to them, “Destroy this temple and in three days I will raise it up.” 20 The Jews said, “This temple has been under construction for forty-six years, and you will raise it up in three days?” 21 But he was speaking about the temple of his body. 22 Therefore, when he was raised from the dead, his disciples remembered that he had said this, and they came to believe the scripture and the word Jesus had spoken.
ESV 5 His mother said to the servants, “Do whatever he tells you.” 6 Now there were six stone water jars there for the Jewish rites of purification, each holding twenty or thirty gallons. 7 Jesus said to the servants, “Fill the jars with water.” And they filled them up to the brim. 8 And he said to them, “Now draw some out and take it to the master of the feast.” So they took it.
724 Do Whatever He Tells You, A Guided Christian Meditation on John 2:5-8 with the Recenter With Christ app
The purpose of this podcast is to help you find more peace in your life and connect wi h the true source of peace, Jesus Christ.
Outline: Relaxation, Reading, Meditation, Prayer, Contemplation and Visualization.
Get into a place where you can sit comfortably and uninterrupted for about 20 minutes.You should hopefully not be driving or anything tensing or unrelaxing. If you feel comfortable to do so, I invite you to close your eyes. Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation: Breathe and direct your thoughts to connecting with God. Let your stomach be a balloon inflate, deflate.
Scripture for Meditation
John 2 NASB 5 His mother said to the servants, “Whatever He tells you, do it.” 6 Now there were six stone waterpots standing there for the Jewish custom of purification, containing two or three measures each. 7 Jesus said to them, “Fill the waterpots with water.” So they filled them up to the brim. 8 And He *said to them, “Draw some out now and take it to the headwaiter.” And they took it to him.
ESV 5 His mother said to the servants, “Do whatever he tells you.” 6 Now there were six stone water jars there for the Jewish rites of purification, each holding twenty or thirty gallons. 7 Jesus said to the servants, “Fill the jars with water.” And they filled them up to the brim. 8 And he said to them, “Now draw some out and take it to the master of the feast.” So they took it.
Meditation on Scripture:
I love the way Jesus did this miracle. He had the washing jars filled with water. He didn't fill serving pitchers with water. He chose something that was for ceremonial cleaning. This ceremonial cleaning was prescribed by Jewish rules. We could even see this as a metaphor for the cleansing that Jesus came to earth to offer. He is the living water that came down from heaven. The water was replaced by wine. That was the miracle. The fruit of the vine became a symbol during the last supper. Wine represented the blood of Jesus that would cleanse the sin of the world. So in this simple act, he replaced the ceremonial cleaning water of the old law, with his own blood. This was a symbol that His earthly ministry created a new paradigm for redemption.
All of this was wrapped up in the symbol of the miracle. Not to mention there was a profound mystery behind how he actually did it. How did God’s power interface with matter? Clearly the servants had no idea about any of this. They got one command: “Do whatever he tells you.” They didn't need philosophizing or scientific descriptions, in order to obey. They did whatever Jesus asked them to. Do we have the same mindset?
During this meditation ponder on the state of your heart. Is it aligned with this idea? Do you hold this command in your heart? Do whatever he tells you. Of course it is of central importance to know what God’s will is but are we dedicated to do it if we knew exactly what it was?
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit.
Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:
I invite you to sit in silence feeling patient for your own faults and trials.
Summarize what insights you have gained during this meditation and meditate and visualize positive change in your life:
This is a listener funded podcast at patreon.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Final Question: If you consider the invitation and command to persevere in the faith, what change in your life does that bring to your mind?
FIND ME ON: Download my free app: Recenter with Christ Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com Voicemail - (602) 888-3795 Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
1 Timothy 2 NKJV 8 I desire therefore that the men pray everywhere, lifting up holy hands, without wrath and doubting; 9 in like manner also, that the women adorn themselves in modest apparel, with propriety and [e]moderation, not with braided hair or gold or pearls or costly clothing, 10 but, which is proper for women professing godliness, with good works.
NASB 4 who wants all people to be saved and to come to the knowledge of the truth. 5 For there is one God, and one mediator also between God and mankind, the man Christ Jesus, 6 who gave Himself as a ransom for all, the testimony given at the proper time. 7 For this I was appointed as a preacher and an apostle (I am telling the truth, I am not lying), as a teacher of the Gentiles in faith and truth.
718 There Is One Mediator Between God and Man, A Guided Christian Meditation on 1 Timothy 2:5-7 with the Recenter With Christ app
The purpose of this podcast is to help you find more peace in your life and connect with the true source of peace, Jesus Christ.
Outline: Relaxation, Reading, Meditation, Prayer, Contemplation and Visualization.
Get into a place where you can sit comfortably and uninterrupted for about 20 minutes.You should hopefully not be driving or anything tensing or unrelaxing. If you feel comfortable to do so, I invite you to close your eyes. Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation: Breathe and direct your thoughts to connecting with God. Let your stomach be a balloon inflate, deflate.
Scripture for Meditation
1 Timothy 2
KJV 5 For there is one God, and one mediator between God and men, the man Christ Jesus; 6 Who gave himself a ransom for all, to be testified in due time. 7 Whereunto I am ordained a preacher, and an apostle, (I speak the truth in Christ, and lie not;) a teacher of the Gentiles in faith and verity.
NASB 4 who wants all people to be saved and to come to the knowledge of the truth. 5 For there is one God, and one mediator also between God and mankind, the man Christ Jesus, 6 who gave Himself as a ransom for all, the testimony given at the proper time. 7 For this I was appointed as a preacher and an apostle (I am telling the truth, I am not lying), as a teacher of the Gentiles in faith and truth.
Meditation on Scripture:
The Message to share today is a simple one. Jesus is your mediator. He is the way back to the Father. Many times, in our efforts to follow God, we give in to fear. When we read the scriptures we can see references to God’s wrath which is scary. In addition the adversary seeks to tear us away from what is good and true. He wants us to be discouraged and fearful. We imagine the final judgement as a tough negotiation where the scales of Justice weigh out our deeds and then we become so desperate that we scramble for Jesus as we are thrust before an angry and disappointed father who wants to send us to hell. We fear that only after a long and difficult courtroom drama, the Father reluctantly admits us to Heaven. Sometimes we fear something even worse than this.
This is not the message that Christ teaches us about. He tells us we are loved. We are God’s children. We are Jesus’ friends. Jesus forgives and he is full of grace. He loves us and accepts us with our weakness. Jesus is our advocate with the Father, not because he will convince the Father. There is absolute unity in the mind of God and the Son does not need to convince the Father to forgive. Scripture says that the Father judges noone but gives all judgment to the Son. As you learn to trust and follow Christ, your fears can cease. Jesus loves you and is already the person who has committed to offering you eternal forgiveness. This is the core of the Gospel message. Jesus came to redeem you and there is nobody that can or will be able to disagree with His just judgments.
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit.
Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:
I invite you to sit in silence feeling patient for your own faults and trials.
Summarize what insights you have gained during this meditation and meditate and visualize positive change in your life:
This is a listener funded podcast at patreon.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Final Question: If you consider the invitation and command to persevere in the faith, what change in your life does that bring to your mind?
FIND ME ON: Download my free app: Recenter with Christ Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com Voicemail - (602) 888-3795 Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
ESV 1 First of all, then, I urge that supplications, prayers, intercessions, and thanksgivings be made for all people, 2 for kings and all who are in high positions, that we may lead a peaceful and quiet life, godly and dignified in every way. 3 This is good, and it is pleasing in the sight of God our Savior, 4 who desires all people to be saved and to come to the knowledge of the truth.
716 I Urge That Prayers Be Made For All People and Leaders, A Guided Christian Meditation on 1 Timothy 2:1-4 with the Recenter With Christ app
The purpose of this podcast is to help you find more peace in your life and connect with the true source of peace, Jesus Christ.
Outline: Relaxation, Reading, Meditation, Prayer, Contemplation and Visualization.
Get into a place where you can sit comfortably and uninterrupted for about 20 minutes.You should hopefully not be driving or anything tensing or unrelaxing. If you feel comfortable to do so, I invite you to close your eyes. Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation: Breathe and direct your thoughts to connecting with God. Let your stomach be a balloon inflate, deflate.
Scripture for Meditation
1 Timothy 2
NABRE
1First of all, then, I ask that supplications, prayers, petitions, and thanksgivings be offered for everyone, 2 for kings and for all in authority, that we may lead a quiet and tranquil life in all devotion and dignity. 3 This is good and pleasing to God our savior, 4 who wills everyone to be saved and to come to knowledge of the truth.
ESV 1 First of all, then, I urge that supplications, prayers, intercessions, and thanksgivings be made for all people, 2 for kings and all who are in high positions, that we may lead a peaceful and quiet life, godly and dignified in every way. 3 This is good, and it is pleasing in the sight of God our Savior, 4 who desires all people to be saved and to come to the knowledge of the truth.
Meditation on Scripture:
In the earliest days of Christianity there were severe conflicts with those who professed God to be the King, and the Roman government who held their emperor to be not only the king but also a god. These Christians suffered for their beliefs and they ultimately hoped most for a system that would allow them to be left alone to worship God as they saw fit. They desired the freedom to live out a peaceful and quiet life. Many early Christians would tried to establish the difference that they would not pray to the emperor but they would pray to God on behalf of the emperor that he would make good decisions. Tertulian is often seen as one of the greatest early western theologians and the first Latin theologian. He said the following regarding the Roman leaders of the time:
We pray for life prolonged; for security to the empire; for protection to the imperial house; for brave armies, a faithful senate, a virtuous people, the world at rest, whatever, as man or Cæsar, an emperor would wish. These things I cannot ask from any but the God from whom I know I shall obtain them,
How grateful we should be that we have exactly the kind of freedom that those early Christians longed for. They recognized that it was God alone that could grant peace. As the free nations of the world have the opportunity to participate in selecting their leaders, as early Christians did not, may we remember to pray to God for their success because true and lasting success can only come from God. God is the one in control of salvation and eternity. This scripture says God wants all people to be saved. Our greatest interest should be to share God’s goal of bringing the love of God to all, and to prioritize the things of God, even as we live in a fallen world. May God allow us to live, as it says in this scripture, a quiet life of peace.
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit.
Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:
I invite you to sit in silence feeling patient for your own faults and trials.
Summarize what insights you have gained during this meditation and meditate and visualize positive change in your life:
This is a listener funded podcast at patreon.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Final Question: If you consider the invitation and command to persevere in the faith, what change in your life does that bring to your mind?
FIND ME ON: Download my free app: Recenter with Christ Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com Voicemail - (602) 888-3795 Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
NIV 5 The Lord watches over you— the Lord is your shade at your right hand; 6 the sun will not harm you by day, nor the moon by night. 7 The Lord will keep you from all harm— he will watch over your life; 8 the Lord will watch over your coming and going both now and forevermore.
712 I Lift Up My Eyes to the Mountains, A Guided Christian Meditation on Psalm 121 with the Recenter With Christ app
The purpose of this podcast is to help you find more peace in your life and connect with the true source of peace, Jesus Christ.
Outline: Relaxation, Reading, Meditation, Prayer, Contemplation and Visualization.
Get into a place where you can sit comfortably and uninterrupted for about 20 minutes.You should hopefully not be driving or anything tensing or unrelaxing. If you feel comfortable to do so, I invite you to close your eyes. Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation: Breathe and direct your thoughts to connecting with God. Let your stomach be a balloon inflate, deflate.
Scripture for Meditation
John 10
NASB I will raise my eyes to the mountains; From where will my help come? 2 My help comes from the Lord, Who made heaven and earth. 3 He will not allow your foot to slip; He who watches over you will not slumber. 4 Behold, He who watches over Israel Will neither slumber nor sleep.
ESV I lift up my eyes to the hills. From where does my help come? 2 My help comes from the Lord, who made heaven and earth.
3 He will not let your foot be moved; he who keeps you will not slumber. 4 Behold, he who keeps Israel will neither slumber nor sleep.
Meditation on Scripture:
I had someone write me such a dear message telling of her struggle with Cancer several years ago and how she listened to the podcast. That is the essence of the way the Lord cares for us. She requested this Psalm and it is a powerful message for us.
I lift my eyes to the hills. From where does my help come? In the difficult journey’s through the mountains we find ourselves asking this question. Even when we know the answer our eyes still search for the help we feel we must have in that moment. The fortunate news for us is that we seek this comfort from the Lord. The mighty Father of Heaven who has created the earth, the galaxy and everything beyond and within. His understanding is not limited or weakened by anything. In Him we trust for the direction of our path. The longer I live the more I realize the question of what support I get from the Lord is more a matter of me learning to see God’s purposes than it is to bend his will to mine. And yet we plead. But he will not allow our foot to slip on its forward motion. He is ready at all times to watch over us, to guide us to where He wants us to go.
This scripture has long been a favorite of those engaged in difficult journeys. It was a favorite of a well known Chrsitan missionary to Africa David livingstone. In reference to a question about the limits of where he would go to serve the Lord he stated. “Ill Go anywhere, as long as its forward.” I feel that this line embodies the spirit of this Psalm. It is perfectly fine and right for us to seek God in prayer to ask for what we feel we need. Once we do then, we trust that He will not let our foot slip regardless of how difficult the journey is.
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit.
Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:
I invite you to sit in silence feeling patient for your own faults and trials.
Summarize what insights you have gained during this meditation and meditate and visualize positive change in your life:
This is a listener funded podcast at patreon.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Final Question: If you consider the invitation and command to persevere in the faith, what change in your life does that bring to your mind?
FIND ME ON: Download my free app: Recenter with Christ Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com Voicemail - (602) 888-3795 Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
710 To Whom The Word Of God Came, A Guided Christian Meditation on John 10:34-39 with the Recenter With Christ app
The purpose of this podcast is to help you find more peace in your life and connect with the true source of peace, Jesus Christ.
Outline: Relaxation, Reading, Meditation, Prayer, Contemplation and Visualization.
Get into a place where you can sit comfortably and uninterrupted for about 20 minutes.You should hopefully not be driving or anything tensing or unrelaxing. If you feel comfortable to do so, I invite you to close your eyes. Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation: Breathe and direct your thoughts to connecting with God. Let your stomach be a balloon inflate, deflate.
Scripture for Meditation
John 10
NIV 34 Jesus answered them, “Is it not written in your Law, ‘I have said you are “gods”’[d]? 35 If he called them ‘gods,’ to whom the word of God came—and Scripture cannot be set aside— 36 what about the one whom the Father set apart as his very own and sent into the world? Why then do you accuse me of blasphemy because I said, ‘I am God’s Son’? 37 Do not believe me unless I do the works of my Father. 38 But if I do them, even though you do not believe me, believe the works, that you may know and understand that the Father is in me, and I in the Father.” 39 Again they tried to seize him, but he escaped their grasp.
NASB 34 Jesus answered them, “Has it not been written in your Law: ‘I said, you are gods’? 35 If he called them gods, to whom the word of God came (and the Scripture cannot be nullified), 36 are you saying of Him whom the Father sanctified and sent into the world, ‘You are blaspheming,’ because I said, ‘I am the Son of God’? 37 If I do not do the works of My Father, do not believe Me; 38 but if I do them, even though you do not believe Me, believe the works, so that you may [h]know and understand that the Father is in Me, and I in the Father.” 39 Therefore they were seeking again to arrest Him, and He eluded their grasp.
Meditation on Scripture:
Jesus Quotes Psalm 82 to show us that the true power comes from the will and decisions of God. True Goodness comes from God. The Messianic role fulfilled by Jesus came through the power of God. There is a great irony of having Jesus accused of Blasphemy. This scripture is deep and has many lessons but, at this moment I’d like to reflect on this.. Has the word of God come to you? Jesus is the word, spoken of in John 1 that was with God and was God. Awareness about Jesus is the heart of this. Do we understand that the true word referred to here is embodied in Jesus who was sent to the world to make us holy. Without Jesus and the works he came to do, none of the other struggles of life has any eternal meaning. As we put our trust in Jesus we are swallowed up in the power of God over the whole world and every possible dimension and eternal consequence.
In this moment if you haven't done so already, choose to follow Jesus and learn of Him for the rest of your life. If you have already chosen this, then grab hold of that memory and decision and embrace it in your mind and heart. Let us recommit to that. To continually bring our minds and hearts back to that decision. Embrace the things God says in scripture as eternally important and allow that word to take hold in your heart by reflecting on it, reading it, meditating on it, as we are here. Overall we should seek to feast on it.
God cannot blaspheme. It is certainly not blasphemy for God to describe something about Godhood that we dont understand. Had the Jews realized that Jesus was God it would have been ridiculous to call out Jesus for Blasphemy. As we embrace Jesus as the Savior of the world we also embrace His sovereignty about the truth. God can guide you in your life and learning how to receive that is one of the greatest lessons of life.
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit.
Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:
I invite you to sit in silence feeling patient for your own faults and trials.
Summarize what insights you have gained during this meditation and meditate and visualize positive change in your life:
This is a listener funded podcast at patreon.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Final Question: If you consider the invitation and command to persevere in the faith, what change in your life does that bring to your mind?
FIND ME ON: Download my free app: Recenter with Christ Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com Voicemail - (602) 888-3795 Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
John 10 NABRE 31 The Jews again picked up rocks to stone him. 32 Jesus answered them, “I have shown you many good works from my Father. For which of these are you trying to stone me?” 33 The Jews answered him, “We are not stoning you for a good work but for blasphemy. You, a man, are making yourself God.”
NIV 25 Jesus answered, “I did tell you, but you do not believe. The works I do in my Father’s name testify about me, 26 but you do not believe because you are not my sheep. 27 My sheep listen to my voice; I know them, and they follow me. 28 I give them eternal life, and they shall never perish; no one will snatch them out of my hand. 29 My Father, who has given them to me, is greater than all; no one can snatch them out of my Father’s hand. 30 I and the Father are one.”
NKJV
22 Now it was the Feast of Dedication in Jerusalem, and it was winter. 23 And Jesus walked in the temple, in Solomon’s porch. 24 Then the Jews surrounded Him and said to Him, “How long do You keep us in doubt? If You are the Christ, tell us plainly.”
25 Jesus answered them, “I told you, and you do not believe. The works that I do in My Father’s name, they bear witness of Me.
702 Again There Was Division Because of Jesus’ Words, A Guided Christian Meditation on John 10:17-21 with the Recenter With Christ app
The purpose of this podcast is to help you find more peace in your life and connect with the true source of peace, Jesus Christ.
Outline: Relaxation, Reading, Meditation, Prayer, Contemplation and Visualization.
Get into a place where you can sit comfortably and uninterrupted for about 20 minutes.You should hopefully not be driving or anything tensing or unrelaxing. If you feel comfortable to do so, I invite you to close your eyes. Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation: Breathe and direct your thoughts to connecting with God. Let your stomach be a balloon inflate, deflate.
Scripture for Meditation
John 10
NABRE 17 This is why the Father loves me, because I lay down my life in order to take it up again. 18 No one takes it from me, but I lay it down on my own. I have power to lay it down, and power to take it up again. This command I have received from my Father.” 19 Again there was a division among the Jews because of these words. 20 Many of them said, “He is possessed and out of his mind; why listen to him?” 21 Others said, “These are not the words of one possessed; surely a demon cannot open the eyes of the blind, can he?”
ESV 17 For this reason the Father loves me, because I lay down my life that I may take it up again. 18 No one takes it from me, but I lay it down of my own accord. I have authority to lay it down, and I have authority to take it up again. This charge I have received from my Father.” 19 There was again a division among the Jews because of these words. 20 Many of them said, “He has a demon, and is insane; why listen to him?” 21 Others said, “These are not the words of one who is oppressed by a demon. Can a demon open the eyes of the blind?”
Meditation on Scripture:
Jesus is in absolute unity with the will of the Father. He did the right thing all the time. Yet that did not stop the people from accusing him of having a demon possess him. What a strange world we live in, were the very sinless Son of God was so profoundly misunderstood by people who heard him speak. Those who were right next to him. They heard the words and many of them saw amazing deeds done and yet they wondered. They didnt understand. Human understanding is a gift from God but it is also incredibly limited when compared to the understanding of the infinite. I have had a chance to study some amazingly complex and beautiful things. I studied Math in college. There are some very deep and abstract ideas that humans are able to understand. I had many professors who became subject matter experts on exactly what they studied. In fact math goes so deep that there were often few people in the whole world that were as familiar with their sliver of understanding as they were. And this is only what we know right now. When compared with the kind of understanding God possess, the depth of understanding is pitiful.
There are people you know who you don't understand. WE don't understand the depth of the people we know. Equally, there are people who don't understand you and what your needs and wants are. IN some ways we are surprised by this when it happens. When people we know misunderstand us so profoundly we feel wronged in some way and yet this is a reflection of the same weakness of understanding that we ourselves hold. If Jesus was accused of having a demon possess him how likely is it that you will understand everyone you encounter? Or how likely is it that everyone will understand you. I think this is one of the reasons why God asks us to be forgiving and to try and not judge others. We don't have enough insight to judge others fairly. With that siad there are times when we can have insight that maybe just maybe helpful to them and they may have insight for us as well but it is Jesus who holds the judgement role because he has all the facts and knows the depths of every human heart.
As you ponder relationships in life that are a bit upside down reflect on the limits of human understanding and reach out to the infinite understanding of God to bridge the gap. Embrace God’s love in your heart and let go of the judgement of others, both toward them and from them. Trust yourself to a God who was willing to be so profoundly misunderstood himself and may that comfort your human misunderstandings.
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit.
Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:
I invite you to sit in silence feeling patient for your own faults and trials.
Summarize what insights you have gained during this meditation and meditate and visualize positive change in your life:
This is a listener funded podcast at patreon.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Final Question: If you consider the invitation and command to persevere in the faith, what change in your life does that bring to your mind?
FIND ME ON: Download my free app: Recenter with Christ Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com Voicemail - (602) 888-3795 Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
NABRE
17 This is why the Father loves me, because I lay down my life in order to take it up again. 18 No one takes it from me, but I lay it down on my own. I have power to lay it down, and power to take it up again. This command I have received from my Father.”
19 Again there was a division among the Jews because of these words. 20 Many of them said, “He is possessed and out of his mind; why listen to him?” 21 Others said, “These are not the words of one possessed; surely a demon cannot open the eyes of the blind, can he?”
702 Again There Was Division Because of Jesus’ Words, A Guided Christian Meditation on John 10:17-21 with the Recenter With Christ app
The purpose of this podcast is to help you find more peace in your life and connect with the true source of peace, Jesus Christ.
Outline: Relaxation, Reading, Meditation, Prayer, Contemplation and Visualization.
Get into a place where you can sit comfortably and uninterrupted for about 20 minutes.You should hopefully not be driving or anything tensing or unrelaxing. If you feel comfortable to do so, I invite you to close your eyes. Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation: Breathe and direct your thoughts to connecting with God. Let your stomach be a balloon inflate, deflate.
Scripture for Meditation
John 10
NABRE 17 This is why the Father loves me, because I lay down my life in order to take it up again. 18 No one takes it from me, but I lay it down on my own. I have power to lay it down, and power to take it up again. This command I have received from my Father.” 19 Again there was a division among the Jews because of these words. 20 Many of them said, “He is possessed and out of his mind; why listen to him?” 21 Others said, “These are not the words of one possessed; surely a demon cannot open the eyes of the blind, can he?”
ESV 17 For this reason the Father loves me, because I lay down my life that I may take it up again. 18 No one takes it from me, but I lay it down of my own accord. I have authority to lay it down, and I have authority to take it up again. This charge I have received from my Father.” 19 There was again a division among the Jews because of these words. 20 Many of them said, “He has a demon, and is insane; why listen to him?” 21 Others said, “These are not the words of one who is oppressed by a demon. Can a demon open the eyes of the blind?”
Meditation on Scripture:
Jesus is in absolute unity with the will of the Father. He did the right thing all the time. Yet that did not stop the people from accusing him of having a demon possess him. What a strange world we live in, were the very sinless Son of God was so profoundly misunderstood by people who heard him speak. Those who were right next to him. They heard the words and many of them saw amazing deeds done and yet they wondered. They didnt understand. Human understanding is a gift from God but it is also incredibly limited when compared to the understanding of the infinite. I have had a chance to study some amazingly complex and beautiful things. I studied Math in college. There are some very deep and abstract ideas that humans are able to understand. I had many professors who became subject matter experts on exactly what they studied. In fact math goes so deep that there were often few people in the whole world that were as familiar with their sliver of understanding as they were. And this is only what we know right now. When compared with the kind of understanding God possess, the depth of understanding is pitiful.
There are people you know who you don't understand. WE don't understand the depth of the people we know. Equally, there are people who don't understand you and what your needs and wants are. IN some ways we are surprised by this when it happens. When people we know misunderstand us so profoundly we feel wronged in some way and yet this is a reflection of the same weakness of understanding that we ourselves hold. If Jesus was accused of having a demon possess him how likely is it that you will understand everyone you encounter? Or how likely is it that everyone will understand you. I think this is one of the reasons why God asks us to be forgiving and to try and not judge others. We don't have enough insight to judge others fairly. With that siad there are times when we can have insight that maybe just maybe helpful to them and they may have insight for us as well but it is Jesus who holds the judgement role because he has all the facts and knows the depths of every human heart.
As you ponder relationships in life that are a bit upside down reflect on the limits of human understanding and reach out to the infinite understanding of God to bridge the gap. Embrace God’s love in your heart and let go of the judgement of others, both toward them and from them. Trust yourself to a God who was willing to be so profoundly misunderstood himself and may that comfort your human misunderstandings.
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit.
Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:
I invite you to sit in silence feeling patient for your own faults and trials.
Summarize what insights you have gained during this meditation and meditate and visualize positive change in your life:
This is a listener funded podcast at patreon.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Final Question: If you consider the invitation and command to persevere in the faith, what change in your life does that bring to your mind?
FIND ME ON: Download my free app: Recenter with Christ Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com Voicemail - (602) 888-3795 Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
ESV 14 I am the good shepherd. I know my own and my own know me, 15 just as the Father knows me and I know the Father; and I lay down my life for the sheep. 16 And I have other sheep that are not of this fold. I must bring them also, and they will listen to my voice. So there will be one flock, one shepherd.
Edit: The initial audio didnt get fully processed and was much quieter than normal. This should resolve that but will require you to redownload the episode if you dowloaded it the first night.
700 There Shall Be One Fold and One Shepherd, A Guided Christian Meditation on John 10:14-16 with the Recenter With Christ app
The purpose of this podcast is to help you find more peace in your life and connect with the true source of peace, Jesus Christ.
Outline: Relaxation, Reading, Meditation, Prayer, Contemplation and Visualization.
Get into a place where you can sit comfortably and uninterrupted for about 20 minutes.You should hopefully not be driving or anything tensing or unrelaxing. If you feel comfortable to do so, I invite you to close your eyes. Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation: Breathe and direct your thoughts to connecting with God. Let your stomach be a balloon inflate, deflate.
Scripture for Meditation
John 10
NRSVCE 14 I am the good shepherd. I know my own and my own know me, 15 just as the Father knows me and I know the Father. And I lay down my life for the sheep. 16 I have other sheep that do not belong to this fold. I must bring them also, and they will listen to my voice. So there will be one flock, one shepherd.
ESV 14 I am the good shepherd. I know my own and my own know me, 15 just as the Father knows me and I know the Father; and I lay down my life for the sheep. 16 And I have other sheep that are not of this fold. I must bring them also, and they will listen to my voice. So there will be one flock, one shepherd.
Meditation on Scripture:
I grew up in the desert. It was hot and dry. As an adventurer prone young man I spent a lot of time in the desert, hiking and doing other outside activities. From time to time we would encounter barb wire fences as well we would see cows out in the desert that would feed on the desert bushes and the very little dry grass. They usually were alone or with a very small number of other cows. I often remember wondering were those cows were from. Were they part of a herd? The conditions in the desert did not support dense cattle but they were part of a herd. They were just very spread out.
As I read this scripture I thought of a large spread out flock split up across miles and miles of rough ground with some grass here and there. Jesus pronounced that we are called to the his flock. I sometimes wonder if there was a herd of sleep large enough would all the sheep understand that they are in the same flock? The sheep are not who determine who is part of the flock. That is the shepherd. We are spread across better and more challenging terrain and we are separated in ways that seem very meaningful to us. Yet God is the one that calls us.
During this time of the year there are family gatherings and different social demands, or the longing for greatly missed social connections attempt to draw us away from His peace, ponder this, we are called to the same flock. As we set arbitrary distinctions between each other we ultimately are not the ones at the final judgement that determines who is part of the flock. That is God’s role. I invite you to reach into the love that God has for you and share that with others. What greater thing is there to be grateful for than the knowledge that we can be unified with God due to His grace.
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit.
Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:
I invite you to sit in silence feeling patient for your own faults and trials.
Summarize what insights you have gained during this meditation and meditate and visualize positive change in your life:
This is a listener funded podcast at patreon.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Final Question: If you consider the invitation and command to persevere in the faith, what change in your life does that bring to your mind?
FIND ME ON: Download my free app: Recenter with Christ Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com Voicemail - (602) 888-3795 Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
698 I Have Come That They Might Have Life More Abundantly, A Guided Christian Meditation on John 10:10-13 with the Recenter With Christ app
The purpose of this podcast is to help you find more peace in your life and connect with the true source of peace, Jesus Christ.
Outline: Relaxation, Reading, Meditation, Prayer, Contemplation and Visualization.
Get into a place where you can sit comfortably and uninterrupted for about 20 minutes.You should hopefully not be driving or anything tensing or unrelaxing. If you feel comfortable to do so, I invite you to close your eyes. Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation: Breathe and direct your thoughts to connecting with God. Let your stomach be a balloon inflate, deflate.
Scripture for Meditation
John 10
NIV 10 The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full. 11 “I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep.12 The hired hand is not the shepherd and does not own the sheep. So when he sees the wolf coming, he abandons the sheep and runs away. Then the wolf attacks the flock and scatters it. 13 The man runs away because he is a hired hand and cares nothing for the sheep.
KJV 10 The thief cometh not, but for to steal, and to kill, and to destroy: I am come that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly. 11 I am the good shepherd: the good shepherd giveth his life for the sheep. 12 But he that is an hireling, and not the shepherd, whose own the sheep are not, seeth the wolf coming, and leaveth the sheep, and fleeth: and the wolf catcheth them, and scattereth the sheep. 13 The hireling fleeth, because he is an hireling, and careth not for the sheep.
Meditation on Scripture:
In the previous verses Jesus called himself the sheep gate. shortly after he calls himself the good shepherd. These back to back references highlight something interesting. They demonstrate God’s ability to keep us spiritually safe as well as his desire to be with us as we grow. The gate of the sheep is where those sheep come in and out. The threatening world is held back by the safety of the wall and the gate is what allows the sheep to find that safety but also to go out to be fed and experience the growth the sheep need.
The shepherd, on the other hand, goes with the sheep. He watches over them and chases away predators. The shepherd would face risk for the sheep. He would guide them to good food and water. He would help them if they got stuck and lead them back if they got lost. Jesus declares himself The Good Shepherd defends the sheep. A normal shepherd may risk his life for the sheep Jesus as the Good Shepherd would guarantee his own death and yet that is not the end of the metaphor. Jesus, as The Good Shepherd, stays with us as we feed. He goes to where we need to go to grow, then as the gate Jesus allows us to go in and come out from protection. As the good shepherd he is with us as we face the peril of the world. Jesus is both our path to safety as well as growth. He came not just to give us life, but to give it more abundantly. Fortunately and unfortunately that doesn't look like the life we would make for ourselves many times. Trust in God to not only give you life, but to give it more abundantly.
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit.
Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:
I invite you to sit in silence feeling patient for your own faults and trials.
Summarize what insights you have gained during this meditation and meditate and visualize positive change in your life:
This is a listener funded podcast at patreon.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Final Question: If you consider the invitation and command to persevere in the faith, what change in your life does that bring to your mind?
FIND ME ON: Download my free app: Recenter with Christ Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com Voicemail - (602) 888-3795 Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
NIV 5 But they will never follow a stranger; in fact, they will run away from him because they do not recognize a stranger’s voice.” 6 Jesus used this figure of speech, but the Pharisees did not understand what he was telling them. 7 Therefore Jesus said again, “Very truly I tell you, I am the gate for the sheep. 8 All who have come before me are thieves and robbers, but the sheep have not listened to them. 9 I am the gate; whoever enters through me will be saved. They will come in and go out, and find pasture.
NASB 10 “Truly, truly I say to you, the one who does not enter by the door into the fold of the sheep, but climbs up some other way, he is a thief and a robber. 2 But the one who enters by the door is a shepherd of the sheep. 3 To him the doorkeeper opens, and the sheep listen to his voice, and he calls his own sheep by name and leads them out. 4 When he puts all his own sheep outside, he goes ahead of them, and the sheep follow him because they know his voice.
694 His Sheep Hear His Voice, A Guided Christian Meditation on John 10:1-4 with the Recenter With Christ app
The purpose of this podcast is to help you find more peace in your life and connect with the true source of peace, Jesus Christ.
Outline: Relaxation, Reading, Meditation, Prayer, Contemplation and Visualization.
Get into a place where you can sit comfortably and uninterrupted for about 20 minutes.You should hopefully not be driving or anything tensing or unrelaxing. If you feel comfortable to do so, I invite you to close your eyes. Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation: Breathe and direct your thoughts to connecting with God. Let your stomach be a balloon inflate, deflate.
Scripture for Meditation
John 10
NASB 10 “Truly, truly I say to you, the one who does not enter by the door into the fold of the sheep, but climbs up some other way, he is a thief and a robber. 2 But the one who enters by the door is a shepherd of the sheep. 3 To him the doorkeeper opens, and the sheep listen to his voice, and he calls his own sheep by name and leads them out. 4 When he puts all his own sheep outside, he goes ahead of them, and the sheep follow him because they know his voice.
NIV “Very truly I tell you Pharisees, anyone who does not enter the sheep pen by the gate, but climbs in by some other way, is a thief and a robber. 2 The one who enters by the gate is the shepherd of the sheep. 3 The gatekeeper opens the gate for him, and the sheep listen to his voice. He calls his own sheep by name and leads them out. 4 When he has brought out all his own, he goes on ahead of them, and his sheep follow him because they know his voice.
Meditation on Scripture:
You, spending these moments with the Lord, are responding to his voice. Of the many ways we respond to his voice through academic study, prayer, meditation, service, and a thousand other ways, we live out this scripture. We respond to His voice as His sheep. Jesus shows us the way by which we can walk. He shows us how to follow His word. His spirit lifts, inspires, and transforms us. Jesus declares himself to be our shepard and we respond to His voice, as his sheep.
He goes ahead of us and we follow. We go in and out. He knows each one of us and what we need. He knows His sheep. He knows you. He calls you by name. Jesus has taken the right to break whatever boundaries prevent you from progress toward Him and His love. Let whatever hardship you have in life, whatevers stressors have their perfect work in your to draw you to the arms of the loving shepherd. There is no place we can run where he cannot find us and will not pursue, eventually to catch us in loving arms and hold us in a warm embrace. Regardless of what lost wilderness you roam in, know the love of your shepard never fail.s In moments like this when we focus on His love and presence we can hear that voice in our lives, and we can see that lived out in us, His sheep. Additionally in these moments we can discern God’s will for us in other moments of our lives.
What is God calling us to? How does God’s unwavering love lift you to greater heights? What is God calling you to? How will this moment of peace and love with God pour out into the rest of your life? Ponder that for a moment now.
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit.
Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:
I invite you to sit in silence feeling patient for your own faults and trials.
Summarize what insights you have gained during this meditation and meditate and visualize positive change in your life:
This is a listener funded podcast at patreon.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Final Question: If you consider the invitation and command to persevere in the faith, what change in your life does that bring to your mind?
FIND ME ON: Download my free app: Recenter with Christ Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com Voicemail - (602) 888-3795 Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
Romans 15
NIV 17 Therefore I glory in Christ Jesus in my service to God. 18 I will not venture to speak of anything except what Christ has accomplished through me in leading the Gentiles to obey God by what I have said and done— 19 by the power of signs and wonders, through the power of the Spirit of God. So from Jerusalem all the way around to Illyricum, I have fully proclaimed the gospel of Christ.
692 I Glory In What Christ Accomplishes Through Me, A Guided Christian Meditation on Romans 15:17-19 with the Recenter With Christ app
The purpose of this podcast is to help you find more peace in your life and connect with the true source of peace, Jesus Christ.
Outline: Relaxation, Reading, Meditation, Prayer, Contemplation and Visualization.
Get into a place where you can sit comfortably and uninterrupted for about 20 minutes.You should hopefully not be driving or anything tensing or unrelaxing. If you feel comfortable to do so, I invite you to close your eyes. Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation: Breathe and direct your thoughts to connecting with God. Let your stomach be a balloon inflate, deflate.
Scripture for Meditation
Romans 15
NIV 17 Therefore I glory in Christ Jesus in my service to God. 18 I will not venture to speak of anything except what Christ has accomplished through me in leading the Gentiles to obey God by what I have said and done— 19 by the power of signs and wonders, through the power of the Spirit of God. So from Jerusalem all the way around to Illyricum, I have fully proclaimed the gospel of Christ.
RSV
17 In Christ Jesus, then, I have reason to be proud of my work for God. 18 For I will not venture to speak of anything except what Christ has wrought through me to win obedience from the Gentiles, by word and deed, 19 by the power of signs and wonders, by the power of the Holy Spirit, so that from Jerusalem and as far round as Illyr′icum I have fully preached the gospel of Christ,
Meditation on Scripture:
Recently I was given the role of providing a Eulgoy by a third party for someone I did not know. Through various reasons it became increasingly impossible for me to make much meaningful contact with anyone who knew him but those people would be at the service and it would be streamed to potentially hundreds of others who would watch the event streamed. Because of how important I knew this person to be in their community this filled me with anxiety. Additionally I was the MC for the event which was an incredibly formal process with an exacting prewritten script. I had a very basic understanding of this man but not the depth that I felt that would result in the quality of Eulogy that they deserved yet there was no other option of who could do it. When I have done this important speaking role previously I usually have access to family and friends who know the person, to make it personal and have it land. I was worried and I lost some sleep over this despite my efforts. I prayed to God for him to fill my mouth with the words that needed to be spoken. When I did, I received a calming assurance and felt the words of God in my mind that he would in fact answer that prayer and fill my mouth yet as I wrote the words over and over and worked at it for days at a time I kept feeling as though it was not personal enough. I trusted in God and the answer he had given me. Yesterday when I gave that Eulogy it finally had the emotional and spiritual resonance that this person deserved. Afterward I was given a lot of praise and people commented about how well it went and I got many heartfelt hugs and handshakes of gratitude. In this moment my heart was full of gratitude for God. Instead of pride I felt humility that God had rescued me from what could have been an incredibly embarrassing and disappointing experience for me and the man’s family. I really felt the words of this scripture in my heart. I rejoice only in those things that Jesus Christ does through me. Certainly in your life, God has worked important things through you. This is far from boasting or prideful. God is mighty and does things that are mighty but if we dont pay attention then we miss them altogtether. Perhaps in this meditaiton you can ponder what mightly things Christ has done through you. As we reflect on what God has done through us our gratitude for those things will grow and can help us feel the love of God
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit.
Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:
I invite you to sit in silence feeling patient for your own faults and trials.
Summarize what insights you have gained during this meditation and meditate and visualize positive change in your life:
This is a listener funded podcast at patreon.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Final Question: If you consider the invitation and command to persevere in the faith, what change in your life does that bring to your mind?
FIND ME ON: Download my free app: Recenter with Christ Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com Voicemail - (602) 888-3795 Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
NIV 14 I myself am convinced, my brothers and sisters, that you yourselves are full of goodness, filled with knowledge and competent to instruct one another. 15 Yet I have written you quite boldly on some points to remind you of them again, because of the grace God gave me 16 to be a minister of Christ Jesus to the Gentiles. He gave me the priestly duty of proclaiming the gospel of God, so that the Gentiles might become an offering acceptable to God, sanctified by the Holy Spirit.
690 You Are Full of Goodness, A Guided Christian Meditation on Romans 15:14-16 with the Recenter With Christ app
The purpose of this podcast is to help you find more peace in your life and connect with the true source of peace, Jesus Christ.
Outline: Relaxation, Reading, Meditation, Prayer, Contemplation and Visualization.
Get into a place where you can sit comfortably and uninterrupted for about 20 minutes.You should hopefully not be driving or anything tensing or unrelaxing. If you feel comfortable to do so, I invite you to close your eyes. Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation: Breathe and direct your thoughts to connecting with God. Let your stomach be a balloon inflate, deflate.
Scripture for Meditation
Romans 15
NIV 14 I myself am convinced, my brothers and sisters, that you yourselves are full of goodness, filled with knowledge and competent to instruct one another. 15 Yet I have written you quite boldly on some points to remind you of them again, because of the grace God gave me 16 to be a minister of Christ Jesus to the Gentiles. He gave me the priestly duty of proclaiming the gospel of God, so that the Gentiles might become an offering acceptable to God, sanctified by the Holy Spirit.
NABRE 14 I myself am convinced about you, my brothers, that you yourselves are full of goodness, filled with all knowledge, and able to admonish one another. 15 But I have written to you rather boldly in some respects to remind you, because of the grace given me by God 16 to be a minister of Christ Jesus to the Gentiles in performing the priestly service of the gospel of God, so that the offering up of the Gentiles may be acceptable, sanctified by the holy Spirit.
Meditation on Scripture:
This scripture contains a beautiful, sweet and succinct reflection on goodness. You are full of goodness. There is something about you that made God be willing to save you from death and sin. At times we struggle with understanding that, with understanding the good we are capable of with the grace of God. dont doubt the ability of God to do amazing wonders in you and through you, as you are sanctified and transformed through God’s love.
You do not need to wonder or worry. God has seen your heart and will help you improve and change it your whole life long. He gives us the path and the way back to the father. When you ponder the areas of your life you need to correct as you readin scripture, recognize this, all those words are an invitation by God to remind you of the goodness God offers through His commands. As Jesus declared he is the way the truth and the life. You are full of goodness. Put aside any desperate search you have for trying to prove to others you are enough. God’s love clearly demonstrates that.
With that knowledge be encouraged and lifted up to shed those things that you know to be in opposition to God’s will for you. In joy turn from those things back to the love of God and embrace the goodness he has and can clear out in your heart.
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit.
Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:
I invite you to sit in silence feeling patient for your own faults and trials.
Summarize what insights you have gained during this meditation and meditate and visualize positive change in your life:
This is a listener funded podcast at patreon.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Final Question: If you consider the invitation and command to persevere in the faith, what change in your life does that bring to your mind?
FIND ME ON: Download my free app: Recenter with Christ Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com Voicemail - (602) 888-3795 Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
NIV 11 And again, “Praise the Lord, all you Gentiles; let all the peoples extol him.” 12 And again, Isaiah says, “The Root of Jesse will spring up, one who will arise to rule over the nations; in him the Gentiles will hope.” 13 May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.
688 May the God of Hope Fill You With All Joy And Peace As You Trust In Him, A Guided Christian Meditation on Romans 15:11-13 with the Recenter With Christ app
The purpose of this podcast is to help you find more peace in your life and connect with the true source of peace, Jesus Christ.
Outline: Relaxation, Reading, Meditation, Prayer, Contemplation and Visualization.
Get into a place where you can sit comfortably and uninterrupted for about 20 minutes.You should hopefully not be driving or anything tensing or unrelaxing. If you feel comfortable to do so, I invite you to close your eyes. Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation: Breathe and direct your thoughts to connecting with God. Let your stomach be a balloon inflate, deflate.
Scripture for Meditation
Romans 15 NIV 11 And again, “Praise the Lord, all you Gentiles; let all the peoples extol him.” 12 And again, Isaiah says, “The Root of Jesse will spring up, one who will arise to rule over the nations; in him the Gentiles will hope.” 13 May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.
NASB 11 And again, “Praise the Lord all you Gentiles, And let all the peoples praise Him.” 12 Again Isaiah says, “There shall come the root of Jesse, And He who arises to rule over the Gentiles, In Him will the Gentiles hope.” 13 Now may the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, so that you will abound in hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.
Meditation on Scripture:
Hope is such a valuable and beautiful thing that Jesus brings us. Sometimes it feels as though when we speak of hope that it is that we can have just enough hope to scrape by. As though we are about to fall apart and drop into despair and we scrape the bottom of the barrel to get just enough hope to survive. Instead the hope that Christ offers is not some leftover remnant but a fountain, a spring that flows up in us, through Christ. It can overflow hope within us by the power of the Holy Spirit.
Ponder what role hope plays in your life. How much do you allow yourself to hope for? What things do you most strongly hope for. What would you consider as the most important thing to hope in? The hope that God offers is not necessarily the same thing we prioritize. The hope of God is not always the things we would hope for, it is far more important. THe hope of God is an eternal hope. When the struggle of this life has passed far into the rear view mirror, all those things will seem distant in comparison. At that time, we will consider our spiritual and eternal future as a child of God to be far more important. I remember attending a highly desired sporting event a number of years ago. The moment the event was over, tickets could be found on the ground thrown away. They had no value. Our current desires will seem far less important in thousands of years from now, but the things God prioritizes will remain of equal or perhaps even greater importance.
The best part of this is that, in these eternal matters, the Holy Spirit can fill us with an overflowing hope in God’s power. Ponder now for a moment the things that you hope in?
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit.
Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:
I invite you to sit in silence feeling patient for your own faults and trials.
Summarize what insights you have gained during this meditation and meditate and visualize positive change in your life:
This is a listener funded podcast at patreon.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Final Question: If you consider the invitation and command to persevere in the faith, what change in your life does that bring to your mind?
FIND ME ON: Download my free app: Recenter with Christ Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com Voicemail - (602) 888-3795 Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
Romans 15
NIV 8 For I tell you that Christ has become a servant of the Jews on behalf of God’s truth, so that the promises made to the patriarchs might be confirmed 9 and, moreover, that the Gentiles might glorify God for his mercy. As it is written: “Therefore I will praise you among the Gentiles; I will sing the praises of your name.” 10 Again, it says, “Rejoice, you Gentiles, with his people.”
686 Rejoice and Celebrate, O Gentiles, Along With His People, A Guided Christian Meditation on Romans 15:8-10 with the Recenter With Christ app
The purpose of this podcast is to help you find more peace in your life and connect with the true source of peace, Jesus Christ.
Outline: Relaxation, Reading, Meditation, Prayer, Contemplation and Visualization.
Get into a place where you can sit comfortably and uninterrupted for about 20 minutes.You should hopefully not be driving or anything tensing or unrelaxing. If you feel comfortable to do so, I invite you to close your eyes. Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation: Breathe and direct your thoughts to connecting with God. Let your stomach be a balloon inflate, deflate.
Scripture for Meditation
Romans 15
NIV 8 For I tell you that Christ has become a servant of the Jews on behalf of God’s truth, so that the promises made to the patriarchs might be confirmed 9 and, moreover, that the Gentiles might glorify God for his mercy. As it is written: “Therefore I will praise you among the Gentiles; I will sing the praises of your name.” 10 Again, it says, “Rejoice, you Gentiles, with his people.”
AMP 8 For I tell you that Christ has become a servant and a minister to the circumcision (Jews) on behalf of God’s truth, to confirm and verify the promises made to the fathers, 9 and for the Gentiles to glorify God for His mercy [to them, since God had no covenant with them]. As it is written and forever remains written, “Therefore I praise You among the Gentiles, And sing praises to Your name.” 10 Again it says, “Rejoice and celebrate, O Gentiles, along with His people.”
Meditation on Scripture:
For people who have listened many times about God’s chosen people we can get desensitized to how miraculous this is. If we are not careful we can get very comfortable with this idea such that it seems obvious. As though God had no other choice then to choose us.
Equally spiritually dangerous is to feel like we somehow pulled a fast one on God and we snuck into the sheepfold some other way than through the door.
With both these thoughts it is important for us to ponder and focus on the idea that God had no obligation to help us out of our fallen state other than the covenant He made for us, and to be clear, unless we are literally Jewish, we were not historically Gods chosen people. God decided to offer that to each of us based on His love. May we glorify Gods mercy.
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit.
Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:
I invite you to sit in silence feeling patient for your own faults and trials.
Summarize what insights you have gained during this meditation and meditate and visualize positive change in your life:
This is a listener funded podcast at patreon.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Final Question: If you consider the invitation and command to persevere in the faith, what change in your life does that bring to your mind?
FIND ME ON: Download my free app: Recenter with Christ Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com Voicemail - (602) 888-3795 Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
682 The Strong Bear The Infirmities of The Weak, A Guided Christian Meditation on Romans 15:1-4 with the Recenter With Christ app
The purpose of this podcast is to help you find more peace in your life and connect with the true source of peace, Jesus Christ.
Outline: Relaxation, Reading, Meditation, Prayer, Contemplation and Visualization.
Get into a place where you can sit comfortably and uninterrupted for about 20 minutes.You should hopefully not be driving or anything tensing or unrelaxing. If you feel comfortable to do so, I invite you to close your eyes. Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation: Breathe and direct your thoughts to connecting with God. Let your stomach be a balloon inflate, deflate.
Scripture for Meditation
KJV 1 We then that are strong ought to bear the infirmities of the weak, and not to please ourselves. 2 Let every one of us please his neighbour for his good to edification. 3 For even Christ pleased not himself; but, as it is written, The reproaches of them that reproached thee fell on me. 4 For whatsoever things were written aforetime were written for our learning, that we through patience and comfort of the scriptures might have hope.
NABRE 1 We who are strong ought to put up with the failings of the weak and not to please ourselves; 2 let each of us please our neighbor for the good, for building up. 3 For Christ did not please himself; but, as it is written, “The insults of those who insult you fall upon me.” 4 For whatever was written previously was written for our instruction, that by endurance and by the encouragement of the scriptures we might have hope.
Meditation on Scripture:
Many years ago as an impetuous young man I had some amazing advice given to me. “Be forgiving of those things that are weaknesses in others and just enjoy. Enjoy others. Enjoy life with others. In our modern world this message becomes confused and conflicted. When thinking of serving others we need not think about degrading ourselves. Think instead of unity in Christ. God was not lessened through Jesus Christ. The Grandeur of God was not destroyed on the Cross but it was demonstrated. Our goal is to submit to that same grandeur. To be swallowed up from our weakness to God’s strength.
Through Christ and through God’s word, we can embrace a hopeful mindset. Embrace hope. Hope about an eternal future with God, but also an improved life here on earth in the form of unity with God. embrace the love of God and just enjoy. With God nothing is impossible. let each of us please our neighbor for the good, for building up. May we through patience and endurance rejoice in the victory of God over the sins of all those who trust in Jesus and truly turn to him for forgiveness and redemption.
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit.
Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:
I invite you to sit in silence feeling patient for your own faults and trials.
Summarize what insights you have gained during this meditation and meditate and visualize positive change in your life:
This is a listener funded podcast at patreon.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Final Question: If you consider the invitation and command to persevere in the faith, what change in your life does that bring to your mind?
FIND ME ON: Download my free app: Recenter with Christ Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com Voicemail - (602) 888-3795 Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
NABRE 1 We who are strong ought to put up with the failings of the weak and not to please ourselves; 2 let each of us please our neighbor for the good, for building up. 3 For Christ did not please himself; but, as it is written, “The insults of those who insult you fall upon me.” 4 For whatever was written previously was written for our instruction, that by endurance and by the encouragement of the scriptures we might have hope.
682 The Strong Bear The Infirmities of The Weak, A Guided Christian Meditation on Romans 15:1-4 with the Recenter With Christ app
The purpose of this podcast is to help you find more peace in your life and connect with the true source of peace, Jesus Christ.
Outline: Relaxation, Reading, Meditation, Prayer, Contemplation and Visualization.
Get into a place where you can sit comfortably and uninterrupted for about 20 minutes.You should hopefully not be driving or anything tensing or unrelaxing. If you feel comfortable to do so, I invite you to close your eyes. Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation: Breathe and direct your thoughts to connecting with God. Let your stomach be a balloon inflate, deflate.
Scripture for Meditation
KJV 1 We then that are strong ought to bear the infirmities of the weak, and not to please ourselves. 2 Let every one of us please his neighbour for his good to edification. 3 For even Christ pleased not himself; but, as it is written, The reproaches of them that reproached thee fell on me. 4 For whatsoever things were written aforetime were written for our learning, that we through patience and comfort of the scriptures might have hope.
NABRE 1 We who are strong ought to put up with the failings of the weak and not to please ourselves; 2 let each of us please our neighbor for the good, for building up. 3 For Christ did not please himself; but, as it is written, “The insults of those who insult you fall upon me.” 4 For whatever was written previously was written for our instruction, that by endurance and by the encouragement of the scriptures we might have hope.
Meditation on Scripture:
Many years ago as an impetuous young man I had some amazing advice given to me. “Be forgiving of those things that are weaknesses in others and just enjoy. Enjoy others. Enjoy life with others. In our modern world this message becomes confused and conflicted. When thinking of serving others we need not think about degrading ourselves. Think instead of unity in Christ. God was not lessened through Jesus Christ. The Grandeur of God was not destroyed on the Cross but it was demonstrated. Our goal is to submit to that same grandeur. To be swallowed up from our weakness to God’s strength.
Through Christ and through God’s word, we can embrace a hopeful mindset. Embrace hope. Hope about an eternal future with God, but also an improved life here on earth in the form of unity with God. embrace the love of God and just enjoy. With God nothing is impossible. let each of us please our neighbor for the good, for building up. May we through patience and endurance rejoice in the victory of God over the sins of all those who trust in Jesus and truly turn to him for forgiveness and redemption.
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit.
Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:
I invite you to sit in silence feeling patient for your own faults and trials.
Summarize what insights you have gained during this meditation and meditate and visualize positive change in your life:
This is a listener funded podcast at patreon.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Final Question: If you consider the invitation and command to persevere in the faith, what change in your life does that bring to your mind?
FIND ME ON: Download my free app: Recenter with Christ Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com Voicemail - (602) 888-3795 Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
NABRE 47 When it was evening, the boat was far out on the sea and he was alone on shore. 48 Then he saw that they were tossed about while rowing, for the wind was against them. About the fourth watch of the night, he came toward them walking on the sea. He meant to pass by them. 49 But when they saw him walking on the sea, they thought it was a ghost and cried out. 50 They had all seen him and were terrified. But at once he spoke with them, “Take courage, it is I, do not be afraid!” 51 He got into the boat with them and the wind died down. They were [completely] astounded. 52 They had not understood the incident of the loaves. On the contrary, their hearts were hardened. FIND ME ON: Download my free app: Recenter with Christ Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com Voicemail - (602) 888-3795 Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
NASB 43 and they picked up twelve full baskets of the broken pieces of bread, and of the fish. 44 There were five thousand men who ate the loaves. Jesus Walks on the Water 45 And immediately Jesus had His disciples get into the boat and go ahead of Him to the other side, to Bethsaida, while He Himself *dismissed the crowd. 46 And after saying goodbye to them, He left for the mountain to pray.
NIV 35 By this time it was late in the day, so his disciples came to him. “This is a remote place,” they said, “and it’s already very late. 36 Send the people away so that they can go to the surrounding countryside and villages and buy themselves something to eat.” 37 But he answered, “You give them something to eat.” They said to him, “That would take more than half a year’s wages[e]! Are we to go and spend that much on bread and give it to them to eat?” 38 “How many loaves do you have?” he asked. “Go and see.” When they found out, they said, “Five—and two fish.” 39 Then Jesus directed them to have all the people sit down in groups on the green grass. 40 So they sat down in groups of hundreds and fifties. 41 Taking the five loaves and the two fish and looking up to heaven, he gave thanks and broke the loaves. Then he gave them to his disciples to distribute to the people. He also divided the two fish among them all. 42 They all ate and were satisfied,
ESV 30 The apostles returned to Jesus and told him all that they had done and taught. 31 And he said to them, “Come away by yourselves to a desolate place and rest a while.” For many were coming and going, and they had no leisure even to eat. 32 And they went away in the boat to a desolate place by themselves. 33 Now many saw them going and recognized them, and they ran there on foot from all the towns and got there ahead of them. 34 When he went ashore he saw a great crowd, and he had compassion on them, because they were like sheep without a shepherd. And he began to teach them many things
FIND ME ON: Download my free app: Recenter with Christ Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com Voicemail - (602) 888-3795 Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
674 Come With Me by Yourselves To A Quiet Place And Get Some Rest, A Guided Christian Meditation on Mark 6:30-34 with the Recenter With Christ app
The purpose of this podcast is to help you find more peace in your life and connect with the true source of peace, Jesus Christ.
Outline: Relaxation, Reading, Meditation, Prayer, Contemplation and Visualization.
Get into a place where you can sit comfortably and uninterrupted for about 20 minutes.You should hopefully not be driving or anything tensing or unrelaxing. If you feel comfortable to do so, I invite you to close your eyes. Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation: Breathe and direct your thoughts to connecting with God. Let your stomach be a balloon inflate, deflate.
Scripture for Meditation
ESV 30 The apostles returned to Jesus and told him all that they had done and taught. 31 And he said to them, “Come away by yourselves to a desolate place and rest a while.” For many were coming and going, and they had no leisure even to eat. 32 And they went away in the boat to a desolate place by themselves. 33 Now many saw them going and recognized them, and they ran there on foot from all the towns and got there ahead of them. 34 When he went ashore he saw a great crowd, and he had compassion on them, because they were like sheep without a shepherd. And he began to teach them many things.
NIV 30 The apostles gathered around Jesus and reported to him all they had done and taught. 31 Then, because so many people were coming and going that they did not even have a chance to eat, he said to them, “Come with me by yourselves to a quiet place and get some rest.” 32 So they went away by themselves in a boat to a solitary place. 33 But many who saw them leaving recognized them and ran on foot from all the towns and got there ahead of them. 34 When Jesus landed and saw a large crowd, he had compassion on them, because they were like sheep without a shepherd. So he began teaching them many things.
Meditation on Scripture:
Jesus sent out the 12 Apostles, in fact the word apostle means one who is sent. Between them being send and their debrief with Jesus and each other, John the Baptist dies. I find the timing of these accounts to be fascinating. The role of John was to prepare the way of the Lord, to make straight his path and prophesy concerning the Messiah. At the time of his death, John had fulfilled his purpose. He had achieved the mission God had given to him. That timing lined up with the ministry of the Apostles. The way was declared prepared and the apostles went on missions. In subsequent verses. With that said this was likely emotionally difficult for Jesus. Not for lack of faith but due to the separation with John, someone who had supported him from within the womb.
The apostles were reunited with Jesus and were telling all that they had done, and likely mourning John’s death. I suspect that it was bitter in ways but also some beautiful stories were told of the miraculous things they had done. They had gone through a busy season of life. They were busy and taxed emotionally and were mourning John. They enjoyed meaningful time together and Jesus united them to a getaway. They didn't even have time to eat.
As they were doing that and getting away, that is when they encountered a crowd and Jesus started teaching them because of compassion he held. I think this shows an important dichotomy. Jesus teaches that it is perfectly appropriate to seek time to calm down the stresses of life. Jesus invited them into a calm season, yet he also taught them that is we dont always get the downtime we need. This will compete with our care of others but there is a value in seeking that time. So ponder this, is it possible for you to arrange a “quiet place to get some rest” as Jesus said?
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit.
Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:
I invite you to sit in silence feeling patient for your own faults and trials.
Summarize what insights you have gained during this meditation and meditate and visualize positive change in your life:
This is a listener funded podcast at patreon.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Final Question: If you consider the invitation and command to persevere in the faith, what change in your life does that bring to your mind?
FIND ME ON: Download my free app: Recenter with Christ Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com Voicemail - (602) 888-3795 Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
ESV 27 And immediately the king sent an executioner with orders to bring John's head. He went and beheaded him in the prison 28 and brought his head on a platter and gave it to the girl, and the girl gave it to her mother. 29 When his disciples heard of it, they came and took his body and laid it in a tomb.
FIND ME ON: Download my free app: Recenter with Christ Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com Voicemail - (602) 888-3795 Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
672 John’s Disciples Laid His Body in Tomb, A Guided Christian Meditation on Mark 6:27-29 with the Recenter With Christ app
The purpose of this podcast is to help you find more peace in your life and connect with the true source of peace, Jesus Christ.
Outline: Relaxation, Reading, Meditation, Prayer, Contemplation and Visualization.
Get into a place where you can sit comfortably and uninterrupted for about 20 minutes.You should hopefully not be driving or anything tensing or unrelaxing. If you feel comfortable to do so, I invite you to close your eyes. Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation: Breathe and direct your thoughts to connecting with God. Let your stomach be a balloon inflate, deflate.
Scripture for Meditation
NASB 27 Immediately the king sent an executioner and commanded him to bring back his head. And he went and beheaded him in the prison, 28 and brought his head on a platter, and gave it to the girl; and the girl gave it to her mother. 29 When his disciples heard about this, they came and carried away his body, and laid it in a tomb.
ESV 27 And immediately the king sent an executioner with orders to bring John's head. He went and beheaded him in the prison 28 and brought his head on a platter and gave it to the girl, and the girl gave it to her mother. 29 When his disciples heard of it, they came and took his body and laid it in a tomb.
Meditation on Scripture:
In the previous verses, Herods’s wife and daughter skeemed to get John the Baptist killed. It was based on a grudge. It was based on offense. Herod’s wife planned John’s death because she was offended. As I was reading these verses it reminded me of the impact that John’s death had on the early followers of Jesus and even Jesus himself. This was heavy news. It was a sign of the fact that those who followed the correct path were not saved from death and persecution. Yet the thing I found myself thinking about this time reading through it was the impact that this skeem had. Those actions to plan John’s death obviously took the gift of life from John. This death was an unnecessary robbery of the potential of the human life of John. John, created in the image of God was robbed time on earth. This was certainly not a surprise to God, and it didnt stop God’s plans but it was still wrong.
Additionally not only was John killed but many people were racked with the grief and uncertainty that his death represented. The action based on her own pride resulted in a death and profound sadness to many people. It made me think about the impact of our actions. Our actions have an effect on other people. Sometimes people tell me proudly that they dont care what anyone else thinks about their actions. This misses the important way in which we all owe each other love, as Jesus said. Part of what makes certain actions wrong is if it harms others. Murder is wrong because of what it takes from others. Similarly it is wrong to be cruel to someone else. I dont mean sharing God’s loving words of correction but to share spite, hate, jealousy, and other negativity is wrong also. Invariably there will be times when doing the right thing will bother others. That is not what I mean here. Clearly parents sometimes make their kids sad by correcting them and sinners that are invited to repentance are not always happy to do so.
When we act we should ponder the effect it has on others. We should seek to represent what Jesus would do.
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit.
Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:
I invite you to sit in silence feeling patient for your own faults and trials.
Summarize what insights you have gained during this meditation and meditate and visualize positive change in your life:
This is a listener funded podcast at patreon.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Final Question: If you consider the invitation and command to persevere in the faith, what change in your life does that bring to your mind?
FIND ME ON: Download my free app: Recenter with Christ Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com Voicemail - (602) 888-3795 Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
NRSVA 20 for Herod feared John, knowing that he was a righteous and holy man, and he protected him. When he heard him, he was greatly perplexed; and yet he liked to listen to him. 21 But an opportunity came when Herod on his birthday gave a banquet for his courtiers and officers and for the leaders of Galilee. 22 When his daughter Herodias came in and danced, she pleased Herod and his guests; and the king said to the girl, ‘Ask me for whatever you wish, and I will give it.’ 23 And he solemnly swore to her, ‘Whatever you ask me, I will give you, even half of my kingdom.’ 24 She went out and said to her mother, ‘What should I ask for?’ She replied, ‘The head of John the baptizer.’ 25 Immediately she rushed back to the king and requested, ‘I want you to give me at once the head of John the Baptist on a platter.’ 26 The king was deeply grieved; yet out of regard for his oaths and for the guests, he did not want to refuse her.
FIND ME ON: Download my free app: Recenter with Christ Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com Voicemail - (602) 888-3795 Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
670 Anything You Want I'll Give it To You, A Guided Christian Meditation on Mark 6:20-26 with the Recenter With Christ app
The purpose of this podcast is to help you find more peace in your life and connect with the true source of peace, Jesus Christ.
Outline: Relaxation, Reading, Meditation, Prayer, Contemplation and Visualization.
Get into a place where you can sit comfortably and uninterrupted for about 20 minutes.You should hopefully not be driving or anything tensing or unrelaxing. If you feel comfortable to do so, I invite you to close your eyes. Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation: Breathe and direct your thoughts to connecting with God. Let your stomach be a balloon inflate, deflate.
Scripture for Meditation
NRSVA 20 for Herod feared John, knowing that he was a righteous and holy man, and he protected him. When he heard him, he was greatly perplexed; and yet he liked to listen to him. 21 But an opportunity came when Herod on his birthday gave a banquet for his courtiers and officers and for the leaders of Galilee. 22 When his daughter Herodias came in and danced, she pleased Herod and his guests; and the king said to the girl, ‘Ask me for whatever you wish, and I will give it.’ 23 And he solemnly swore to her, ‘Whatever you ask me, I will give you, even half of my kingdom.’ 24 She went out and said to her mother, ‘What should I ask for?’ She replied, ‘The head of John the baptizer.’ 25 Immediately she rushed back to the king and requested, ‘I want you to give me at once the head of John the Baptist on a platter.’ 26 The king was deeply grieved; yet out of regard for his oaths and for the guests, he did not want to refuse her.
NKJV 20 for Herod feared John, knowing that he was a just and holy man, and he protected him. And when he heard him, he did many things, and heard him gladly. 21 Then an opportune day came when Herod on his birthday gave a feast for his nobles, the high officers, and the chief men of Galilee. 22 And when Herodias’ daughter herself came in and danced, and pleased Herod and those who sat with him, the king said to the girl, “Ask me whatever you want, and I will give it to you.” 23 He also swore to her, “Whatever you ask me, I will give you, up to half my kingdom.” 24 So she went out and said to her mother, “What shall I ask?” And she said, “The head of John the Baptist!” 25 Immediately she came in with haste to the king and asked, saying, “I want you to give me at once the head of John the Baptist on a platter.” 26 And the king was exceedingly sorry; yet, because of the oaths and because of those who sat with him, he did not want to refuse her.
Meditation on Scripture:
Here we see additional complications of the convictions of Herod. This is not the same Herod who killed all the young children but this is the same Herod who refused to judge Jesus when Pilote asked Herod to judge him. He was confused by John but he listened to him. However, Herodias was offended by John. Despite that he put himself into a bid when he allowed his desire to rule. When he was pleased by the dance of thing younger woman he unwisely made a very unspecific deal. He wrote a blank check. It seems very clear that the thing that led him to this pronouncement was not the goodness of his heart or his desire for justice. It seems to be his physical lusts.
How often are we drawn away from what we know to be good and true due to our desires. Those desires take many forms. Not everything that we feel a strong pull to, is good for us. This is a representation of the weakness of our human nature. Each person experiences different temptations of the flesh and yet, each of us have them. If we allow these things to rule our better judgment we can mortgage our morals to the temporary promise of pleasure. It is important to distinguish between finding beauty in God’s world and temptation. Spend a moment now reflecting on how to prioritize finding beauty in God while rejecting carnal temptation.
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit.
Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:
I invite you to sit in silence feeling patient for your own faults and trials.
Summarize what insights you have gained during this meditation and meditate and visualize positive change in your life:
This is a listener funded podcast at patreon.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Final Question: If you consider the invitation and command to persevere in the faith, what change in your life does that bring to your mind?
FIND ME ON: Download my free app: Recenter with Christ Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com Voicemail - (602) 888-3795 Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
Mark 6
NIV
17 For Herod himself had given orders to have John arrested, and he had him bound and put in prison. He did this because of Herodias, his brother Philip’s wife, whom he had married. 18 For John had been saying to Herod, “It is not lawful for you to have your brother’s wife.” 19 So Herodias nursed a grudge against John and wanted to kill him. But she was not able to,
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668 Herodias Nursed a Grudge Against John, A Guided Christian Meditation on Mark 6:17-19 with the Recenter With Christ app
The purpose of this podcast is to help you find more peace in your life and connect with the true source of peace, Jesus Christ. Outline: Relaxation, Reading, Meditation, Prayer, Contemplation and Visualization. Get into a place where you can sit comfortably and uninterrupted for about 20 minutes.You should hopefully not be driving or anything tensing or unrelaxing. If you feel comfortable to do so, I invite you to close your eyes. Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation: Breathe and direct your thoughts to connecting with God. Let your stomach be a balloon inflate, deflate. Scripture for Meditation
Mark 6
NIV
17 For Herod himself had given orders to have John arrested, and he had him bound and put in prison. He did this because of Herodias, his brother Philip’s wife, whom he had married. 18 For John had been saying to Herod, “It is not lawful for you to have your brother’s wife.” 19 So Herodias nursed a grudge against John and wanted to kill him. But she was not able to,
NABRE
17 Herod was the one who had John arrested and bound in prison on account of Herodias, the wife of his brother Philip, whom he had married. 18 John had said to Herod, “It is not lawful for you to have your brother’s wife.” 19 Herodias harbored a grudge against him and wanted to kill him but was unable to do so.
Meditation on Scripture:
John the Baptist had gained a large following and he spoke the words of God. He prophesied about the coming of Jesus. In the womb he provided a visceral testimony of the nature of Jesus as the Son of God. John’s whole ministry was to set the stage for the coming of the Messiah. He knew the law, which forbade Herod from taking his brother’s wife after his own divorce. With that said, John did not say these things as a personal aggression against Herod or his wife Herodias. It was a condemnation of God. Herod was held by Rome to be the leader of Judea. John knew the influence this leader could have for good or bad.
King Herod’s relationship with Rome had challenging implications. He was powerful as to the things of the world, but many of the Jews saw him as a traitor, someone who was after personal gain by siding with the enemies of God. He did not remain faithful to the word of the Lord. Eventually he executed John the Baptist based on this condemnation but it bothered him. The people feared John, and it is hard to know what exactly Herod thought about John but the way scripture paints it the grudge that Herod’s wife had was the primary drive that resulted in John’s death. I find it interested the way it says Herodias nursed a grudge. Grudges can be so terribly destructive. To hold a grudge is in opposition to the life Jesus preached. We are meant to hate sin, to move toward what God would have of our lives, but not to nurture personal grievances. How would John’s life have been different without this grudge? Scholars believe that him seeking a new wife was related to the defeat of Herod. In this way John’s condemnation was adjudicated by an indirect means. The reality is when we think we get away with things in our heart we don't.
How would the world be without grudges? How would our lives be different without grudges? As you have reflected on the grudge played out in this scripture, remember the temptation we all have to self vindication. The Lord says vengeance is His. Our role should be to seek the will of the Lord, not to seek the destruction of those who offend us. Just as Herods word would have been better without this nursed grudge, so too would each of our lives. Attempt to let go of any ill will you may harbor for others.
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit. Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him. Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm: I invite you to sit in silence feeling patient for your own faults and trials. Summarize what insights you have gained during this meditation and meditate and visualize positive change in your life:
This is a listener funded podcast at patreon.com/christianmeditationpodcast Final Question: If you consider the invitation and command to persevere in the faith, what change in your life does that bring to your mind?
FIND ME ON:
Download my free app: Recenter with Christ Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com Voicemail - (602) 888-3795 Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
ESV 14 King Herod heard of it, for Jesus' name had become known. Some said, “John the Baptist has been raised from the dead. That is why these miraculous powers are at work in him.” 15 But others said, “He is Elijah.” And others said, “He is a prophet, like one of the prophets of old.” 16 But when Herod heard of it, he said, “John, whom I beheaded, has been raised.”
FIND ME ON:
Download my free app: Recenter with Christ Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com Voicemail - (602) 888-3795 Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
666 Jesus Name Became Known, A Guided Christian Meditation on Mark 6:14-16 with the Recenter With Christ app
The purpose of this podcast is to help you find more peace in your life and connect with the true source of peace, Jesus Christ. Outline: Relaxation, Reading, Meditation, Prayer, Contemplation and Visualization. Get into a place where you can sit comfortably and uninterrupted for about 20 minutes.You should hopefully not be driving or anything tensing or unrelaxing. If you feel comfortable to do so, I invite you to close your eyes. Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation: Breathe and direct your thoughts to connecting with God. Let your stomach be a balloon inflate, deflate. Scripture for Meditation
Mark 6
NASB
14 And King Herod heard about it, for His name had become well known; and people were saying, “John the Baptist has risen from the dead, and that is why these miraculous powers are at work in Him.”15 But others were saying, “He is Elijah.” And others were saying, “He is a prophet, like one of the prophets of old.” 16 But when Herod heard about it, he kept saying, “John, whom I beheaded, has risen!”
ESV 14 King Herod heard of it, for Jesus' name had become known. Some said, “John the Baptist has been raised from the dead. That is why these miraculous powers are at work in him.” 15 But others said, “He is Elijah.” And others said, “He is a prophet, like one of the prophets of old.” 16 But when Herod heard of it, he said, “John, whom I beheaded, has been raised.”
Meditation on Scripture:
When Herrod learned of the name of Jesus he did not seek to understand. He sought to preserve his own life. He feared the superstition of the power but he didn’t honor it. Herrod looked at the name of Jesus in relationship only to his own life and propsperity. The name of Jesus is not meant to be interpreted and valued only based on our life. Doing so misses the Nature of God.
Jesus is not a tool for us to use. We need to reject the human mindset that would objectify Jesus as Herrod did as a magic spell or specter. Instead the far better response is the one Peter gave.
When Jesus asked the disciples who He was Peter proclaimed he was the Announred one, the Son of the Living God. Jesus is The Word made flesh not a convenient way we can sneak into heaven. When we think of the Name of Jesus it should be more than a magical word. It should be in reference to the presence of God. Not just on Sunday hidden in a silent building not just a God we choose to visit occasionally but one who we embrace into our hearts and seek our whole lives. The name Jesus Christ is a reflection of the presence of God on Earth.
We should seek God with determination. We shouldn’t seek the corruption of this world. Not to human schemes. Not to our own pride. As Peter said Jesus is the Messiah and the Son of the Living God.
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit. Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him. Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm: I invite you to sit in silence feeling patient for your own faults and trials. Summarize what insights you have gained during this meditation and meditate and visualize positive change in your life:
This is a listener funded podcast at patreon.com/christianmeditationpodcast Final Question: If you consider the invitation and command to persevere in the faith, what change in your life does that bring to your mind?
FIND ME ON:
Download my free app: Recenter with Christ Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com Voicemail - (602) 888-3795 Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
ESV 11 And if any place will not receive you and they will not listen to you, when you leave, shake off the dust that is on your feet as a testimony against them.” 12 So they went out and proclaimed that people should repent. 13 And they cast out many demons and anointed with oil many who were sick and healed them.
FIND ME ON:
Download my free app: Recenter with Christ Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com Voicemail - (602) 888-3795 Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
664 Shake The Dust Off Your Feet, A Guided Christian Meditation on Mark 6:11-13 with the Recenter With Christ app
The purpose of this podcast is to help you find more peace in your life and connect with the true source of peace, Jesus Christ. Outline: Relaxation, Reading, Meditation, Prayer, Contemplation and Visualization. Get into a place where you can sit comfortably and uninterrupted for about 20 minutes.You should hopefully not be driving or anything tensing or unrelaxing. If you feel comfortable to do so, I invite you to close your eyes. Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation: Breathe and direct your thoughts to connecting with God. Let your stomach be a balloon inflate, deflate. Scripture for Meditation
Mark 6
KJV 11 And whosoever shall not receive you, nor hear you, when ye depart thence, shake off the dust under your feet for a testimony against them. Verily I say unto you, It shall be more tolerable for Sodom and Gomorrha in the day of judgment, than for that city. 12 And they went out, and preached that men should repent. 13 And they cast out many devils, and anointed with oil many that were sick, and healed them.
ESV 11 And if any place will not receive you and they will not listen to you, when you leave, shake off the dust that is on your feet as a testimony against them.” 12 So they went out and proclaimed that people should repent. 13 And they cast out many demons and anointed with oil many who were sick and healed them.
Meditation on Scripture:
I find this scripture to be interesting. Here the Apostles being sent out are given specific guidance to shake off the dust of their feet as a testimony against those who will not receive them. On one hand this makes complete sense. Since Jesus is the way back to the Father, anyone who does not receive that message will experience spiritual consequences. With that said there are other times when the Sons of Thunder, James and John were corrected for wanting to call down God’s vengeance on those who did not receive them. Jesus rebuked them and said they didn't know what manner of spirit they were of.
I find myself wondering, what is the difference? Was it a matter of timing? Is it a matter of commandment? Is it a matter of assuming the role of the person who doles out the justice of God. I think this is a duality that we are presented with as Christians. In some ways we are called to represent the truth of God, yet we must be cautious to not assume the role of judge. God is the judge. Going back to the scripture the very next verse says that the Apostles called people to repentance. Jesus is the source of being delivered from that judgment. Repentance is turning back to God for forgiveness. Each one of us shares the need before the Lord. Jesus is the source of repentance and our lives are improved and blessed spiritually by continually turning back to God and disciplining our hearts to God day by day. As we are asked to be a light on a hill, may we be a good representation of the Love and Grace that we receive from God.
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit. Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him. Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm: I invite you to sit in silence feeling patient for your own faults and trials. Summarize what insights you have gained during this meditation and meditate and visualize positive change in your life:
This is a listener funded podcast at patreon.com/christianmeditationpodcast Final Question: If you consider the invitation and command to persevere in the faith, what change in your life does that bring to your mind?
FIND ME ON:
Download my free app: Recenter with Christ Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com Voicemail - (602) 888-3795 Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
Mark 6 NIV 7 Calling the Twelve to him,he began to send them out two by two and gave them authority over impure spirits. 8 These were his instructions: “Take nothing for the journey except a staff—no bread, no bag, no money in your belts. 9 Wear sandals but not an extra shirt. 10 Whenever you enter a house, stay there until you leave that town.
FIND ME ON:
Download my free app: Recenter with Christ Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com Voicemail - (602) 888-3795 Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
662 Jesus Gave Them Authority Over The Unclean Spirits, A Guided Christian Meditation on Mark 6:7-10 with the Recenter With Christ app
The purpose of this podcast is to help you find more peace in your life and connect with the true source of peace, Jesus Christ. Outline: Relaxation, Reading, Meditation, Prayer, Contemplation and Visualization. Get into a place where you can sit comfortably and uninterrupted for about 20 minutes.You should hopefully not be driving or anything tensing or unrelaxing. If you feel comfortable to do so, I invite you to close your eyes. Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation: Breathe and direct your thoughts to connecting with God. Let your stomach be a balloon inflate, deflate. Scripture for Meditation
Mark 6 NIV 7 Calling the Twelve to him,he began to send them out two by two and gave them authority over impure spirits. 8 These were his instructions: “Take nothing for the journey except a staff—no bread, no bag, no money in your belts. 9 Wear sandals but not an extra shirt. 10 Whenever you enter a house, stay there until you leave that town. NASB 7 And He *summoned the twelve and began to send them out in pairs, and gave them authority over the unclean spirits; 8 and He instructed them that they were to take nothing for their journey, except a mere staff—no bread, no bag, no money in their belt— 9 but to wear sandals; and He added, “Do not wear two tunics.” 10 And He said to them, “Wherever you enter a house, stay there until you leave town. Meditation on Scripture:
Jesus called the twelve and then within a relatively short amount of time he sent them off on missions to heal and preach. If Jesus wanted the smartest and most intelligent missionaries he could have trained them for many years. If he wanted to be seen as the one who did all the work he certainly could have yet he sent the 12.
God could do all the things we are asked to do yet God called disciples. Yet the plan was not that things would be done by their power. There are things that God has called you to. God empowers His work. The things that are important in your life, you are not left to your own power to do. What things is God calling you to? Not what do you want to do but what does God call you to.
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit. Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him. Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm: I invite you to sit in silence feeling patient for your own faults and trials. Summarize what insights you have gained during this meditation and meditate and visualize positive change in your life:
This is a listener funded podcast at patreon.com/christianmeditationpodcast Final Question: If you consider the invitation and command to persevere in the faith, what change in your life does that bring to your mind?
FIND ME ON:
Download my free app: Recenter with Christ Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com Voicemail - (602) 888-3795 Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
Matthew 9
KJV 35 And Jesus went about all the cities and villages, teaching in their synagogues, and preaching the gospel of the kingdom, and healing every sickness and every disease among the people. 36 But when he saw the multitudes, he was moved with compassion on them, because they fainted, and were scattered abroad, as sheep having no shepherd. 37 Then saith he unto his disciples, The harvest truly is plenteous, but the labourers are few; 38 Pray ye therefore the Lord of the harvest, that he will send forth labourers into his harvest.
NABRE 35 Jesus went around to all the towns and villages, teaching in their synagogues, proclaiming the gospel of the kingdom, and curing every disease and illness. 36 At the sight of the crowds, his heart was moved with pity for them because they were troubled and abandoned, like sheep without a shepherd. 37 Then he said to his disciples, “The harvest is abundant but the laborers are few; 38 so ask the master of the harvest to send out laborers for his harvest.”
FIND ME ON:
Download my free app: Recenter with Christ Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com Voicemail - (602) 888-3795 Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
660 Jesus Was Moved With Compassion on Them, A Guided Christian Meditation on Matthew 9:35-38 with the Recenter With Christ app
The purpose of this podcast is to help you find more peace in your life and connect with the true source of peace, Jesus Christ. Outline: Relaxation, Reading, Meditation, Prayer, Contemplation and Visualization. Get into a place where you can sit comfortably and uninterrupted for about 20 minutes.You should hopefully not be driving or anything tensing or unrelaxing. If you feel comfortable to do so, I invite you to close your eyes. Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation: Breathe and direct your thoughts to connecting with God. Let your stomach be a balloon inflate, deflate. Scripture for Meditation
Matthew 9
KJV 35 And Jesus went about all the cities and villages, teaching in their synagogues, and preaching the gospel of the kingdom, and healing every sickness and every disease among the people. 36 But when he saw the multitudes, he was moved with compassion on them, because they fainted, and were scattered abroad, as sheep having no shepherd. 37 Then saith he unto his disciples, The harvest truly is plenteous, but the labourers are few; 38 Pray ye therefore the Lord of the harvest, that he will send forth labourers into his harvest.
NABRE 35 Jesus went around to all the towns and villages, teaching in their synagogues, proclaiming the gospel of the kingdom, and curing every disease and illness. 36 At the sight of the crowds, his heart was moved with pity for them because they were troubled and abandoned, like sheep without a shepherd. 37 Then he said to his disciples, “The harvest is abundant but the laborers are few; 38 so ask the master of the harvest to send out laborers for his harvest.”
Meditation on Scripture:
It can be easy to think how wonderful it would be if we could be there when Jesus taught. What would it be like to hear Jesus preaching in the synagogue for example. I find myself filled with curiosity about what that experience would be like. The Gospel of John says if all the things Jesus had done were written the world would not have room to contain the books. How many things did he teach to individuals in quiet moments when few were there, and nobody to write it.
Yet this is an emotional response because that assumes that the Gospel of Jesus Christ is somehow insufficient. As if there is a certain secret that if we were to learn that one secret then we would be able to overcome the world. With the secret knowledge Jesus whispered in the night to someone, then we would be able to truly embrace God and His word. This mindset is certainly romantic but it misses the greater point that we have information enough to begin our walk with God, and in addition to that the guidance of the Holy Spirit can help us to grow in understanding. When Thomas believed after he had seen the risen Lord Jesus said even more blessed are those who have not seen yet still believe. Jesus had compassion on us through His love that he poured out on us, exemplified on the Cross.
In some ways we may feel as though, because we didn't hear Jesus preach, that we are the ones without a shepherd or that we are the one abandoned, but that misses when we respond to the Call of Jesus’ love, we are found. We are called to be laborers in his vineyard, to help bring others to know God. To show them through action, through love, and through word, how to approach the throne of mercy and to be found. As limited as our understanding as humans is, we have enough to be able to do that, and that is what God has asked of us.
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit. Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him. Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm: I invite you to sit in silence feeling patient for your own faults and trials. Summarize what insights you have gained during this meditation and meditate and visualize positive change in your life:
This is a listener funded podcast at patreon.com/christianmeditationpodcast Final Question: If you consider the invitation and command to persevere in the faith, what change in your life does that bring to your mind?
FIND ME ON:
Download my free app: Recenter with Christ Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com Voicemail - (602) 888-3795 Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
NIV 32 While they were going out, a man who was demon-possessed and could not talk was brought to Jesus. 33 And when the demon was driven out, the man who had been mute spoke. The crowd was amazed and said, “Nothing like this has ever been seen in Israel.” 34 But the Pharisees said, “It is by the prince of demons that he drives out demons.”
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Download my free app: Recenter with Christ Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com Voicemail - (602) 888-3795 Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
658 Nothing Like This Has Ever Been Seen, A Guided Christian Meditation on Matthew 9:32-34 with the Recenter With Christ app
The purpose of this podcast is to help you find more peace in your life and connect with the true source of peace, Jesus Christ. Outline: Relaxation, Reading, Meditation, Prayer, Cont emplation and Visualization. Get into a place where you can sit comfortably and uninterrupted for about 20 minutes.You should hopefully not be driving or anything tensing or unrelaxing. If you feel comfortable to do so, I invite you to close your eyes. Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation: Breathe and direct your thoughts to connecting with God. Let your stomach be a balloon inflate, deflate. Scripture for Meditation
Matthew 9
NIV 32 While they were going out, a man who was demon-possessed and could not talk was brought to Jesus. 33 And when the demon was driven out, the man who had been mute spoke. The crowd was amazed and said, “Nothing like this has ever been seen in Israel.”
ESV 32 As they were going away, behold, a demon-oppressed man who was mute was brought to him. 33 And when the demon had been cast out, the mute man spoke. And the crowds marveled, saying, “Never was anything like this seen in Israel.” 34 But the Pharisees said, “He casts out demons by the prince of demons.”
Meditation on Scripture:
We live in a world full of confusion, struggle and even downright spiritual darkness. There are times when it seems like we are surrounded by evil. At times this can be disconcerting. We can feel that there is an imbalance. Yet it is vitally important that we worship a God who will never lose to the darkness. Evil will not prevail. We worship a God who is always victorious. We gain victory by faithfulness to our almighty God.
With that said, the world, and the evil in it, will not profess that miraculous power. Even when Jesus did things that had never been done and did miracles and signs it was not enough to convince some. They accused Him of being on the side of evil. Satan will attempt to call evil good and good evil. This is why it becomes increasingly important for us to focus on what God says, not what the world says. Jesus has power over evil and when we are faithful to God, God does things in our spiritual life that have never been done before. If we keep our eyes open to it we can gain increasing confidence in the miracle He is working in our life.
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit. Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him. Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm: I invite you to sit in silence feeling patient for your own faults and trials. Summarize what insights you have gained during this meditation and meditate and visualize positive change in your life:
This is a listener funded podcast at patreon.com/christianmeditationpodcast Final Question: If you consider the invitation and command to persevere in the faith, what change in your life does that bring to your mind?
FIND ME ON:
Download my free app: Recenter with Christ Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com Voicemail - (602) 888-3795 Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
Matthew 9
NIV 27 As Jesus went on from there, two blind men followed him, calling out, “Have mercy on us, Son of David!” 28 When he had gone indoors, the blind men came to him, and he asked them, “Do you believe that I am able to do this?” “Yes, Lord,” they replied. 29 Then he touched their eyes and said, “According to your faith let it be done to you”; 30 and their sight was restored. Jesus warned them sternly, “See that no one knows about this.” 31 But they went out and spread the news about him all over that region.
FIND ME ON:
Download my free app: Recenter with Christ Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com Voicemail - (602) 888-3795 Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
656 It Shall Be Done According to Your Faith, A Guided Christian Meditation on Matthew 9:27-31 with the Recenter With Christ app
The purpose of this podcast is to help you find more peace in your life and connect with the true source of peace, Jesus Christ. Outline: Relaxation, Reading, Meditation, Prayer, Cont emplation and Visualization. Get into a place where you can sit comfortably and uninterrupted for about 20 minutes.You should hopefully not be driving or anything tensing or unrelaxing. If you feel comfortable to do so, I invite you to close your eyes. Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation: Breathe and direct your thoughts to connecting with God. Let your stomach be a balloon inflate, deflate. Scripture for Meditation
Matthew 9
NIV 27 As Jesus went on from there, two blind men followed him, calling out, “Have mercy on us, Son of David!” 28 When he had gone indoors, the blind men came to him, and he asked them, “Do you believe that I am able to do this?” “Yes, Lord,” they replied. 29 Then he touched their eyes and said, “According to your faith let it be done to you”; 30 and their sight was restored. Jesus warned them sternly, “See that no one knows about this.” 31 But they went out and spread the news about him all over that region.
NASB 27 As Jesus went on from there, two men who were blind followed Him, crying out, “Have mercy on us, Son of David!” 28 And after He entered the house, the men who were blind came up to Him, and Jesus said to them, “Do you believe that I am able to do this?” They said to Him, “Yes, Lord.”29 Then He touched their eyes, saying, “It shall be done for you according to your faith.” 30 And their eyes were opened. And Jesus sternly warned them, saying, “See that no one knows about this!” 31 But they went out and spread the news about Him throughout that land.
Meditation on Scripture:
In what way do we seek healing from the Master? When we notice weakness inside ourselves do we turn to God? The accounts of Jesus healing in scripture are plentiful. What do we most need healing from God. If we are not careful we can see these descriptions of healing as something nice Jesus did a long time ago. They are more than that. They are evidences of Gods ability to heal.
The things we need healing from are more than physical. They can be psychological and emotional. We live surrounded by immorality. We may have habits or mindsets that we can seek healing from God.
Similar to physical healing we do not dictate the timeline which God heals, but he will heal. As long as we come to Him and remain willing to shed anything that is in opposition tonGis plan for us, he will continuously refine our lives and heal us in every way.
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit. Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him. Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm: I invite you to sit in silence feeling patient for your own faults and trials. Summarize what insights you have gained during this meditation and meditate and visualize positive change in your life:
This is a listener funded podcast at patreon.com/christianmeditationpodcast Final Question: If you consider the invitation and command to persevere in the faith, what change in your life does that bring to your mind?
FIND ME ON:
Download my free app: Recenter with Christ Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com Voicemail - (602) 888-3795 Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
Matthew 9
NKJV 23 When Jesus came into the ruler’s house, and saw the flute players and the noisy crowd wailing, 24 He said to them, “Make room, for the girl is not dead, but sleeping.” And they ridiculed Him. 25 But when the crowd was put outside, He went in and took her by the hand, and the girl arose. 26 And the report of this went out into all that land.
654 She Is Not Dead But Sleeping, A Guided Christian Meditation on Matthew 9:23-26 with the Recenter With Christ app
The purpose of this podcast is to help you find more peace in your life and connect with the true source of peace, Jesus Christ. Outline: Relaxation, Reading, Meditation, Prayer, Cont emplation and Visualization. Get into a place where you can sit comfortably and uninterrupted for about 20 minutes.You should hopefully not be driving or anything tensing or unrelaxing. If you feel comfortable to do so, I invite you to close your eyes. Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation: Breathe and direct your thoughts to connecting with God. Let your stomach be a balloon inflate, deflate. Scripture for Meditation
Matthew 9
NKJV 23 When Jesus came into the ruler’s house, and saw the flute players and the noisy crowd wailing, 24 He said to them, “Make room, for the girl is not dead, but sleeping.” And they ridiculed Him. 25 But when the crowd was put outside, He went in and took her by the hand, and the girl arose. 26 And the report of this went out into all that land.
NRSVA 23 When Jesus came to the leader’s house and saw the flute-players and the crowd making a commotion, 24 he said, ‘Go away; for the girl is not dead but sleeping.’ And they laughed at him. 25 But when the crowd had been put outside, he went in and took her by the hand, and the girl got up. 26 And the report of this spread throughout that district.
Meditation on Scripture:
In our physical world, we tend to accept the reality with which we are offered. Even as we come to faith we battle with the physicality of the seemingly permanent realities before us. For example here Jesus says this girl is sleeping. He used the same language for Lazarus who was dead for four days before being raised. Jesus had a view of reality that was more real than the seemingly permanent effect of death. For him the effects of death were as temporary as sleep. The onlookers, the death mourners and the mourning musicians laughed him to scorn.
Jesus knows the temporary nature of your struggles. As we come to see this world in the way God does, we can overcome the things in life that we may catastrophize. When tragedy strikes it can be easy for us to be overwhelmed but as we look to God and try and see the world in his way perhaps we can gain a little bit more of that perspective. Dont worry she is only asleep. The invitation to each of us is, trust God and He will care for our needs. Pour your heart out to him and trust him.
Without a Godly view this was a preposterous, thoughtless thing to say. With a Godly view it was an invitation to hope. We are given the choice to view the world with a Godly view or a worldly one. Which view do we choose?
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit. Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him. Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm: I invite you to sit in silence feeling patient for your own faults and trials. Summarize what insights you have gained during this meditation and meditate and visualize positive change in your life:
This is a listener funded podcast at patreon.com/christianmeditationpodcast Final Question: If you consider the invitation and command to persevere in the faith, what change in your life does that bring to your mind?
FIND ME ON:
Download my free app: Recenter with Christ Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com Voicemail - (602) 888-3795 Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
NIV 20 And, behold, a woman, which was diseased with an issue of blood twelve years, came behind him, and touched the hem of his garment: 21 For she said within herself, If I may but touch his garment, I shall be whole. 22 But Jesus turned him about, and when he saw her, he said, Daughter, be of good comfort; thy faith hath made thee whole. And the woman was made whole from that hour. Download my free app: Recenter with Christ Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com Voicemail - (602) 888-3795 Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
652 Thy Faith Hath Made Thee Whole, A Guided Christian Meditation on Matthew 9:14-17 with the Recenter With Christ app
The purpose of this podcast is to help you find more peace in your life and connect with the true source of peace, Jesus Christ. Outline: Relaxation, Reading, Meditation, Prayer, Contemplation and Visualization. Get into a place where you can sit comfortably and uninterrupted for about 20 minutes.You should hopefully not be driving or anything tensing or unrelaxing. If you feel comfortable to do so, I invite you to close your eyes. Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation: Breathe and direct your thoughts to connecting with God. Let your stomach be a balloon inflate, deflate. Scripture for Meditation
Matthew 9
NIV 20 And, behold, a woman, which was diseased with an issue of blood twelve years, came behind him, and touched the hem of his garment: 21 For she said within herself, If I may but touch his garment, I shall be whole. 22 But Jesus turned him about, and when he saw her, he said, Daughter, be of good comfort; thy faith hath made thee whole. And the woman was made whole from that hour.
NASB 20 And behold, a woman who had been suffering from a hemorrhage for twelve years came up behind Him, and touched the border of His cloak; 21 for she was saying to herself, “If I only touch His cloak, I will get well.” 22 But Jesus, turning and seeing her, said, “Daughter, take courage; your faith has made you well.” And at once the woman was made well.
Meditation on Scripture:
This whole Chapter is lined with the juxtaposition of Jesus’s dual mission as healer and savior. His saving is more important than the healing. That saving comes through Him alone. It comes as we put our whole faith in Him. If genuine and real this faith in Jesus changes us. It is the beginning of a life with Christ. After being asked about fasting in the previous verses he is asked to go heal a sick girl, on the way there he encounters a crowd and in the middle of that crowd this woman.
In the Gospel of Luke it shares a little more detail. This woman touched Jesus without talking to him first and was healed. Jesus stopped when this happened. He was not surprised by the healing. He was not impressed by the healing. She did not steal a blessing from Jesus. She was healed by her faith. We don't see anywhere in scripture where Jesus teaches that touching his robe will heal yet this woman had so much faith that it happened. Similarly we are healed from the greatest danger we face, our own sin. We are healed not by touching his clothes but by coming to trust Jesus completely. When we experience trouble in our life we can learn a lesson from this woman who, when afflicted, sought out jesus. She went to where He was. She drew near to Him even though she felt that he didn't even know she was alive, He did. Similarly God knows the details of your struggle. Draw near to him. Trust your heart to Jesus. Trust that he can heal your soul, and then do the important work of walking in the path He has laid out. Give him the worries and cares of your heart.
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit. Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him. Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm: I invite you to sit in silence feeling patient for your own faults and trials. Summarize what insights you have gained during this meditation and meditate and visualize positive change in your life:
This is a listener funded podcast at patreon.com/christianmeditationpodcast Final Question: If you consider the invitation and command to persevere in the faith, what change in your life does that bring to your mind?
FIND ME ON:
Download my free app: Recenter with Christ Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com Voicemail - (602) 888-3795 Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
NIV 14 Then John’s disciples came and asked him, “How is it that we and the Pharisees fast often, but your disciples do not fast?” 15 Jesus answered, “How can the guests of the bridegroom mourn while he is with them? The time will come when the bridegroom will be taken from them; then they will fast. 16 “No one sews a patch of unshrunk cloth on an old garment, for the patch will pull away from the garment, making the tear worse. 17 Neither do people pour new wine into old wineskins. If they do, the skins will burst; the wine will run out and the wineskins will be ruined. No, they pour new wine into new wineskins, and both are preserved.”
FIND ME ON:
Download my free app: Recenter with Christ Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com Voicemail - (602) 888-3795 Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
650 The Wedding Guests Cannot Mourn as Long As The Bridegroom Is With Them, A Guided Christian Meditation on Matthew 9:14-17 with the Recenter With Christ app
The purpose of this podcast is to help you find more peace in your life and connect with the true source of peace, Jesus Christ. Outline: Relaxation, Reading, Meditation, Prayer, Contemplation and Visualization. Get into a place where you can sit comfortably and uninterrupted for about 20 minutes.You should hopefully not be driving or anything tensing or unrelaxing. If you feel comfortable to do so, I invite you to close your eyes. Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation: Breathe and direct your thoughts to connecting with God. Let your stomach be a balloon inflate, deflate. Scripture for Meditation
Matthew 9
NIV 14 Then John’s disciples came and asked him, “How is it that we and the Pharisees fast often, but your disciples do not fast?” 15 Jesus answered, “How can the guests of the bridegroom mourn while he is with them? The time will come when the bridegroom will be taken from them; then they will fast. 16 “No one sews a patch of unshrunk cloth on an old garment, for the patch will pull away from the garment, making the tear worse. 17 Neither do people pour new wine into old wineskins. If they do, the skins will burst; the wine will run out and the wineskins will be ruined. No, they pour new wine into new wineskins, and both are preserved.”
ESV 14 Then the disciples of John came to him, saying, “Why do we and the Pharisees fast, but your disciples do not fast?” 15 And Jesus said to them, “Can the wedding guests mourn as long as the bridegroom is with them? The days will come when the bridegroom is taken away from them, and then they will fast. 16 No one puts a piece of unshrunk cloth on an old garment, for the patch tears away from the garment, and a worse tear is made. 17 Neither is new wine put into old wineskins. If it is, the skins burst and the wine is spilled and the skins are destroyed. But new wine is put into fresh wineskins, and so both are preserved.”
Meditation on Scripture:
Fasting has been a valuable aspect of religious devotion for a very long time. I think at times we can get the wrong impression if we read this scripture and interpret that Jesus was somehow against fasting. We see elsewhere in scripture where Jesus fasted. Earlier in the same book of Matthew Jesus fasted for 40 days. Perhaps the more important question is not on the validity of fasting but on the individual devotion behind it. When fabric is new, it often has not fully shrunk and the patch would distort and pull the original garment. Similarly new wine that is still fermenting, has yeast that are still converting the sugars to alcohol so gas bubbles form and need to be vented which would not be possible in a wineskin that could not flex and stretch. Both of these processes described a natural response changed by exposure and age. This continues directly from the previous verses about how the sick need a physician. Similarly for the fast, not to please God but to call to memory our physical need.
The question we can ask ourselves is this; is our religious devotion simply a matter of cold calculating rule following or is it a representation of the understanding of the process at work within us. God gives us scripture to show us how to live in such a way to invite Jesus into our hearts. True devotion helps us open our eyes to see.
Ponder for a moment, how we can use fasting, prayer, study, even discipline of our actions, as a way of drawing near to God, as a form of worship? Not a form of negotiating favor from God, but as a desire to be swallowed up in God. Do we truly feel a love strong enough for God that we would mourn him if he was gone? If not perhaps we can seek that relationship with him by experience, by fasting and prayer.
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit. Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him. Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm: I invite you to sit in silence feeling patient for your own faults and trials. Summarize what insights you have gained during this meditation and meditate and visualize positive change in your life:
This is a listener funded podcast at patreon.com/christianmeditationpodcast Final Question: If you consider the invitation and command to persevere in the faith, what change in your life does that bring to your mind?
FIND ME ON:
Download my free app: Recenter with Christ Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com Voicemail - (602) 888-3795 Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
NASB 9 As Jesus went on from there, He saw a man called Matthew sitting in the tax collector’s office; and He *said to him, “Follow Me!” And he got up and followed Him. 10 Then it happened that as Jesus was reclining at the table in the house, behold, many tax collectors and sinners came and began dining with Jesus and His disciples. 11 And when the Pharisees saw this, they said to His disciples, “Why is your Teacher eating with the tax collectors and sinners?” 12 But when Jesus heard this, He said, “It is not those who are healthy who need a physician, but those who are sick. 13 Now go and learn what this means: ‘I desire compassion, rather than sacrifice,’ for I did not come to call the righteous, but sinners.” FIND ME ON: Download my free app: Recenter with Christ Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com Voicemail - (602) 888-3795 Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
648 It's Not The Healthy Who Need a Doctor, But the Sick, A Guided Christian Meditation on Matthew 9:9-13 with the Recenter With Christ app
The purpose of this podcast is to help you find more peace in your life and connect with the true source of peace, Jesus Christ. Outline: Relaxation, Reading, Meditation, Prayer, Contemplation and Visualization. Get into a place where you can sit comfortably and uninterrupted for about 20 minutes.You should hopefully not be driving or anything tensing or unrelaxing. If you feel comfortable to do so, I invite you to close your eyes. Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation: Breathe and direct your thoughts to connecting with God. Let your stomach be a balloon inflate, deflate. Scripture for Meditation
Matthew 9
NASB 9 As Jesus went on from there, He saw a man called Matthew sitting in the tax collector’s office; and He *said to him, “Follow Me!” And he got up and followed Him. 10 Then it happened that as Jesus was reclining at the table in the house, behold, many tax collectors and sinners came and began dining with Jesus and His disciples. 11 And when the Pharisees saw this, they said to His disciples, “Why is your Teacher eating with the tax collectors and sinners?” 12 But when Jesus heard this, He said, “It is not those who are healthy who need a physician, but those who are sick. 13 Now go and learn what this means: ‘I desire compassion, rather than sacrifice,’ for I did not come to call the righteous, but sinners.”
KJV 9 And as Jesus passed forth from thence, he saw a man, named Matthew, sitting at the receipt of custom: and he saith unto him, Follow me. And he arose, and followed him. 10 And it came to pass, as Jesus sat at meat in the house, behold, many publicans and sinners came and sat down with him and his disciples. 11 And when the Pharisees saw it, they said unto his disciples, Why eateth your Master with publicans and sinners? 12 But when Jesus heard that, he said unto them, They that be whole need not a physician, but they that are sick. 13 But go ye and learn what that meaneth, I will have mercy, and not sacrifice: for I am not come to call the righteous, but sinners to repentance.
Meditation on Scripture:
After healing the paralytic man and also forgiving his sin, Jesus showed his ability and desire to heal the soul and the body. In this scripture Jesus calls Matthew and then reminds those who would question that decision that the sick are who need the healer. Each of us is the sick person in this story. WE are the one who was sick and is healed by Jesus. We are not the comfy healthy people who belong outside Jesus’ hospital.
With that said Jesus also indirectly proclaims himself the healer of body and soul. As we place our full faith in Jesus he heals our soul. As we learn to trust him, he can help the betterment of our bodies as well, if that is His purpose. This healing is actually part of the reason why I felt like I wanted to start this podcast. When I was a hospital chaplain I found profound resilience through meditation. It is the thing that helped me cope with the profound suffering I witnessed. I learned to trust in God to calm my soul and heal my emotions.
Many people in our modern times struggle with anxiety or other forms of diagnosable mental health concerns. I want to honor the fact that God has infinite power and yet some very faithful people do not have their prayers answered in the way that hope to include the Apostle Paul. With that said, our responsibility is not to decide for God, what things he should do or not. A healthier mindset is to petition God in humility, work to maintain our health to the best of our ability, and then trust in God’s grace and eternal care.
Meditation of Prayer: Pray as tdirected by the Spirit. Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him. Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm: I invite you to sit in silence feeling patient for your own faults and trials. Summarize what insights you have gained during this meditation and meditate and visualize positive change in your life: This is a listener funded podcast at patreon.com/christianmeditationpodcast Final Question: If you consider the invitation and command to persevere in the faith, what change in your life does that bring to your mind? FIND ME ON: Download my free app: Recenter with Christ Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com Voicemail - (602) 888-3795 Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
Matthew 9 NIV 1 Jesus stepped into a boat, crossed over and came to his own town. 2 Some men brought to him a paralyzed man, lying on a mat. When Jesus saw their faith, he said to the man, “Take heart, son; your sins are forgiven.” 3 At this, some of the teachers of the law said to themselves, “This fellow is blaspheming!” 4 Knowing their thoughts, Jesus said, “Why do you entertain evil thoughts in your hearts? FIND ME ON: Download my free app: Recenter with Christ Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com Voicemail - (602) 888-3795 Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
644 Take Heart, Your Sins Are Forgiven, A Guided Christian Meditation on Matthew 9:1-4 with the Recenter With Christ app The purpose of this podcast is to help you find more peace in your life and connect with the true source of peace, Jesus Christ. Outline: Relaxation, Reading, Meditation, Prayer, Contemplation and Visualization. Get into a place where you can sit comfortably and uninterrupted for about 20 minutes.You should hopefully not be driving or anything tensing or unrelaxing. If you feel comfortable to do so, I invite you to close your eyes. Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation: Breathe and direct your thoughts to connecting with God. Let your stomach be a balloon inflate, deflate. Scripture for Meditation Matthew 9 NIV 1 Jesus stepped into a boat, crossed over and came to his own town. 2 Some men brought to him a paralyzed man, lying on a mat. When Jesus saw their faith, he said to the man, “Take heart, son; your sins are forgiven.” 3 At this, some of the teachers of the law said to themselves, “This fellow is blaspheming!” 4 Knowing their thoughts, Jesus said, “Why do you entertain evil thoughts in your hearts? NRSVA 1 And after getting into a boat he crossed the water and came to his own town. Jesus Heals a Paralytic 2 And just then some people were carrying a paralysed man lying on a bed. When Jesus saw their faith, he said to the paralytic, ‘Take heart, son; your sins are forgiven.’ 3 Then some of the scribes said to themselves, ‘This man is blaspheming.’ 4 But Jesus, perceiving their thoughts, said, ‘Why do you think evil in your hearts? Meditation on Scripture: This scripture tells of the account of Jesus healing a man. In another one of the Gospels this man was lowered from the roof. As the people looked on wondering what Jesus was to do he did not heal the man right away. Jesus forgave his sins. This is interesting as it was not what Jesus always did. In this case he chose to forgive the man first. In time he did both but, which one is more meaningful? Which one makes a bigger difference eternally?
If you were a paralytic and you could only choose one, which one would you choose? The teachers of the law, challenged him. According to the Law of Moses this was problematic. Only God could forgive sins. They did not understand who Jesus was? We have the benefit of the written word, the telling of the Gospel story and a long tradition of understanding. Imagine if someone were to tell you that they could forgive your sins and it wasn’t Jesus. You would not believe them. That is what these lawyers thought. They didn’t understand the gospel. They were looking at things from the wrong perspective. Jesus condemned their hearts. He knew them. He knew why they struggled. They chose not to believe. The healing was not enough to even more them in the right direction. What is easier to do, to say a phrase or to heal someone? It would be easier to say those words even if they didn’. Fortunately for us we are not forced to wonder and grope for forgiveness. We don’t need to hope that someone lowers us down a roof and be forgiven face to face. We may or may not receive the healing that we seek but we certainly can receive forgiveness if we ask it from Jesus. Meditation of Prayer: Pray as directed by the Spirit. Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him. Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm: I invite you to sit in silence feeling patient for your own faults and trials. Summarize what insights you have gained during this meditation and meditate and visualize positive change in your life: This is a listener funded podcast at patreon.com/christianmeditationpodcast Final Question: If you consider the invitation and command to persevere in the faith, what change in your life does that bring to your mind? FIND ME ON: Download my free app: Recenter with Christ Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com Voicemail - (602) 888-3795 Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
ACTS 1 NIV 21 Therefore it is necessary to choose one of the men who have been with us the whole time the Lord Jesus was living among us, 22 beginning from John’s baptism to the time when Jesus was taken up from us. For one of these must become a witness with us of his resurrection.” 23 So they nominated two men: Joseph called Barsabbas (also known as Justus) and Matthias. 24 Then they prayed, “Lord, you know everyone’s heart. Show us which of these two you have chosen 25 to take over this apostolic ministry, which Judas left to go where he belongs.” 26 Then they cast lots, and the lot fell to Matthias; so he was added to the eleven apostles.
FIND ME ON: Download my free app: Recenter with Christ Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com Voicemail - (602) 888-3795 Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
642 God Show Us What You Have Chosen, A Guided Christian Meditation on Acts 1:21-26 with the Recenter With Christ app The purpose of this podcast is to help you find more peace in your life and connect with the true source of peace, Jesus Christ.
Outline: Relaxation, Reading, Meditation, Prayer, Contemplation and Visualization.
Get into a place where you can sit comfortably and uninterrupted for about 20 minutes.You should hopefully not be driving or anything tensing or unrelaxing. If you feel comfortable to do so, I invite you to close your eyes. Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation: Breathe and direct your thoughts to connecting with God. Let your stomach be a balloon inflate, deflate.
Scripture for Meditation
ACTS 1 NIV 21 Therefore it is necessary to choose one of the men who have been with us the whole time the Lord Jesus was living among us, 22 beginning from John’s baptism to the time when Jesus was taken up from us. For one of these must become a witness with us of his resurrection.” 23 So they nominated two men: Joseph called Barsabbas (also known as Justus) and Matthias. 24 Then they prayed, “Lord, you know everyone’s heart. Show us which of these two you have chosen 25 to take over this apostolic ministry, which Judas left to go where he belongs.” 26 Then they cast lots, and the lot fell to Matthias; so he was added to the eleven apostles.
NASB
21 Therefore it is necessary that of the men who have accompanied us all the time that the Lord Jesus went in and out among us— 22 beginning with the baptism of John until the day that He was taken up from us—one of these must become a witness with us of His resurrection.” 23 So they put forward two men, Joseph called Barsabbas (who was also called Justus), and Matthias. 24 And they prayed and said, “You, Lord, who know the hearts of all people, show which one of these two You have chosen 25 to occupy this ministry and apostleship from which Judas turned aside to go to his own place.” 26 And they drew lots for them, and the lot fell to Matthias; and he was added to the eleven apostles. Meditation on Scripture:
Upon the tragic betrayal and death of Judas Iscariot, there were only 11 apostles. Peter quoted scripture referencing filling the office. God had plans and those included another apostle. Two names were brought forward for consideration, seeking the guidance of God. The 11 prayed and sought out God's guidance then left the decision in the hands of God. God guides his work according to God's needs. The Apostle was not chosen by the ways of the world or according to the means that humans reason. It was a choice of God. God guides His work, to include the grand and small parts.
God has plans for your life. At times we think our plans are what guides us. We think that because we have minds that can think, that what we reason and ration is the only matter for consideration. Or in those cases when we do defer to the knowledge of God we oftentimes think that it must be something we can understand. In reality most of the time God's plans are far beyond our understanding. It is left to us to do the best we can. With God’s assistance we can understand enough to be able to guide our choices and then fiercely pursue abiding by it. Pause now for a moment and consider what God may be guiding you toward in your life. To what are you called? In what areas do you seek more clarity of His call and will?
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit.
Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:
I invite you to sit in silence feeling patient for your own faults and trials.
Summarize what insights you have gained during this meditation and meditate and visualize positive change in your life:
This is a listener funded podcast at patreon.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Final Question: If you consider the invitation and command to persevere in the faith, what change in your life does that bring to your mind?
FIND ME ON: Download my free app: Recenter with Christ Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com Voicemail - (602) 888-3795 Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
ACTS 1 NIV 14 They all joined together constantly in prayer, along with the women and Mary the mother of Jesus, and with his brothers. 15 In those days Peter stood up among the believers (a group numbering about a hundred and twenty) 16 and said, “Brothers and sisters, the Scripture had to be fulfilled in which the Holy Spirit spoke long ago through David concerning Judas, who served as guide for those who arrested Jesus. 17 He was one of our number and shared in our ministry.
FIND ME ON: Download my free app: Recenter with Christ Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com Voicemail - (602) 888-3795 Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
NIV
10 They were looking intently up into the sky as he was going, when suddenly two men dressed in white stood beside them. 11 “Men of Galilee,” they said, “why do you stand here looking into the sky? This same Jesus, who has been taken from you into heaven, will come back in the same way you have seen him go into heaven.” 12 Then the apostles returned to Jerusalem from the hill called the Mount of Olives, a Sabbath day’s walk from the city.
FIND ME ON: Download my free app: Recenter with Christ Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com Voicemail - (602) 888-3795 Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
638 Why Do You Gaze Into Heaven, A Guided Christian Meditation on Acts 1:10-12 with the Recenter With Christ app
The purpose of this podcast is to help you find more peace in your life and connect with the true source of peace, Jesus Christ.
Outline: Relaxation, Reading, Meditation, Prayer, Contemplation and Visualization.
Get into a place where you can sit comfortably and uninterrupted for about 20 minutes.You should hopefully not be driving or anything tensing or unrelaxing. If you feel comfortable to do so, I invite you to close your eyes. Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation: Breathe and direct your thoughts to connecting with God. Let your stomach be a balloon inflate, deflate.
Scripture for Meditation
ACTS 1
NIV
10 They were looking intently up into the sky as he was going, when suddenly two men dressed in white stood beside them. 11 “Men of Galilee,” they said, “why do you stand here looking into the sky? This same Jesus, who has been taken from you into heaven, will come back in the same way you have seen him go into heaven.” 12 Then the apostles returned to Jerusalem from the hill called the Mount of Olives, a Sabbath day’s walk from the city.
KJV 10 And while they looked stedfastly toward heaven as he went up, behold, two men stood by them in white apparel; 11 Which also said, Ye men of Galilee, why stand ye gazing up into heaven? this same Jesus, which is taken up from you into heaven, shall so come in like manner as ye have seen him go into heaven. 12 Then returned they unto Jerusalem from the mount called Olivet, which is from Jerusalem a sabbath day's journey.
Meditation on Scripture:
Recently I went to Texas to observe another total solar eclipse. During totality the sun is completely covered by the shadow of the moon. I was dark and it appeared as night. After it had passed I continued to look up at the sun with the solar glasses with awe and wonder. And this as something that had predicted with exactness and I have seen it before. I had a solid understanding of what was happening and yet I was in awe.
When I read this passage I imagined a group of people staring into heaven in wonder, struggling to come to terms with their expectations so radically being altered and then to have Jesus come and go into the sky. This was not how they expected it to be. It did not meet what they had guessed would happen. I can only imagine the wonder they experienced. I can only imagine that after asking about him restoring the Kingdom of Israel he then refused to answer the question they asked in they way they wanted the answer. Then he has the ability to come and go from beyond this form of existence. I visualize a group of people staring up. Waiting in expectation of what would come next. Then as they are gazing, two people in white clothes (who seem to be heavenly beings) ask them why they are looking up to heaven. Jesus would come again. I often wonder what they were thinking. How much did they understand about what was to come? It is likely that before the Holy Spirit came, they really had no idea what was coming.
There are times when we don’t understand God’s next move. In fact that is probably much more often that we would like to admit. There are undoubtedly times when things are much harder than we expect. Equally there are times when things have been planned with much more precision that we could have expected also. I hope that as those moments happen that we can peer into heaven with wonder. Not with doubt but with humble expectation of the fulfillment of all the words written in the Bible. I hope that as the moments of wonder pass, that we can constantly turn our minds back to the coming of Jesus, as was recommended here.
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit.
Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:
I invite you to sit in silence feeling patient for your own faults and trials.
Summarize what insights you have gained during this meditation and meditate and visualize positive change in your life:
This is a listener funded podcast at patreon.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Final Question: If you consider the invitation and command to persevere in the faith, what change in your life does that bring to your mind?
FIND ME ON: Download my free app: Recenter with Christ Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com Voicemail - (602) 888-3795 Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
NIV 7 He said to them: “It is not for you to know the times or dates the Father has set by his own authority. 8 But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.” 9 After he said this, he was taken up before their very eyes, and a cloud hid him from their sight.
FIND ME ON: Download my free app: Recenter with Christ Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com Voicemail - (602) 888-3795 Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
636 It Is Not For You to Know God's Timeline, A Guided Christian Meditation on Acts 1:7-9 with the Recenter With Christ app
The purpose of this podcast is to help you find more peace in your life and connect with the true source of peace, Jesus Christ.
Outline: Relaxation, Reading, Meditation, Prayer, Contemplation and Visualization.
Get into a place where you can sit comfortably and uninterrupted for about 20 minutes.You should hopefully not be driving or anything tensing or unrelaxing. If you feel comfortable to do so, I invite you to close your eyes. Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation: Breathe and direct your thoughts to connecting with God. Let your stomach be a balloon inflate, deflate.
Scripture for Meditation
ACTS 1
NIV 7 He said to them: “It is not for you to know the times or dates the Father has set by his own authority. 8 But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.” 9 After he said this, he was taken up before their very eyes, and a cloud hid him from their sight. ESV 7 He said to them, “It is not for you to know times or seasons that the Father has fixed by his own authority. 8 But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you, and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the end of the earth.” 9 And when he had said these things, as they were looking on, he was lifted up, and a cloud took him out of their sight. Meditation on Scripture:
It is clear that when we become believers our desires and preferences do not dethrone God’s. Many times we have genuine questions about God's timing and those questions are not answered in the way we would wonder. In fact the more we feel we should understand the more confusion we can feel.
Nowhere is this more focused than the coming of the Kingdom of God. Scholars and believer’s throughout the centuries have wondered and pondered and tried to crack the code of the times and seasons of God but Gods timing remains his own.
The follow on theme here is that God does not give to us to decipher his timing. That does not mean we sit as passive observers in God's work. The Holy Spirit is meant to empower us to do the part that is our own. To witness of Jesus Christ. This is where God wants us to spend our focus.
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit.
Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:
I invite you to sit in silence feeling patient for your own faults and trials.
Summarize what insights you have gained during this meditation and meditate and visualize positive change in your life:
This is a listener funded podcast at patreon.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Final Question: If you consider the invitation and command to persevere in the faith, what change in your life does that bring to your mind?
FIND ME ON: Download my free app: Recenter with Christ Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com Voicemail - (602) 888-3795 Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
ACTS 1 ESV 4And while stayinga with them he ordered them not to depart from Jerusalem, but to wait for the promise of the Father, which, he said, “you heard from me; 5 for John baptized with water, but you will be baptized withb the Holy Spirit not many days from now.” The Ascension 6So when they had come together, they asked him, “Lord, will you at this time restore the kingdom to Israel?”
ACTS 1 1 In my former book, Theophilus, I wrote about all that Jesus began to do and to teach 2 until the day he was taken up to heaven, after giving instructions through the Holy Spirit to the apostles he had chosen.3 After his suffering, he presented himself to them and gave many convincing proofs that he was alive. He appeared to them over a period of forty days and spoke about the kingdom of God.
FIND ME ON: Download my free app: Recenter with Christ Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com Voicemail - (602) 888-3795 Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
632 He Gave Many Proofs He Was Alive, A Guided Christian Meditation on Acts 1:1-3 with the Recenter With Christ app
The purpose of this podcast is to help you find more peace in your life and connect with the true source of peace, Jesus Christ.
Outline: Relaxation, Reading, Meditation, Prayer, Contemplation and Visualization.
Get into a place where you can sit comfortably and uninterrupted for about 20 minutes.You should hopefully not be driving or anything tensing or unrelaxing. If you feel comfortable to do so, I invite you to close your eyes. Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation: Breathe and direct your thoughts to connecting with Godr. Let your stomach be a balloon inflate, deflate.
Scripture for Meditation
ACTS 1 1 In my former book, Theophilus, I wrote about all that Jesus began to do and to teach 2 until the day he was taken up to heaven, after giving instructions through the Holy Spirit to the apostles he had chosen.3 After his suffering, he presented himself to them and gave many convincing proofs that he was alive. He appeared to them over a period of forty days and spoke about the kingdom of God.
NASB 1 The first account I composed, Theophilus, about all that Jesus began to do and teach, 2 until the day when He was taken up to heaven, after He had given orders by the Holy Spirit to the apostles whom He had chosen. 3 To these He also presented Himself alive after His suffering, by many convincing proofs, appearing to them over a period of forty days and speaking of things regarding the kingdom of God.
Meditation on Scripture:
As we read in scripture we see Gods declaration that it is the word of God. Equally valid is that this word came through the direct experience of people, influenced by the Spirit. The book of Acts is such an example. The same author that wrote the Gospel of Luke also wrote Acts and in fact that is what is referenced here. As we read scripture it can be deeply meaningful to see how God interacted with other human beings like us.
Good did not use some alternative form of human being to put out His word. God’s Spirit has great power both in times past and also now. Of all the important and powerful things that could be shared there are none so meaningful as to examine the role of Jesus Christ as our Savior, Redeemer, God, and King. That is where Luke starts. Then he continues with the witnesses to the events after the death of Jesus in the book of Acts.
We worship a God who has interacted with human beings throughout history and is willing to have a relationship with each and every one of us.
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit.
Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:
I invite you to sit in silence feeling patient for your own faults and trials.
Summarize what insights you have gained during this meditation and meditate and visualize positive change in your life:
This is a listener funded podcast at patreon.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Final Question: If you consider the invitation and command to persevere in the faith, what change in your life does that bring to your mind?
FIND ME ON: Download my free app: Recenter with Christ Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com Voicemail - (602) 888-3795 Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
NABRE 1 God remembered Noah and all the animals, wild and tame, that were with him in the ark. So God made a wind sweep over the earth, and the waters began to subside. 2 The fountains of the abyss and the floodgates of the sky were closed, and the downpour from the sky was held back. 3 Gradually the waters receded from the earth. At the end of one hundred and fifty days, the waters had so diminished
FIND ME ON: Download my free app: Recenter with Christ Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com Voicemail - (602) 888-3795 Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
630 God Remembered Noah, A Guided Christian Meditation on Genesis 8:1-3 with the Recenter With Christ app
The purpose of this podcast is to help you find more peace in your life and connect with the true source of peace, Jesus Christ.
Outline: Relaxation, Reading, Meditation, Prayer, Contemplation and Visualization.
Get into a place where you can sit comfortably and uninterrupted for about 20 minutes.You should hopefully not be driving or anything tensing or unrelaxing. If you feel comfortable to do so, I invite you to close your eyes. Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation: Breathe and direct your thoughts to connecting with Godr. Let your stomach be a balloon inflate, deflate.
Scripture for Meditation
NABRE 1 God remembered Noah and all the animals, wild and tame, that were with him in the ark. So God made a wind sweep over the earth, and the waters began to subside. 2 The fountains of the abyss and the floodgates of the sky were closed, and the downpour from the sky was held back. 3 Gradually the waters receded from the earth. At the end of one hundred and fifty days, the waters had so diminished
NRSV 8 But God remembered Noah and all the wild animals and all the domestic animals that were with him in the ark. And God made a wind blow over the earth, and the waters subsided; 2 the fountains of the deep and the windows of the heavens were closed, the rain from the heavens was restrained, 3 and the waters gradually receded from the earth. At the end of one hundred and fifty days the waters had abated;
Meditation on Scripture:
I am very close to someone who has suffered a severe reduction in their short term memory function. So much so that conversation loops multiple times in a very short time. Things I share with this person do not make it into their memory. As a result it causes me to reevaluate the nature of identity and connection. Our spiritual substance is not reduced to our ability to remember. Eventually all the physical matter that makes up our brains and memory creation mechanisms will fail and eventually turn to dust. Does this mean we cease to be? Do our memories define us? How bound are we to who we used to be? How bound are we to the actions of others in the past?
When I was reading around in scripture for instances of remembering I was rewarded with the realization that many of the references to remembering, it is God that is doing the remembering. Remembering His covenant, remembering His children. There are times when he asks us to remember, such as remembering the sabbath day to keep it holy. Unlike us, remembering is something that defines God. It is a characteristic of God to remember his covenants and to honor them. It was God remembering Noah that saved him and his family from the flood.
In this scripture we see God remembering Noah, and after a period of trial, to allow Noah's life to move to the next level. In our dark moments we feel that God may not remember us. We don't see God’s timing, we don't know God’s intentions. We don't fully understand the upper and lower bounds of His covenant. Know this, God remembers you. Even more importantly that God rescuing us for our life circumstances, God remembers his great covenant to us. He remembers the offering of redemption. When things get difficult and you wonder if God remembers you, remember His word. Since our memory is so much more limited, lets commit to rejuvenate our understanding of Him by reviewing the events in scripture and possibly keeping a personal journal of ways God has blessed us that we can review when we feel God does not remember us. Something that becomes clear in scripture is that each time God’s people wonders if God remembers them, the far greater challenge they face is their remembering Him. Let us continually turn our attentions to the everlasting love God offers. Turn your memories to Him, turn your past over to Him, even more importantly turn your future over to God.
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit.
Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:
I invite you to sit in silence feeling patient for your own faults and trials.
Summarize what insights you have gained during this meditation and meditate and visualize positive change in your life:
This is a listener funded podcast at patreon.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Final Question: If you consider the invitation and command to persevere in the faith, what change in your life does that bring to your mind?
FIND ME ON: Download my free app: Recenter with Christ Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com Voicemail - (602) 888-3795 Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
ESV 22 But you have come to Mount Zion and to the city of the living God, the heavenly Jerusalem, and to innumerable angels in festal gathering, 23 and to the assembly of the firstborn who are enrolled in heaven, and to God, the judge of all, and to the spirits of the righteous made perfect, 24 and to Jesus, the mediator of a new covenant, and to the sprinkled blood that speaks a better word than the blood of Abel.
FIND ME ON: Download my free app: Recenter with Christ Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com Voicemail - (602) 888-3795 Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
628 We Have Come to Mount Zion and Innumerable Company of Angels, A Guided Christian Meditation on Hebrews 12:22-24 with the Recenter With Christ app
The purpose of this podcast is to help you find more peace in your life and connect with the true source of peace, Jesus Christ.
Outline: Relaxation, Reading, Meditation, Prayer, Contemplation and Visualization.
Get into a place where you can sit comfortably and uninterrupted for about 20 minutes.You should hopefully not be driving or anything tensing or unrelaxing. If you feel comfortable to do so, I invite you to close your eyes. Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation: Breathe and direct your thoughts to connecting with Godr. Let your stomach be a balloon inflate, deflate.
Scripture for Meditation
ESV 22 But you have come to Mount Zion and to the city of the living God, the heavenly Jerusalem, and to innumerable angels in festal gathering, 23 and to the assembly of the firstborn who are enrolled in heaven, and to God, the judge of all, and to the spirits of the righteous made perfect, 24 and to Jesus, the mediator of a new covenant, and to the sprinkled blood that speaks a better word than the blood of Abel.
NKJV 22 But you have come to Mount Zion and to the city of the living God, the heavenly Jerusalem, to an innumerable company of angels, 23 to the general assembly and church of the firstborn who are registered in heaven, to God the Judge of all, to the spirits of just men made perfect, 24 to Jesus the Mediator of the new covenant, and to the blood of sprinkling that speaks better things than that of Abel.
Meditation on Scripture:
As we learn to school our actions and responses, and as we learn to love, we come to understand our relationship with God better. In the Old Testament we see the way Moses approaches God in fear. Although we shouldn’t minimize the grandeur of God, scripture us full of times when God commands people to not fear as they approach.
We are offered a mountain of Joy not one of fear. We are surrounded by an innumerable community of heavenly beings. We don’t see them and many times don’t see the impact but God commands legions of beings full of love. This is the Lingdom of God. Not to fear Gods wrath but to rejoice in Gods power and direction and the miraculous gift he has given with the new covenant through Jesus Christ.
How lucky for us that God is both our judge but also our mediator before the effects of Sin. The spilling of Christs blood cleanses us from the effects of the most horrible failings of humanity. Each breath we draw can be ingratitude of our all powerful and loving God. Praise be to God.
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit.
Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:
I invite you to sit in silence feeling patient for your own faults and trials.
Summarize what insights you have gained during this meditation and meditate and visualize positive change in your life:
This is a listener funded podcast at patreon.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Final Question: If you consider the invitation and command to persevere in the faith, what change in your life does that bring to your mind?
FIND ME ON: Download my free app: Recenter with Christ Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com Voicemail - (602) 888-3795 Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
NIV 14 Make every effort to live in peace with everyone and to be holy; without holiness no one will see the Lord. 15 See to it that no one falls short of the grace of God and that no bitter root grows up to cause trouble and defile many. 16 See that no one is sexually immoral, or is godless like Esau, who for a single meal sold his inheritance rights as the oldest son. 17 Afterward, as you know, when he wanted to inherit this blessing, he was rejected. Even though he sought the blessing with tears, he could not change what he had done.
FIND ME ON: Download my free app: Recenter with Christ Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com Voicemail - (602) 888-3795 Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
626 Make Every Effort to Live in Peace With Everyone and to Be Holy, A Guided Christian Meditation on Hebrews 12:14-17 with the Recenter With Christ app
The purpose of this podcast is to help you find more peace in your life and connect with the true source of peace, Jesus Christ.
Outline: Relaxation, Reading, Meditation, Prayer, Contemplation and Visualization.
Get into a place where you can sit comfortably and uninterrupted for about 20 minutes.You should hopefully not be driving or anything tensing or unrelaxing. If you feel comfortable to do so, I invite you to close your eyes. Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation: Breathe and direct your thoughts to connecting with God. Let your stomach be a balloon inflate, deflate.
Scripture for Meditation
NIV 14 Make every effort to live in peace with everyone and to be holy; without holiness no one will see the Lord. 15 See to it that no one falls short of the grace of God and that no bitter root grows up to cause trouble and defile many. 16 See that no one is sexually immoral, or is godless like Esau, who for a single meal sold his inheritance rights as the oldest son. 17 Afterward, as you know, when he wanted to inherit this blessing, he was rejected. Even though he sought the blessing with tears, he could not change what he had done.
NKJV 14 Pursue peace with all people, and holiness, without which no one will see the Lord: 15 looking carefully lest anyone fall short of the grace of God; lest any root of bitterness springing up cause trouble, and by this many become defiled; 16 lest there be any fornicator or [f]profane person like Esau, who for one morsel of food sold his birthright. 17 For you know that afterward, when he wanted to inherit the blessing, he was rejected, for he found no place for repentance, though he sought it diligently with tears.
Meditation on Scripture:
In each age there are difficulties of living the gospel. In our times there is a great deal of pressure to accept all manner of things in contrast to the Gospel. Equally there is a strong pressure to violently oppose and create enemies with those who don’t hold to the ways of the Lord. Here Paul is recommending us to strive for peace with everyone, yet not compromise on the Holiness of the Lord. We do not choose that holiness. We do not adjudicate God’s morality. Equally it is important that the Love of Christ become the means whereby we gain as much influence as possible to help others live the ways of God. Not out of scorn or wrath, but out of the charity of God. How grateful we are for the forgiveness God has offered to us and what a special blessing it is to have that peace in our lives. No matter our past, Gods can and does cleanse us of sin. He cleares the conviction we deserve. Having received such a blessing and assisted by such a powerful God how can we possibly have an enemy in anyone who has such forgiveness available to them. We can trust that God will destroy the darkness. In God’s holiness we remain protected in Love.
Esau, the brother of Jacob, missed out on a profound birthright. The Old testament refers to Jehovah as the God of Abraham, Issac, and Jacob. The saying was not the God of Abraham, Issac, and Esau. Such was Esau’s rejection. Yet later Jacob sought peace with Esau and did not attempt to make him a perpetual enemy. The invitation we have is to receive Christ’s name upon our heart and then to embody the loving peace of Christ in this world, even as greater moral darkness invades this world and in so doing is how we see God in our lives. . God knows how this story ends and has told us again and again to seek His light and holiness and we will overcome through the merits of Jesus Christ. As you feel Christ’s love, pour that love out on others.
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit.
Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:
I invite you to sit in silence feeling patient for your own faults and trials.
Summarize what insights you have gained during this meditation and meditate and visualize positive change in your life:
This is a listener funded podcast at patreon.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Final Question: If you consider the invitation and command to persevere in the faith, what change in your life does that bring to your mind?
FIND ME ON: Download my free app: Recenter with Christ Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com Voicemail - (602) 888-3795 Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
NIV 11 No discipline seems pleasant at the time, but painful. Later on, however, it produces a harvest of righteousness and peace for those who have been trained by it. 12 Therefore, strengthen your feeble arms and weak knees. 13 “Make level paths for your feet,” so that the lame may not be disabled, but rather healed.
FIND ME ON: Download my free app: Recenter with Christ Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com Voicemail - (602) 888-3795 Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
NIV 8 If you are not disciplined—and everyone undergoes discipline—then you are not legitimate, not true sons and daughters at all. 9 Moreover, we have all had human fathers who disciplined us and we respected them for it. How much more should we submit to the Father of spirits and live! 10 They disciplined us for a little while as they thought best; but God disciplines us for our good, in order that we may share in his holiness.
FIND ME ON: Download my free app: Recenter with Christ Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com Voicemail - (602) 888-3795 Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
622 That We May Share In His Holiness, A Guided Christian Meditation on Hebrews 12:8-10 with the Recenter With Christ app
The purpose of this podcast is to help you find more peace in your life and connect with the true source of peace, Jesus Christ.
Outline: Relaxation, Reading, Meditation, Prayer, Contemplation and Visualization.
Get into a place where you can sit comfortably and uninterrupted for about 20 minutes.You should hopefully not be driving or anything tensing or unrelaxing. If you feel comfortable to do so, I invite you to close your eyes. Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation: Breathe and direct your thoughts to connecting with God. Let your stomach be a balloon inflate, deflate.
Scripture for Meditation Geneva Bible 1599 8 If therefore ye be without correction, whereof all are partakers, then are ye bastards, and not sons. 9 Moreover we have had the fathers of our bodies which corrected us, and we gave them reverence: should we not much rather be in subjection unto the father of spirits, that we might live? 10 For they verily for a few days chastened us after their own pleasure, but he chastened us for our profit, that we might be partakers of his holiness. NIV 8 If you are not disciplined—and everyone undergoes discipline—then you are not legitimate, not true sons and daughters at all. 9 Moreover, we have all had human fathers who disciplined us and we respected them for it. How much more should we submit to the Father of spirits and live! 10 They disciplined us for a little while as they thought best; but God disciplines us for our good, in order that we may share in his holiness.
Meditation:
In continuing this theme of discipline I want to pivot a bit. There is a tragedy of which I am intimately aware. This scripture uses a wonderful analogy of God comparing Him to our earthly father. The sad reality is that for many people the analogy do not resonate with their personal experiences. For example I grew up without a father. My Father died when I was 6 years old. I have some vague memories of His discipline but for many years it is difficult to understand Gods fatherly role.
Many people have challenging relationships with their fathers. That may place a dark filter on the lens of how those people view God. I think this is a productive thing to think about. If you had an experience like this, I invite you to low god to repair and reform the role of fatherhood. A perfect and loving God claims you as His child. He is your fathe. The perfect father. One full of love and a desire for you to receive of His holiness. He is willing to allow us to experience hardship. He trusts us that we can come to see hardship as discipline and turn our eyes back to God. In these moments, ponder how a perfectly loving father offers you His holiness with a heart full of love.
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit.
Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:
I invite you to sit in silence feeling patient for your own faults and trials.
Summarize what insights you have gained during this meditation and meditate and visualize positive change in your life:
This is a listener funded podcast at patreon.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Final Question: If you consider the invitation and command to persevere in the faith, what change in your life does that bring to your mind?
FIND ME ON: Download my free app: Recenter with Christ Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com Voicemail - (602) 888-3795 Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
NIV 4 In your struggle against sin, you have not yet resisted to the point of shedding your blood. 5 And have you completely forgotten this word of encouragement that addresses you as a father addresses his son? It says, “My son, do not make light of the Lord’s discipline, and do not lose heart when he rebukes you, 6 because the Lord disciplines the one he loves, and he chastens everyone he accepts as his son.” 7 Endure hardship as discipline; God is treating you as his children. For what children are not disciplined by their father?
FIND ME ON: Download my free app: Recenter with Christ Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com Voicemail - (602) 888-3795 Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
620 The Lord Disciplines the One He Loves, A Guided Christian Meditation on Hebrews 12:4-7 with the Recenter With Christ app
The purpose of this podcast is to help you find more peace in your life and connect with the true source of peace, Jesus Christ.
Outline: Relaxation, Reading, Meditation, Prayer, Contemplation and Visualization.
Get into a place where you can sit comfortably and uninterrupted for about 20 minutes.You should hopefully not be driving or anything tensing or unrelaxing. If you feel comfortable to do so, I invite you to close your eyes. Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation: Breathe and direct your thoughts to connecting with God. Let your stomach be a balloon inflate, deflate.
Scripture for Meditation
Hebrews 12 NKJV 4 You have not yet resisted to bloodshed, striving against sin. 5 And you have forgotten the exhortation which speaks to you as to sons: “My son, do not despise the chastening of the Lord, Nor be discouraged when you are rebuked by Him; 6 For whom the Lord loves He chastens, And scourges every son whom He receives.” 7 If you endure chastening, God deals with you as with sons; for what son is there whom a father does not chasten?
NIV 4 In your struggle against sin, you have not yet resisted to the point of shedding your blood. 5 And have you completely forgotten this word of encouragement that addresses you as a father addresses his son? It says, “My son, do not make light of the Lord’s discipline, and do not lose heart when he rebukes you, 6 because the Lord disciplines the one he loves, and he chastens everyone he accepts as his son.” 7 Endure hardship as discipline; God is treating you as his children. For what children are not disciplined by their father?
Meditation:
Quote from Proverbs 3:11-12
The central most important message of the gospel of Jesus Christ is the recognition that salvation comes only through the sacrifice and atonement of Jesus Christ. It is through the grace of God that any meaningful conversation about improvement can occur. With that said the gospel of Jesus Christ makes place for spiritual discipline as mentioned here. Through the eternal and never ending love of Christ, and the holy spirit, we have been offered the opportunity to understand a portion of God’s will. Admittedly this is a profoundly limited amount of information that our human minds can comprehend, but it is enough to recognize that we at times violate what we should do. I believe that God’s desire with these moments of self reflection, where we discover actions we could change, is that it draws us into the loving embrace of the Grace of Christ that allows us to leave those destructive thoughts and behaviors behind. Equallally, in opposition to God’s messaging I think the enemy wants us to wallow in hopeless depression, embarrassment and stubbornness about our human faults.
In the moments when we truly are connected to the love of God, we can see this loving influence to speak correction into our lives. This is the nature of ideal heavenly discipline. The light of Christ convicts our heart of our need for God and impresses us with the love available through Jesus Christ. One where the spirit of God shows us the ways we could improve, and we are encouraged and motivated to leave everything behind that diverts from God’s desires for us. If we maintain this sort of loving feeling we have been successfully disciplined by God. It is in moments when we become careless or have our eyes closed to God’s intent for us, or are in denial of our faults, that His discipline becomes uncomfortable.
During this time ponder the ways in which God’s loving embrace can offer you corrective guidance. What things would help you divert your attention more fully to the life God would have you live. As we remain completely dedicated to the highest Good, namely the name of Jesus and the respective truths of God, we can embrace a spirit of Change that is joyful as it draws us along the path of spiritual maturation God has for us.
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit.
Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:
I invite you to sit in silence feeling patient for your own faults and trials.
Summarize what insights you have gained during this meditation and meditate and visualize positive change in your life:
This is a listener funded podcast at patreon.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Final Question: If you consider the invitation and command to persevere in the faith, what change in your life does that bring to your mind?
FIND ME ON: Download my free app: Recenter with Christ Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com Voicemail - (602) 888-3795 Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
618 The Author and Finisher of Our Faith , A Guided Christian Meditation on Hebrews 12:1-3 with the Recenter With Christ app
The purpose of this podcast is to help you find more peace in your life and connect with the true source of peace, Jesus Christ.
Outline: Relaxation, Reading, Meditation, Prayer, Contemplation and Visualization.
Get into a place where you can sit comfortably and uninterrupted for about 20 minutes.You should hopefully not be driving or anything tensing or unrelaxing. If you feel comfortable to do so, I invite you to close your eyes. Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation: Breathe and direct your thoughts to connecting with God. Let your stomach be a balloon inflate, deflate.
Scripture for Meditation
Hebrews 12 NIV
12 Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles. And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us,2 fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith. For the joy set before him he endured the cross, scorning its shame,and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. 3 Consider him who endured such opposition from sinners, so that you will not grow weary and lose heart.
KJV 12 Wherefore seeing we also are compassed about with so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which doth so easily beset us, and let us run with patience the race that is set before us, 2 Looking unto Jesus the author and finisher of our faith; who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is set down at the right hand of the throne of God. 3 For consider him that endured such contradiction of sinners against himself, lest ye be wearied and faint in your minds. Meditation:
These last few weeks have been challenging for me. They have been demanding and have caused me to feel overwhelmed. We all have those moments where we can tell our own resources feel insufficient or that we haven’t made the best decisions. We seek peace and yet the path before us is often not smooth and peaceful. There is a challenge in finding peace when the path before us requires us to run. More specifically to run with patience.
What is it that leads us to feel like things are going well? When do we consider that things are going well? When life is easy, or when we overcome through the strength God endows. As this scripture directly shows, we find this strength through Christ.
Several years ago I kept trying to get fit. Many times I had tried to run but I would go out on fast after not running for a long time and I would get hurt. One time I chose to run slower. I would run multiple times a week at such a low speed it felt that it wouldn't be enough to get fit but because of that, I ran consistently and frequently. During these runs my focus was not on my own abilities but in the act of running peacefully, perhaps even patiently. Within a few months I had dramatically increased my speed. Almost 5 full minutes on a mile and a half. When we run the race of life as though the outcome is based on our personal speed we avoid the very source of strength that makes a patient run possible. Jesus is the author or our peace but also the finisher. He is our pioneer. Allow him to create the story of your life and harness God's power to patiently follow the course he has marked out for us. Use this meditation as a moment to focus on God’s role in the success of your race.
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit.
Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:
I invite you to sit in silence feeling patient for your own faults and trials.
Summarize what insights you have gained during this meditation and meditate and visualize positive change in your life:
This is a listener funded podcast at patreon.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Final Question: If you consider the invitation and command to persevere in the faith, what change in your life does that bring to your mind?
FIND ME ON: Download my free app: Recenter with Christ Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com Voicemail - (602) 888-3795 Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
2 Corinthians 5:12-15 NIV
12 We are not trying to commend ourselves to you again, but are giving you an opportunity to take pride in us,so that you can answer those who take pride in what is seen rather than in what is in the heart. 13 If we are “out of our mind,” as some say, it is for God; if we are in our right mind, it is for you. 14 For Christ’s love compels us, because we are convinced that one died for all, and therefore all died. 15 And he died for all, that those who live should no longer live for themselves but for him who died for them and was raised again.
FIND ME ON: Download my free app: Recenter with Christ Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com Voicemail - (602) 888-3795 Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
614 For The Love OF Christ Compels Us, A Guided Christian Meditation on 2 Corinthians 5:12-15 with the Recenter With Christ app
The purpose of this podcast is to help you find more peace in your life and connect with the true source of peace, Jesus Christ.
Outline: Relaxation, Reading, Meditation, Prayer, Contemplation and Visualization.
Get into a place where you can sit comfortably and uninterrupted for about 20 minutes.You should hopefully not be driving or anything tensing or unrelaxing. If you feel comfortable to do so, I invite you to close your eyes. Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation: Breathe and direct your thoughts to connecting with God. Let your stomach be a balloon inflate, deflate.
Scripture for Meditation
2 Corinthians 5:12-15 NIV
12 We are not trying to commend ourselves to you again, but are giving you an opportunity to take pride in us,so that you can answer those who take pride in what is seen rather than in what is in the heart. 13 If we are “out of our mind,” as some say, it is for God; if we are in our right mind, it is for you. 14 For Christ’s love compels us, because we are convinced that one died for all, and therefore all died. 15 And he died for all, that those who live should no longer live for themselves but for him who died for them and was raised again.
NRSVUE 12 We are not commending ourselves to you again but giving you an opportunity to boast about us, so that you may be able to answer those who boast in outward appearance and not in the heart. 13 For if we are beside ourselves, it is for God; if we are in our right mind, it is for you. 14 For the love of Christ urges us on, because we are convinced that one has died for all; therefore all have died.15 And he died for all, so that those who live might live no longer for themselves but for the one who for their sake died and was raised.
Meditation:
Recently I was listening to a therapist discuss an idea where he was asking people to consider different parts of themselves and how those work against each other. He then talked about the value of learning to focus on the center “empty” self. I think this idea misses something valuable but harnesses spiritual ideas that are felt.
As we sit in silence before the Lord we learn what Paul teaches here. We live for Christ. The thing we seek in stillness and silence is not only some empty version of ourselves. I disagree with that characterization. What we seek is the nature of the God of Peace which is inside us. When you sit in silence,
The value of the Spirit of God is not a psychological idea, yet it is the thing that most reliably produces emotional healing. The love of God urges us on. When we experience the love of God we are unity with the Sacrifice of Jesus Christ and the salvation God offers through that and as well the love and connection that we gain by uniting with that love of God which God put inside us.
Pause now to reflect and experience the love of God within us
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit.
Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:
I invite you to sit in silence feeling patient for your own faults and trials.
Summarize what insights you have gained during this meditation and meditate and visualize positive change in your life:
This is a listener funded podcast at patreon.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Final Question: If you consider the invitation and command to persevere in the faith, what change in your life does that bring to your mind?
FIND ME ON: Download my free app: Recenter with Christ Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com Voicemail - (602) 888-3795 Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
2 Corinthians 5 NIV 6 Therefore we are always confident and know that as long as we are at home in the body we are away from the Lord. 7 For we live by faith, not by sight. 8 We are confident, I say, and would prefer to be away from the body and at home with the Lord. 9 So we make it our goal to please him, whether we are at home in the body or away from it.10 For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ, so that each of us may receive what is due us for the things done while in the body, whether good or bad.
FIND ME ON: Download my free app: Recenter with Christ Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com Voicemail - (602) 888-3795 Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast
612 We Make It Our Goal To Please a the Lord, A Guided Christian Meditation on 2 Corinthians 5:6-10 with the Recenter With Christ app
The purpose of this podcast is to help you find more peace in your life and connect with the true source of peace, Jesus Christ.
Outline: Relaxation, Reading, Meditation, Prayer, Contemplation and Visualization.
Get into a place where you can sit comfortably and uninterrupted for about 20 minutes.You should hopefully not be driving or anything tensing or unrelaxing. If you feel comfortable to do so, I invite you to close your eyes. Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation: Breathe and direct your thoughts to connecting with God. Let your stomach be a balloon inflate, deflate.
Scripture for Meditation:
2 Corinthians 5 NIV 6 Therefore we are always confident and know that as long as we are at home in the body we are away from the Lord. 7 For we live by faith, not by sight. 8 We are confident, I say, and would prefer to be away from the body and at home with the Lord. 9 So we make it our goal to please him, whether we are at home in the body or away from it.10 For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ, so that each of us may receive what is due us for the things done while in the body, whether good or bad.
NRSVCE 6 So we are always confident; even though we know that while we are at home in the body we are away from the Lord— 7 for we walk by faith, not by sight. 8 Yes, we do have confidence, and we would rather be away from the body and at home with the Lord. 9 So whether we are at home or away, we make it our aim to please him. 10 For all of us must appear before the judgement seat of Christ, so that each may receive recompense for what has been done in the body, whether good or evil.
Meditation:
We walk by faith not by sight. Our true identity is infused from God and that is inherently outside of the world of what we see. Not just our identity but also morality. That is not seen. The source of identification of what is good and evil is not seen. Equally our perspective on what our life goals are is similarly unseen. At a time when we may reevaluate life goals what do we choose as those most important goals. This provides an interesting tension. On the one hand an over-fixation on our own goodness can cause us to overlook the grace of God. Another way to say that focusing only on our actions is focusing only on those things that are seen and not by faith
Also if we are brutally honest with ourselves we recognize a whole multitude of sins. There are nearly endless ways in which human nature is in opposition to the unseen positive. We tend to focus on only what is immediately in front of us and many times that can lead us away from the things of God when the things in front of us are rooted in carnal nature.
Moments of devotion can help us center our intention to look to the things of faith. With that said we can have absolute confidence in the promise and goodness of God. As we walk by faith we walk with the knowledge of a God’s definition of who we are and our eternal spiritual nature as Children of God redeemed by Jesus. So as we set our goals and mindset, or perhaps evaluate the progress of our goals, let us place more focus on those unseen things of God rooted in faith.
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit.
Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:
I invite you to sit in silence feeling patient for your own faults and trials.
Summarize what insights you have gained during this meditation and meditate and visualize positive change in your life:
This is a listener funded podcast at patreon.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Final Question: If you consider the invitation and command to persevere in the faith, what change in your life does that bring to your mind?
FIND ME ON: Download my free app: Recenter with Christ Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com Voicemail - (602) 888-3795 Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
2 Corinthian 5 NIV 1 For we know that if the earthly tent we live in is destroyed, we have a building from God, an eternal house in heaven, not built by human hands. 2 Meanwhile we groan, longing to be clothed instead with our heavenly dwelling, 3 because when we are clothed, we will not be found naked. 4 For while we are in this tent, we groan and are burdened, because we do not wish to be unclothed but to be clothed instead with our heavenly dwelling, so that what is mortal may be swallowed up by life
610 We Have An Eternal House In Heaven, A Guided Christian Meditation on 2 Corinthians 4:15-18 with the Recenter With Christ app
The purpose of this podcast is to help you find more peace in your life and connect with the true source of peace, Jesus Christ.
Outline: Relaxation, Reading, Meditation, Prayer, Contemplation and Visualization.
Get into a place where you can sit comfortably and uninterrupted for about 20 minutes.You should hopefully not be driving or anything tensing or unrelaxing. If you feel comfortable to do so, I invite you to close your eyes. Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation: Breathe and direct your thoughts to connecting with God. Let your stomach be a balloon inflate, deflate.
Scripture for Meditation
2 Corinthian 5 NIV 1 For we know that if the earthly tent we live in is destroyed, we have a building from God, an eternal house in heaven, not built by human hands. 2 Meanwhile we groan, longing to be clothed instead with our heavenly dwelling, 3 because when we are clothed, we will not be found naked. 4 For while we are in this tent, we groan and are burdened, because we do not wish to be unclothed but to be clothed instead with our heavenly dwelling, so that what is mortal may be swallowed up by life NKJV 5 For we know that if our earthly house, this tent, is destroyed, we have a building from God, a house not made with hands, eternal in the heavens. 2 For in this we groan, earnestly desiring to be clothed with our habitation which is from heaven, 3 if indeed, having been clothed, we shall not be found naked. 4 For we who are in this tent groan, being burdened, not because we want to be unclothed, but further clothed, that mortality may be swallowed up by life. Meditation: One continual balancing act is comparing the value of improving the lives of those around us and also learning to embrace contentment. If we take radical contentment then we miss the opportunity to drive positive change. If we are obsessed with change then we are robbed of peace. Paul here is looking at that difference. The solution he presents is to focus on the thing that God does. God provides the bridge between improvement and peace.
If the tent we live in, our physical body, our surroundings, money, or any other physical things around us, if any of those things are our focus, we miss the peace offered by God. We can rely on the eternal house that God provides. One element of that is an eternal reward in heaven. That is directly connected to the transformation of spirit that Jesus offers us. Our home is heaven. We are visiting Earth. We temporarily loaned these physical bodies, our true eternal home is with God. It is in heaven, specifically because of the role of Jesus as our Savior. We are the prodigal son.
As we embrace a heavenly perspective we can be inspired to make this earth more like that heavenly home. The improvement we seek should not be out of an obsession for this world but through a spreading of the spiritual completion of the spirit. In this way we can love, and share the Love we receive from God. God transforms us and we bring that transformation to the world and as such are the light of the world.
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit.
Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:
I invite you to sit in silence feeling patient for your own faults and trials.
Summarize what insights you have gained during this meditation and meditate and visualize positive change in your life:
This is a listener funded podcast at patreon.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Final Question: If you consider the invitation and command to persevere in the faith, what change in your life does that bring to your mind?
FIND ME ON: Download my free app: Recenter with Christ Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com Voicemail - (602) 888-3795 Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
2 Corinthians 4:15-18 NIV 15 All this is for your benefit, so that the grace that is reaching more and more people may cause thanksgiving to overflow to the glory of God. 16 Therefore we do not lose heart. Though outwardly we are wasting away, yet inwardly we are being renewed day by day. 17 For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all. 18 So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen, since what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal.
NIV 46 And Mary said: “My soul glorifies the Lord 47 and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior, 48 for he has been mindful of the humble state of his servant. From now on all generations will call me blessed, 49 for the Mighty One has done great things for me— holy is his name. 50 His mercy extends to those who fear him, from generation to generation.
FIND ME ON: Download my free app: Recenter with Christ Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com Voicemail - (602) 888-3795 Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
606 Embrace the Mindset of Humble Servant of God, A Guided Christian Meditation on Luke 1:46-50 with the Recenter With Christ app
The purpose of this podcast is to help you find more peace in your life and connect with the true source of peace, Jesus Christ.
Outline: Relaxation, Reading, Meditation, Prayer, Contemplation and Visualization.
Get into a place where you can sit comfortably and uninterrupted for about 20 minutes.You should hopefully not be driving or anything tensing or unrelaxing. If you feel comfortable to do so, I invite you to close your eyes. Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation: Breathe and direct your thoughts to connecting with God. Let your stomach be a balloon inflate, deflate.
Scripture for Meditation
NIV 46 And Mary said: “My soul glorifies the Lord 47 and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior, 48 for he has been mindful of the humble state of his servant. From now on all generations will call me blessed, 49 for the Mighty One has done great things for me— holy is his name. 50 His mercy extends to those who fear him, from generation to generation.
NASB 46 And Mary said: “My soul exalts the Lord, 47 And my spirit has rejoiced in God my Savior. 48 For He has had regard for the humble state of His bond-servant; For behold, from now on all generations will call me blessed. 49 For the Mighty One has done great things for me; And holy is His name. 50 And His mercy is to generation after generation Toward those who fear Him.
Meditation:
This scripture is the response given by Mary before the birth of Jesus. Mary demonstrates her humility. She openly recognizes what God has done for her. This is even before Jesus’ birth. She recognizes what God had done for her up to that point. She recognizes her role as servant of the Lord. In this way Mary reflects the ideal mindset of the church, recognizing the need that we all have before the Lord.
I often think of how vulnerable the situation of Mary was. She grew up within the context of the Law of Moses. The same laws that led the Jewish leaders to bring a woman to Jesus to be stoned a few decades later, would have equally applied to Mary of becoming pregnant while not in a consummate lawful marriage. She had nothing of earthly power. She had no sway within the laws of politics or the law of God. Other than the extra natural revelations she had received, she did not enjoy an untarnished reputation or even physical safety.
God does not always put us in easy situations from which we can flex our muscles. He often confronts us with the full weakness of our position in life. When we face these weaknesses we finally begin to realize the Power of an almighty God who chose to love us despite our failings. We recognize that through all generations God has recognized humility, love, and respect as the central themes of what He wants for us because He knows that is through His mercy saves. God has done such great things for us. He has created an earth and set conditions for life to be possible. That alone is an amazing gift. And yet God does not stop here. God gave us life and then nourished us.
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit.
Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:
I invite you to sit in silence feeling patient for your own faults and trials.
Summarize what insights you have gained during this meditation and meditate and visualize positive change in your life:
This is a listener funded podcast at patreon.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Final Question: If you consider the invitation and command to persevere in the faith, what change in your life does that bring to your mind?
FIND ME ON: Download my free app: Recenter with Christ Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com Voicemail - (602) 888-3795 Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
Scripture for Meditation
NIV
10 He also says, “In the beginning, Lord, you laid the foundations of the earth, and the heavens are the work of your hands. 11 They will perish, but you remain; they will all wear out like a garment. 12 You will roll them up like a robe; like a garment they will be changed. But you remain the same, and your years will never end.”
604 God Gives Eternal Gifts, A Guided Christian Meditation on Hebrews 1:10-12 with the Recenter With Christ app
The purpose of this podcast is to help you find more peace in your life and connect with the true source of peace, Jesus Christ.
Outline: Relaxation, Reading, Meditation, Prayer, Contemplation and Visualization.
Get into a place where you can sit comfortably and uninterrupted for about 20 minutes.You should hopefully not be driving or anything tensing or unrelaxing. If you feel comfortable to do so, I invite you to close your eyes. Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation: Breathe and direct your thoughts to connecting with God. Let your stomach be a balloon inflate, deflate.
Scripture for Meditation
NIV
10 He also says, “In the beginning, Lord, you laid the foundations of the earth, and the heavens are the work of your hands. 11 They will perish, but you remain; they will all wear out like a garment. 12 You will roll them up like a robe; like a garment they will be changed. But you remain the same, and your years will never end.” NKJV 10 And: “You, Lord, in the beginning laid the foundation of the earth, And the heavens are the work of Your hands. 11 They will perish, but You remain; And they will all grow old like a garment; 12 Like a cloak You will fold them up, And they will be changed. But You are the same, And Your years will not fail.” Meditation:
God takes an eternal view of things. He takes an eternal view of life and afterlife. In the economy of God the baby born at Christmas is the same being who would go to Golgotha and rise again from the Tomb. The same being who was born of a mother is the same to raise multille people from death. Our human minds struggle to understand.
I remember once year for Christmas I wanted a certain present and J got something else. I remember being sad about it. All these years later I recognize that the gift never mattered and I am embarrassed that I had such a limited view of gifts. What was far more valuable to me right now is that I was loved and cared for and instilled with values that continue to bless me.
Our human minds can easily be confined and limited. We can feel that our current moment is the only real one, yet God knows us as we are now and for the rest of our existence. God knows what is eternally beneficial for us and knows how to give it to us. But we must learn to truly trust in Him as our God.
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit.
Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:
I invite you to sit in silence feeling patient for your own faults and trials.
Summarize what insights you have gained during this meditation and meditate and visualize positive change in your life:
This is a listener funded podcast at patreon.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Final Question: If you consider the invitation and command to persevere in the faith, what change in your life does that bring to your mind?
FIND ME ON: Download my free app: Recenter with Christ Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com Voicemail - (602) 888-3795 Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
7 In speaking of the angels he says, “He makes his angels spirits, and his servants flames of fire.” 8 But about the Son he says, “Your throne, O God, will last for ever and ever; a scepter of justice will be the scepter of your kingdom.9 You have loved righteousness and hated wickedness; therefore God, your God, has set you above your companions by anointing you with the oil of joy.”
NIV 5 For to which of the angels did God ever say, “You are my Son; today I have become your Father”? Or again, “I will be his Father, and he will be my Son”? 6 And again, when God brings his first born into the world, he says, “Let all God’s angels worship him.”
FIND ME ON: Download my free app: Recenter with Christ Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com Voicemail - (602) 888-3795 Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
600 God Brings Gis FirstBorn Into The World, A Guided Christian Meditation on Hebrews 1:5-6 with the Recenter With Christ app
The purpose of this podcast is to help you find more peace in your life and connect with the true source of peace, Jesus Christ.
Outline: Relaxation, Reading, Meditation, Prayer, Contemplation and Visualization.
Get into a place where you can sit comfortably and uninterrupted for about 20 minutes.You should hopefully not be driving or anything tensing or unrelaxing. If you feel comfortable to do so, I invite you to close your eyes. Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation: Breathe and direct your thoughts to connecting with God. Let your stomach be a balloon inflate, deflate.
Scripture for Meditation
NIV 5 For to which of the angels did God ever say, “You are my Son; today I have become your Father”? Or again, “I will be his Father, and he will be my Son”? 6 And again, when God brings his first born into the world, he says, “Let all God’s angels worship him.” KJV 5 For unto which of the angels said he at any time, Thou art my Son, this day have I begotten thee? And again, I will be to him a Father, and he shall be to me a Son? 6 And again, when he bringeth in the first begotten into the world, he saith, And let all the angels of God worship him. Meditation:
A couple days ago I looked at a calendar and somehow, despite being familiar with which day it was I found myself surprised it was already December. Although I knew the day I didn’t have an internal experience with it.
We are now entering the month where we celebrate the birth of Christ. This is the time when we remember that God brought his firstborn into the world. The birth of Jesus Christ. The whole universe should worship including the angels in heaven.
As you hear these words, which you have heard many times, don’t let it be like when a certain fate or month sneaks up with you. Don’t let it be an intelectual fact that does not have sway on your experience. Pause and embrace the thought in your heart and mind. The Son of God has been born and we can rejoice in it. Because he was born we are able to overcome death and sin. Praise be to God for this unbelievable and most precious gift of His redemption.
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit.
Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:
I invite you to sit in silence feeling patient for your own faults and trials.
Summarize what insights you have gained during this meditation and meditate and visualize positive change in your life:
This is a listener funded podcast at patreon.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Final Question: If you consider the invitation and command to persevere in the faith, what change in your life does that bring to your mind?
FIND ME ON: Download my free app: Recenter with Christ Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com Voicemail - (602) 888-3795 Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
KJV 1 God, who at sundry times and in divers manners spake in time past unto the fathers by the prophets, 2 Hath in these last days spoken unto us by his Son, whom he hath appointed heir of all things, by whom also he made the worlds; 3 Who being the brightness of his glory, and the express image of his person, and upholding all things by the word of his power, when he had by himself purged our sins, sat down on the right hand of the Majesty on high: 4 Being made so much better than the angels, as he hath by inheritance obtained a more excellent name than they.
FIND ME ON: Download my free app: Recenter with Christ Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com Voicemail - (602) 888-3795 Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
NIV 25 I have become its servant by the commission God gave me to present to you the word of God in its fullness— 26 the mystery that has been kept hidden for ages and generations, but is now disclosed to the Lord’s people. 27 To them God has chosen to make known among the Gentiles the glorious riches of this mystery, which is Christ in you, the hope of glory. 28 He is the one we proclaim, admonishing and teaching everyone with all wisdom, so that we may present everyone fully mature in Christ.
FIND ME ON: Download my free app: Recenter with Christ Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com Voicemail - (602) 888-3795 Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
NIV 25 I have become its servant by the commission God gave me to present to you the word of God in its fullness— 26 the mystery that has been kept hidden for ages and generations, but is now disclosed to the Lord’s people. 27 To them God has chosen to make known among the Gentiles the glorious riches of this mystery, which is Christ in you, the hope of glory. 28 He is the one we proclaim, admonishing and teaching everyone with all wisdom, so that we may present everyone fully mature in Christ.
FIND ME ON: Download my free app: Recenter with Christ Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com Voicemail - (602) 888-3795 Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
592 Christ Made Peace Through His Blood, A Guided Christian Meditation on Colossians 1:19-21 with the Recenter With Christ app
The purpose of this podcast is to help you find more peace in your life and connect with the true source of peace, Jesus Christ.
Outline: Relaxation, Reading, Meditation, Prayer, Contemplation and Visualization.
Get into a place where you can sit comfortably and uninterrupted for about 20 minutes.You should hopefully not be driving or anything tensing or unrelaxing. If you feel comfortable to do so, I invite you to close your eyes. Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation: Breathe and direct your thoughts to connecting with God. Let your stomach be a balloon inflate, deflate.
Scripture for Meditation
NIV 19For God was pleased to have all his fullness dwell in him, 20 and through him to reconcile to himself all things, whether things on earth or things in heaven, by making peace through his blood, shed on the cross. 21 Once you were alienated from God and were enemies in your minds because of[g]your evil behavior. NKJV 19 For it pleased the Father that in Him all the fullness should dwell, 20 and by Him to reconcile all things to Himself, by Him, whether things on earth or things in heaven, having made peace through the blood of His cross. 21 And you, who once were alienated and enemies in your mind by wicked works, yet now He has reconciled Meditation:
This scripture is powerfully concise. It shows multiple important things. Number one is that Jesus has the fullness of God. The scripture says it is inside of Jesus. The empowering part for followers and believers in Jesus is that fullness can reside inside of us. We can have the fullness of God reside in us because that is what He has offered. That is part of His role as Savior. Not a distant God who will forgive us as we try and sneak into heaven. He is God and has offered to reside in us, to fill us.
A related and equally important thing is that God is what offeres peace. Just like Imsay in the intro of the podcast Jesus is the source of true and eternal peace. We seek peace in our lives both from personal anxieties but also from conflict. If we seek our own interests we are selfish. If we constantly yield to the demands of others we are at the mercy of their human grace. When we trust in God as the source to conflict, fear, or the stressors of life, we can be empowered by His fullness. I think there is an enormous psychological benefit to see Gods fullness working in us. We have no need to fear.
Gods fullness makes us full. It makes us sufficiently strong. With God all things are possible. Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit.
Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:
I invite you to sit in silence feeling patient for your own faults and trials.
Summarize what insights you have gained during this meditation and meditate and visualize positive change in your life:
This is a listener funded podcast at patreon.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Updates:
Final Question:
Final Thought:
FIND ME ON: Download my free app: Recenter with Christ Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com Voicemail - (602) 888-3795 Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
Colossians 1 NIV 15 The Son is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn over all creation. 16 For in him all things were created: things in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or powers or rulers or authorities; all things have been created through him and for him. 17 He is before all things, and in him all things hold together. 18 And he is the head of the body, the church; he is the beginning and the firstborn from among the dead, so that in everything he might have the supremacy.
NRSVUE 15 He is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn of all creation, 16 for in him all things in heaven and on earth were created, things visible and invisible, whether thrones or dominions or rulers or powers—all things have been created through him and for him. 17 He himself is before all things, and in him all things hold together. 18 He is the head of the body, the church; he is the beginning, the firstborn from the dead, so that he might come to have first place in everything.
FIND ME ON: Download my free app: Recenter with Christ Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com Voicemail - (602) 888-3795 Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
Colossians 1 NIV 10 so that you may live a life worthy of the Lord and please him in every way: bearing fruit in every good work, growing in the knowledge of God, 11 being strengthened with all power according to his glorious might so that you may have great endurance and patience, 12 and giving joyful thanks to the Father, who has qualified you to share in the inheritance of his holy people in the kingdom of light. 13 For he has rescued us from the dominion of darknessand brought us into the kingdom of the Son he loves, 14 in whom we have redemption,the forgiveness of sins.
Final Thought:
FIND ME ON: Download my free app: Recenter with Christ Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com Voicemail - (602) 888-3795 Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
NRSVUE 11 We have much to say about this, but it is hard to make it clear to you because you no longer try to understand. 12 In fact, though by this time you ought to be teachers, you need someone to teach you the elementary truths of God’s word all over again. You need milk, not solid food! 13 Anyone who lives on milk, being still an infant, is not acquainted with the teaching about righteousness.14 But solid food is for the mature, who by constant use have trained themselves to distinguish good from evil.
FIND ME ON: Download my free app: Recenter with Christ Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com Voicemail - (602) 888-3795 Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
586 By Constant Practice We Learn Good from Evil, A Guided Christian Meditation on Hebrews 5:11-14 with the Recenter With Christ app
The purpose of this podcast is to help you find more peace in your life and connect with the true source of peace, Jesus Christ.
Outline: Relaxation, Reading, Meditation, Prayer, Contemplation and Visualization.
Get into a place where you can sit comfortably and uninterrupted for about 20 minutes.You should hopefully not be driving or anything tensing or unrelaxing. If you feel comfortable to do so, I invite you to close your eyes. Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation: Breathe and direct your thoughts to connecting with God. Let your stomach be a balloon inflate, deflate.
Scripture for Meditation
584 NRSVUE 11 We have much to say about this, but it is hard to make it clear to you because you no longer try to understand. 12 In fact, though by this time you ought to be teachers, you need someone to teach you the elementary truths of God’s word all over again. You need milk, not solid food! 13 Anyone who lives on milk, being still an infant, is not acquainted with the teaching about righteousness.14 But solid food is for the mature, who by constant use have trained themselves to distinguish good from evil.
ESV 11 About this we have much to say, and it is hard to explain, since you have become dull of hearing. 12 For though by this time you ought to be teachers, you need someone to teach you again the basic principles of the oracles of God. You need milk, not solid food, 13 for everyone who lives on milk is unskilled in the word of righteousness, since he is a child. 14 But solid food is for the mature, for those who have their powers of discernment trained by constant practice to distinguish good from evil.
Meditation: We want the mercy of God. We rejoice when we think of His goodness. We feel strong gratitude when we recognize what He has done to forgive us when we come to Jesus as our Savior. Yet this understanding is only the beginning of knowledge. Proverbs says the fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom. When we learn what God has planned for us and we recognize what he is willing to do in our lives it can inspire us to learn more than just those first principles of the gospel. We learn more of His word.
We can be more nourished by that word. This can sustain us during the additional challenges that will come our way in life. And even more important than that, it teaches us more about God. The being most deserving of praise in the universe. As we spend time distinguishing His word it makes us more able to distinguish between right and wrong. We can avoid more pitfalls in life as we learn Gods ways. I’m your heart rejoice on the good news that God has more to teach you. Commit to learning everything He is willing to teach you.
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit.
Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:
I invite you to sit in silence feeling patient for your own faults and trials.
Summarize what insights you have gained during this meditation and meditate and visualize positive change in your life:
This is a listener funded podcast at patreon.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Updates:
Final Question:
Final Thought:
FIND ME ON: Download my free app: Recenter with Christ Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com Voicemail - (602) 888-3795 Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
NABRE 8 Son though he was, he learned obedience from what he suffered; 9 and when he was made perfect, he became the source of eternal salvation for all who obey him, 10 declared by God high priest according to the order of Melchizedek.
FIND ME ON: Download my free app: Recenter with Christ Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com Voicemail - (602) 888-3795 Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
584 Obedience Learned Through Suffering, A Guided Christian Meditation on Hebrews 5:8-10 with the Recenter With Christ app
The purpose of this podcast is to help you find more peace in your life and connect with the true source of peace, Jesus Christ.
Outline: Relaxation, Reading, Meditation, Prayer, Contemplation and Visualization.
Get into a place where you can sit comfortably and uninterrupted for about 20 minutes.You should hopefully not be driving or anything tensing or unrelaxing. If you feel comfortable to do so, I invite you to close your eyes. Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation: Breathe and direct your thoughts to connecting with God. Let your stomach be a balloon inflate, deflate.
Scripture for Meditation
KJV 7 Who in the days of his flesh, when he had offered up prayers and supplications with strong crying and tears unto him that was able to save him from death, and was heard in that he feared; 8 Though he were a Son, yet learned he obedience by the things which he suffered; 9 And being made perfect, he became the author of eternal salvation unto all them that obey him; 10 declared by God high priest according to the order of Melchizedek. NABRE 8 Son though he was, he learned obedience from what he suffered; 9 and when he was made perfect, he became the source of eternal salvation for all who obey him, 10 declared by God high priest according to the order of Melchizedek.
Meditation: This is profound doctrine. Seeing that Jesus is and was perfect it is hard to imagine Him learning anythin. There is an entire study about that issue but I would like to focus on the message we are called to emulate. We are called to learn from our suffering. We are not forced to but invited to. In many ways we do not get to choose if we suffer but we can turn to God and He will transform us through it.
The context of this scripture continues from the previous verses where we are told of the benefits of the weakness of the High Priests. Additionally the physical weakness of Jesus in the flesh demonstrates to us His ability to understand. Not only to understand but to convert our experience tk good.
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit.
Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:
I invite you to sit in silence feeling patient for your own faults and trials.
Summarize what insights you have gained during this meditation and meditate and visualize positive change in your life:
This is a listener funded podcast at patreon.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Updates:
Final Question:
Final Thought:
FIND ME ON: Download my free app: Recenter with Christ Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com Voicemail - (602) 888-3795 Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
Hebrews 5 NIV 5 In the same way, Christ did not take on himself the glory of becoming a high priest.But God said to him, “You are my Son; today I have become your Father.” 6 And he says in another place, “You are a priest forever, in the order of Melchizedek.” 7 During the days of Jesus’ life on earth, he offered up prayers and petitions with fervent cries and tears to the one who could save him from death, and he was heard because of his reverent submission.
582 To The One Who Could Save Him From Death, A Guided Christian Meditation on Hebrews 5:5-7 with the Recenter With Christ app
The purpose of this podcast is to help you find more peace in your life and connect with the true source of peace, Jesus Christ.
Outline: Relaxation, Reading, Meditation, Prayer, Contemplation and Visualization.
Get into a place where you can sit comfortably and uninterrupted for about 20 minutes.You should hopefully not be driving or anything tensing or unrelaxing. If you feel comfortable to do so, I invite you to close your eyes. Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation: Breathe and direct your thoughts to connecting with God. Let your stomach be a balloon inflate, deflate.
Scripture for Meditation
Hebrews 5 NIV 5 In the same way, Christ did not take on himself the glory of becoming a high priest.But God said to him, “You are my Son; today I have become your Father.” 6 And he says in another place, “You are a priest forever, in the order of Melchizedek.” 7 During the days of Jesus’ life on earth, he offered up prayers and petitions with fervent cries and tears to the one who could save him from death, and he was heard because of his reverent submission. KJV 5 So also Christ glorified not himself to be made an high priest; but he that said unto him, Thou art my Son, to day have I begotten thee. 6 As he saith also in another place, Thou art a priest for ever after the order of Melchisedec. 7 Who in the days of his flesh, when he had offered up prayers and supplications with strong crying and tears unto him that was able to save him from death, and was heard in that he feared; Meditation:
Gods power is not designed to elevate our egos but our souls. He seeks not to lift us to self-importance but to deliver us from the effects of sin and a heavy and broken heart. Jesus did not seek glory from God but to do Gods will in submission. One thing this passage beautifully shows that the thing that brings us value and glory is that God has called us as His children. You are Gods own child. You have a perfect loving God who is committed to lift you up above the struggle of this life to forever love with him in the many mansions he has prepared for His children.
Yet that does not save us from a life which can drive us to longing petitions and tears. Jesus as the very Son of God was not saved from that despite the fact that God could have saved Him from it and did not.
I find it interesting that it says the Father could save him from death. Someone short sighted might think that God failed to do that, since Jesus did, in fact die. Yet that death was not final. Death was not victorious. Jesus, due to his submission to God, overcame death. The Father did save His son from death. As God’s child you will not suffer the eternal effects of death or sin. Thanks be to God for that gift.
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit.
Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:
I invite you to sit in silence feeling patient for your own faults and trials.
Summarize what insights you have gained during this meditation and meditate and visualize positive change in your life:
This is a listener funded podcast at patreon.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Updates:
Final Question:
Final Thought:
FIND ME ON: Download my free app: Recenter with Christ Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com Voicemail - (602) 888-3795 Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
1 For every high priest taken from among men is appointed on behalf of people in things pertaining to God, in order to offer both gifts and sacrifices for sins; 2 [a]he can deal gently with the ignorant and misguided, since he himself also is [b]clothed in weakness; 3 and because of it he is obligated to offer sacrifices for sins for himself, as well as for the people. 4 And no one takes the honor for himself, but receives it when he is called by God, just as Aaron also was.
580 We Can Deal Gently With Each Other Due to Our Weakness, A Guided Christian Meditation on Hebrews 5:1-4 with the Recenter With Christ app
The purpose of this podcast is to help you find more peace in your life and connect with the true source of peace, Jesus Christ.
Outline: Relaxation, Reading, Meditation, Prayer, Contemplation and Visualization.
Get into a place where you can sit comfortably and uninterrupted for about 20 minutes.You should hopefully not be driving or anything tensing or unrelaxing. If you feel comfortable to do so, I invite you to close your eyes. Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation: Breathe and direct your thoughts to connecting with God. Let your stomach be a balloon inflate, deflate.
Scripture for Meditation
Hebrews 5 1 Every high priest is selected from among the people and is appointed to represent the people in matters related to God, to offer gifts and sacrifices for sins. 2 He is able to deal gently with those who are ignorant and are going astray, since he himself is subject to weakness. 3 This is why he has to offer sacrifices for his own sins, as well as for the sins of the people. 4 And no one takes this honor on himself, but he receives it when called by God, just as Aaron was.
NASB 1 For every high priest taken from among men is appointed on behalf of people in things pertaining to God, in order to offer both gifts and sacrifices for sins; 2 he can deal gently with the ignorant and misguided, since he himself also is clothed in weakness; 3 and because of it he is obligated to offer sacrifices for sins for himself, as well as for the people. 4 And no one takes the honor for himself, but receives it when he is called by God, just as Aaron also was.
Meditation:
In the Old Testament the High Priest was the person who officiated in the tabernacle and the temple. He was the spiritual leader of the people. Yet despite the fact that he was chosen by God to lead the people and even enter the Holy of Holies once a year which represented the presence of God, despite all that the High Priest was a human. He still had sins and flaws.
In some ways it seems like this is a problem. How can someone with sun lead the people? Here Hebrews states that this human weakness becomes a strenth. Weakness allows us to understand each other. Even those who believe in Christ or those who lead are still people and have weakness and sin.
As we confront the weakness in others this is not a testament that the plan of God is flawed. God has only had imperfect people to do His work. Except for Jesus Christ everyone has human weakness, God gives us weakness to make us humble and draw close to Him. We should let our weakness bring us to him and then he will make us strong in Him
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit.
Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:
I invite you to sit in silence feeling patient for your own faults and trials.
Summarize what insights you have gained during this meditation and meditate and visualize positive change in your life:
This is a listener funded podcast at patreon.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Updates:
Final Question:
Final Thought:
FIND ME ON: Download my free app: Recenter with Christ Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com Voicemail - (602) 888-3795 Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
KJV Galatians 3 6 Even as Abraham believed God, and it was accounted to him for "righteousness. 7 Know ye therefore that they which are of faith, the same are the achil-dren of Abraham. 8 And the scripture, foreseeing that God would justify the "heathen through faith, preached before the gospel unto Abraham, saying, In thee shall all nations be blessed. 9 So then they which be of faith are blessed with faithful Abraham.
FIND ME ON: Download my free app: Recenter with Christ Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com Voicemail - (602) 888-3795 Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
576 Having Begun in the Spirit Are You Now Perfected in the Flesh? A Guided Christian Meditation on Galatians 3:2-5 with the Recenter With Christ app
The purpose of this podcast is to help you find more peace in your life and connect with the true source of peace, Jesus Christ.
Outline: Relaxation, Reading, Meditation, Prayer, Contemplation and Visualization.
Get into a place where you can sit comfortably and uninterrupted for about 20 minutes.You should hopefully not be driving or anything tensing or unrelaxing. If you feel comfortable to do so, I invite you to close your eyes. Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation: Breathe and direct your thoughts to connecting with God. Let your stomach be a balloon inflate, deflate.
Scripture for Meditation
KJV Galatians 3 2 This only would I learn of you, Received ye the Spirit by the works of the "law, or by the hearing of faith? 3 Are ye so foolish? having begun in the Spirit, are ye now made perfect by the flesh? 4 Have ye suffered so many things in vain? if it be yet in vain. 5 He therefore that ministereth to you the Spirit, and worketh miracles among you, doeth he it by the works of the law, or by the hearing of faith?
NABRE 2 I want to learn only this from you: did you receive the Spirit from works of the law, or from faith in what you heard?[c] 3 Are you so stupid? After beginning with the Spirit, are you now ending with the flesh?[d] 4 Did you experience so many things[e] in vain?—if indeed it was in vain. 5 Does, then, the one who supplies the Spirit to you and works mighty deeds among you do so from works of the law or from faith in what you heard?
Meditation:
Paul speaks powerfully to the Galatians. In some ways it could be seen as aggressive. He wants to ensure that the people really do maintain a proper focus on the role of Jesus Christ in their hearts. Jesus is not the intellectual leader of the law, he is the Savior and redeemer. He is the well of living water that springs up to eternal life.
I invite you to ponder the times when you have felt closest to God? What was going on? What was the source of that? As Paul says here, it is very likely that you living perfectly was not the root cause of that. Our closeness to God does not come after carefully examining our lives and finding them flawless and rejoicing with God. If we do that, then we miss substantive details about our lives.
It is a natural thing to want to bring our lives in union with what God asks. I don't think we need to resist efforts to live a Christ-like life. The point Paul is making is when we think we are perfected through these things. When we supplant the grace of God for the performance of the Law. We can rejoice in the grace of God while still embracing a life dedicated to serving God’s commands.
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit.
Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:
I invite you to sit in silence feeling patient for your own faults and trials.
Summarize what insights you have gained during this meditation and meditate and visualize positive change in your life:
This is a listener funded podcast at patreon.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Updates:
Final Question:
Final Thought:
FIND ME ON: Download my free app: Recenter with Christ Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com Voicemail - (602) 888-3795 Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
Acts 9 26 And when Saul was come to Jerusalem, he assayed to join himself to the disciples: but they were all afraid of him, and believed not that he was a disciple. 27 But Barnabas took him, and brought him to the apostles, and declared unto them how he had aseen the Lord in the way, and that he had spoken to him, and how he had preached boldly at Damascus in the name of Jesus. 28 And he was with them coming in and going out at Jerusalem. 29 And he spake boldly in the name of the Lord Jesus, and "disputed against the Grecians: but they went about to slay him. 30 Which when the brethren knew, they brought him down to Caesarea, and sent him forth to Tarsus. 31 Then had the churches rest throughout all Judaa and Galilee and Samaria, and were "edified; and walking in the fear of the Lord, and in the b comfort of the Holy Ghost, were multi-plied.
FIND ME ON: Download my free app: Recenter with Christ Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com Voicemail - (602) 888-3795 Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
574 Barnabus Represents Saul to The Disciples, A Guided Christian Meditation on Acts 9:26-31 with the Recenter With Christ app
The purpose of this podcast is to help you find more peace in your life and connect with the true source of peace, Jesus Christ.
Outline: Relaxation, Reading, Meditation, Prayer, Contemplation and Visualization.
Get into a place where you can sit comfortably and uninterrupted for about 20 minutes.You should hopefully not be driving or anything tensing or unrelaxing. If you feel comfortable to do so, I invite you to close your eyes. Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation: Breathe and direct your thoughts to connecting with God. Let your stomach be a balloon inflate, deflate.
Scripture for Meditation
KJV Acts 9 26 And when Saul was come to Jerusalem, he assayed to join himself to the disciples: but they were all afraid of him, and believed not that he was a disciple. 27 But Barnabas took him, and brought him to the apostles, and declared unto them how he had aseen the Lord in the way, and that he had spoken to him, and how he had preached boldly at Damascus in the name of Jesus. 28 And he was with them coming in and going out at Jerusalem. 29 And he spake boldly in the name of the Lord Jesus, and "disputed against the Grecians: but they went about to slay him. 30 Which when the brethren knew, they brought him down to Caesarea, and sent him forth to Tarsus. 31 Then had the churches rest throughout all Judaa and Galilee and Samaria, and were "edified; and walking in the fear of the Lord, and in the b comfort of the Holy Ghost, were multi-plied.
26 When he came to Jerusalem, he tried to join the disciples, but they were all afraid of him, not believing that he really was a disciple. 27 But Barnabas took him and brought him to the apostles. He told them how Saul on his journey had seen the Lord and that the Lord had spoken to him, and how in Damascus he had preached fearlessly in the name of Jesus. 28 So Saul stayed with them and moved about freely in Jerusalem, speaking boldly in the name of the Lord. 29 He talked and debated with the Hellenistic Jews,[a] but they tried to kill him. 30 When the believers learned of this, they took him down to Caesarea and sent him off to Tarsus. 31 Then the church throughout Judea, Galilee and Samaria enjoyed a time of peace and was strengthened. Living in the fear of the Lord and encouraged by the Holy Spirit, it increased in numbers. Meditation:
Understandably when the man who had be violently persecuting them, says he wants to join the disciples, thye are hesitant and fearful. One of the Disciples who saw Saul proclaiming the gospel so clearly and firmly, vouched for him. Barnabus became the means to bridge the gap of fear and danger. Barnabus was in the right spot, had witnessed things, and had the right life experience, that allowed him to be able to help Saul join the community. Saul continues his testimony and continues to disturb the Hellenistic Jews who hate him more due to perceived betrayal.
Sometimes our human fears, judgements, or experience, can make it challenging for people to find a place at Church. They may show up and see a whole group of people who feel they are superior, even if they dont feel that way. It is important for us to be bold, as Saul was, in unifying with other believers, and when we find that our life experience allows us to fill Barnabus’s role we should take that on with intentionality also, so that all people can be unified together under the grace of Christ.
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit.
Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:
I invite you to sit in silence feeling patient for your own faults and trials.
Summarize what insights you have gained during this meditation and meditate and visualize positive change in your life:
This is a listener funded podcast at patreon.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Updates:
Final Question:
Final Thought:
FIND ME ON: Download my free app: Recenter with Christ Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com Voicemail - (602) 888-3795 Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
572 Paul Faces the Same Persecution He Gave, A Guided Christian Meditation on Acts 9:23-25 with the Recenter With Christ app
The purpose of this podcast is to help you find more peace in your life and connect with the true source of peace, Jesus Christ.
Outline: Relaxation, Reading, Meditation, Prayer, Contemplation and Visualization.
Get into a place where you can sit comfortably and uninterrupted for about 20 minutes.You should hopefully not be driving or anything tensing or unrelaxing. If you feel comfortable to do so, I invite you to close your eyes.
Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation:
Breathe and direct your thoughts to connecting with God. Let your stomach be a balloon inflate, deflate.
Scripture for Meditation
KJV
23 4 And after that many days were fulfilled, the Jews took counsel to kill him:
24 But their laying await was known of Saul. And they watched the gates day and night to kill him.
25 Then the disciples took him by night, and let him down by the wall in a basket.
NABRE
23 After a long time had passed, the Jews conspired to kill him, 24 but their plot became known to Saul. Now they were keeping watch on the gates day and night so as to kill him, 25 but his disciples took him one night and let him down through an opening in the wall, lowering him in a basket.
Meditation:
This passage is simple but reflects a lot of emotional complexity. Here Saul, who would be called Paul, is experiencing the exact persecution that he had inflicted on others. There is an ironic justice to that yet only when perceived from the way of the world. I wonder what Paul would feel knowing he had recently been on that side.
Additionally he is serving a God who can speak in great light and booming voice of thunder and he is forced to escape the city by being lowered outside the gates in a basket, like a thief. Why did he not free him as Peter were he just walked right by the guards. We have no idea.
On thing this highlights though, is that we do not get to choose the outcomes of our deeds. Good or bad we do not get to decide what the consequences of our actions are. In some ways we could think that God should reward Paul for sacrificing his ego and his sin to come to Jesus, yet that is reasoning of the world. God deals his justice and mercy on eternal scales. He knows what Paul needed and he was ready to allow him, and the rest of the Church, to suffer for a while in order to carry out His eternal plan.
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit.
Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:
I invite you to sit in silence feeling patient for your own faults and trials.
Summarize what insights you have gained during this meditation and meditate and visualize positive change in your life:
This is a listener funded podcast at patreon.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Updates:
Final Question:
Final Thought:
FIND ME ON:
Download my free app: Recenter with Christ
Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
Voicemail - (602) 888-3795
Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com
Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast
Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast
Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
20 And straightway he preached Christ in the synagogues, that he is the Son of God.
21 But all that heard him were amazed, and said;
Is not this he that
"destroyed them which called on this name in Jerusalem, and came hither for that intent, that he might bring them bbound unto the chief priests?
22 But Saul increased the more in strength, and confounded the Jews which dwelt at Damas-cus, proving that this is very Christ.
FIND ME ON:
Download my free app: Recenter with Christ
Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
Voicemail - (602) 888-3795
Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com
Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast
Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast
Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
KJV
17 And Ananias went his way, and entered into the house; and putting his hands on him said,
Brother Saul, the Lord, even Jesus, that appeared unto thee in the way as thou camest, hath sent me, that thou mightest receive thy sight, and be filled with the Holy Ghost.
18 And immediately there fell from his eyes as it had been scales: and he received "sight forthwith, and arose, and was baptized.
19 And when he had received meat, he was strengthened. Then was Saul certain days with the disciples which were at Damascus.
FIND ME ON:
Download my free app: Recenter with Christ
Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
Voicemail - (602) 888-3795
Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com
Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast
Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast
Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
568 Jesus, The Lord, Hath Sent Me, A Guided Christian Meditation on Acts 9:17-19 with the Recenter With Christ app
The purpose of this podcast is to help you find more peace in your life and connect with the true source of peace, Jesus Christ.
Outline: Relaxation, Reading, Meditation, Prayer, Contemplation and Visualization.
Get into a place where you can sit comfortably and uninterrupted for about 20 minutes.You should hopefully not be driving or anything tensing or unrelaxing. If you feel comfortable to do so, I invite you to close your eyes.
Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation:
Breathe and direct your thoughts to connecting with God. Let your stomach be a balloon inflate, deflate.
Scripture for Meditation
ACTS 9
KJV
17 And Ananias went his way, and entered into the house; and putting his hands on him said,
Brother Saul, the Lord, even Jesus, that appeared unto thee in the way as thou camest, hath sent me, that thou mightest receive thy sight, and be filled with the Holy Ghost.
18 And immediately there fell from his eyes as it had been scales: and he received "sight forthwith, and arose, and was baptized.
19 And when he had received meat, he was strengthened. Then was Saul certain days with the disciples which were at Damascus.
NIV
17 Then Ananias went to the house and entered it. Placing his hands on Saul, he said, “Brother Saul, the Lord—Jesus, who appeared to you on the road as you were coming here—has sent me so that you may see again and be filled with the Holy Spirit.” 18 Immediately, something like scales fell from Saul’s eyes, and he could see again. He got up and was baptized, 19 and after taking some food, he regained his strength.
Meditation:
Ananias received a very clear sign from God regarding what he should do. He didnt have to wonder if he got the right message. His struggle was to do that thing even though he had concerns about Saul. He didnt know the future. He knew he was supposed to do. He went in and laid hands on Saul and healed him. The Lord does not follow the same pattern with each person. He knows what we need and what the world needs and he uses imperfect people to do them. Ananias was not chosen because he was the most holy person. He was chosen for Gods purpose which we will likely never fully understand.
You have unique purpose for which God has created you. Many times we struggle with decisions or what we should do. Sometimes it is because we dont know what to do. Sometimes we tell ourselves that it is because we dont know what to do but we do. There are many times when we know we should walk away from a certain situation or sin and we struggle, then we tell ourselves that we just wish we knew Gods will, all the while our conscience convicts us.
Although there are plenty of times when we dont know what to do in life, there are many many times when we know what we should do. We know we should seek out a community of relievers to celebrate in worship together, we know we should reach out and apologize, we know we should stop doing a certain thing. We do not need a vision to get the kind of determination needed to be blessed by the outcome God knows we can have.
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit.
Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:
I invite you to sit in silence feeling patient for your own faults and trials.
Summarize what insights you have gained during this meditation and meditate and visualize positive change in your life:
This is a listener funded podcast at patreon.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Updates:
Final Question:
Final Thought:
FIND ME ON:
Download my free app: Recenter with Christ
Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
Voicemail - (602) 888-3795
Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com
Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast
Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast
Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
ESV
13 But Ananias answered, “Lord, I have heard from many about this man, how much evil he has done to your saints at Jerusalem. 14 And here he has authority from the chief priests to bind all who call on your name.” 15 But the Lord said to him, “Go, for he is a chosen instrument of mine to carry my name before the Gentiles and kings and the children of Israel. 16 For I will show him how much he must suffer for the sake of my name.”
FIND ME ON:
Download my free app: Recenter with Christ
Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
Voicemail - (602) 888-3795
Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com
Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast
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Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast
Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
566 Must We Suffer for God’s Sake?, A Guided Christian Meditation on Acts 9:13-16 with the Recenter With Christ app
The purpose of this podcast is to help you find more peace in your life and connect with the true source of peace, Jesus Christ.
Outline: Relaxation, Reading, Meditation, Prayer, Contemplation and Visualization.
Get into a place where you can sit comfortably and uninterrupted f or about 20 minutes.You should hopefully not be driving or anything tensing or unrelaxing. If you feel comfortable to do so, I invite you to close your eyes.
Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation:
Breathe and direct your thoughts to connecting with God. Let your stomach be a balloon inflate, deflate.
Scripture for Meditation
NASB
13 “Lord,” Ananias answered, “I have heard many reports about this man and all the harm he has done to your holy people in Jerusalem. 14 And he has come here with authority from the chief priests to arrest all who call on your name.”
15 But the Lord said to Ananias, “Go! This man is my chosen instrument to proclaim my name to the Gentiles and their kings and to the people of Israel. 16 I will show him how much he must suffer for my name.”
ESV
13 But Ananias answered, “Lord, I have heard from many about this man, how much evil he has done to your saints at Jerusalem. 14 And here he has authority from the chief priests to bind all who call on your name.” 15 But the Lord said to him, “Go, for he is a chosen instrument of mine to carry my name before the Gentiles and kings and the children of Israel. 16 For I will show him how much he must suffer for the sake of my name.”
Meditation:
Ananias was told directly to go help Paul. He resists which makes sense. I find it interesting that Ananias was told that Paul would be shown how he must suffer for Gods name. Why? We don’t know but we get some insight from reflecting on Gods word. Perhaps God revealed it to deal with the struggle of understanding Gos blessings amidst life challenges.
There are many ways to explain the value of Paul’s mission. And the Lord chooses to explain his necessary suffering. It demonstrates a valuable dichotomy. Sometimes we feel that God promises that everything will go smooth. I have talked with so many people who are struggling who feel that their struggles are a sign that God is not treating them fairly or has forgotten them. The story of Job is an example.
This scripture speaks of the universal axiom that struggle leads to growth when empowered by God. It briefly shows the contrast of the victory of Paul’s conversion yet also the deep challenge that will be demanded of him in his new faith in the Lord. Each of us will suffer for the Lord in our own way. This is not a failing of the plan of God. It is baked into the plan. Our focus should be to pause and rejoice in all the Lord has given us regardless of what is happening around us.
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit.
Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:
I invite you to sit in silence feeling patient for your own faults and trials.
Summarize what insights you have gained during this meditation and meditate and visualize positive change in your life:
This is a listener funded podcast at patreon.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Updates:
Final Question:
Final Thought:
FIND ME ON:
Download my free app: Recenter with Christ
Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
Voicemail - (602) 888-3795
Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com
Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast
Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast
Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
KJV
7 And the men which journeyed with him stood speechless, hearing a voice, but seeing no man.
8 And Saul arose from the earth; and when his eyes were opened, he saw no man: but they led him by the hand, and brought him into Damascus.
9 And he was three days without sight, and neither did eat nor drink.
10 And there was a certain disciple at Damascus, named Ananias; and to him said the Lord in a vision, Ananias. And he said, Behold, I am here, Lord.
11 And the Lord said unto him, Arise, and go into the street which is called Straight, and enquire in the house of Judas for one called Saul, of Tarsus: for, behold, he prayeth,
12 And hath seen in a vision a man named Ananias coming in, and putting his hand on him, that he might receive his sight.
FIND ME ON:
Download my free app: Recenter with Christ
Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
Voicemail - (602) 888-3795
Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com
Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast
Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast
Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
NKJV
1 Then Saul, still breathing threats and murder against the disciples of the Lord, went to the high priest 2 and asked letters from him to the synagogues of Damascus, so that if he found any who were of the Way, whether men or women, he might bring them bound to Jerusalem.
3 As he journeyed he came near Damascus, and suddenly a light shone around him from heaven. 4 Then he fell to the ground, and heard a voice saying to him, “Saul, Saul, why are you persecuting Me?”
5 And he said, “Who are You, Lord?”
Then the Lord said, “I am Jesus, whom you are persecuting. It is hard for you to kick against the goads.”
6 So he, trembling and astonished, said, “Lord, what do You want me to do?”
Then the Lord said to him, “Arise and go into the city, and you will be told what you must do.”
FIND ME ON:
Download my free app: Recenter with Christ
Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
Voicemail - (602) 888-3795
Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com
Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast
Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast
Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
562 Saul Why Are You Persecuting Me? A Guided Christian Meditation on Acts 9:1-6 with the Recenter With Christ app
The purpose of this podcast is to help you find more peace in your life and connect with the true source of peace, Jesus Christ.
Outline: Relaxation, Reading, Meditation, Prayer, Contemplation and Visualization.
Get into a place where you can sit comfortably and uninterrupted for about 20 minutes.You should hopefully not be driving or anything tensing or unrelaxing. If you feel comfortable to do so, I invite you to close your eyes.
Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation:
Breathe and direct your thoughts to connecting with God. Let your stomach be a balloon inflate, deflate.
Scripture for Meditation
ESV
1 But Saul, still breathing threats and murder against the disciples of the Lord, went to the high priest 2 and asked him for letters to the synagogues at Damascus, so that if he found any belonging to the Way, men or women, he might bring them bound to Jerusalem. 3 Now as he went on his way, he approached Damascus, and suddenly a light from heaven shone around him. 4 And falling to the ground, he heard a voice saying to him, “Saul, Saul, why are you persecuting me?” 5 And he said, “Who are you, Lord?” And he said, “I am Jesus, whom you are persecuting. 6 But rise and enter the city, and you will be told what you are to do.”
NKJV
1 Then Saul, still breathing threats and murder against the disciples of the Lord, went to the high priest 2 and asked letters from him to the synagogues of Damascus, so that if he found any who were of the Way, whether men or women, he might bring them bound to Jerusalem.
3 As he journeyed he came near Damascus, and suddenly a light shone around him from heaven. 4 Then he fell to the ground, and heard a voice saying to him, “Saul, Saul, why are you persecuting Me?”
5 And he said, “Who are You, Lord?”
Then the Lord said, “I am Jesus, whom you are persecuting. It is hard for you to kick against the goads.”
6 So he, trembling and astonished, said, “Lord, what do You want me to do?”
Then the Lord said to him, “Arise and go into the city, and you will be told what you must do.”
Meditation:
Saul, who later would have his name changed to Paul, was a man trying to carry out the law of Moses. He aggressively was seeking to carry out the law which would demand justice for sacrilege specifically for someone saying they were the son of God when they were not. Before his conversion, he didn’t know or understand that this was God’s true law so he tried to have them punished according to the law of Moses. By all evidence Paul is a passionate person who pursues the will of the Lord as he sees it. He was trying to do God’s will although imperfectly. He sees vision and immediately seeks to change his actions to what the Lord requests..
The phrase kick against the pricks or goads is not in every ancient manuscript so some translations dont include it, but it is a reference to an equivalent of ancient cattle prods to move animals. If the animal kicked against the direction from the master it would be hurt. Paul was being hurt by his actions that were in contrast to what God wanted for his disciples. Weather in the form of a tormented conscience, or other spiritual consequences.This presents an incredibly valuable lesson for us who seek God’s justice and mercy on earth
Saul is afraid and immediately seeks to follow the direction God may give. The answer God gives is a simple one. The next right step. He does not lay out the whole gospel to Paul. He just points him in the right direction. Many times our corrections come this way. If you seek the Lords direction, be willing to take the next right step.
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit.
Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:
I invite you to sit in silence feeling patient for your own faults and trials.
Summarize what insights you have gained during this meditation and meditate and visualize positive change in your life:
This is a listener funded podcast at patreon.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Updates:
Final Question:
Final Thought:
FIND ME ON:
Download my free app: Recenter with Christ
Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
Voicemail - (602) 888-3795
Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com
Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast
Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast
Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
John 14:25-29
NIV
25 “All this I have spoken while still with you. 26 But the Advocate, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, will teach you all things and will remind you of everything I have said to you. 27 Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.
28 “You heard me say, ‘I am going away and I am coming back to you.’ If you loved me, you would be glad that I am going to the Father, for the Father is greater than I. 29 I have told you now before it happens, so that when it does happen you will believe.
FIND ME ON:
Download my free app: Recenter with Christ
Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
Voicemail - (602) 888-3795
Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com
Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast
Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast
Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
560 My Peace I Give To You, A Guided Christian Meditation on John 14:25-29 with the Recenter With Christ app
The purpose of this podcast is to help you find more peace in your life and connect with the true source of peace, Jesus Christ.
Outline: Relaxation, Reading, Meditation, Prayer, Contemplation and Visualization.
Get into a place where you can sit comfortably and uninterrupted for about 20 minutes.You should hopefully not be driving or anything tensing or unrelaxing. If you feel comfortable to do so, I invite you to close your eyes.
Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation:
Breathe and direct your thoughts to connecting with God. Let your stomach be a balloon inflate, deflate.
Scripture for Meditation
John 14:25-29
NIV
25 “All this I have spoken while still with you. 26 But the Advocate, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, will teach you all things and will remind you of everything I have said to you. 27 Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.
28 “You heard me say, ‘I am going away and I am coming back to you.’ If you loved me, you would be glad that I am going to the Father, for the Father is greater than I. 29 I have told you now before it happens, so that when it does happen you will believe.
NABRE
25 “I have told you this while I am with you. 26 The Advocate, the holy Spirit that the Father will send in my name—he will teach you everything and remind you of all that told you. 27 Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. Not as the world gives do I give it to you. Do not let your hearts be troubled or afraid. 28You heard me tell you, ‘I am going away and I will come back to you.’ If you loved me, you would rejoice that I am going to the Father; for the Father is greater than I. 29 And now I have told you this before it happens, so that when it happens you may believe.
Meditation:
God offers peace. This is not new age theology. This is not a watering down of the Gospel. This is the Gosepl. This is what God offers. Jesus provides an explanation for that peace and is directly because He sends His spirit. It is not because we are faultless and do not deserve stress. It is because God is loving and sends His spirit. God is with us.. It is God’s peace that He gives to us. His peace. He knows how to give it. The question is do we see it. Do we let our hearts be troubled and be afraid? Do we trust in His presence? In this moment embrace his presence. He is with you even right now. God loves you and accepts you. For those who come to Jesus, confess our sin to Him, and accept Him as our savior He forgives. All failings we have, he overcomes. All weakness and fear, he overcomes. He is stronger than all stress and any worries we have. What a blessing we have that Jesus gives His grace and Offers the gift of the presence of the Spirit. This was made possible because, as He says in the gospels, he died for us and returned to the Father, and sent His spirit to us.
How blessed we are that this knowledge is available to us. We are able to hear the words of Jesus directly. We are able to access them for free, and have them in abundance as well as commentary and understanding. His spirit teaches us. As we spend time in His word, he can enlighten our minds. It is not academic knowledge that saves us. It is reliance on the God of heaven. With that said, God’s spirit will teach us and remind us what He teaches us. This knowledge can sustain us. It supports us in times when we are tempted by fear. We can trust in our God who proclaims that we need not fear.
In this moment reflect on this and embrace His message of confidence in His ability to make us sufficient to overcome. He has already overcome the world. There is nothing he has not already overcome.
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit.
Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:
I invite you to sit in silence feeling patient for your own faults and trials.
Summarize what insights you have gained during this meditation and meditate and visualize positive change in your life:
This is a listener funded podcast at patreon.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Updates:
Final Question:
Final Thought:
FIND ME ON:
Download my free app: Recenter with Christ
Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
Voicemail - (602) 888-3795
Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com
Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast
Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast
Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
NIV
21 Whoever has my commands and keeps them is the one who loves me. The one who loves me will be loved by my Father, and I too will love them and show myself to them.”
22 Then Judas (not Judas Iscariot) said, “But, Lord, why do you intend to show yourself to us and not to the world?”
23 Jesus replied, “Anyone who loves me will obey my teaching. My Father will love them, and we will come to them and make our home with them. 24 Anyone who does not love me will not obey my teaching. These words you hear are not my own; they belong to the Father who sent me
558 Anyone Who Loves Me Will Obey My Teaching, A Guided Christian Meditation on John 14:21-24 with the Recenter With Christ app
The purpose of this podcast is to help you find more peace in your life and connect with the true source of peace, Jesus Christ.
Outline: Relaxation, Reading, Meditation, Prayer, Contemplation and Visualization.
Get into a place where you can sit comfortably and uninterrupted for about 20 minutes.You should hopefully not be driving or anything tensing or unrelaxing. If you feel comfortable to do so, I invite you to close your eyes.
Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation:
Breathe and direct your thoughts to connecting with God. Let your stomach be a balloon inflate, deflate.
Scripture for Meditation
NIV
21 Whoever has my commands and keeps them is the one who loves me. The one who loves me will be loved by my Father, and I too will love them and show myself to them.”
22 Then Judas (not Judas Iscariot) said, “But, Lord, why do you intend to show yourself to us and not to the world?”
23 Jesus replied, “Anyone who loves me will obey my teaching. My Father will love them, and we will come to them and make our home with them. 24 Anyone who does not love me will not obey my teaching. These words you hear are not my own; they belong to the Father who sent me
NASB
21 The one who has My commandments and keeps them is the one who loves Me; and the one who loves Me will be loved by My Father, and I will love him and will reveal Myself to him.” 22 Judas (not Iscariot) *said to Him, “Lord, what has happened that You are going to reveal Yourself to us and not to the world?” 23 Jesus answered and said to him, “If anyone loves Me, he will follow My word; and My Father will love him, and We will come to him and make Our dwelling with him. 24 The one who does not love Me does not follow My words; and the word which you hear is not Mine, but the Father’s who sent Me.
Meditation:
When we think of Gods commands our minds often rush toward shame and judgement. Our primary motivation for accepting Jesus need not be fear. God does not give us the spirit of fear but of power and love and a sound mind. Our actions don’t meet Gods standard. As we embrace Jesus as our savior we can overcome sin and shame.
We often attempt to weigh our actions on the scales of justice and we find that we don’t measure up to the commands of God. This is far from an idle temptation. It is one specifically crafted to disconnect us from the love of God. Our common enemy wants to force us into a false choice between the shame of sin or the complacency of cheap grace.
What God offers is so much more profound. He asks that we allow His love to grow in our hearts and the. Allow that love to fue our improved soul. His love is what cleanses us to begin with. His love is what motivates us to repent and turn our hearts back to God when our actions don’t align with what God has asked. Reject shame and embrace love. Those thoughts that rush to or away from our failures do not draw HS to Gods love. Learn from failures and the embrace His love and return. God's perfect love has overcome the world. He offers that love to us and has, since long before we were ever born. Let that love grow in your heart and inspire you to develop in the ways God knows you can grow.
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit.
Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:
I invite you to sit in silence feeling patient for your own faults and trials.
Summarize what insights you have gained during this meditation and meditate and visualize positive change in your life:
This is a listener funded podcast at patreon.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Updates:
Final Question:
Final Thought:
FIND ME ON:
Download my free app: Recenter with Christ
Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
Voicemail - (602) 888-3795
Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com
Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast
Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast
Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
ESV
13 Whatever you ask in my name, this I will do, that the Father may be glorified in the Son. 14 If you ask me anything in my name, I will do it.
15 “If you love me, you will keep my commandments. 16 And I will ask the Father, and he will give you another Helper, to be with you forever, 17 even the Spirit of truth, whom the world cannot receive, because it neither sees him nor knows him. You know him, for he dwells with you and will be in you.
18 “I will not leave you as orphans; I will come to you. 19 Yet a little while and the world will see me no more, but you will see me. Because I live, you also will live. 20 In that day you will know that I am in my Father, and you in me, and I in you.
556 I Will No Leave You Comfortless, A Guided Christian Meditation on John 14:13-20 with the Recenter With Christ app
The purpose of this podcast is to help you find more peace in your life and connect with the true source of peace, Jesus Christ.
Outline: Relaxation, Reading, Meditation, Prayer, Contemplation and Visualization.
Get into a place where you can sit comfortably and uninterrupted for about 20 minutes.You should hopefully not be driving or anything tensing or unrelaxing. If you feel comfortable to do so, I invite you to close your eyes.
Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation:
Breathe and direct your thoughts to connecting with God. Let your stomach be a balloon inflate, deflate.
Scripture for Meditation
John 14:13-20
KJV
13 And whatsoever ye shall ask in my name, that will I do, that the Father may be glorified in the Son.
14 If ye shall ask any thing in my name, I will do it.
15 If ye love me, keep my commandments.
16 And I will pray the Father, and he shall give you another Comforter, that he may abide with you for ever;
17 Even the Spirit of truth; whom the world cannot receive, because it seeth him not, neither knoweth him: but ye know him; for he dwelleth with you, and shall be in you.
18 I will not leave you comfortless: I will come to you.
19 Yet a little while, and the world seeth me no more; but ye see me: because I live, ye shall live also.
20 At that day ye shall know that I am in my Father, and ye in me, and I in you.
ESV
13 Whatever you ask in my name, this I will do, that the Father may be glorified in the Son. 14 If you ask me anything in my name, I will do it.
15 “If you love me, you will keep my commandments. 16 And I will ask the Father, and he will give you another Helper, to be with you forever, 17 even the Spirit of truth, whom the world cannot receive, because it neither sees him nor knows him. You know him, for he dwells with you and will be in you.
18 “I will not leave you as orphans; I will come to you. 19 Yet a little while and the world will see me no more, but you will see me. Because I live, you also will live. 20 In that day you will know that I am in my Father, and you in me, and I in you.
Meditation:
This is an insightful grouping of ideas. In the verses before Jesus tells how he is the way back to the father and the way of knowing the Father. Now he starts talking about commandments and fulfillment of requests. It seems at first that these ideas are not connected. That is not the case. Here He says that keeping his commandments is directly connected to the Spirit of Truth, that the Father gives. His spirit empowers us and is fundamentally important.
He clearly loves us and wants us to be eternally happy and what is more, He is also wise enough to know what will bring us the most happiness and joy. Our perspective can be limited. I think this is the connection. The thing that would bring us the most joy, is to know God, to experience unity with His spirit of Peace and Truth. Then as we know God and believe Him, we follow Him, and we are more able to discern what we should pursue in life. For example, if we know and love God, our choice in relationships and professional choices will be improved, at least as far as they would contribute to our eternal sanctification. Every choice we make or what we would ask for is improved.
With that said, God knows our needs. He knows our preferences and desires as well. He loves us enough to not be complacent, cruel, or unfeeling in the face of our struggles. His wisdom can direct us to answer the deep questions we bring to Him as long as we do it to His glory. So to clarify the answer is not to discount our own preferences, but to prioritize what is eternally important in the face of our need.
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit.
Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:
I invite you to sit in silence feeling patient for your own faults and trials.
Summarize what insights you have gained during this meditation and meditate and visualize positive change in your life:
This is a listener funded podcast at patreon.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Updates:
Final Question:
Final Thought:
FIND ME ON:
Download my free app: Recenter with Christ
Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
Voicemail - (602) 888-3795
Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com
Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast
Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast
Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
John 14:8-12
NIV
8 Philip said, “Lord, show us the Father and that will be enough for us.”
9 Jesus answered: “Don’t you know me, Philip, even after I have been among you such a long time? Anyone who has seen me has seen the Father. How can you say, ‘Show us the Father’? 10 Don’t you believe that I am in the Father, and that the Father is in me? The words I say to you I do not speak on my own authority. Rather, it is the Father, living in me, who is doing his work. 11 Believe me when I say that I am in the Father and the Father is in me; or at least believe on the evidence of the works themselves. 12 Very truly I tell you, whoever believes in me will do the works I have been doing, and they will do even greater things than these, because I am going to the Father.
554 Whoever Believes In Me Will Do The Works I Have Been Doing, A Guided Christian Meditation on John 14:8-12 with the Recenter With Christ app
The purpose of this podcast is to help you find more peace in your life and connect with the true source of peace, Jesus Christ.
Outline: Relaxation, Reading, Meditation, Prayer, Contemplation and Visualization.
Get into a place where you can sit comfortably and uninterrupted for about 20 minutes.You should hopefully not be driving or anything tensing or unrelaxing. If you feel comfortable to do so, I invite you to close your eyes.
Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation:
Breathe and direct your thoughts to connecting with God. Let your stomach be a balloon inflate, deflate.
Scripture for Meditation
John 14:8-12
NIV
8 Philip said, “Lord, show us the Father and that will be enough for us.”
9 Jesus answered: “Don’t you know me, Philip, even after I have been among you such a long time? Anyone who has seen me has seen the Father. How can you say, ‘Show us the Father’? 10 Don’t you believe that I am in the Father, and that the Father is in me? The words I say to you I do not speak on my own authority. Rather, it is the Father, living in me, who is doing his work. 11 Believe me when I say that I am in the Father and the Father is in me; or at least believe on the evidence of the works themselves. 12 Very truly I tell you, whoever believes in me will do the works I have been doing, and they will do even greater things than these, because I am going to the Father.
NRSVUE
8 Philip said, “Lord, show us the Father and that will be enough for us.”
9 Jesus answered: “Don’t you know me, Philip, even after I have been among you such a long time? Anyone who has seen me has seen the Father. How can you say, ‘Show us the Father’? 10 Don’t you believe that I am in the Father, and that the Father is in me? The words I say to you I do not speak on my own authority. Rather, it is the Father, living in me, who is doing his work. 11 Believe me when I say that I am in the Father and the Father is in me; or at least believe on the evidence of the works themselves. 12 Very truly I tell you, whoever believes in me will do the works I have been doing, and they will do even greater things than these, because I am going to the Father.
Meditation:
In the previous verses we looked at last week Jesus declares he is the way. He directly connected that idea with the way to the Father. Immediately after he says that Philip desires to see the father. He struggles to understand what Jesus is offering. Jesus is explaining the way back, not just in the sense of an eternal reunion. But that we will walk with God in life when we believe in Jesus.
He then says those that believe in Him will do even greater works that the ones that they have seen Christ do, which testify that the Father is in Him. Similarly we know that God offers to be with us and in us. These things that we will do are an outpouring of Gods work. This is not wrong to sacrilegious to say because it is God that makes such things possible in every sense.
God empowers His people, those that faithfully believe in Jesus, to do mighty works. If you feel overwhelmed by the tasks before you, know that God himself will empower you to do what He needs you to do. Trust Him.
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit.
Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:
I invite you to sit in silence feeling patient for your own faults and trials.
Summarize what insights you have gained during this meditation and meditate and visualize positive change in your life:
This is a listener funded podcast at patreon.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Updates:
Final Question:
Final Thought:
FIND ME ON:
Download my free app: Recenter with Christ
Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
Voicemail - (602) 888-3795
Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com
Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast
Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast
Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
NIV
4 You know the way to the place where I am going.” 5 Thomas said to him, “Lord, we don’t know where you are going, so how can we know the way?” 6 Jesus answered, “I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me. 7 If you really know me, you will know my Father as well. From now on, you do know him and have seen him.”
FIND ME ON:
Download my free app: Recenter with Christ
Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
Voicemail - (602) 888-3795
Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com
Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast
Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast
Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
552 I Am The Way, The Truth, and The Life. No One Comes To The Father Except Through Me, A Guided Christian Meditation on John 14:4-7 with the Recenter With Christ app
The purpose of this podcast is to help you find more peace in your life and connect with the true source of peace, Jesus Christ.
Outline: Relaxation, Reading, Meditation, Prayer, Contemplation and Visualization.
Get into a place where you can sit comfortably and uninterrupted for about 20 minutes.You should hopefully not be driving or anything tensing or unrelaxing. If you feel comfortable to do so, I invite you to close your eyes.
Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation:
Breathe and direct your thoughts to connecting with God. Let your stomach be a balloon inflate, deflate.
Scripture for Meditation
NIV
4 You know the way to the place where I am going.” 5 Thomas said to him, “Lord, we don’t know where you are going, so how can we know the way?” 6 Jesus answered, “I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me. 7 If you really know me, you will know my Father as well. From now on, you do know him and have seen him.”
NABRE
4 Where am going you know the way.” 5 Thomas said to him, “Master, we do not know where you are going; how can we know the way?” 6 Jesus said to him, “I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me. 7 If you know me, then you will also know my Father. From now on you do know him and have seen him.”
Meditation:
These statements are incredibly meaningful. Jesus is the means by which we understand the Father. Even the term father is diluted by how we understand our earthy world. How are we to understand our relationship with the supreme being that created black holes, supernovae, and gravity. The all powerful being offers a relationship to us, and he calls us his Children. In some sense there are equal dangers of assuming that our earthy environment is a mirror or the heavenly one. In some ways if God is so unknowable that we can't feel any relationship to God, then we miss out on the most meaningful experience of life. Yet if we assume that the relationship is just like our earthly parental ones, we will fail to grasp the gravity of being in a relationship with the God of heaven.
Each of our personal experience colors the way we receive the term as God our Father. Jesus bridges that gap with these words. He states that he is the way, the truth, and the life. Then in the next breath he tells that he is the one that connects us to the Father. Jesus gives a way for us to understand divinity, at least as much as our human minds can grapple with. We should be careful not to let our earthly experience overshadow the nature of this relationship that God offers.
When I was very young, my father died. As such I have always had a hole in my experience. I had men that tried to be a guide for me but none can fill that gap. Similarly many people I talk to in pastoral counseling in my work, have complex or worse, poisonous relationships with their father. My hope for you today is that you are able to liberate these preconceived notions of the limits of human fatherhood, and realize the perfect, loving, patient, and inspiring Fatherly role for which Jesus is the way to become familiar with. Embrace God as your Father. Your creator, your Savior, Your Lord, and Your God.
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit.
Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:
I invite you to sit in silence feeling patient for your own faults and trials.
Summarize what insights you have gained during this meditation and meditate and visualize positive change in your life:
This is a listener funded podcast at patreon.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Updates:
Final Question:
Final Thought:
FIND ME ON:
Download my free app: Recenter with Christ
Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
Voicemail - (602) 888-3795
Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com
Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast
Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast
Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
550 I Go To Prepare a Place for You, A Guided Christian Meditation on John 14:1-3 with the Recenter With Christ app
The purpose of this podcast is to help you find more peace in your life and connect with the true source of peace, Jesus Christ.
Outline: Relaxation, Reading, Meditation, Prayer, Contemplation and Visualization.
Get into a place where you can sit comfortably and uninterrupted for about 20 minutes.You should hopefully not be driving or anything tensing or unrelaxing. If you feel comfortable to do so, I invite you to close your eyes.
Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation:
Breathe and direct your thoughts to connecting with God. Let your stomach be a balloon inflate, deflate.
Scripture for Meditation
NIV
14 “Do not let your hearts be troubled. You believe in God[a]; believe also in me. 2 My Father’s house has many rooms; if that were not so, would I have told you that I am going there to prepare a place for you? 3 And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come back and take you to be with me that you also may be where I am.
KJV
14 Let not your heart be troubled: ye believe in God, believe also in me.
2 In my Father's house are many mansions: if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you.
3 And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you unto myself; that where I am, there ye may be also.
Meditation:
I am normally a very prívate person and I don’t share a ton about my personal life on the podcast but I have been thinking of a scripture tha aligns with something from my life. I just returned home after several months deployed overseas. When I returned home my wife had moved our house and all our things. I found myself thinking of this. It was incredibly valuable to have a home to come to that someone else had set up in preparation for the transition. My wife got a place for us and created a home for which I am immensely grateful.
As we transition from this life to the next we have someone that will do something far more impressive and important. Jesus goes to prepare a place for us after this life. Those who put their trust Him, will slays grace a place with him.
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit.
Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:
I invite you to sit in silence feeling patient for your own faults and trials.
Summarize what insights you have gained during this meditation and meditate and visualize positive change in your life:
This is a listener funded podcast at patreon.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Updates:
Final Question:
Final Thought:
FIND ME ON:
Download my free app: Recenter with Christ
Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
Voicemail - (602) 888-3795
Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com
Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast
Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast
Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
551
NIV
14 “Do not let your hearts be troubled. You believe in God[a]; believe also in me. 2 My Father’s house has many rooms; if that were not so, would I have told you that I am going there to prepare a place for you? 3 And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come back and take you to be with me that you also may be where I am.
FIND ME ON:
Download my free app: Recenter with Christ
Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
Voicemail - (602) 888-3795
Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com
Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast
Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast
Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
Daniel 2
NASB
46 Then King Nebuchadnezzar fell on his face and paid humble respect to Daniel, and gave orders to present to him an offering and incense. 47 The king responded to Daniel and said, “Your God truly is a God of gods and a Lord of kings and a revealer of secrets, since you have been able to reveal this secret.” 48 Then the king promoted Daniel and gave him many great gifts, and he made him ruler over the entire province of Babylon, and chief prefect over all the wise men of Babylon. 49 And Daniel made a request of the king, and he appointed Shadrach, Meshach, and Abed-nego over the administration of the province of Babylon, while Daniel was at the king’s court.
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548 God Reveals His Wisdom for His Purposes, a Guided Christian Meditation on Daniel 2:46-49 with the Recenter With Christ app
The purpose of this podcast is to help you find more peace in your life and connect with the true source of peace, Jesus Christ.
Outline: Relaxation, Reading, Meditation, Prayer, Contemplation and Visualization.
Get into a place where you can sit comfortably and uninterrupted for about 20 minutes.You should hopefully not be driving or anything tensing or unrelaxing. If you feel comfortable to do so, I invite you to close your eyes. Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation: Breathe and direct your thoughts to connecting with God. Let your stomach be a balloon inflate, deflate.
Scripture for Meditation
548 Daniel 2 NASB 46 Then King Nebuchadnezzar fell on his face and paid humble respect to Daniel, and gave orders to present to him an offering and incense. 47 The king responded to Daniel and said, “Your God truly is a God of gods and a Lord of kings and a revealer of secrets, since you have been able to reveal this secret.” 48 Then the king promoted Daniel and gave him many great gifts, and he made him ruler over the entire province of Babylon, and chief prefect over all the wise men of Babylon. 49 And Daniel made a request of the king, and he appointed Shadrach, Meshach, and Abed-nego over the administration of the province of Babylon, while Daniel was at the king’s court.
NRSVUE 46 Then King Nebuchadnezzar fell on his face, worshiped Daniel, and commanded that a grain offering and incense be offered to him. 47 The king said to Daniel, “Truly, your God is God of gods and Lord of kings and a revealer of mysteries, for you have been able to reveal this mystery!” 48 Then the king promoted Daniel, gave him many great gifts, and made him ruler over the whole province of Babylon and chief prefect over all the wise men of Babylon. 49 Daniel made a request of the king, and he appointed Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego over the affairs of the province of Babylon. But Daniel remained at the king’s court.
Meditation:
For the moment that the king was thinking about this dream interpretation.
It seems that the king is converted and will remain humble. He recognizes that somehow these men did something good through some mysterious power and so he promoted them. Unfortunately he did not learn the lesson that God is supreme. He embraces his own importance. He misses the far more important part of the revelation and retains the memory that he is the head of gold.
Daniel and his companions recognize the place God should take in their lives and priority.
This dream and the interpretation should indicate that the kings participation in the world is due to Gods plan, not due to the kings greatness. Do we see our role in Gods plan or do we see God playing a role in our life? What is the center? Us or God? The king appears to understand but later we see he didn’t understand. Do we?
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit.
Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:
I invite you to sit in silence feeling patient for your own faults and trials.
Summarize what insights you have gained during this meditation and meditate and visualize positive change in your life:
This is a listener funded podcast at patreon.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Updates:
Final Question:
Final Thought:
FIND ME ON: Download my free app: Recenter with Christ Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com Voicemail - (602) 888-3795 Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
2 Daniel NKJV 31 “You, O king, were watching; and behold, a great image! This great image, whose splendor was excellent, stood before you; and its form was awesome. 32 This image’s head was of fine gold, its chest and arms of silver, its belly and [k]thighs of bronze, 33 its legs of iron, its feet partly of iron and partly of [l]clay. 34 You watched while a stone was cut out without hands, which struck the image on its feet of iron and clay, and broke them in pieces.
FIND ME ON: Download my free app: Recenter with Christ Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com Voicemail - (602) 888-3795 Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
544 God Reveals His Wisdom for His Purposes, a Guided Christian Meditation on Daniel 2:29-30 with the Recenter With Christ app
The purpose of this podcast is to help you find more peace in your life and connect with the true source of peace, Jesus Christ.
Outline: Relaxation, Reading, Meditation, Prayer, Contemplation and Visualization.
Get into a place where you can sit comfortably and uninterrupted for about 20 minutes.You should hopefully not be driving or anything tensing or unrelaxing. If you feel comfortable to do so, I invite you to close your eyes. Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation: Breathe and direct your thoughts to connecting with God. Let your stomach be a balloon inflate, deflate.
Scripture for Meditation
Daniel 2 NIV 29 “As Your Majesty was lying there, your mind turned to things to come, and the revealer of mysteries showed you what is going to happen. 30 As for me, this mystery has been revealed to me, not because I have greater wisdom than anyone else alive, but so that Your Majesty may know the interpretation and that you may understand what went through your mind.
NKJV 29 As for you, O king, thoughts came to your mind while on your bed, about what would come to pass after this; and He who reveals secrets has made known to you what will be. 30 But as for me, this secret has not been revealed to me because I have more wisdom than anyone living, but for our sakes who make known the interpretation to the king, and that you may know the thoughts of your heart.
Meditation:
What role does knowledge play in the gospel and what role does it play in our life? Sometimes we can get caught up in thinking that our understanding is perfect or that we fully understand the mysteries of God. When we pause to think about it of course we recognize that our human understanding is limited.
God's spirit is what lifts us up in everything, especially knowledge. Also there is purpose in God showing us His mysteries. God showed Daniel His mysteries for Gods purpose. God knows His goals. God is the one that can share a sliver of His mysteries. Our human brains are so limited. The book of John says that if all the books were written about Jesus were written the world alone could not hold them. Thank God that He gives us the knowledge we need to do what He needs usto do.
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit.
Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:
I invite you to sit in silence feeling patient for your own faults and trials.
Summarize what insights you have gained during this meditation and meditate and visualize positive change in your life:
This is a listener funded podcast at patreon.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Updates:
Final Question:
Final Thought:
FIND ME ON: Download my free app: Recenter with Christ Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com Voicemail - (602) 888-3795 Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
542 There is a God in Heaven Who Reveals Mysteries, a Guided Christian Meditation on Daniel 2:24-28 with the Recenter With Christ app
The purpose of this podcast is to help you find more peace in your life and connect with the true source of peace, Jesus Christ.
Outline: Relaxation, Reading, Meditation, Prayer, Contemplation and Visualization.
Get into a place where you can sit comfortably and uninterrupted for about 20 minutes.You should hopefully not be driving or anything tensing or unrelaxing. If you feel comfortable to do so, I invite you to close your eyes. Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation: Breathe and direct your thoughts to connecting with God. Let your stomach be a balloon inflate, deflate.
Scripture for Meditation
NABRE 24 So Daniel went to Arioch, whom the king had appointed to destroy the wise men of Babylon, and said to him, “Do not put the wise men of Babylon to death. Bring me before the king, and I will tell him the interpretation of the dream.” Arioch quickly brought Daniel to the king and said, 25 “I have found a man among the Judean exiles who can give the interpretation to the king.” 26 The king asked Daniel, whose name was Belteshazzar, “Can you tell me the dream that I had and its meaning?” 27 In the king’s presence Daniel made this reply:
“The mystery about which the king has inquired, the wise men, enchanters, magicians, and diviners could not explain to the king. 28 But there is a God in heaven who reveals mysteries, and he has shown King Nebuchadnezzar what is to happen in the last days; this was your dream, the visions you saw as you lay in bed.
NIV 24 Then Daniel went to Arioch, whom the king had appointed to execute the wise men of Babylon, and said to him, “Do not execute the wise men of Babylon. Take me to the king, and I will interpret his dream for him.” 25 Arioch took Daniel to the king at once and said, “I have found a man among the exiles from Judah who can tell the king what his dream means.” 26 The king asked Daniel (also called Belteshazzar), “Are you able to tell me what I saw in my dream and interpret it?” 27 Daniel replied, “No wise man, enchanter, magician or diviner can explain to the king the mystery he has asked about, 28 but there is a God in heaven who reveals mysteries. He has shown King Nebuchadnezzar what will happen in days to come. Your dream and the visions that passed through your mind as you were lying in bed are these:
Meditation:
After Daniel recognizes the awe of God in previous verses, he humbly goes to God seeking answers. God blesses Daniel with the answer he seeks. He then shows up to interpret the dream of the King. The King had threatened to kill all the wise men, which included Daniel and other Israelite people. Daniel then agreed with the King that none of The wise men could interpret the dream but that God could. This contrast shows the difference in power between Us and God and gives us the appropriate frame of mine to stay humble before God.
This makes the comparison between how Daniel and King Nebuchadnezzar even more foundational and represents a crucial message of this whole experience.
This becomes an incredibly valuable thing for us to consider. When we lack wisdom what should we do? Do we seek God for understanding? Do we seek God for understanding our role in life or our perspective on the world?
Do we trust that God can give us understanding?
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit.
Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:
I invite you to sit in silence feeling patient for your own faults and trials.
Summarize what insights you have gained during this meditation and meditate and visualize positive change in your life:
This is a listener funded podcast at patreon.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Updates:
Final Question:
Final Thought:
FIND ME ON: Download my free app: Recenter with Christ Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com Voicemail - (602) 888-3795 Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
NIV 20 and said: “Praise be to the name of God for ever and ever; wisdom and power are his. 21 He changes times and seasons; he deposes kings and raises up others. He gives wisdom to the wise and knowledge to the discerning. 22 He reveals deep and hidden things; he knows what lies in darkness, and light dwells with him. 23 I thank and praise you, God of my ancestors: You have given me wisdom and power, you have made known to me what we asked of you, you have made known to us the dream of the king.”
FIND ME ON: Download my free app: Recenter with Christ Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com Voicemail - (602) 888-3795 Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
540 Praise be the Name of God Forever, a Guided Christian Meditation on Daniel 2:20-23 with the Recenter With Christ app
The purpose of this podcast is to help you find more peace in your life and connect with the true source of peace, Jesus Christ.
Outline: Relaxation, Reading, Meditation, Prayer, Contemplation and Visualization.
Get into a place where you can sit comfortably and uninterrupted for about 20 minutes.You should hopefully not be driving or anything tensing or unrelaxing. If you feel comfortable to do so, I invite you to close your eyes. Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation: Breathe and direct your thoughts to connecting with God. Let your stomach be a balloon inflate, deflate.
Scripture for Meditation
NIV 20 and said: “Praise be to the name of God for ever and ever; wisdom and power are his. 21 He changes times and seasons; he deposes kings and raises up others. He gives wisdom to the wise and knowledge to the discerning. 22 He reveals deep and hidden things; he knows what lies in darkness, and light dwells with him. 23 I thank and praise you, God of my ancestors: You have given me wisdom and power, you have made known to me what we asked of you, you have made known to us the dream of the king.”
NABRE 20 “Blessed be the name of God forever and ever, for wisdom and power are his. 21 He causes the changes of the times and seasons, establishes kings and deposes them. He gives wisdom to the wise and knowledge to those who understand. 22 He reveals deep and hidden things and knows what is in the darkness, for the light dwells with him. 23 To you, God of my ancestors, I give thanks and praise, because you have given me wisdom and power. Now you have shown me what we asked of you, you have made known to us the king’s dream.”
Meditation:
This passage is beautiful. God does not need Daniel’s praises. The act of Daniel praising God does not Change God at all. It shows the intent of Daniel’s heart. I have noticed that unless we are cautious our prayers can become somewhat utilitarian. We can approach God in asking for things. I think it is incredibly valuable to foster a sense of awe for God.
In many ways. In creation as we see the beauty of nature and the skies. Additionally in the working of God in our lives. How wonderfully loving is our God. How perfectly he cares for us. We don’t always see things play out so positive and yet we can find things to be in awe of God.
As we mature spiritually we become more able to see these kind of blessings. Ponder for a moment in your life how God shows up.
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit.
Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:
I invite you to sit in silence feeling patient for your own faults and trials.
Summarize what insights you have gained during this meditation and meditate and visualize positive change in your life:
This is a listener funded podcast at patreon.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Updates:
Final Question:
Final Thought:
FIND ME ON: Download my free app: Recenter with Christ Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com Voicemail - (602) 888-3795 Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
NIV 16 At this, Daniel went in to the king and asked for time, so that he might interpret the dream for him. 17 Then Daniel returned to his house and explained the matter to his friends Hananiah, Mishael and Azariah. 18 He urged them to plead for mercy from the God of heaven concerning this mystery, so that he and his friends might not be executed with the rest of the wise men of Babylon. 19 During the night the mystery was revealed to Daniel in a vision. Then Daniel praised the God of heaven
FIND ME ON: Download my free app: Recenter with Christ Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com Voicemail - (602) 888-3795 Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
538 Seek Mercy from the God of Heaven, a Guided Christian Meditation on Daniel 2:16-19 with the Recenter With Christ app
The purpose of this podcast is to help you find more peace in your life and connect with the true source of peace, Jesus Christ.
Outline: Relaxation, Reading, Meditation, Prayer, Contemplation and Visualization.
Get into a place where you can sit comfortably and uninterrupted for about 20 minutes.You should hopefully not be driving or anything tensing or unrelaxing. If you feel comfortable to do so, I invite you to close your eyes. Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation: Breathe and direct your thoughts to connecting with God. Let your stomach be a balloon inflate, deflate.
Scripture for Meditation
NRSVUE 16 So Daniel went in and requested that the king give him time and he would tell the king the interpretation. NRSV17 Then Daniel went to his home and informed his companions, Hananiah, Mishael, and Azariah, of the matter 18 and told them to seek mercy from the God of heaven concerning this mystery, so that Daniel and his companions might not perish with the rest of the wise men of Babylon. 19 Then the mystery was revealed to Daniel in a vision of the night, and Daniel blessed the God of heaven.
NIV 16 At this, Daniel went in to the king and asked for time, so that he might interpret the dream for him. 17 Then Daniel returned to his house and explained the matter to his friends Hananiah, Mishael and Azariah. 18 He urged them to plead for mercy from the God of heaven concerning this mystery, so that he and his friends might not be executed with the rest of the wise men of Babylon. 19 During the night the mystery was revealed to Daniel in a vision. Then Daniel praised the God of heaven
Meditation:
The King had a dream. He did not know how to understand it but it was so troubling to him that he sought an answer earnestly. The wise men as well told the King that no earthly person could tell him a dream that he had and the king said he would kill them all. Daniel as well told the king it could not be done but he asked time for him to Seek out the mercy of God.
When things mattered the most the trusted in God. They knew what would happen. They understood that the answer could only come through God.
With Daniel as with us God knows us and our needs. Daniel sought the mercy of God and as a result he received an answer. We need turn to God for our answers. The thing you most need to understand, bring it to the Lord and then be patient for how he chooses to answer.
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit.
Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:
I invite you to sit in silence feeling patient for your own faults and trials.
Summarize what insights you have gained during this meditation and meditate and visualize positive change in your life:
This is a listener funded podcast at patreon.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Updates:
Final Question:
Final Thought:
FIND ME ON: Download my free app: Recenter with Christ Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com Voicemail - (602) 888-3795 Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
NASB
9 For I am the least of the apostles, and not fit to be called an apostle, because I persecuted the church of God. 10 But by the grace of God I am what I am, and His grace toward me did not prove vain; but I labored even more than all of them, yet not I, but the grace of God with me. 11 Whether then it was I or they, so we preach and so you believed.
FIND ME ON: Download my free app: Recenter with Christ Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com Voicemail - (602) 888-3795 Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
536 By the Grace of God I Am What I Am, a Guided Christian Meditation on 1 Corinthians 15:9-11 with the Recenter With Christ app
The purpose of this podcast is to help you find more peace in your life and connect with the true source of peace, Jesus Christ.
Outline: Relaxation, Reading, Meditation, Prayer, Contemplation and Visualization.
Get into a place where you can sit comfortably and uninterrupted for about 20 minutes.You should hopefully not be driving or anything tensing or unrelaxing. If you feel comfortable to do so, I invite you to close your eyes. Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation: Breathe and direct your thoughts to connecting with God. Let your stomach be a balloon inflate, deflate.
Scripture for Meditation
ESV 9 For I am the least of the apostles, unworthy to be called an apostle, because I persecuted the church of God. 10 But by the grace of God I am what I am, and his grace toward me was not in vain. On the contrary, I worked harder than any of them, though it was not I, but the grace of God that is with me. 11 Whether then it was I or they, so we preach and so you believed.
NASB 9 For I am the least of the apostles, and not fit to be called an apostle, because I persecuted the church of God. 10 But by the grace of God I am what I am, and His grace toward me did not prove vain; but I labored even more than all of them, yet not I, but the grace of God with me. 11 Whether then it was I or they, so we preach and so you believed.
Meditation:
Paul has an interesting character. He is often very harsh on himself for his past sins especially how he persecuted the church. He recognizes his own need for God. He accepts that it is through the mercy of Jesus Christ that he is forgiven.
He sees that grace as empowering. Something that makes him able to do difficult things.
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit.
Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:
I invite you to sit in silence feeling patient for your own faults and trials.
Summarize what insights you have gained during this meditation and meditate and visualize positive change in your life:
This is a listener funded podcast at patreon.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Updates:
Final Question:
Final Thought:
FIND ME ON: Download my free app: Recenter with Christ Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com Voicemail - (602) 888-3795 Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
ESV that he appeared to Cephas, then to the twelve. 6 Then he appeared to more than five hundred brothers at one time, most of whom are still alive, though some have fallen asleep. 7 Then he appeared to James, then to all the apostles. 8 Last of all, as to one untimely born, he appeared also to me.
FIND ME ON: Download my free app: Recenter with Christ Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com Voicemail - (602) 888-3795 Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
NIV Now I want you to understand, brothers and sisters, the good news that I proclaimed to you, which you intern received, in which you also stand, through which also you are being saved, if you hold firmly to the message that I proclaimed to you – unless you have come to believe in vain. For I handed on to you as of first importance what I intern have received: that Christ died for our sins in accordance with the Scriptures and that he was buried and that he was raised on the third day in accordance with the Scriptures.
FIND ME ON: Download my free app: Recenter with Christ Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com Voicemail - (602) 888-3795 Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
532 Christ Died for Our Sins According to the Scriptures, a Guided Christian Meditation on 1 Corinthians 15:1-4 with the Recenter With Christ app
The purpose of this podcast is to help you find more peace in your life and connect with the true source of peace, Jesus Christ.
Outline: Relaxation, Reading, Meditation, Prayer, Contemplation and Visualization.
Get into a place where you can sit comfortably and uninterrupted for about 20 minutes.You should hopefully not be driving or anything tensing or unrelaxing. If you feel comfortable to do so, I invite you to close your eyes. Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation: Breathe and direct your thoughts to connecting with God. Let your stomach be a balloon inflate, deflate.
Scripture for Meditation
KJV Moreover, brethren, I declare unto you the gospel which I preached on to you, which also you have received, and we are in the stand; by which also ye are saved, if you keep in memory what I preached onto you, unless you have believed in vain. For I delivered unto you first of all that which I also received, how that Christ died for our sins according to the Scriptures; and that he was buried, and he rose again the third day according to the Scriptures:
NIV Now I want you to understand, brothers and sisters, the good news that I proclaimed to you, which you intern received, in which you also stand, through which also you are being saved, if you hold firmly to the message that I proclaimed to you – unless you have come to believe in vain. For I handed on to you as of first importance what I intern have received: that Christ died for our sins in accordance with the Scriptures and that he was buried and that he was raised on the third day in accordance with the Scriptures.
Meditation:
Happy Easter. We celebrate today the victory of Christ over the grave. What a victory it is. It is good news! It is the best news! We can trust in this testimony of Paul. He saw the risen Lord.
Stand strong in that faith. Remain in that faith. There is so much power in this testimony. What is equally important is that it was foretold. Many prophecies were fulfilled in His birth, life, ministry, death, and eventual triumphant resurrection.
Hold fast to our faith in Christ. That faith will not be and has not been in vain. Faith in God is never wasted. Our faith is not vain hold fast to it.
Spend a moment now and rejoice in the faith that you have. Jesus
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit.
Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:
I invite you to sit in silence feeling patient for your own faults and trials.
Summarize what insights you have gained during this meditation and meditate and visualize positive change in your life:
This is a listener funded podcast at patreon.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Updates:
Final Question:
Final Thought:
FIND ME ON: Download my free app: Recenter with Christ Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com Voicemail - (602) 888-3795 Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
Psalms 138 NIV 4 May all the kings of the earth praise you Lord when they hear what you have decreed. May they sing of the ways of the Lord, for the glory of the Lord is great. Though the Lord is exalted, he looks kindly on the lowly; the lofty, he sees them from afar. The way walk in the midst of trouble, you preserve my life. You stretch out your hand against the anger of my foes; with your right hand you save me. The Lord will vindicate me; your love, Lord, endures forever – do not abandon the works of your hand.
FIND ME ON: Download my free app: Recenter with Christ Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com Voicemail - (602) 888-3795 Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
NIV I will praise you, Lord, with all my heart; before the “gods” I will sing you praise. 2 I will now down toward your holy temple and will praise your name for you have so exalted your solemn decree that it surpasses your fame. 3 When I called, you answered me; you greatly emboldened me.
FIND ME ON: Download my free app: Recenter with Christ Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com Voicemail - (602) 888-3795 Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
528 When I Called, You Answered Me; You Greatly Emboldened Me, a Guided Christian Meditation on Psalm 138:1-3 with the Recenter With Christ app
The purpose of this podcast is to help you find more peace in your life and connect with the true source of peace, Jesus Christ.
Outline: Relaxation, Reading, Meditation, Prayer, Contemplation and Visualization.
Get into a place where you can sit comfortably and uninterrupted for about 20 minutes.You should hopefully not be driving or anything tensing or unrelaxing. If you feel comfortable to do so, I invite you to close your eyes. Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation: Breathe and direct your thoughts to connecting with God. Let your stomach be a balloon inflate, deflate.
Scripture for Meditation
NIV I will praise you, Lord, with all my heart; before the “gods” I will sing you praise. 2 I will now down toward your holy temple and will praise your name for you have so exalted your solemn decree that it surpasses your fame. 3 When I called, you answered me; you greatly emboldened me.
NRSVUE 1 Oh David. I give thanks Oh Lord with my whole heart; Before the gods I sing your praise; 2 I bow down toward your holy temple and give things to your Name for your steadfast love and faithfulness, for you have exalted above all things your name and your word above everything. 3 On the day I called, you answered me; you increased my strenth of soul.
Meditation:
God heads your prayer. He is mindful of you. With that said his answers don’t always come in our timing. Many prayers of David he seeks Gods answers and seems like he doesn’t get them. Yet David still recognized Gods love is unfailing.
He felt the sustaining Strenth of God to his soul. He was willing to declare and sing Gods praises before heavens and earth. Similarly we should seek the kind of clarity of relationship that is described here.
We should recognize Gods preeminent position at all times. Praise be to God and May our hearts be open to praising him at all times.
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit.
Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:
I invite you to sit in silence feeling patient for your own faults and trials.
Summarize what insights you have gained during this meditation and meditate and visualize positive change in your life:
This is a listener funded podcast at patreon.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Updates:
Final Question:
Final Thought:
FIND ME ON: Download my free app: Recenter with Christ Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com Voicemail - (602) 888-3795 Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
ESV 15 “‘I know your works: you are neither cold nor hot. Would that you were either cold or hot! 16 So, because you are lukewarm, and neither hot nor cold, I will spit you out of my mouth. 17 For you say, I am rich, I have prospered, and I need nothing, not realizing that you are wretched, pitiable, poor, blind, and naked. 18 I counsel you to buy from me gold refined by fire, so that you may be rich, and white garments so that you may clothe yourself and the shame of your nakedness may not be seen, and salve to anoint your eyes, so that you may see. 19 Those whom I love, I reprove and discipline, so be zealous and repent.
FIND ME ON: Download my free app: Recenter with Christ Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com Voicemail - (602) 888-3795 Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
526 Do Not Be Lukewarm, a Guided Christian Meditation on Revelation 3:15-19 with the Recenter With Christ app
The purpose of this podcast is to help you find more peace in your life and connect with the true source of peace, Jesus Christ.
Outline: Relaxation, Reading, Meditation, Prayer, Contemplation and Visualization.
Get into a place where you can sit comfortably and uninterrupted for about 20 minutes.You should hopefully not be driving or anything tensing or unrelaxing. If you feel comfortable to do so, I invite you to close your eyes. Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation: Breathe and direct your thoughts to connecting with God. Let your stomach be a balloon inflate, deflate.
Scripture for Meditation
Revelation 3
NABRE 15 “I know your works; I know that you are neither cold nor hot. I wish you were either cold or hot. 16 So, because you are lukewarm, neither hot nor cold, I will spit you out of my mouth. 17 For you say, ‘I am rich and affluent and have no need of anything,’ and yet do not realize that you are wretched, pitiable, poor, blind, and naked. 18 I advise you to buy from me gold refined by fire so that you may be rich, and white garments to put on so that your shameful nakedness may not be exposed, and buy ointment to smear on your eyes so that you may see. 19 Those whom I love, I reprove and chastise. Be earnest, therefore, and repent.
ESV 15 “‘I know your works: you are neither cold nor hot. Would that you were either cold or hot! 16 So, because you are lukewarm, and neither hot nor cold, I will spit you out of my mouth. 17 For you say, I am rich, I have prospered, and I need nothing, not realizing that you are wretched, pitiable, poor, blind, and naked. 18 I counsel you to buy from me gold refined by fire, so that you may be rich, and white garments so that you may clothe yourself and the shame of your nakedness may not be seen, and salve to anoint your eyes, so that you may see. 19 Those whom I love, I reprove and discipline, so be zealous and repent.
Meditation:
Much of the discussion and focus of morality is on performance and adherence to moral standards. This presents a specific challenge. If we ignore the law then we don’t live morally. If we ignore grace we have an unrealistic standard of guilt. We can attempt to find some arbitrary standardard in between that we can attempt to be happy with. We can seek to not be warm or hot.
The beauty of the Gospel that God has given. His good news is that this arbitrary balance of law and mercy is not the best way to resolve this moral quandary. Our goal shouldn’t be to be pretty good. Our goal should be to be like Jesus. Yet to do that we must change. This change need not be through some Herculean force of human will but a faithful following and trust in the source of perfect grace, Jesus Christ.
We shouldn’t spend time becoming complacent with good in order to ease our consciences. We don’t need to reset Gods moral standards in order to love ourselves or our neighbor. We should move toward Christ and let His atoning blood ease our conscience.
End of Revelation SeriesAs we are seeing, much of the guidance to the seven Churches in Revelation has to do with repentance. This is an incredibly valuable lesson throughout all time. In modern times there remains a challenge for each of us when we know what is the right thing to do. Do we do what we think is right? There are many things which we know to be right but struggle to do them. Eating healthy and working out, building our relationships, and religious activity among the examples. This is a constant human struggle. Sometimes we do what we know to be right and sometimes we don't. This is why it is incredibly valuable for us to reevaluate our actions from time to time and embrace the mercy of the Lord. Instead of crumbling under the pressure of being perfect, embrace the fact that God is willing to forgive us and help us realign our actions at all times.
An incredibly valuable lesson that God can teach us is regarding personal discipline, not as a method of earning God's love or ignoring God's grace but as a matter of living in God's love. As we learn to approach personal discipline from a lens of God's grace it helps us not accept a lukewarm mindset. Inevitably we fail in life but we don't need to accept our identity of failures because Christ takes away our shame. Christ corrects whom He loves. Sit now in the mindset of living hot in God’s spirit.
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit.
Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:
I invite you to sit in silence feeling patient for your own faults and trials.
Summarize what insights you have gained during this meditation and meditate and visualize positive change in your life:
This is a listener funded podcast at patreon.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Updates:
Final Question: In what ways do you thirst for God?
Final Thought:
Saint Fransis said preach the gospel at all times and if necessary, use words. One of the most powerful ways we can reflect the light and life of God is by imitating Christ in our life.
FIND ME ON: Download my free app: Recenter with Christ Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com Voicemail - (602) 888-3795 Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
Scripture for Meditation
NABRE 8 “‘“I know your works (behold, I have left an open door before you, which no one can close). You have limited strength, and yet you have kept my word and have not denied my name. 9 Behold, I will make those of the assembly of Satan who claim to be Jews and are not, but are lying, behold I will make them come and fall prostrate at your feet, and they will realize that I love you. 10 Because you have kept my message of endurance, I will keep you safe in the time of trial that is going to come to the whole world to test the inhabitants of the earth. 11 I am coming quickly. Hold fast to what you have, so that no one may take your crown. 12 “‘“The victor I will make into a pillar in the temple of my God, and he will never leave it again. On him I will inscribe the name of my God and the name of the city of my God, the new Jerusalem, which comes down out of heaven from my God, as well as my new name.
FIND ME ON: Download my free app: Recenter with Christ Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com Voicemail - (602) 888-3795 Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
524 Hold Fast To Your Crown, a Guided Christian Meditation on Revelation 3:8-12 with the Recenter With Christ app
The purpose of this podcast is to help you find more peace in your life and connect with the true source of peace, Jesus Christ.
Outline: Relaxation, Reading, Meditation, Prayer, Contemplation and Visualization.
Get into a place where you can sit comfortably and uninterrupted for about 20 minutes.You should hopefully not be driving or anything tensing or unrelaxing. If you feel comfortable to do so, I invite you to close your eyes. Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation: Breathe and direct your thoughts to connecting with God. Let your stomach be a balloon inflate, deflate.
Scripture for Meditation
Revelation 3
KJV 8 I know thy works: behold, I have set before thee an open door, and no man can shut it: for thou hast a little strength, and hast kept my word, and hast not denied my name. 9 Behold, I will make them of the synagogue of Satan, which say they are Jews, and are not, but do lie; behold, I will make them to come and worship before thy feet, and to know that I have loved thee. 10 Because thou hast kept the word of my patience, I also will keep thee from the hour of temptation, which shall come upon all the world, to try them that dwell upon the earth. 11 Behold, I come quickly: hold that fast which thou hast, that no man take thy crown. 12 Him that overcometh will I make a pillar in the temple of my God, and he shall go no more out: and I will write upon him the name of my God, and the name of the city of my God, which is new Jerusalem, which cometh down out of heaven from my God: and I will write upon him my new name.
NABRE 8 “‘“I know your works (behold, I have left an open door before you, which no one can close). You have limited strength, and yet you have kept my word and have not denied my name. 9 Behold, I will make those of the assembly of Satan who claim to be Jews and are not, but are lying, behold I will make them come and fall prostrate at your feet, and they will realize that I love you. 10 Because you have kept my message of endurance, I will keep you safe in the time of trial that is going to come to the whole world to test the inhabitants of the earth. 11 I am coming quickly. Hold fast to what you have, so that no one may take your crown. 12 “‘“The victor I will make into a pillar in the temple of my God, and he will never leave it again. On him I will inscribe the name of my God and the name of the city of my God, the new Jerusalem, which comes down out of heaven from my God, as well as my new name.
Meditation:
Imagine that you are at a coronation. You are abou to the crowned a queen or king. At the moment you are to be given the crown someone from the audience casually walks up and tries to take it away. You would stop that.
The Lord values endurance. Here The resurrected Lord himself says so. We need to remain dedicated to these things. The challenge is that the longer we remain close with the Lord, the we can be tempted to grow complacent. As we hold fast to His word, God will protect us from the trials and temptations of life. He will take our limited Strenth and make it sufficient to overcome all. He has left the door open for us.
Jesus offers the crown of his Kingdom to those who accept Him as their Lord and remain faithful to Him.
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit.
Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:
I invite you to sit in silence feeling patient for your own faults and trials.
Summarize what insights you have gained during this meditation and meditate and visualize positive change in your life:
This is a listener funded podcast at patreon.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Updates:
Final Question: In what ways do you thirst for God?
Final Thought:
Saint Fransis said preach the gospel at all times and if necessary, use words. One of the most powerful ways we can reflect the light and life of God is by imitating Christ in our life.
FIND ME ON: Download my free app: Recenter with Christ Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com Voicemail - (602) 888-3795 Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
528 When I Called, You Answered Me; You Greatly Emboldened Me, a Guided Christian Meditation on Psalm 138:1-3 with the Recenter With Christ app
The purpose of this podcast is to help you find more peace in your life and connect with the true source of peace, Jesus Christ.
Outline: Relaxation, Reading, Meditation, Prayer, Contemplation and Visualization.
Get into a place where you can sit comfortably and uninterrupted for about 20 minutes.You should hopefully not be driving or anything tensing or unrelaxing. If you feel comfortable to do so, I invite you to close your eyes. Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation: Breathe and direct your thoughts to connecting with God. Let your stomach be a balloon inflate, deflate.
Scripture for Meditation
NIV I will praise you, Lord, with all my heart; before the “gods” I will sing you praise. 2 I will now down toward your holy temple and will praise your name for you have so exalted your solemn decree that it surpasses your fame. 3 When I called, you answered me; you greatly emboldened me.
NRSVUE 1 Oh David. I give thanks Oh Lord with my whole heart; Before the gods I sing your praise; 2 I bow down toward your holy temple and give things to your Name for your steadfast love and faithfulness, for you have exalted above all things your name and your word above everything. 3 On the day I called, you answered me; you increased my strenth of soul.
Meditation:
God heads your prayer. He is mindful of you. With that said his answers don’t always come in our timing. Many prayers of David he seeks Gods answers and seems like he doesn’t get them. Yet David still recognized Gods love is unfailing.
He felt the sustaining Strenth of God to his soul. He was willing to declare and sing Gods praises before heavens and earth. Similarly we should seek the kind of clarity of relationship that is described here.
We should recognize Gods preeminent position at all times. Praise be to God and May our hearts be open to praising him at all times.
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit.
Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:
I invite you to sit in silence feeling patient for your own faults and trials.
Summarize what insights you have gained during this meditation and meditate and visualize positive change in your life:
This is a listener funded podcast at patreon.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Updates:
Final Question:
Final Thought:
FIND ME ON: Download my free app: Recenter with Christ Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com Voicemail - (602) 888-3795 Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
NASB 2 Be constantly alert, and strengthen the things that remain, which were about to die; for I have not found your deeds completed in the sight of My God. 3 So remember what you have received and heard; and keep it, and repent. Then if you are not alert, I will come like a thief, and you will not know at what hour I will come to you. 4 But you have a few people in Sardis who have not soiled their garments; and they will walk with Me in white, for they are worthy.
522 Strengthen The Things That Remain a Letter to Sardis, a Guided Christian Meditation on Revelation 3:1-5 with the Recenter With Christ app
The purpose of this podcast is to help you find more peace in your life and connect with the true source of peace, Jesus Christ.
Outline: Relaxation, Reading, Meditation, Prayer, Contemplation and Visualization.
Get into a place where you can sit comfortably and uninterrupted for about 20 minutes.You should hopefully not be driving or anything tensing or unrelaxing. If you feel comfortable to do so, I invite you to close your eyes. Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation: Breathe and direct your thoughts to connecting with God. Let your stomach be a balloon inflate, deflate.
Scripture for Meditation
Revelation 3
NASB 2 Be constantly alert, and strengthen the things that remain, which were about to die; for I have not found your deeds completed in the sight of My God. 3 So remember what you have received and heard; and keep it, and repent. Then if you are not alert, I will come like a thief, and you will not know at what hour I will come to you. 4 But you have a few people in Sardis who have not soiled their garments; and they will walk with Me in white, for they are worthy.
EHV 1 To the messenger of the church in Sardis write: The one who has the seven spirits of God and the seven stars says this: I know your works. You have a reputation for being alive, but you are dead. 2 Wake up, and strengthen what is left, which is about to die, for I have found that your works are not complete in the sight of my God. 3 Therefore remember what you received and heard. Hold on to it and repent! If you do not wake up, I will come like a thief, and you will not know at what time I will come upon you. 4 Yet you have a few names in Sardis, people who have not defiled their clothes. They will walk with me in white clothing, for they are worthy. 5 The one who is victorious in this way will be clothed in white clothing. I certainly will not erase his name from the Book of Life, and I will acknowledge his name before my Father and his angels.
Meditation:
Strengthen the things that remain. Many people throughout their lives have struggles in faith. They may battle doubts or fears. They may struggle with unanswered questions or a concept of God that makes it difficult to connect with God. This can lead to actions that are incongruent of what we would otherwise which further erodes our feeling of closeness to the Lord. Perhaps you have had such a struggle or know someone who is currently going through that. It reminds me of the man who asked Jesus to heal his daughter. Jesus asked him if he had faith and the man said Lord I believe bless thou my unbelief. Each of us has our human weakness. Sometimes we struggle with our mental health which can make these feelings of joy challenging. By treating that, in addition to our spiritual struggles we can find joy again.
There is no greater joy than to experience the loving spirit of God. This is the root of joy, happiness, and fulfillment. When that joy is missing from life it can lead to feelings of emptiness and purposelessness. Even in our moment of struggle, God does not cast us off. He wants to rekindle that relationship with us. He wants to build us back up. He wants us to feel that spirit again. Your clothes can be washed clean again. His grace is sufficient for you. You are not so uniquely lost that He cannot recover you. Spend time with God and direct your actions to what you know to be right and that raging fire of faith can return if you have had it before, or if you haven't had it, it can grow to become that. Find a group of people who have this as their goal and build each other up. Take him up on that offer and strengthen what remains of your faith.
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit.
Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:
I invite you to sit in silence feeling patient for your own faults and trials.
Summarize what insights you have gained during this meditation and meditate and visualize positive change in your life:
This is a listener funded podcast at patreon.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Updates:
Final Question: In what ways do you thirst for God?
Final Thought:
Saint Fransis said preach the gospel at all times and if necessary, use words. One of the most powerful ways we can reflect the light and life of God is by imitating Christ in our life.
FIND ME ON: Download my free app: Recenter with Christ Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com Voicemail - (602) 888-3795 Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
Scripture for Meditation
Revelation 2
ESV 19 “‘I know your works, your love and faith and service and patient endurance, and that your latter works exceed the first. 20 But I have this against you, that you tolerate that woman Jezebel, who calls herself a prophetess and is teaching and seducing my servants to practice sexual immorality and to eat food sacrificed to idols. 21 I gave her time to repent, but she refuses to repent of her sexual immorality. 22 Behold, I will throw her onto a sickbed, and those who commit adultery with her I will throw into great tribulation, unless they repent of her works,
FIND ME ON: Download my free app: Recenter with Christ Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com Voicemail - (602) 888-3795 Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
520 Do Not Tolerate Jezebel - Letter to Thyatira, a Guided Christian Meditation on Revelation 2:19-22 with the Recenter With Christ app
The purpose of this podcast is to help you find more peace in your life and connect with the true source of peace, Jesus Christ.
Outline: Relaxation, Reading, Meditation, Prayer, Contemplation and Visualization.
Get into a place where you can sit comfortably and uninterrupted for about 20 minutes.You should hopefully not be driving or anything tensing or unrelaxing. If you feel comfortable to do so, I invite you to close your eyes. Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation: Breathe and direct your thoughts to connecting with God. Let your stomach be a balloon inflate, deflate.
Scripture for Meditation
Revelation 2
ESV 19 “‘I know your works, your love and faith and service and patient endurance, and that your latter works exceed the first. 20 But I have this against you, that you tolerate that woman Jezebel, who calls herself a prophetess and is teaching and seducing my servants to practice sexual immorality and to eat food sacrificed to idols. 21 I gave her time to repent, but she refuses to repent of her sexual immorality. 22 Behold, I will throw her onto a sickbed, and those who commit adultery with her I will throw into great tribulation, unless they repent of her works,
Wycliffe Bible 19 I know thy works, and faith, and charity, and thy service [and service], and thy patience, and thy last works more than the former. 20 But I have against thee a few things; for thou sufferest the woman Jezebel, which saith that she is a prophetess [the which saith herself for to be a prophetess], to teach and deceive my servants, to do lechery, and to eat of things offered to idols. 21 And I gave to her time, that she should do penance [And I gave to her time, for to do penance], and she would not do penance of her fornication. 22 And lo! [Lo!] I send her into a bed, and they that do lechery with her shall be in most tribulation, but they do penance of her works [but they do penance of their works].
Meditation:
Scripture makes specific reference to sexual purity many times. Our modern culture seems intent on upsetting any form of purity as an antiquated idea, especially sexual purity As though only those who are from the backward past would care about maintaining purity. Our bodies were fearfully and wonderfully made. They have within them the ability to participate with God in the creation of life. This is an amazing and sacred thing. It seems that the world is intent on taking this sacred power and turning it into a toy exclusively for personal gratification. This path has many negative consequences, as any time we made vulgar the things which are sacred. We should not pretend that these sacred powers are somehow evil, just because their misuse is discouraged in scripture.
I think another trap of the enemy is to take natural desires for physical pleasure and make us feel shameful for it. I don't see in scripture God condemning involuntary desires or urges. We should not conceded that all this desire is a thing of the devil. God encourages us to manage these natural desires with His help. Clearly the actions of using our sexuality outside of the natural bonds of marriage are against what the scriptures say. Jesus additionally said not to let our thoughts linger on violations of that purity and to not commit adultery in thought.
We should not allow pleasure to become an idol that we worship any more than we should give Satan dominion over how we think about pleasure. As we discipline our minds we can be more sensitive to the sacred things of God. God desires us to live happy and fulfilled lives as we follow God’s word. In all of this God loves you and will reconcile us to Him. Turn to God in your life.
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit.
Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:
I invite you to sit in silence feeling patient for your own faults and trials.
Summarize what insights you have gained during this meditation and meditate and visualize positive change in your life:
This is a listener funded podcast at patreon.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Updates:
Final Question: In what ways do you thirst for God?
Final Thought:
Saint Fransis said preach the gospel at all times and if necessary, use words. One of the most powerful ways we can reflect the light and life of God is by imitating Christ in our life.
FIND ME ON: Download my free app: Recenter with Christ Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com Voicemail - (602) 888-3795 Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
518 You Hold Firm To My Name - Letter to Pergamos, a Guided Christian Meditation on Revelation 2:13-16 with the Recenter With Christ app
The purpose of this podcast is to help you find more peace in your life and connect with the true source of peace, Jesus Christ.
Outline: Relaxation, Reading, Meditation, Prayer, Contemplation and Visualization.
Get into a place where you can sit comfortably and uninterrupted for about 20 minutes.You should hopefully not be driving or anything tensing or unrelaxing. If you feel comfortable to do so, I invite you to close your eyes. Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation: Breathe and direct your thoughts to connecting with God. Let your stomach be a balloon inflate, deflate.
Scripture for Meditation
Revelation 2
KJV 13 I know thy works, and where thou dwellest, even where Satan's seat is: and thou holdest fast my name, and hast not denied my faith, even in those days wherein Antipas was my faithful martyr, who was slain among you, where Satan dwelleth. 14 But I have a few things against thee, because thou hast there them that hold the doctrine of Balaam, who taught Balac to cast a stumblingblock before the children of Israel, to eat things sacrificed unto idols, and to commit fornication. 15 So hast thou also them that hold the doctrine of the Nicolaitanes, which thing I hate. 16 Repent; or else I will come unto thee quickly, and will fight against them with the sword of my mouth.
NASB 13 ‘I know where you dwell, where Satan’s throne is; and you hold firmly to My name, and did not deny My faith even in the days of Antipas, My witness, My faithful one, who was killed among you, where Satan dwells. 14 But I have a few things against you, because you have some there who hold the teaching of Balaam, who kept teaching Balak to put a stumbling block before the sons of Israel, to eat things sacrificed to idols and to commit sexual immorality. 15 So you too, have some who in the same way hold to the teaching of the Nicolaitans. 16 Therefore repent; or else I am coming to you quickly, and I will wage war against them with the sword of My mouth.
Meditation:
For much of scripture there are people who seem to try to adhere to the true worship of God and also go along with the worship of other things and false Gods. This happens all throughout the Old Testament and even here in the New Testament. This was so important that it made the list of the Ten Commandments in fact taken apart this represents the first and second commandment.
We often look at these people as though they are silly and how backwards they are yet in our time this is just as common. There are plenty of things, groups that can represent a kind of idol in our lives. Do we go along with the idols of our time. Do we bow to them even if it is just to get along?
It might not be in obvious ways. It could be certain sins or moral stances that are at odds with God. It might be recreational activity that is positive but we allow to take preeminence in our life. Pause for a moment and consider if there are things you would like to reevaluate in light of this.
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit.
Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:
I invite you to sit in silence feeling patient for your own faults and trials.
Summarize what insights you have gained during this meditation and meditate and visualize positive change in your life:
This is a listener funded podcast at patreon.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Updates:
Final Question: In what ways do you thirst for God?
Final Thought:
Saint Fransis said preach the gospel at all times and if necessary, use words. One of the most powerful ways we can reflect the light and life of God is by imitating Christ in our life.
FIND ME ON: Download my free app: Recenter with Christ Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com Voicemail - (602) 888-3795 Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
Scripture for Meditation
Revelation 2
ESV 9 “‘I know your tribulation and your poverty (but you are rich) and the slander[a] of those who say that they are Jews and are not, but are a synagogue of Satan. 10 Do not fear what you are about to suffer. Behold, the devil is about to throw some of you into prison, that you may be tested, and for ten days you will have tribulation. Be faithful unto death, and I will give you the crown of life. 11 He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches. The one who conquers will not be hurt by the second death.’
FIND ME ON: Download my free app: Recenter with Christ Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com Voicemail - (602) 888-3795 Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
516 I Will Give You The Crown Of Life - Letter to Smyrna, a Guided Christian Meditation on Revelation 2:9-11 with the Recenter With Christ app
The purpose of this podcast is to help you find more peace in your life and connect with the true source of peace, Jesus Christ.
Outline: Relaxation, Reading, Meditation, Prayer, Contemplation and Visualization.
Get into a place where you can sit comfortably and uninterrupted for about 20 minutes.You should hopefully not be driving or anything tensing or unrelaxing. If you feel comfortable to do so, I invite you to close your eyes. Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation: Breathe and direct your thoughts to connecting with God. Let your stomach be a balloon inflate, deflate.
Scripture for Meditation
Revelation 2
ESV 9 “‘I know your tribulation and your poverty (but you are rich) and the slander[a] of those who say that they are Jews and are not, but are a synagogue of Satan. 10 Do not fear what you are about to suffer. Behold, the devil is about to throw some of you into prison, that you may be tested, and for ten days you will have tribulation. Be faithful unto death, and I will give you the crown of life. 11 He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches. The one who conquers will not be hurt by the second death.’
NABRE 9 “I know your tribulation and poverty, but you are rich. I know the slander of those who claim to be Jews and are not, but rather are members of the assembly of Satan. 10 Do not be afraid of anything that you are going to suffer. Indeed, the devil will throw some of you into prison, that you may be tested, and you will face an ordeal for ten days. Remain faithful until death, and I will give you the crown of life. 11 “‘“Whoever has ears ought to hear what the Spirit says to the churches. The victor shall not be harmed by the second death.”’
Meditation:
The message he gives to Smyrna is a difficult one. He tells them to get ready for hardship. Remember that this vision is of Jesus himself clothed in white holding the angels of the seven churches in his hand. He tells them they will suffer hardship but don’t fear it. This is hard to do. He foretells prison and suffering even unto death. The struggle is that we feel that if God is all powerful then he will ensure that the good are saved from prison. We sometimes even say that we understand that sometimes bad things happen to the righteous but when bad things happen to us we still struggle with it. This is a natural human response.
The all powerful risen Lord did not say he would cause these bad things to happen. He did however say he would give them a crown of life if they were faithful unto death. The struggle is that none of us fully understand how wonderful the crown of life is. We have no context for it. I remember embarrassing moments for me when I was a kid and I chuckle at them. Who is to say how we will see the difficulties of this life in one million years from now as we sit surrounded by love crowned with life
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit.
Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:
I invite you to sit in silence feeling patient for your own faults and trials.
Summarize what insights you have gained during this meditation and meditate and visualize positive change in your life:
This is a listener funded podcast at patreon.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Updates:
Final Question: In what ways do you thirst for God?
Final Thought:
Saint Fransis said preach the gospel at all times and if necessary, use words. One of the most powerful ways we can reflect the light and life of God is by imitating Christ in our life.
FIND ME ON: Download my free app: Recenter with Christ Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com Voicemail - (602) 888-3795 Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
Scripture for Meditation
Revelation 2
NIV 2 I know your deeds, your hard work and your perseverance. I know that you cannot tolerate wicked people, that you have tested those who claim to be apostles but are not, and have found them false. 3 You have persevered and have endured hardships for my name, and have not grown weary. 4 Yet I hold this against you: You have forsaken the love you had at first. 5 Consider how far you have fallen! Repent and do the things you did at first. If you do not repent, I will come to you and remove your lampstand from its place.
FIND ME ON: Download my free app: Recenter with Christ Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com Voicemail - (602) 888-3795 Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
514 Remember Your First Love - Letter to Ephesus, a Guided Christian Meditation on Revelation 2:2-5 with the Recenter With Christ app
The purpose of this podcast is to help you find more peace in your life and connect with the true source of peace, Jesus Christ.
Outline: Relaxation, Reading, Meditation, Prayer, Contemplation and Visualization.
Get into a place where you can sit comfortably and uninterrupted for about 20 minutes.You should hopefully not be driving or anything tensing or unrelaxing. If you feel comfortable to do so, I invite you to close your eyes. Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation: Breathe and direct your thoughts to connecting with God. Let your stomach be a balloon inflate, deflate.
Scripture for Meditation
Revelation 2
NIV 2 I know your deeds, your hard work and your perseverance. I know that you cannot tolerate wicked people, that you have tested those who claim to be apostles but are not, and have found them false. 3 You have persevered and have endured hardships for my name, and have not grown weary. 4 Yet I hold this against you: You have forsaken the love you had at first. 5 Consider how far you have fallen! Repent and do the things you did at first. If you do not repent, I will come to you and remove your lampstand from its place.
KJV 2 I know thy works, and thy labour, and thy patience, and how thou canst not bear them which are evil: and thou hast tried them which say they are apostles, and are not, and hast found them liars: 3 And hast borne, and hast patience, and for my name's sake hast laboured, and hast not fainted. 4 Nevertheless I have somewhat against thee, because thou hast left thy first love. 5 Remember therefore from whence thou art fallen, and repent, and do the first works; or else I will come unto thee quickly, and will remove thy candlestick out of his place, except thou repent.
Meditation:
Remember your first love. What a poetic and beautiful way for God to call these people to repentance. He points out things they are attempting to do good for him but then he reminds them to repent. In our modern society people have little patience for repentance. It is not favorable in or out of the church. People often wish to be forgiven of their wrong-doing but true repentance is often overlooked. As God’s people we should embrace opportunities to repent. There are times when, even as faithful followers of Christ, that we will fail to live up to the commands of Jesus to go and sin no more.
When we learn to embrace repentance as an act of love it changes the experience. We can see repentance as joyfully giving up things that are separate from God and embracing His love and peace, which He offers. Here Jesus demands the people repent and we can take that literally that he wants them to return to their first Love. When we change the frame of repentance to see how Christ offers it, it become sweet and joyous.
Because of the sacrifice of Jesus Christ repentance does not need to be an emotional flogging where we are whipped bloody for our wrongdoing. It can be a time when we reconcile our faults with God’s desires and return to His love. Ponder perhaps in what areas you can return to that Love and repent.
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit.
Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:
I invite you to sit in silence feeling patient for your own faults and trials.
Summarize what insights you have gained during this meditation and meditate and visualize positive change in your life:
This is a listener funded podcast at patreon.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Updates:
Final Question: In what ways do you thirst for God?
Final Thought:
Saint Fransis said preach the gospel at all times and if necessary, use words. One of the most powerful ways we can reflect the light and life of God is by imitating Christ in our life.
FIND ME ON: Download my free app: Recenter with Christ Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com Voicemail - (602) 888-3795 Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
Revelation 1
NIV 16 In his right hand he held seven stars, and coming out of his mouth was a sharp, double-edged sword. His face was like the sun shining in all its brilliance. 17 When I saw him, I fell at his feet as though dead. Then he placed his right hand on me and said: “Do not be afraid. I am the First and the Last. 18 I am the Living One; I was dead, and now look, I am alive for ever and ever! And I hold the keys of death and Hades. 19 “Write, therefore, what you have seen, what is now and what will take place later. 20 The mystery of the seven stars that you saw in my right hand and of the seven golden lampstands is this: The seven stars are the angels[e] of the seven churches, and the seven lampstands are the seven churches.
FIND ME ON: Download my free app: Recenter with Christ Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com Voicemail - (602) 888-3795 Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
Galatians 3
NKJV 10 For as many as are of the works of the law are under the curse; for it is written, “Cursed is everyone who does not continue in all things which are written in the book of the law, to do them.” 11 But that no one is [d]justified by the law in the sight of God is evident, for “the just shall live by faith.” 12 Yet the law is not of faith, but “the man who does them shall live by them.” 13 Christ has redeemed us from the curse of the law, having become a curse for us (for it is written, “Cursed is everyone who hangs on a tree”), 14 that the blessing of Abraham might come upon the Gentiles in Christ Jesus, that we might receive the promise of the Spirit through faith.
FIND ME ON: Download my free app: Recenter with Christ Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com Voicemail - (602) 888-3795 Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
508 Christ Redeemed Us From The Curse Of The Law, a Guided Christian Meditation on Galatians 3:10-14 with the Recenter With Christ app
The purpose of this podcast is to help you find more peace in your life and connect with the true source of peace, Jesus Christ.
Outline: Relaxation, Reading, Meditation, Prayer, Contemplation and Visualization.
Get into a place where you can sit comfortably and uninterrupted for about 20 minutes.You should hopefully not be driving or anything tensing or unrelaxing. If you feel comfortable to do so, I invite you to close your eyes. Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation: Breathe and direct your thoughts to connecting with God. Let your stomach be a balloon inflate, deflate.
Galatians 3
NKJV 10 For as many as are of the works of the law are under the curse; for it is written, “Cursed is everyone who does not continue in all things which are written in the book of the law, to do them.” 11 But that no one is [d]justified by the law in the sight of God is evident, for “the just shall live by faith.” 12 Yet the law is not of faith, but “the man who does them shall live by them.” 13 Christ has redeemed us from the curse of the law, having become a curse for us (for it is written, “Cursed is everyone who hangs on a tree”), 14 that the blessing of Abraham might come upon the Gentiles in Christ Jesus, that we might receive the promise of the Spirit through faith.
ESV 10 For all who rely on works of the law are under a curse; for it is written, “Cursed be everyone who does not abide by all things written in the Book of the Law, and do them.” 11 Now it is evident that no one is justified before God by the law, for “The righteous shall live by faith.” 12 But the law is not of faith, rather “The one who does them shall live by them.” 13 Christ redeemed us from the curse of the law by becoming a curse for us—for it is written, “Cursed is everyone who is hanged on a tree”— 14 so that in Christ Jesus the blessing of Abraham might come to the Gentiles, so that we might receive the promised Spirit through faith.
Meditation:
they even feel cursed to a degree or another because of their hardships. I think this represents a large misunderstanding of what it is that curses us. People in these situations look at the conditions of their life an seek to justify why life feels harder than they should. They then backwards engineer that God must be smiting them because he doesn’t like them or is mad at them. They then feel that this is the punishment.
The fuller story is that each of us are in need in the most profound sense from the true curse with is our own sin. Not just some large sin that others may not know about or understand. But that thousands of sins, the thousands of times when our will has deviated from God’s. We break His law more than we even realize. So when people feel cursed by God in some sense there is a justification for that. The challenge is that this is not the full story.
The truth is in some ways we have all cursed ourselves through the choices we have made and would continue making. Our sins would keep us from God. This curse is not due to some capricious nature of God, but it is more a reflection of our own inconsistency and fault. The glorious good news is that this curse is overcome in Christ. So are we cursed when things go wrong? No, because God offers redemption from the curse that would have otherwise been ours.
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit.
Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:
I invite you to sit in silence feeling patient for your own faults and trials.
Summarize what insights you have gained during this meditation and meditate and visualize positive change in your life:
This is a listener funded podcast at patreon.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Updates:
Final Question: In what ways do you thirst for God?
Final Thought:
Saint Fransis said preach the gospel at all times and if necessary, use words. One of the most powerful ways we can reflect the light and life of God is by imitating Christ in our life.
FIND ME ON: Download my free app: Recenter with Christ Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com Voicemail - (602) 888-3795 Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
Bible verses for Meditation:
Galatians 3:2-5 NIV 3 You foolish Galatians! Who has bewitched you? Before your very eyes Jesus Christ was clearly portrayed as crucified. 2 I would like to learn just one thing from you: Did you receive the Spirit by the works of the law, or by believing what you heard? 3 Are you so foolish? After beginning by means of the Spirit, are you now trying to finish by means of the flesh? 4 Have you experienced[b] so much in vain—if it really was in vain? 5 So again I ask, does God give you his Spirit and work miracles among you by the works of the law, or by your believing what you heard?
FIND ME ON: Download my free app: Recenter with Christ Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com Voicemail - (602) 888-3795 Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
504 Obey The Truth, a Guided Christian Meditation on Galatians 3:2-5 with the Recenter With Christ app
The purpose of this podcast is to help you find more peace in your life and connect with the true source of peace, Jesus Christ.
Outline: Relaxation, Reading, Meditation, Prayer, Contemplation and Visualization.
Get into a place where you can sit comfortably and uninterrupted for about 20 minutes.You should hopefully not be driving or anything tensing or unrelaxing. If you feel comfortable to do so, I invite you to close your eyes. Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation: Breathe and direct your thoughts to connecting with God. Let your stomach be a balloon inflate, deflate.
Bible verses for Meditation:
Galatians 3:2-5 NIV 3 You foolish Galatians! Who has bewitched you? Before your very eyes Jesus Christ was clearly portrayed as crucified. 2 I would like to learn just one thing from you: Did you receive the Spirit by the works of the law, or by believing what you heard? 3 Are you so foolish? After beginning by means of the Spirit, are you now trying to finish by means of the flesh? 4 Have you experienced[b] so much in vain—if it really was in vain? 5 So again I ask, does God give you his Spirit and work miracles among you by the works of the law, or by your believing what you heard?
NASB 2 This is the only thing I want to find out from you: did you receive the Spirit by works of the Law, or by hearing with faith? 3 Are you so foolish? Having begun by the Spirit, are you now being perfected by the flesh? 4 Did you suffer so many things in vain—if indeed it was in vain? 5 So then, does He who provides you with the Spirit and works miracles among you, do it by works of the Law, or by hearing with faith
Meditation:
Have you suffered these things in vain? Do we miss the purposes God has in the things that happen in our life? This can happen when we don’t understand the purposes of God. For example if we receive Jesus but then act as though we don’t know him and dont trust Jesus for our salvation. Are we perfected by our efforts to try to do good? Does the law justify us or sanctify us? It is interaction with God’s spirit that guides us back to Him.
Christ was crucified not because that was an interesting side story in us saving ourselves but because it is the necessary step to allow us to overcome sin. He offers that to us. If you heart is wallowed up in your own weakness and you think you are not good enough for God, you miss the offer that he gave you. Of course you are not good enough for God. None of us are. And yet for His profound love for you and me, he made a way for us to overcome.
You do not need to choose between denial of your sins or wallowing eternally in sin. You can choose the path Christ offers. See your sin, then see your need for help to get out of the mess, then bring it to the foot of Jesus and profess your need for repentance and then live in the confidence that this is enough and live in the the spirit of Love that God offers.
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit.
Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:
I invite you to sit in silence feeling patient for your own faults and trials.
Summarize what insights you have gained during this meditation and meditate and visualize positive change in your life:
This is a listener funded podcast at patreon.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Updates:
Final Question: In what ways do you thirst for God?
Final Thought:
Saint Fransis said preach the gospel at all times and if necessary, use words. One of the most powerful ways we can reflect the light and life of God is by imitating Christ in our life.
FIND ME ON: Download my free app: Recenter with Christ Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com Voicemail - (602) 888-3795 Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
Psalms 147 NABRE 15 He sends his command to earth; his word runs swiftly! 16 Thus he makes the snow like wool, and spreads the frost like ash; 17 He disperses hail like crumbs. Who can withstand his cold? 18 Yet when again he issues his command, it melts them; he raises his winds and the waters flow. 19 He proclaims his word to Jacob, his statutes and laws to Israel. 20 He has not done this for any other nation; of such laws they know nothing. Hallelujah!
Bible verses for Meditation:
Psalms 147 NABRE 15 He sends his command to earth; his word runs swiftly! 16 Thus he makes the snow like wool, and spreads the frost like ash; 17 He disperses hail like crumbs. Who can withstand his cold? 18 Yet when again he issues his command, it melts them; he raises his winds and the waters flow. 19 He proclaims his word to Jacob, his statutes and laws to Israel. 20 He has not done this for any other nation; of such laws they know nothing. Hallelujah!
NIV He sends his command to the earth; his word runs swiftly. 16 He spreads the snow like wool and scatters the frost like ashes. 17 He hurls down his hail like pebbles. Who can withstand his icy blast? 18 He sends his word and melts them; he stirs up his breezes, and the waters flow.
19 He has revealed his word to Jacob, his laws and decrees to Israel. 20 He has done this for no other nation; they do not know his laws. Praise the Lord.
Meditation:
God is the ultimate commander. He is the ideal leader, president, king or any other title. His word can cross the universe faster than light. He is not bound by our understanding of the laws of nature. He freezes the earth or melts it. He commands the elements and they obey. With all the power he controls he presents His word to us. He tells us what he wants from us. He desires our faithfulness, He desires our hope in His grace. Imagine God as the most perfect loving ruler who has invited us to his table to eat.
He can control mountains and storms and he patiently asks us to follow. His restraint in dealing with us disobedient humans is a testament to His love and goodness. He invites you to follow Him. Ponder in this moment how willing are you to follow God’s commands? Are you willing to accept Him as your sovereign ruler? He is our Savior and our Lord. He loves and he demands. He asks and he answers.
God’s love for your is profound. Not a begrudging love, but an overflowing one. One not of desperation but of power and grace. He loves us. He loves you. Praise be to God for the gift of his unmatched love.
Happy 500th
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit.
Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:
I invite you to sit in silence feeling patient for your own faults and trials.
Summarize what insights you have gained during this meditation and meditate and visualize positive change in your life:
This is a listener funded podcast at patreon.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Updates:
Final Question: In what ways do you thirst for God?
Final Thought:
Saint Fransis said preach the gospel at all times and if necessary, use words. One of the most powerful ways we can reflect the light and life of God is by imitating Christ in our life.
FIND ME ON: Download my free app: Recenter with Christ Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com Voicemail - (602) 888-3795 Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
NRSVA 12 Praise the Lord, O Jerusalem! Praise your God, O Zion! 13 For he strengthens the bars of your gates; he blesses your children within you. 14 He makes peace in your borders; he fills you with the finest of the wheat.
Psalms 147
NIVUK 7 Sing to the Lord with grateful praise; make music to our God on the harp. 8 He covers the sky with clouds; he supplies the earth with rain and makes grass grow on the hills. 9 He provides food for the cattle and for the young ravens when they call. 10 His pleasure is not in the strength of the horse, nor his delight in the legs of the warrior; 11 the Lord delights in those who fear him, who put their hope in his unfailing love.
498 Hope In His Unfailing Love is the Delight of the Lord, a Guided Christian Meditation on Psalms 147:7-11 with the Recenter With Christ app
The purpose of this podcast is to help you find more peace in your life and connect with the true source of peace, Jesus Christ.
Outline: Relaxation, Reading, Meditation, Prayer, Contemplation and Visualization.
Get into a place where you can sit comfortably and uninterrupted for about 20 minutes.You should hopefully not be driving or anything tensing or unrelaxing. If you feel comfortable to do so, I invite you to close your eyes. Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation: Breathe and direct your thoughts to connecting with God. Let your stomach be a balloon inflate, deflate.
Bible verses for Meditation:
Psalms 147
NIVUK 7 Sing to the Lord with grateful praise; make music to our God on the harp. 8 He covers the sky with clouds; he supplies the earth with rain and makes grass grow on the hills. 9 He provides food for the cattle and for the young ravens when they call. 10 His pleasure is not in the strength of the horse, nor his delight in the legs of the warrior; 11 the Lord delights in those who fear him, who put their hope in his unfailing love.
NRSVA 7 Sing to the Lord with thanksgiving; make melody to our God on the lyre. 8 He covers the heavens with clouds, prepares rain for the earth, makes grass grow on the hills. 9 He gives to the animals their food, and to the young ravens when they cry. 10 His delight is not in the strength of the horse, nor his pleasure in the speed of a runner;[a] 11 but the Lord takes pleasure in those who fear him, in those who hope in his steadfast love.
Meditation:
Nature is inspiring with its beauty. I often look at sunsets or mountains and rejoice in the beauty of the earth God created. Scientific studies show that as humans spend time in nature it is healing for them both biochemically and emotionally. God’s creation is amazing and glorious. Ive had the chance to ride horses a few times and spend time looking at them face to face. They are glorious creatures with intuitive hearts. Yet as we picture the most beautiful scene in nature, this is not why God created the earth. He did not create the earth to impress himself. God doesn’t care about horsepower. He is not impressed by the things we can build and our strength. As we see and ant moving a spec of food, that is not something that rivals our power and yet the chasm between us and God is far wider than that.
What does God delight in? He takes pleasure in them that hope in his mercy and place their faith in Him. Those who have appropriate respect and adoration for God. He created us with the understanding that we would have the weaknesses that we do, yet he did anyway. He knew there would be hope for us if we came to Him. He delights in helping us. He rejoices in seeing us draw near to Him. He created us to learn how to love Him and to learn to trust Him.
The next time you see a beautiful scene from nature perhaps give a thankful prayer to God giving gratitude for it and recommit to show him what he finds pleasing, a soul who fears and place your hope in His mercy.
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit.
Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:
I invite you to sit in silence feeling patient for your own faults and trials.
Summarize what insights you have gained during this meditation and meditate and visualize positive change in your life:
This is a listener funded podcast at patreon.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Updates:
Final Question: In what ways do you thirst for God?
Final Thought:
Saint Fransis said preach the gospel at all times and if necessary, use words. One of the most powerful ways we can reflect the light and life of God is by imitating Christ in our life.
FIND ME ON: Download my free app: Recenter with Christ Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com Voicemail - (602) 888-3795 Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
Psalms 147
NRSVCE 4 He determines the number of the stars; he gives to all of them their names. 5 Great is our Lord, and abundant in power; his understanding is beyond measure. 6 The Lord lifts up the downtrodden; he casts the wicked to the ground.
FIND ME ON: Download my free app: Recenter with Christ Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com Voicemail - (602) 888-3795 Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
NIV
1 Praise the Lord.
How good it is to sing praises to our God,
how pleasant and fitting to praise him!
2 The Lord builds up Jerusalem;
he gathers the exiles of Israel.
3 He heals the brokenhearted
and binds up their wounds.
FIND ME ON:
Download my free app: Recenter with Christ
Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
Voicemail - (602) 888-3795
Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com
Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast
Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast
Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
NABRE
19 And this is the testimony of John. When the Jews from Jerusalem sent priests and Levites [to him] to ask him, “Who are you?” 20 he admitted and did not deny it, but admitted, “I am not the Messiah.” 21 So they asked him, “What are you then? Are you Elijah?” And he said, “I am not.” “Are you the Prophet?” He answered, “No.” 22 So they said to him, “Who are you, so we can give an answer to those who sent us? What do you have to say for yourself?” 23 He said:
“I am ‘the voice of one crying out in the desert,
“Make straight the way of the Lord,”’
as Isaiah the prophet said.”
FIND ME ON:
Download my free app: Recenter with Christ
Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
Voicemail - (602) 888-3795
Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com
Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast
Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast
Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
492 I Am The Voice of One Calling Out In The Wilderness, a Guided Christian Meditation on John 1:19-23 with the Recenter With Christ app
The purpose of this podcast is to help you find more peace in your life and connect with the true source of peace, Jesus Christ.
Outline: Relaxation, Reading, Meditation, Prayer, Contemplation and Visualization.
Get into a place where you can sit comfortably and uninterrupted for about 20 minutes.You should hopefully not be driving or anything tensing or unrelaxing. If you feel comfortable to do so, I invite you to close your eyes.
Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation:
Breathe and direct your thoughts to connecting with God. Let your stomach be a balloon inflate, deflate.
Bible verses for Meditation:
NABRE
19 And this is the testimony of John. When the Jews from Jerusalem sent priests and Levites [to him] to ask him, “Who are you?” 20 he admitted and did not deny it, but admitted, “I am not the Messiah.” 21 So they asked him, “What are you then? Are you Elijah?” And he said, “I am not.” “Are you the Prophet?” He answered, “No.” 22 So they said to him, “Who are you, so we can give an answer to those who sent us? What do you have to say for yourself?” 23 He said:
“I am ‘the voice of one crying out in the desert,
“Make straight the way of the Lord,”’
as Isaiah the prophet said.”
ESV
19 And this is the testimony of John, when the Jews sent priests and Levites from Jerusalem to ask him, “Who are you?” 20 He confessed, and did not deny, but confessed, “I am not the Christ.” 21 And they asked him, “What then? Are you Elijah?” He said, “I am not.” “Are you the Prophet?” And he answered, “No.” 22 So they said to him, “Who are you? We need to give an answer to those who sent us. What do you say about yourself?” 23 He said, “I am the voice of one crying out in the wilderness, ‘Make straight the way of the Lord,’ as the prophet Isaiah said.”
Meditation:
John is an amazing example to me. Not once does he take glory for himself. Not once does he claim to be more important than he is. He recognizes the true power that is though Jesus Christ. He realizes what his role is in the great eternal struggle and he rejoices in it. He rejoices in the Lord. The need for his humility does not appear to cause him to hate himself but to value God highly. It is not necessary for him to diminish the importance of his work or the things God is able to do through him.
We can take an example from John. He rejected the pure light of God, the light of Christ. He shows us how we can take that light and place it on a candlestick. We can both rejoice in God, give gratitude for Him and what He does in our lives, and recognize the good work he does for us and through us. We can do this without taking pride into our hearts or making things about us. The clarion call of the world is that we should seek what is good for us, but the irony is that as we learn to work with God's Spirit we have less of a need to find our value outside of God’s love.
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit.
Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:
I invite you to sit in silence feeling patient for your own faults and trials.
Summarize what insights you have gained during this meditation and meditate and visualize positive change in your life:
This is a listener funded podcast at patreon.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Updates:
Final Question: In what ways do you thirst for God?
Final Thought:
Saint Fransis said preach the gospel at all times and if necessary, use words. One of the most powerful ways we can reflect the light and life of God is by imitating Christ in our life.
FIND ME ON:
Download my free app: Recenter with Christ
Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
Voicemail - (602) 888-3795
Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com
Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast
Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast
Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
John 1
NIV
14 The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us. We have seen his glory, the glory of the one and only Son, who came from the Father, full of grace and truth.
15 (John testified concerning him. He cried out, saying, “This is the one I spoke about when I said, ‘He who comes after me has surpassed me because he was before me.’”) 16 Out of his fullness we have all received grace in place of grace already given. 17 For the law was given through Moses; grace and truth came through Jesus Christ. 18 No one has ever seen God, but the one and only Son, who is himself God and is in closest relationship with the Father, has made him known.
FIND ME ON:
Download my free app: Recenter with Christ
Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
Voicemail - (602) 888-3795
Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com
Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast
Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast
Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
John 1
NIV
14 The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us. We have seen his glory, the glory of the one and only Son, who came from the Father, full of grace and truth.
15 (John testified concerning him. He cried out, saying, “This is the one I spoke about when I said, ‘He who comes after me has surpassed me because he was before me.’”) 16 Out of his fullness we have all received grace in place of grace already given. 17 For the law was given through Moses; grace and truth came through Jesus Christ. 18 No one has ever seen God, but the one and only Son, who is himself God and is in closest relationship with the Father, has made him known.
FIND ME ON:
Download my free app: Recenter with Christ
Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
Voicemail - (602) 888-3795
Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com
Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast
Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast
Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
490 The World Became Flesh, a Guided Christian Meditation on John 1:14-18 with the Recenter With Christ app
The purpose of this podcast is to help you find more peace in your life and connect with the true source of peace, Jesus Christ.
Outline: Relaxation, Reading, Meditation, Prayer, Contemplation and Visualization.
Get into a place where you can sit comfortably and uninterrupted for about 20 minutes.You should hopefully not be driving or anything tensing or unrelaxing. If you feel comfortable to do so, I invite you to close your eyes.
Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation:
Breathe and direct your thoughts to connecting with God. Let your stomach be a balloon inflate, deflate.
Bible verses for Meditation:
John 1
NIV
14 The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us. We have seen his glory, the glory of the one and only Son, who came from the Father, full of grace and truth.
15 (John testified concerning him. He cried out, saying, “This is the one I spoke about when I said, ‘He who comes after me has surpassed me because he was before me.’”) 16 Out of his fullness we have all received grace in place of grace already given. 17 For the law was given through Moses; grace and truth came through Jesus Christ. 18 No one has ever seen God, but the one and only Son, who is himself God and is in closest relationship with the Father, has made him known.
NASB
14 And the Word became flesh, and dwelt among us; and we saw His glory, glory as of the only Son from the Father, full of grace and truth. 15 John *testified about Him and called out, saying, “This was He of whom I said, ‘He who is coming after me has proved to be my superior, because He existed before me.’” 16 For of His fullness we have all received, and grace upon grace. 17 For the Law was given through Moses; grace and truth were realized through Jesus Christ. 18 No one has seen God at any time; God the only Son, who is in the arms of the Father, He has explained Him.
Meditation:
The Word became flesh. The creator, the creative force of the universe, had been with them in human form. John was at the mount of transfiguration and saw the Glory of Christ, in whatever form He was able to show that glory to humans. There were so many prophecies about His coming. There ware so many miracles shown. Sit now in the assurance that the God has been moving things from the beginning. From everlasting to everlasting. Numbers break down when compared to the immensity of what it means for the Word, which was before the universe was, to have walked on earth. He who was in the bosom of the father.
Yet this was not a mere interesting fact or a vacation on Jesus’s part. It was to do something He very much intended to do since the beginning. He gave his grace to us. He gave the law through Moses, knowing that it would be superseded by the fullness of His Gospel. Ponder for a moment what it means to receive of His fulness. Have you received of His fullness?
During this meditation ponder and ask the Lord to know what you can do to recognize or receive that fullness.
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit.
Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:
I invite you to sit in silence feeling patient for your own faults and trials.
Summarize what insights you have gained during this meditation and meditate and visualize positive change in your life:
This is a listener funded podcast at patreon.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Updates:
Final Question: In what ways do you thirst for God?
Final Thought:
Saint Fransis said preach the gospel at all times and if necessary, use words. One of the most powerful ways we can reflect the light and life of God is by imitating Christ in our life.
FIND ME ON:
Download my free app: Recenter with Christ
Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
Voicemail - (602) 888-3795
Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com
Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast
Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast
Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
490 The World Became Flesh, a Guided Christian Meditation on John 1:14-18 with the Recenter With Christ app
The purpose of this podcast is to help you find more peace in your life and connect with the true source of peace, Jesus Christ.
Outline: Relaxation, Reading, Meditation, Prayer, Contemplation and Visualization.
Get into a place where you can sit comfortably and uninterrupted for about 20 minutes.You should hopefully not be driving or anything tensing or unrelaxing. If you feel comfortable to do so, I invite you to close your eyes.
Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation:
Breathe and direct your thoughts to connecting with God. Let your stomach be a balloon inflate, deflate.
Bible verses for Meditation:
John 1
NIV
14 The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us. We have seen his glory, the glory of the one and only Son, who came from the Father, full of grace and truth.
15 (John testified concerning him. He cried out, saying, “This is the one I spoke about when I said, ‘He who comes after me has surpassed me because he was before me.’”) 16 Out of his fullness we have all received grace in place of grace already given. 17 For the law was given through Moses; grace and truth came through Jesus Christ. 18 No one has ever seen God, but the one and only Son, who is himself God and is in closest relationship with the Father, has made him known.
NASB
14 And the Word became flesh, and dwelt among us; and we saw His glory, glory as of the only Son from the Father, full of grace and truth. 15 John *testified about Him and called out, saying, “This was He of whom I said, ‘He who is coming after me has proved to be my superior, because He existed before me.’” 16 For of His fullness we have all received, and grace upon grace. 17 For the Law was given through Moses; grace and truth were realized through Jesus Christ. 18 No one has seen God at any time; God the only Son, who is in the arms of the Father, He has explained Him.
Meditation:
The Word became flesh. The creator, the creative force of the universe, had been with them in human form. John was at the mount of transfiguration and saw the Glory of Christ, in whatever form He was able to show that glory to humans. There were so many prophecies about His coming. There ware so many miracles shown. Sit now in the assurance that the God has been moving things from the beginning. From everlasting to everlasting. Numbers break down when compared to the immensity of what it means for the Word, which was before the universe was, to have walked on earth. He who was in the bosom of the father.
Yet this was not a mere interesting fact or a vacation on Jesus’s part. It was to do something He very much intended to do since the beginning. He gave his grace to us. He gave the law through Moses, knowing that it would be superseded by the fullness of His Gospel. Ponder for a moment what it means to receive of His fulness. Have you received of His fullness?
During this meditation ponder and ask the Lord to know what you can do to recognize or receive that fullness.
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit.
Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:
I invite you to sit in silence feeling patient for your own faults and trials.
Summarize what insights you have gained during this meditation and meditate and visualize positive change in your life:
This is a listener funded podcast at patreon.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Updates:
Final Question: In what ways do you thirst for God?
Final Thought:
Saint Fransis said preach the gospel at all times and if necessary, use words. One of the most powerful ways we can reflect the light and life of God is by imitating Christ in our life.
FIND ME ON:
Download my free app: Recenter with Christ
Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
Voicemail - (602) 888-3795
Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com
Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast
Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast
Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
John 1
NASB
10 He was in the world, and the world came into being through Him, and yet the world did not know Him. 11 He came to His own, and His own people did not accept Him. 12 But as many as received Him, to them He gave the right to become children of God, to those who believe in His name, 13 who were born, not of blood, nor of the will of the flesh, nor of the will of a man, but of God.
FIND ME ON:
Download my free app: Recenter with Christ
Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
Voicemail - (602) 888-3795
Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com
Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast
Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast
Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
John 1
NASB
10 He was in the world, and the world came into being through Him, and yet the world did not know Him. 11 He came to His own, and His own people did not accept Him. 12 But as many as received Him, to them He gave the right to become children of God, to those who believe in His name, 13 who were born, not of blood, nor of the will of the flesh, nor of the will of a man, but of God.
FIND ME ON:
Download my free app: Recenter with Christ
Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
Voicemail - (602) 888-3795
Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com
Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast
Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast
Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
488 The World Does Not Know Him, a Guided Christian Meditation on John 1:10:13 with the Recenter With Christ app
The purpose of this podcast is to help you find more peace in your life and connect with the true source of peace, Jesus Christ.
Outline: Relaxation, Reading, Meditation, Prayer, Contemplation and Visualization.
Get into a place where you can sit comfortably and uninterrupted for about 20 minutes.You should hopefully not be driving or anything tensing or unrelaxing. If you feel comfortable to do so, I invite you to close your eyes.
Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation:
Breathe and direct your thoughts to connecting with God. Let your stomach be a balloon inflate, deflate.
Bible verses for Meditation:
John 1
NASB
10 He was in the world, and the world came into being through Him, and yet the world did not know Him. 11 He came to His own, and His own people did not accept Him. 12 But as many as received Him, to them He gave the right to become children of God, to those who believe in His name, 13 who were born, not of blood, nor of the will of the flesh, nor of the will of a man, but of God.
KJV
10 He was in the world, and the world was made by him, and the world knew him not.
11 He came unto his own, and his own received him not.
12 But as many as received him, to them gave he power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on his name:
13 Which were born, not of blood, nor of the will of the flesh, nor of the will of man, but of God.
Meditation:
Many times we ponder what wisdom we can apply to our life. We appropriately seek knowledge and understanding in order to improve our situation and the world around us. To do this we apply wisdom from various traditions. Psychological science blesses many people’s lives, medicine heals the body, science advances human understanding, political perspectives can guide our civic activity. These things can be a blessing from God. Yet we need to be mindful in how we absorb these philosophies into our lives. If we are not careful we can swallow these worldview and let them guide our faith and believe in the most High God.
It is helpful to remember. The world rejected Christ. The world did not understand him. He came into his own and they did not receive him. Yet it is through Him that salvation is possible. It is through Jesus that we will eventually rise victorious over this world and this life. He has given us the sacred trust to be His children. We should be careful to place God and a right understanding of God at the pinnacle of our ideologies and activity. Always be curious about how the views that you have reconcile with God. Allow His love to guide your worldview. We are born of God.
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit.
Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:
I invite you to sit in silence feeling patient for your own faults and trials.
Summarize what insights you have gained during this meditation and meditate and visualize positive change in your life:
This is a listener funded podcast at patreon.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Updates:
Final Question: In what ways do you thirst for God?
Final Thought:
Saint Fransis said preach the gospel at all times and if necessary, use words. One of the most powerful ways we can reflect the light and life of God is by imitating Christ in our life.
FIND ME ON:
Download my free app: Recenter with Christ
Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
Voicemail - (602) 888-3795
Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com
Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast
Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast
Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
488 The World Does Not Know Him, a Guided Christian Meditation on John 1:10:13 with the Recenter With Christ app
The purpose of this podcast is to help you find more peace in your life and connect with the true source of peace, Jesus Christ.
Outline: Relaxation, Reading, Meditation, Prayer, Contemplation and Visualization.
Get into a place where you can sit comfortably and uninterrupted for about 20 minutes.You should hopefully not be driving or anything tensing or unrelaxing. If you feel comfortable to do so, I invite you to close your eyes.
Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation:
Breathe and direct your thoughts to connecting with God. Let your stomach be a balloon inflate, deflate.
Bible verses for Meditation:
John 1
NASB
10 He was in the world, and the world came into being through Him, and yet the world did not know Him. 11 He came to His own, and His own people did not accept Him. 12 But as many as received Him, to them He gave the right to become children of God, to those who believe in His name, 13 who were born, not of blood, nor of the will of the flesh, nor of the will of a man, but of God.
KJV
10 He was in the world, and the world was made by him, and the world knew him not.
11 He came unto his own, and his own received him not.
12 But as many as received him, to them gave he power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on his name:
13 Which were born, not of blood, nor of the will of the flesh, nor of the will of man, but of God.
Meditation:
Many times we ponder what wisdom we can apply to our life. We appropriately seek knowledge and understanding in order to improve our situation and the world around us. To do this we apply wisdom from various traditions. Psychological science blesses many people’s lives, medicine heals the body, science advances human understanding, political perspectives can guide our civic activity. These things can be a blessing from God. Yet we need to be mindful in how we absorb these philosophies into our lives. If we are not careful we can swallow these worldview and let them guide our faith and believe in the most High God.
It is helpful to remember. The world rejected Christ. The world did not understand him. He came into his own and they did not receive him. Yet it is through Him that salvation is possible. It is through Jesus that we will eventually rise victorious over this world and this life. He has given us the sacred trust to be His children. We should be careful to place God and a right understanding of God at the pinnacle of our ideologies and activity. Always be curious about how the views that you have reconcile with God. Allow His love to guide your worldview. We are born of God.
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit.
Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:
I invite you to sit in silence feeling patient for your own faults and trials.
Summarize what insights you have gained during this meditation and meditate and visualize positive change in your life:
This is a listener funded podcast at patreon.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Updates:
Final Question: In what ways do you thirst for God?
Final Thought:
Saint Fransis said preach the gospel at all times and if necessary, use words. One of the most powerful ways we can reflect the light and life of God is by imitating Christ in our life.
FIND ME ON:
Download my free app: Recenter with Christ
Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
Voicemail - (602) 888-3795
Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com
Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast
Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast
Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
John 1
NIV
6 There was a man sent from God whose name was John. 7 He came as a witness to testify concerning that light, so that through him all might believe. 8 He himself was not the light; he came only as a witness to the light.
9 The true light that gives light to everyone was coming into the world.
FIND ME ON:
Download my free app: Recenter with Christ
Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
Voicemail - (602) 888-3795
Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com
Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast
Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast
Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
John 1
NIV
6 There was a man sent from God whose name was John. 7 He came as a witness to testify concerning that light, so that through him all might believe. 8 He himself was not the light; he came only as a witness to the light.
9 The true light that gives light to everyone was coming into the world.
FIND ME ON:
Download my free app: Recenter with Christ
Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
Voicemail - (602) 888-3795
Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com
Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast
Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast
Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
John 1
NIV
1 In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. 2 He was with God in the beginning. 3 Through him all things were made; without him nothing was made that has been made. 4 In him was life, and that life was the light of all mankind. 5 The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it.
FIND ME ON:
Download my free app: Recenter with Christ
Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
Voicemail - (602) 888-3795
Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com
Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast
Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast
Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
John 1
NIV
1 In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. 2 He was with God in the beginning. 3 Through him all things were made; without him nothing was made that has been made. 4 In him was life, and that life was the light of all mankind. 5 The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it.
FIND ME ON:
Download my free app: Recenter with Christ
Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
Voicemail - (602) 888-3795
Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com
Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast
Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast
Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
484 The Light Shines in The Darkness, A Guided Christian Meditation on John 1:1-5 with the Recenter With Christ app
The purpose of this podcast is to help you find more peace in your life and connect with the true source of peace, Jesus Christ.
Outline: Relaxation, Reading, Meditation, Prayer, Contemplation and Visualization.
Get into a place where you can sit comfortably and uninterrupted for about 20 minutes.You should hopefully not be driving or anything tensing or unrelaxing. If you feel comfortable to do so, I invite you to close your eyes.
Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation:
Breathe and direct your thoughts to connecting with God. Let your stomach be a balloon inflate, deflate.
Bible verses for Meditation:
John 1
NIV
1 In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. 2 He was with God in the beginning. 3 Through him all things were made; without him nothing was made that has been made. 4 In him was life, and that life was the light of all mankind. 5 The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it.
KJV
1 In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God.
2 The same was in the beginning with God.
3 All things were made by him; and without him was not any thing made that was made.
4 In him was life; and the life was the light of men.
5 And the light shineth in darkness; and the darkness comprehended it not.
Meditation:
In the Word was life and light. Gods life is the light of all of us. The darkness cannot overcome that light. That light cannot be overcome by darkness. When we are down and we feel darkness all around we seek to be encircled by Gods light. God has promised this light to those who trust and follow him. Our goal then is to embrace the light. For each of us we seek to reflect the light of Jesus Christ.
What does it mean for us to be the light of Christ?
When you light a candle you don’t put it under a bushel as Jesus said, you put it on a candlestick. I want you to imagine how you can carry and display the light of Jesus?
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit.
Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:
I invite you to sit in silence feeling patient for your own faults and trials.
Summarize what insights you have gained during this meditation and meditate and visualize positive change in your life:
This is a listener funded podcast at patreon.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Updates:
Final Question: In what ways do you thirst for God?
Final Thought:
Saint Fransis said preach the gospel at all times and if necessary, use words. One of the most powerful ways we can reflect the light and life of God is by imitating Christ in our life.
FIND ME ON:
Download my free app: Recenter with Christ
Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
Voicemail - (602) 888-3795
Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com
Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast
Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast
Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
484 The Light Shines in The Darkness, A Guided Christian Meditation on John 1:1-5 with the Recenter With Christ app
The purpose of this podcast is to help you find more peace in your life and connect with the true source of peace, Jesus Christ.
Outline: Relaxation, Reading, Meditation, Prayer, Contemplation and Visualization.
Get into a place where you can sit comfortably and uninterrupted for about 20 minutes.You should hopefully not be driving or anything tensing or unrelaxing. If you feel comfortable to do so, I invite you to close your eyes.
Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation:
Breathe and direct your thoughts to connecting with God. Let your stomach be a balloon inflate, deflate.
Bible verses for Meditation:
John 1
NIV
1 In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. 2 He was with God in the beginning. 3 Through him all things were made; without him nothing was made that has been made. 4 In him was life, and that life was the light of all mankind. 5 The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it.
KJV
1 In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God.
2 The same was in the beginning with God.
3 All things were made by him; and without him was not any thing made that was made.
4 In him was life; and the life was the light of men.
5 And the light shineth in darkness; and the darkness comprehended it not.
Meditation:
In the Word was life and light. Gods life is the light of all of us. The darkness cannot overcome that light. That light cannot be overcome by darkness. When we are down and we feel darkness all around we seek to be encircled by Gods light. God has promised this light to those who trust and follow him. Our goal then is to embrace the light. For each of us we seek to reflect the light of Jesus Christ.
What does it mean for us to be the light of Christ?
When you light a candle you don’t put it under a bushel as Jesus said, you put it on a candlestick. I want you to imagine how you can carry and display the light of Jesus?
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit.
Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:
I invite you to sit in silence feeling patient for your own faults and trials.
Summarize what insights you have gained during this meditation and meditate and visualize positive change in your life:
This is a listener funded podcast at patreon.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Updates:
Final Question: In what ways do you thirst for God?
Final Thought:
Saint Fransis said preach the gospel at all times and if necessary, use words. One of the most powerful ways we can reflect the light and life of God is by imitating Christ in our life.
FIND ME ON:
Download my free app: Recenter with Christ
Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
Voicemail - (602) 888-3795
Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com
Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast
Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast
Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
NASB
18 There is no fear in love. But perfect love drives out fear, because fear has to do with punishment. The one who fears is not made perfect in love. 19 We love because he first loved us. 20 Whoever claims to love God yet hates a brother or sister is a liar. For whoever does not love their brother and sister, whom they have seen, cannot love God, whom they have not seen.
FIND ME ON:
Download my free app: Recenter with Christ
Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
Voicemail - (602) 888-3795
Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com
Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast
Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast
Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
NASB
18 There is no fear in love. But perfect love drives out fear, because fear has to do with punishment. The one who fears is not made perfect in love. 19 We love because he first loved us. 20 Whoever claims to love God yet hates a brother or sister is a liar. For whoever does not love their brother and sister, whom they have seen, cannot love God, whom they have not seen.
FIND ME ON:
Download my free app: Recenter with Christ
Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
Voicemail - (602) 888-3795
Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com
Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast
Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast
Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
ESV
By day the Lord commands his steadfast love,
and at night his song is with me,
a prayer to the God of my life.
9 I say to God, my rock:
“Why have you forgotten me?
Why do I go mourning
because of the oppression of the enemy?”
10 As with a deadly wound in my bones,
my adversaries taunt me,
while they say to me all the day long,
“Where is your God?”
11 Why are you cast down, O my soul,
and why are you in turmoil within me?
Hope in God; for I shall again praise him,
my salvation and my God.
FIND ME ON:
Download my free app: Recenter with Christ
Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
Voicemail - (602) 888-3795
Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com
Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast
Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast
Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
ESV
By day the Lord commands his steadfast love,
and at night his song is with me,
a prayer to the God of my life.
9 I say to God, my rock:
“Why have you forgotten me?
Why do I go mourning
because of the oppression of the enemy?”
10 As with a deadly wound in my bones,
my adversaries taunt me,
while they say to me all the day long,
“Where is your God?”
11 Why are you cast down, O my soul,
and why are you in turmoil within me?
Hope in God; for I shall again praise him,
my salvation and my God.
FIND ME ON:
Download my free app: Recenter with Christ
Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
Voicemail - (602) 888-3795
Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com
Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast
Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast
Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
480 The Lord Sends His Goodness in the Daytime and His Song at Night, O My Soul, A Guided Christian Meditation on Psalms 42:8-11 with the Recenter With Christ app
I'm Chaplain Jared and I work as a hospice chaplain and an ICU chaplain. My purpose in making this podcast is to help you find more peace in your life and to be more open for your heart to be changed by the Spirit of God. By using centuries old form of Christian Meditation named Lectio Divina:
Outline: Relaxation, Reading, Meditation, Prayer, Contemplation and Visualization.
Get into a place where you can sit comfortably and uninterrupted for about 20 minutes.You should hopefully not be driving or anything tensing or unrelaxing. If you feel comfortable to do so, I invite you to close your eyes.
Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation:
Breathe and direct your thoughts to connecting with God. Let your stomach be a balloon inflate, deflate.
Bible verses for Meditation:
Psalms 42
ESV
By day the Lord commands his steadfast love,
and at night his song is with me,
a prayer to the God of my life.
9 I say to God, my rock:
“Why have you forgotten me?
Why do I go mourning
because of the oppression of the enemy?”
10 As with a deadly wound in my bones,
my adversaries taunt me,
while they say to me all the day long,
“Where is your God?”
11 Why are you cast down, O my soul,
and why are you in turmoil within me?
Hope in God; for I shall again praise him,
my salvation and my God.
NASB
8 The Lord will send His goodness in the daytime;
And His song will be with me in the night,
A prayer to the God of my life.
9 I will say to God my rock, “Why have You forgotten me?
Why do I go about mourning because of the oppression of the enemy?”
10 As a shattering of my bones, my adversaries taunt me,
While they say to me all day long, “Where is your God?”
11 Why are you in despair, my soul?
And why are you restless within me?
Wait for God, for I will again praise Him
For the help of His presence, my God.
Meditation:
God makes his blessings and goodness available at all times. Yet at times we may feel that He has turned his back on us. This echoes back to Psalm 22 which states “My God My God, why hast thou forsaken me.” A Psalm that would be Quoted by Jesus himself while on the Cross. The most profound message in Christianity is not that God gets us out of every mess when we want him to or when it seems necessary for us, it is that God allows things to be done for His purposes.
When Jesus Christ prayed in the garden of Gethsemane before his death, he asked for the cup to be removed from Him. Finally on the cross as his sacrifice was near complete he felt forsaken. This feeling is not a measure of God’s failure since it was uttered by the Redeemer Himself. Our current struggles are not a reflection of our righteousness.
The answer to this conundrum is not that God is failing or that we are, but that God continues worthy of praise and love, even when we don't understand the working of His world. Be patient. Ignore the taunting of the enemy and others who don't understand your faith. Wait for God. Praise him His presence will heal.
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit.
Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:
I invite you to sit in silence feeling patient for your own faults and trials.
Summarize what insights you have gained during this meditation and meditate and visualize positive change in your life:
This is a listener funded podcast at patreon.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Updates:
Final Question: In what ways do you thirst for God?
Final Thought:
FIND ME ON:
Download my free app: Recenter with Christ
Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
Voicemail - (602) 888-3795
Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com
Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast
Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast
Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
480 The Lord Sends His Goodness in the Daytime and His Song at Night, O My Soul, A Guided Christian Meditation on Psalms 42:8-11 with the Recenter With Christ app
I'm Chaplain Jared and I work as a hospice chaplain and an ICU chaplain. My purpose in making this podcast is to help you find more peace in your life and to be more open for your heart to be changed by the Spirit of God. By using centuries old form of Christian Meditation named Lectio Divina:
Outline: Relaxation, Reading, Meditation, Prayer, Contemplation and Visualization.
Get into a place where you can sit comfortably and uninterrupted for about 20 minutes.You should hopefully not be driving or anything tensing or unrelaxing. If you feel comfortable to do so, I invite you to close your eyes.
Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation:
Breathe and direct your thoughts to connecting with God. Let your stomach be a balloon inflate, deflate.
Bible verses for Meditation:
Psalms 42
ESV
By day the Lord commands his steadfast love,
and at night his song is with me,
a prayer to the God of my life.
9 I say to God, my rock:
“Why have you forgotten me?
Why do I go mourning
because of the oppression of the enemy?”
10 As with a deadly wound in my bones,
my adversaries taunt me,
while they say to me all the day long,
“Where is your God?”
11 Why are you cast down, O my soul,
and why are you in turmoil within me?
Hope in God; for I shall again praise him,
my salvation and my God.
NASB
8 The Lord will send His goodness in the daytime;
And His song will be with me in the night,
A prayer to the God of my life.
9 I will say to God my rock, “Why have You forgotten me?
Why do I go about mourning because of the oppression of the enemy?”
10 As a shattering of my bones, my adversaries taunt me,
While they say to me all day long, “Where is your God?”
11 Why are you in despair, my soul?
And why are you restless within me?
Wait for God, for I will again praise Him
For the help of His presence, my God.
Meditation:
God makes his blessings and goodness available at all times. Yet at times we may feel that He has turned his back on us. This echoes back to Psalm 22 which states “My God My God, why hast thou forsaken me.” A Psalm that would be Quoted by Jesus himself while on the Cross. The most profound message in Christianity is not that God gets us out of every mess when we want him to or when it seems necessary for us, it is that God allows things to be done for His purposes.
When Jesus Christ prayed in the garden of Gethsemane before his death, he asked for the cup to be removed from Him. Finally on the cross as his sacrifice was near complete he felt forsaken. This feeling is not a measure of God’s failure since it was uttered by the Redeemer Himself. Our current struggles are not a reflection of our righteousness.
The answer to this conundrum is not that God is failing or that we are, but that God continues worthy of praise and love, even when we don't understand the working of His world. Be patient. Ignore the taunting of the enemy and others who don't understand your faith. Wait for God. Praise him His presence will heal.
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit.
Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:
I invite you to sit in silence feeling patient for your own faults and trials.
Summarize what insights you have gained during this meditation and meditate and visualize positive change in your life:
This is a listener funded podcast at patreon.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Updates:
Final Question: In what ways do you thirst for God?
Final Thought:
FIND ME ON:
Download my free app: Recenter with Christ
Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
Voicemail - (602) 888-3795
Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com
Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast
Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast
Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
476 My Soul Thirsts For God, A Guided Christian Meditation on Psalms 42:1-3 with the Recenter With Christ app
I'm Chaplain Jared and I work as a hospice chaplain and an ICU chaplain. My purpose in making this podcast is to help you find more peace in your life and to be more open for your heart to be changed by the Spirit of God. By using centuries old form of Christian Meditation named Lectio Divina:
Outline: Relaxation, Reading, Meditation, Prayer, Contemplation and Visualization.
Get into a place where you can sit comfortably and uninterrupted for about 20 minutes.You should hopefully not be driving or anything tensing or unrelaxing. If you feel comfortable to do so, I invite you to close your eyes.
Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation:
Breathe and direct your thoughts to connecting with God. Let your stomach be a balloon inflate, deflate.
Bible verses for Meditation:
Psalms 42
NIV
1 As the deer pants for streams of water,
so my soul pants for you, my God.
2 My soul thirsts for God, for the living God.
When can I go and meet with God?
3 My tears have been my food
day and night,
while people say to me all day long,
“Where is your God?”
ESV
1 As a deer pants for flowing streams,
so pants my soul for you, O God.
2 My soul thirsts for God,
for the living God.
When shall I come and appear before God?
3 My tears have been my food
day and night,
while they say to me all the day long,
“Where is your God?”
Meditation:
The Great Christian writer CS Lewis wrote that we as humans have a God size hole in our heart. This scripture begins to lay the basics of our need for God. We have a thirst for the kind of unconditional love that only a perfect God can provide. There is nothing in this world that can fill the place of God in our soul. Sometimes when we think of our need before God we focus exclusively on our guilt and need for redemption. These things are true but I believe it is even deeper than this.
The light we rejoice in, the happiness, joy, fulfillment, love, all these things are exemplified in God. They are represented as a reflection of only a fraction of the glory of God. The highest ideals we could possibly seek in life are perfect in God. As people wrestle with the Goodness of God they are really only wrestling with the Goodness of what they understand. The source of light and good does not need to be judged by the imperfection of human understanding.
This is the same God that has offered you salvation and remains dedicated to your spiritual transformation, to your development in His love and grace. He remains willing and able to love you perfectly. Don't allow others to destroy your relationship with the source of true love and acceptance. Do not allow the temporary troubles of this world distract your mind and your heart away from the real and undying love of a perfect God. Rejoice in the Goodness of the Lord and embrace our need and thirst for Him.
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit.
Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:
I invite you to sit in silence feeling patient for your own faults and trials.
Summarize what insights you have gained during this meditation and meditate and visualize positive change in your life:
This is a listener funded podcast at patreon.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Updates:
Final Question: In what ways do you thirst for God?
Final Thought:
FIND ME ON:
Download my free app: Recenter with Christ
Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
Voicemail - (602) 888-3795
Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com
Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast
Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast
Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
Psalms 42
NIV
1 As the deer pants for streams of water,
so my soul pants for you, my God.
2 My soul thirsts for God, for the living God.
When can I go and meet with God?
3 My tears have been my food
day and night,
while people say to me all day long,
“Where is your God?”
FIND ME ON:
Download my free app: Recenter with Christ
Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
Voicemail - (602) 888-3795
Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com
Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast
Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast
Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
NIV
4 Remain in me, as I also remain in you. No branch can bear fruit by itself; it must remain in the vine. Neither can you bear fruit unless you remain in me.
5 “I am the vine; you are the branches. If you remain in me and I in you, you will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing. 6 If you do not remain in me, you are like a branch that is thrown away and withers; such branches are picked up, thrown into the fire and burned. 7 If you remain in me and my words remain in you, ask whatever you wish, and it will be done for you. 8 This is to my Father’s glory, that you bear much fruit, showing yourselves to be my disciples.
9 “As the Father has loved me, so have I loved you. Now remain in my love.
FIND ME ON:
Download my free app: Recenter with Christ
Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
Voicemail - (602) 888-3795
Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com
Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast
Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast
Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
472 We Have Been Made Holy, A Guided Christian Meditation on Hebrews 10:8-10 with the Recenter With Christ app
I'm Chaplain Jared and I work as a hospice chaplain and an ICU chaplain. My purpose in making this podcast is to help you find more peace in your life and to be more open for your heart to be changed by the Spirit of God. By using centuries old form of Christian Meditation named Lectio Divina:
Outline: Relaxation, Reading, Meditation, Prayer, Contemplation and Visualization.
Get into a place where you can sit comfortably and uninterrupted for about 20 minutes.You should hopefully not be driving or anything tensing or unrelaxing. If you feel comfortable to do so, I invite you to close your eyes.
Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation:
Breathe and direct your thoughts to connecting with God. Let your stomach be a balloon inflate, deflate.
Bible verses for Meditation:
NIV
8 First he said, “Sacrifices and offerings, burnt offerings and sin offerings you did not desire, nor were you pleased with them”—though they were offered in accordance with the law. 9 Then he said, “Here I am, I have come to do your will.” He sets aside the first to establish the second. 10 And by that will, we have been made holy through the sacrifice of the body of Jesus Christ once for all.
NKJV
8 Previously saying, “Sacrifice and offering, burnt offerings, and offerings for sin You did not desire, nor had pleasure in them” (which are offered according to the law), 9 then He said, “Behold, I have come to do Your will, O God.” He takes away the first that He may establish the second. 10 By that will we have been sanctified through the offering of the body of Jesus Christ once for all.
Meditation:
The Enemy wants to divert us from peace and happiness. He wants us to fall for one of two lies. 1. That we are already exactly as we need to be and need not improve 2. We are so hideous and irredeemable that we may as well fully embrace sin.
Both these lies attempt to subvert Gods messages in scripture. 1. God’s guiding grace is how we overcome the sin about us. 2. To have faith in Christ is to continue walking with Him as He continues to perfect us.
The law points to this greater thing ahead as it says earlier in the chapter. He planned for us to grow together with Him. That is how Grace works in our lives. Embrace the loving nature of God, how he loves us just as we are and will support us to become better than we could have imagined. Through God we can be made pure.
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit.
Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:
I invite you to sit in silence feeling patient for your own faults and trials.
Summarize what insights you have gained during this meditation and meditate and visualize positive change in your life:
This is a listener funded podcast at patreon.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Updates:
Final Question:
Final Thought:
FIND ME ON:
Download my free app: Recenter with Christ
Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
Voicemail - (602) 888-3795
Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com
Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast
Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast
Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
NKJV
Hebrews 10
5 Therefore, when He came into the world, He said:
“Sacrifice and offering You did not desire,
But a body You have prepared for Me.
6 In burnt offerings and sacrifices for sin
You had no pleasure.
7 Then I said, ‘Behold, I have come—
In the volume of the book it is written of Me—
To do Your will, O God.’ ”
FIND ME ON:
Download my free app: Recenter with Christ
Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
Voicemail - (602) 888-3795
Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com
Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast
Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast
Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
NIV
Hebrews 10:1-4
1 The law is only a shadow of the good things that are coming—not the realities themselves. For this reason it can never, by the same sacrifices repeated endlessly year after year, make perfect those who draw near to worship. 2 Otherwise, would they not have stopped being offered? For the worshipers would have been cleansed once for all, and would no longer have felt guilty for their sins. 3 But those sacrifices are an annual reminder of sins. 4 It is impossible for the blood of bulls and goats to take away sins.
FIND ME ON:
Download my free app: Recenter with Christ
Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
Voicemail - (602) 888-3795
Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com
Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast
Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast
Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
468 A Shadow of Good Things to Come, A Guided Christian Meditation on Hebrews 10:1-4 with the Recenter With Christ app
I'm Chaplain Jared and I work as a hospice chaplain and an ICU chaplain. My purpose in making this podcast is to help you find more peace in your life and to be more open for your heart to be changed by the Spirit of God. By using centuries old form of Christian Meditation named Lectio Divina:
Outline: Relaxation, Reading, Meditation, Prayer, Contemplation and Visualization.
Get into a place where you can sit comfortably and uninterrupted for about 20 minutes.You should hopefully not be driving or anything tensing or unrelaxing. If you feel comfortable to do so, I invite you to close your eyes.
Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation:
Breathe and direct your thoughts to connecting with God. Let your stomach be a balloon inflate, deflate.
Bible verses for Meditation:
NIV
Hebrews 10:1-4
1 The law is only a shadow of the good things that are coming—not the realities themselves. For this reason it can never, by the same sacrifices repeated endlessly year after year, make perfect those who draw near to worship. 2 Otherwise, would they not have stopped being offered? For the worshipers would have been cleansed once for all, and would no longer have felt guilty for their sins. 3 But those sacrifices are an annual reminder of sins. 4 It is impossible for the blood of bulls and goats to take away sins.
NKJV
10 For the law, having a shadow of the good things to come, and not the very image of the things, can never with these same sacrifices, which they offer continually year by year, make those who approach perfect. 2 For then would they not have ceased to be offered? For the worshipers, once purified, would have had no more consciousness of sins. 3 But in those sacrifices there is a reminder of sins every year. 4 For it is not possible that the blood of bulls and goats could take away sins.
Meditation:
During the Old Testament times animal sacrifice was a major part of the worship of the one true God. It was a recognition of the people’s need for God. The Law of Moses, which came from God, commanded it. Yet even as God laid out that plan there was a plan to replace animal sacrifice with the true sacrifice of Christ.
Recently I have been thinking about changes and new things. That brought me to this scripture. The Law then was pointing to something much greater. It pointed to a relationship with the Messiah, with Jesus Christ who will build us perfectly as our hearts are changed.
Whatever relationship you have with God, it is only a shadow of the beauty to come. We won’t understand that until we see what He makes of us. When we die and our bodies are perfectly restored and reunited with loved ones and Christ. Only then will we truly understand what good things he spoke of.
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit.
Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:
I invite you to sit in silence feeling patient for your own faults and trials.
Summarize what insights you have gained during this meditation and meditate and visualize positive change in your life:
This is a listener funded podcast at patreon.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Updates:
Final Question: How can you live consistent with the cleansing power God offers you?
This week I performed a funeral for a family from Africa. The amount of family that was physically present was not that large but there were many friends who were just as close as family in some ways and their presence and comfort was amazing.
Final Thought:
FIND ME ON:
Download my free app: Recenter with Christ
Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
Voicemail - (602) 888-3795
Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com
Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast
Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast
Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
468 A Shadow of Good Things to Come, A Guided Christian Meditation on Hebrews 10:1-4 with the Recenter With Christ app
I'm Chaplain Jared and I work as a hospice chaplain and an ICU chaplain. My purpose in making this podcast is to help you find more peace in your life and to be more open for your heart to be changed by the Spirit of God. By using centuries old form of Christian Meditation named Lectio Divina:
Outline: Relaxation, Reading, Meditation, Prayer, Contemplation and Visualization.
Get into a place where you can sit comfortably and uninterrupted for about 20 minutes.You should hopefully not be driving or anything tensing or unrelaxing. If you feel comfortable to do so, I invite you to close your eyes.
Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation:
Breathe and direct your thoughts to connecting with God. Let your stomach be a balloon inflate, deflate.
Bible verses for Meditation:
NIV
Hebrews 10:1-4
1 The law is only a shadow of the good things that are coming—not the realities themselves. For this reason it can never, by the same sacrifices repeated endlessly year after year, make perfect those who draw near to worship. 2 Otherwise, would they not have stopped being offered? For the worshipers would have been cleansed once for all, and would no longer have felt guilty for their sins. 3 But those sacrifices are an annual reminder of sins. 4 It is impossible for the blood of bulls and goats to take away sins.
NKJV
10 For the law, having a shadow of the good things to come, and not the very image of the things, can never with these same sacrifices, which they offer continually year by year, make those who approach perfect. 2 For then would they not have ceased to be offered? For the worshipers, once purified, would have had no more consciousness of sins. 3 But in those sacrifices there is a reminder of sins every year. 4 For it is not possible that the blood of bulls and goats could take away sins.
Meditation:
During the Old Testament times animal sacrifice was a major part of the worship of the one true God. It was a recognition of the people’s need for God. The Law of Moses, which came from God, commanded it. Yet even as God laid out that plan there was a plan to replace animal sacrifice with the true sacrifice of Christ.
Recently I have been thinking about changes and new things. That brought me to this scripture. The Law then was pointing to something much greater. It pointed to a relationship with the Messiah, with Jesus Christ who will build us perfectly as our hearts are changed.
Whatever relationship you have with God, it is only a shadow of the beauty to come. We won’t understand that until we see what He makes of us. When we die and our bodies are perfectly restored and reunited with loved ones and Christ. Only then will we truly understand what good things he spoke of.
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit.
Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:
I invite you to sit in silence feeling patient for your own faults and trials.
Summarize what insights you have gained during this meditation and meditate and visualize positive change in your life:
This is a listener funded podcast at patreon.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Updates:
Final Question: How can you live consistent with the cleansing power God offers you?
This week I performed a funeral for a family from Africa. The amount of family that was physically present was not that large but there were many friends who were just as close as family in some ways and their presence and comfort was amazing.
Final Thought:
FIND ME ON:
Download my free app: Recenter with Christ
Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
Voicemail - (602) 888-3795
Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com
Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast
Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast
Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
ESV
18 I said in my heart with regard to the children of man that God is testing them that they may see that they themselves are but beasts. 19 For what happens to the children of man and what happens to the beasts is the same; as one dies, so dies the other. They all have the same breath, and man has no advantage over the beasts, for all is vanity. 20 All go to one place. All are from the dust, and to dust all return.
FIND ME ON:
Download my free app: Recenter with Christ
Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
Voicemail - (602) 888-3795
Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com
Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast
Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast
Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
ESV
18 I said in my heart with regard to the children of man that God is testing them that they may see that they themselves are but beasts. 19 For what happens to the children of man and what happens to the beasts is the same; as one dies, so dies the other. They all have the same breath, and man has no advantage over the beasts, for all is vanity. 20 All go to one place. All are from the dust, and to dust all return.
FIND ME ON:
Download my free app: Recenter with Christ
Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
Voicemail - (602) 888-3795
Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com
Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast
Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast
Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
466 All Have The Same Breath, A Guided Christian Meditation on Ecclesiastes 3:18-20 with the Recenter With Christ app
I'm Chaplain Jared and I work as a hospice chaplain and an ICU chaplain. My purpose in making this podcast is to help you find more peace in your life and to be more open for your heart to be changed by the Spirit of God. By using centuries old form of Christian Meditation named Lectio Divina:
Outline: Relaxation, Reading, Meditation, Prayer, Contemplation and Visualization.
Get into a place where you can sit comfortably and uninterrupted for about 20 minutes.You should hopefully not be driving or anything tensing or unrelaxing. If you feel comfortable to do so, I invite you to close your eyes.
Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation:
Breathe and direct your thoughts to connecting with God. Let your stomach be a balloon inflate, deflate.
Bible verses for Meditation:
ESV
18 I said in my heart with regard to the children of man that God is testing them that they may see that they themselves are but beasts. 19 For what happens to the children of man and what happens to the beasts is the same; as one dies, so dies the other. They all have the same breath, and man has no advantage over the beasts, for all is vanity. 20 All go to one place. All are from the dust, and to dust all return.
NABRE
18 I said in my heart: As for human beings, it is God’s way of testing them and of showing that they are in themselves like beasts. 19 For the lot of mortals and the lot of beasts is the same lot: The one dies as well as the other. Both have the same life breath. Human beings have no advantage over beasts, but all is vanity. 20 Both go to the same place; both were made from the dust, and to the dust they both return.
Meditation:
This scripture addresses the aspect of our humanity that is animalistic. Sometimes when we hear of scientific analysis of humans being animals we resist. We remember scripture that calls us children of God. Yet this scripture points out an incredibly valuable thing. Without God and His spirit all is pointless. With God’s influence to redeem and purchase us, we have infinite worth as children of God.
When I address deep breathing, or relaxation in this podcast it is with this in mind. Relaxation is not saving us. It doesn't purge our sin. It can, however, help us get out of God’s way in showing us a better way. For example I was reading a book called the oxygen advantage. The book outlines how breathlessness is almost always not a shortage of oxygen but an overabundance of CO2. Oddly enough CO2 in our blood dilates our veins as well; it chemically helps oxygen travel to the brain, organs and muscles. So the point is to learn to do breath holding exercises to get better at managing higher levels of CO2 in the blood to help us stay oxygenated and more calm. None of that will change the content of your soul. It is valuable in fitness and reduction of anxiety but will not take away our sin.
So the moral of the story is that we can manage that part of us that is similar to the animals but we should learn to rely on God to cleanse our soul as we draw near to our Savior. May we have success firstly in joining with Christ, then learning tricks and tips to help our earthly experience be calmer and avoid all the suffering we can.
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit.
Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:
I invite you to sit in silence feeling patient for your own faults and trials.
Summarize what insights you have gained during this meditation and meditate and visualize positive change in your life:
This is a listener funded podcast at patreon.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Updates:
Final Question: How can you live consistent with the cleansing power God offers you?
This week I performed a funeral for a family from Africa. The amount of family that was physically present was not that large but there were many friends who were just as close as family in some ways and their presence and comfort was amazing.
Final Thought:
FIND ME ON:
Download my free app: Recenter with Christ
Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
Voicemail - (602) 888-3795
Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com
Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast
Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast
Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
2 Corinthians 6
NIV
11 We have spoken freely to you, Corinthians, and opened wide our hearts to you. 12 We are not withholding our affection from you, but you are withholding yours from us. 13 As a fair exchange—I speak as to my children—open wide your hearts also. 14 Do not be yoked together with unbelievers. For what do righteousness and wickedness have in common? Or what fellowship can light have with darkness?
FIND ME ON:
Download my free app: Recenter with Christ
Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
Voicemail - (602) 888-3795
Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com
Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast
Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast
Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
464 Be Equally Yoked, A Guided Christian Meditation on James 2:6-10 with the Recenter With Christ app
I'm Chaplain Jared and I work as a hospice chaplain and an ICU chaplain. My purpose in making this podcast is to help you find more peace in your life and to be more open for your heart to be changed by the Spirit of God. By using centuries old form of Christian Meditation named Lectio Divina:
Outline: Relaxation, Reading, Meditation, Prayer, Contemplation and Visualization.
Get into a place where you can sit comfortably and uninterrupted for about 20 minutes.You should hopefully not be driving or anything tensing or unrelaxing. If you feel comfortable to do so, I invite you to close your eyes.
Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation:
Breathe and direct your thoughts to connecting with God. Let your stomach be a balloon inflate, deflate.
Bible verses for Meditation:
2 Corinthians 6
NIV
11 We have spoken freely to you, Corinthians, and opened wide our hearts to you. 12 We are not withholding our affection from you, but you are withholding yours from us. 13 As a fair exchange—I speak as to my children—open wide your hearts also. 14 Do not be yoked together with unbelievers. For what do righteousness and wickedness have in common? Or what fellowship can light have with darkness?
NRSVA
11 We have spoken frankly to you Corinthians; our heart is wide open to you. 12 There is no restriction in our affections, but only in yours. 13 In return—I speak as to children—open wide your hearts also. 14 Do not be mismatched with unbelievers. For what partnership is there between righteousness and lawlessness? Or what fellowship is there between light and darkness?
Meditation:
A yoke is the cross bar that is used between two beasts of burden. If a person wants to connect two animals to carry a weight they put the yoke across their shoulders and then the burden is connected to the yoke. If the animals are going in two different directions then they will not move the yoke forward and do any meaningful work. Paul makes a comparison between faith and a yoke. For those who accept Christ as their Savior and Lord should be attempting to move in the direction Christ commands. It is Christ that equally yokes us. He guides the balance of the burden
We should be yoked with those headed in the same direction as we are. This is not to say that we should treat others unkindly. This is not to say that those who have not yet received the truth of Christ should be avoided. The Command Christ recaptured in the second great commandment says we should love one another with all our hearts. This is what leads to a desire to share God’s word with others.
Our goal then is to build fellowship with people who can help us craft a better future. It is hard to move to a better future while denying the existence of God or the truth of the Gospel. During the last few years so many people have become detached from meaningful fellowship. Many people have become unyoked with anyone or settled for relationships that are not moving in the direction they want to go. May God inspire and direct our hearts to find more fellowship with others headed in the same direction as where we want to go spiritually. May we focus on how to build more meaningful fellowship in our relationships.
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit.
Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:
I invite you to sit in silence feeling patient for your own faults and trials.
Summarize what insights you have gained during this meditation and meditate and visualize positive change in your life:
This is a listener funded podcast at patreon.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Updates:
Final Question: How can you live consistent with the cleansing power God offers you?
This week I performed a funeral for a family from Africa. The amount of family that was physically present was not that large but there were many friends who were just as close as family in some ways and their presence and comfort was amazing.
Final Thought:
FIND ME ON:
Download my free app: Recenter with Christ
Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
Voicemail - (602) 888-3795
Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com
Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast
Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast
Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
James 2
NIV
6 But you have dishonored the poor. Is it not the rich who are exploiting you? Are they not the ones who are dragging you into court? 7 Are they not the ones who are blaspheming the noble name of him to whom you belong?
8 If you really keep the royal law found in Scripture, “Love your neighbor as yourself,” you are doing right. 9 But if you show favoritism, you sin and are convicted by the law as lawbreakers. 10 For whoever keeps the whole law and yet stumbles at just one point is guilty of breaking all of it.
FIND ME ON:
Download my free app: Recenter with Christ
Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
Voicemail - (602) 888-3795
Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com
Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast
Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast
Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
Ezekiel 36
NIV
26 I will give you a new heart and put a new spirit in you; I will remove from you your heart of stone and give you a heart of flesh. 27 And I will put my Spirit in you and move you to follow my decrees and be careful to keep my laws. 28 Then you will live in the land I gave your ancestors; you will be my people, and I will be your God. 29 I will save you from all your uncleanness. I will call for the grain and make it plentiful and will not bring famine upon you.
460 I Will Give You A New Heart, A Guided Christian Meditation on Ezekiel 36:26-29 with the Recenter With Christ app
I'm Chaplain Jared and I work as a hospice chaplain and an ICU chaplain. My purpose in making this podcast is to help you find more peace in your life and to be more open for your heart to be changed by the Spirit of God. By using centuries old form of Christian Meditation named Lectio Divina:
Outline: Relaxation, Reading, Meditation, Prayer, Contemplation and Visualization.
Get into a place where you can sit comfortably and uninterrupted for about 20 minutes.You should hopefully not be driving or anything tensing or unrelaxing. If you feel comfortable to do so, I invite you to close your eyes.
Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation:
Breathe and direct your thoughts to connecting with God. Let your stomach be a balloon inflate, deflate.
Bible verses for Meditation:
Ezekiel 36
NIV
26 I will give you a new heart and put a new spirit in you; I will remove from you your heart of stone and give you a heart of flesh. 27 And I will put my Spirit in you and move you to follow my decrees and be careful to keep my laws. 28 Then you will live in the land I gave your ancestors; you will be my people, and I will be your God. 29 I will save you from all your uncleanness. I will call for the grain and make it plentiful and will not bring famine upon you.
NABRE
26 I will give you a new heart, and a new spirit I will put within you. I will remove the heart of stone from your flesh and give you a heart of flesh. 27 I will put my spirit within you so that you walk in my statutes, observe my ordinances, and keep them. 28 You will live in the land I gave to your ancestors; you will be my people, and I will be your God. 29 I will deliver you from all your impurities. I will summon the grain and make it plentiful; I will not send famine against you.
Meditation:
I love this scripture. I do, however, often read it in isolation, apart from the preceding verses. God promises to give us a new heart and to place a new spirit within us. He will remove the heart of stone. When viewed in the context of the whole scripture this is referring to God restoring Israel after its captivity into Babylon that we saw in the previous episode. God said he did that for the sake of His own name. He also makes it clean that the people must Choose God. This seems to imply that God is not going to do involuntary heart surgery. It is directly tied to our willingness to yield to the commandments of God.
The New Testament gives more insight into deeper truths about having the Spirit with us. As we become aware of how complicit we are in our own sin, we can then apply the healing balm of Gilead and help Christ in to clean up the mess in our own heart. The first step is to become willing to change toward what God wants, accept Christ’s redemptive power to transform us, then we are ready to change. There is an important question to ask ourselves first.
When we read of the redemption of collective Israel it can be very valuable to consider the state of our own heart. Do we want God to actually remove our sin? Many times there are parts of our sinful nature that we secretly hold onto. We may be dishonest with ourselves or perhaps we just maintain guilty pleasures. Do you want to change in the same way God wants you to change?
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit.
Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:
I invite you to sit in silence feeling patient for your own faults and trials.
Summarize what insights you have gained during this meditation and meditate and visualize positive change in your life:
This is a listener funded podcast at patreon.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Updates:
Final Question: How can you live consistent with the cleansing power God offers you?
This week I performed a funeral for a family from Africa. The amount of family that was physically present was not that large but there were many friends who were just as close as family in some ways and their presence and comfort was amazing.
Final Thought:
FIND ME ON:
Download my free app: Recenter with Christ
Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
Voicemail - (602) 888-3795
Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com
Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast
Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast
Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
Ezekiel 36
NIV
22 “Therefore say to the Israelites, ‘This is what the Sovereign Lord says: It is not for your sake, people of Israel, that I am going to do these things, but for the sake of my holy name, which you have profaned among the nations where you have gone. 23 I will show the holiness of my great name, which has been profaned among the nations, the name you have profaned among them. Then the nations will know that I am the Lord, declares the Sovereign Lord, when I am proved holy through you before their eyes.
24 “‘For I will take you out of the nations; I will gather you from all the countries and bring you back into your own land. 25 I will sprinkle clean water on you, and you will be clean; I will cleanse you from all your impurities and from all your idols.
FIND ME ON:
Download my free app: Recenter with Christ
Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
Voicemail - (602) 888-3795
Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com
Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast
Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast
Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
Ezekiel 36
NIV
22 “Therefore say to the Israelites, ‘This is what the Sovereign Lord says: It is not for your sake, people of Israel, that I am going to do these things, but for the sake of my holy name, which you have profaned among the nations where you have gone. 23 I will show the holiness of my great name, which has been profaned among the nations, the name you have profaned among them. Then the nations will know that I am the Lord, declares the Sovereign Lord, when I am proved holy through you before their eyes.
24 “‘For I will take you out of the nations; I will gather you from all the countries and bring you back into your own land. 25 I will sprinkle clean water on you, and you will be clean; I will cleanse you from all your impurities and from all your idols.
FIND ME ON:
Download my free app: Recenter with Christ
Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
Voicemail - (602) 888-3795
Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com
Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast
Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast
Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
458 For The Sake of My Holy Name, A Guided Christian Meditation on Ezekiel 36:22-25 with the Recenter With Christ app
I'm Chaplain Jared and I work as a hospice chaplain and an ICU chaplain. My purpose in making this podcast is to help you find more peace in your life and to be more open for your heart to be changed by the Spirit of God. By using centuries old form of Christian Meditation named Lectio Divina:
Outline: Relaxation, Reading, Meditation, Prayer, Contemplation and Visualization.
Get into a place where you can sit comfortably and uninterrupted for about 20 minutes.You should hopefully not be driving or anything tensing or unrelaxing. If you feel comfortable to do so, I invite you to close your eyes.
Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation:
Breathe and direct your thoughts to connecting with God. Let your stomach be a balloon inflate, deflate.
Bible verses for Meditation:
Ezekiel 36
NIV
22 “Therefore say to the Israelites, ‘This is what the Sovereign Lord says: It is not for your sake, people of Israel, that I am going to do these things, but for the sake of my holy name, which you have profaned among the nations where you have gone. 23 I will show the holiness of my great name, which has been profaned among the nations, the name you have profaned among them. Then the nations will know that I am the Lord, declares the Sovereign Lord, when I am proved holy through you before their eyes.
24 “‘For I will take you out of the nations; I will gather you from all the countries and bring you back into your own land. 25 I will sprinkle clean water on you, and you will be clean; I will cleanse you from all your impurities and from all your idols.
NRSVA
22 Therefore say to the house of Israel, Thus says the Lord God: It is not for your sake, O house of Israel, that I am about to act, but for the sake of my holy name, which you have profaned among the nations to which you came. 23 I will sanctify my great name, which has been profaned among the nations, and which you have profaned among them; and the nations shall know that I am the Lord, says the Lord God, when through you I display my holiness before their eyes. 24 I will take you from the nations, and gather you from all the countries, and bring you into your own land. 25 I will sprinkle clean water upon you, and you shall be clean from all your uncleannesses, and from all your idols I will cleanse you.
Meditation:
Many times when we hear of the great acts that God has done for us we hear that God did them for us. We hear powerful professions of the Love of God. The inriquit and eternal plan he has made. We know of his intentions to save us before the foundations of the Earth we laid. He sent his Son to die for us because he loved us. These are powerful ideas. They are rooted in the truth of the gospel. God loves us. This is undeniably true. We love him because he first loved us, a scripture says in 1 John 4:19. Yet in our comfortable moments when we are overconfident of our own goodness we can be tempted to think that this is the only way it could be. The world tells us we deserve a life filled with happiness and ease, free of guilt regardless of what we do.
Yet this misses a much more profound truth. God loves us, first because who God is, and in some ways, in spite of what we have been. This is far from a demeaning idea. It shows us our true value is not an argument of the situation of our birth, our past, the temptations that come into our hearts. Our value is determined by God. In the end of Ezekiel we read of prophecies where God will redeem Israel, for His Name’s sake. It is because God’s name is so valuable that we are able to be cleansed with God’s water poured upon us. We can be cleaned from all our idols by Him.
Yours and my salvation are therefore a matter of much more firm stuff than our own transitory identity. It is founded in the Name of God. In this moment invite Jesus Christ to guide your heart and be your savior. For the sake of His holy name he will cleanse you.
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit.
Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:
I invite you to sit in silence feeling patient for your own faults and trials.
Summarize what insights you have gained during this meditation and meditate and visualize positive change in your life:
This is a listener funded podcast at patreon.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Updates:
Final Question: How can you live consistent with the cleansing power God offers you?
This week I performed a funeral for a family from Africa. The amount of family that was physically present was not that large but there were many friends who were just as close as family in some ways and their presence and comfort was amazing.
Final Thought:
FIND ME ON:
Download my free app: Recenter with Christ
Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
Voicemail - (602) 888-3795
Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com
Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast
Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast
Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
2 Corinthians 7
NIV
9 yet now I am happy, not because you were made sorry, but because your sorrow led you to repentance. For you became sorrowful as God intended and so were not harmed in any way by us. 10 Godly sorrow brings repentance that leads to salvation and leaves no regret, but worldly sorrow brings death. 11 See what this godly sorrow has produced in you: what earnestness, what eagerness to clear yourselves, what indignation, what alarm, what longing, what concern, what readiness to see justice done. At every point you have proved yourselves to be innocent in this matter.
FIND ME ON:
Download my free app: Recenter with Christ
Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
Voicemail - (602) 888-3795
Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com
Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast
Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast
Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
Psalm 34
NASB
3 Exalt the Lord with me,
And let’s exalt His name together.
4 I sought the Lord and He answered me,
And rescued me from all my fears.
5 They looked to Him and were radiant,
And their faces will never be ashamed.
Final Thought:
FIND ME ON:
Download my free app: Recenter with Christ
Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
Voicemail - (602) 888-3795
Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com
Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast
Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast
Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
452 The Whole Armor of God, A Guided Christian Meditation on Ephesians 6:14-17 with the Recenter With Christ app
I'm Chaplain Jared and I work as a hospice chaplain and an ICU chaplain. My purpose in making this podcast is to help you find more peace in your life and to be more open for your heart to be changed by the Spirit of God. By using centuries old form of Christian Meditation named Lectio Divina:
Outline: Relaxation, Reading, Meditation, Prayer, Contemplation and Visualization.
Get into a place where you can sit comfortably and uninterrupted for about 20 minutes.You should hopefully not be driving or anything tensing or unrelaxing. If you feel comfortable to do so, I invite you to close your eyes.
Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation:
Breathe and direct your thoughts to connecting with God. Let your stomach be a balloon inflate, deflate.
Bible verses for Meditation:
Ephesians 6
KJV
14 Stand therefore, having your loins girt about with truth, and having on the breastplate of righteousness;
15 And your feet shod with the preparation of the gospel of peace;
16 Above all, taking the shield of faith, wherewith ye shall be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked.
17 And take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God:
NIV
14 Stand firm then, with the belt of truth buckled around your waist, with the breastplate of righteousness in place, 15 and with your feet fitted with the readiness that comes from the gospel of peace. 16 In addition to all this, take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one. 17 Take the helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God.
Meditation:
In ancient times when men wore tunics, when they needed to move swiftly they would secure their tunic by grabbing the fabric between their knees and tying it to their belt. This would help them maintain their personal privacy as they moved quickly. It would help them guard their most sacred parts. This was called girding your loins. The truth is what protects the most hidden parts of who we are. If we are truthful we do not need to worry about being exposed.
Feet represent movement and action. Blessed are the feet of those who bring the good news of the gospel. As we learn to trust in Christ, we become prepared to take action in life with a right understanding of our needs before him. May we always be ready to perform the actions of the Lord
The shield is what protected the warrior from distant and nearby threats. Arrows could be deflected, and in closer combat, the shield made a frontal attack very difficult. So is our faith. As we maintain strong faith in Christ, it is extremely hard for the enemy to attack us, even from angles we don't currently see. Flaming darts from afar or swinging swords of those close by. Faith shields us against attacks to our trust in God.
The helmet protects our intellect and understanding. Our mind must be surrounded by understanding of the ways of God. Imagine a bike helmet that only covered one side of the head. Salvation covers us entirely. It protects us from all that we think, all that we are. God’s salvation protects the most vital parts of our identity.
The only offensive weapon in the armor is the Spirit. We are not meant to be offensive in Christ’s name but to speak truth, to live in meekness, and to ally with the Spirit which is what will be our only weapon to bring others to Christ.
May we put on the whole armor of God.
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit.
Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:
I invite you to sit in silence feeling patient for your own faults and trials.
Summarize what insights you have gained during this meditation and meditate and visualize positive change in your life:
This is a listener funded podcast at patreon.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Updates:
2 MILLION DOWNLOADS
Final Question: What role does the Word have in your life?
This week I performed a funeral for a family from Africa. The amount of family that was physically present was not that large but there were many friends who were just as close as family in some ways and their presence and comfort was amazing.
Final Thought:
FIND ME ON:
Download my free app: Recenter with Christ
Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
Voicemail - (602) 888-3795
Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com
Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast
Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast
Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
NIV
10 Finally, be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. 11 Put on the full armor of God, so that you can take your stand against the devil’s schemes. 12 For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms. 13 Therefore put on the full armor of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground, and after you have done everything, to stand.
FIND ME ON:
Download my free app: Recenter with Christ
Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
Voicemail - (602) 888-3795
Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com
Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast
Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast
Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
NIV
1 As for you, you were dead in your transgressions and sins, 2 in which you used to live when you followed the ways of this world and of the ruler of the kingdom of the air, the spirit who is now at work in those who are disobedient. 3 All of us also lived among them at one time, gratifying the cravings of our flesh and following its desires and thoughts. Like the rest, we were by nature deserving of wrath. 4 But because of his great love for us, God, who is rich in mercy, 5 made us alive with Christ even when we were dead in transgressions—it is by grace you have been saved.
FIND ME ON:
Download my free app: Recenter with Christ
Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
Voicemail - (602) 888-3795
Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com
Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast
Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast
Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
446 We Have Different Gifts, According to the Grace Given to Each of Us, A Guided Christian Meditation on Romans 12:4-8 with the Recenter With Christ app
I'm Chaplain Jared and I work as a hospice chaplain and an ICU chaplain. My purpose in making this podcast is to help you find more peace in your life and to be more open for your heart to be changed by the Spirit of God. By using centuries old form of Christian Meditation named Lectio Divina:
Outline: Relaxation, Reading, Meditation, Prayer, Contemplation and Visualization.
Get into a place where you can sit comfortably and uninterrupted for about 20 minutes.You should hopefully not be driving or anything tensing or unrelaxing. If you feel comfortable to do so, I invite you to close your eyes.
Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation:
Breathe and direct your thoughts to connecting with God. Let your stomach be a balloon inflate, deflate.
Bible verses for Meditation:
Romans 12
NIV
4 For just as each of us has one body with many members, and these members do not all have the same function, 5 so in Christ we, though many, form one body, and each member belongs to all the others. 6 We have different gifts,according to the grace given to each of us. If your gift is prophesying, then prophesy in accordance with your faith; 7 if it is serving, then serve; if it is teaching, then teach; 8 if it is to encourage, then give encouragement; if it is giving, then give generously; if it is to lead, do it diligently; if it is to show mercy, do it cheerfully.
NRSVCE
4 For as in one body we have many members, and not all the members have the same function, 5 so we, who are many, are one body in Christ, and individually we are members one of another. 6 We have gifts that differ according to the grace given to us: prophecy, in proportion to faith; 7 ministry, in ministering; the teacher, in teaching; 8 the exhorter, in exhortation; the giver, in generosity; the leader, in diligence; the compassionate, in cheerfulness.
Meditation:
In Christ we are to be united. This is not to say we all must be exactly the same, or that all aspects of people must be forced to be the same. That is clearly not the case even in this scripture. God, through His grace, has given different gifts. What are your gifts? What things does God’s grace bring up in you? What gifts do you find yourself rejoicing for in others? Do you ever struggle to rejoice in the gifts of other people? Do you ever struggle to see the gifts of others?
As I interact with different groups, I have seen vast differences in capabilities. I have some friends in ministry and they tend more towards compassion, I have other friends who are more intense in law enforcement and they have a different focus and set of gifts. I have other friends in science and engineering. Many different gifts can come together for the Glory of God.
This includes many cultures as well. There is no one nation that represents God’s culture. Yet with all the divisions that we make for ourselves, we can all be united in Jesus. We can all be united in the Love of God. We can be united in the way in which we attempt to live the example of Jesus.
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit.
Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:
I invite you to sit in silence feeling patient for your own faults and trials.
Summarize what insights you have gained during this meditation and meditate and visualize positive change in your life:
This is a listener funded podcast at patreon .com/christianmeditationpodcast
Updates:
2 MILLION DOWNLOADS
Final Question: What role does the Word have in your life?
This week I performed a funeral for a family from Africa. The amount of family that was physically present was not that large but there were many friends who were just as close as family in some ways and their presence and comfort was amazing.
Final Thought:
FIND ME ON:
Download my free app: Recenter with Christ
Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
Voicemail - (602) 888-3795
Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com
Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast
Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast
Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
Bible verses for Meditation:
John 5:6-10
NIV
6 There was a man sent from God whose name was John. 7 He came as a witness to testify concerning that light, so that through him all might believe. 8 He himself was not the light; he came only as a witness to the light.
9 The true light that gives light to everyone was coming into the world. 10 He was in the world, and though the world was made through him, the world did not recognize him.
FIND ME ON:
Download my free app: Recenter with Christ
Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
Voicemail - (602) 888-3795
Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com
Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast
Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast
Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
I'm Chaplain Jared and I work as a hospice chaplain and an ICU chaplain. My purpose in making this podcast is to help you find more peace in your life and to be more open for your heart to be changed by the Spirit of God. By using centuries old form of Christian Meditation named Lectio Divina:
Outline: Relaxation, Reading, Meditation, Prayer, Contemplation and Visualization.
Get into a place where you can sit comfortably and uninterrupted for about 20 minutes.You should hopefully not be driving or anything tensing or unrelaxing. If you feel comfortable to do so, I invite you to close your eyes.
Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation:
Breathe and direct your thoughts to connecting with God. Let your stomach be a balloon inflate, deflate.
Bible verses for Meditation:
Galatians 3:26-29
NABRE
26 For through faith you are all children of God in Christ Jesus. 27 For all of you who were baptized into Christ have clothed yourselves with Christ. 28 There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither slave nor free person, there is not male and female; for you are all one in Christ Jesus. 29 And if you belong to Christ, then you are Abraham’s descendant, heirs according to the promise.
ESV
26 for in Christ Jesus you are all sons of God, through faith. 27 For as many of you as were baptized into Christ have put on Christ. 28 There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither slave nor free, there is no male and female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus. 29 And if you are Christ's, then you are Abraham's offspring, heirs according to promise.
Meditation:
This scripture is a continuation of the argument Paul is making that it is only through Jesus that we find salvation. He continues the thought by stating that through faith we are children of God, and as such we are all alike and equal. There is no place in heaven for arbitrary divisions of people. The variety of ways that we, as humans, divide ourselves will melt away in the presence of the Loving God. This includes race, nationality, cliques, congregations.
Pause for a moment and consider how you distinguish your self from others. Do you feel excluded or do you exclude? Do you feel isolated, do you draw near to others. Do you isolate yourself from others due to discomfort or fear. In Christ we are not divided in such ways. Christ seeks to unify us by having us follow in His walk. To do the things he did, to do the things he told us to do, to follow as His sheep and accept Him as our Shepherd and Savior. Through Baptism we put on Christ. It is not saying that realities of our life disappear but it says that God values us and unites us together. As it says in John 17 that we may be one together as Jesus if one with the Father.
What does that mean in your life? Are you missing the blessings of being unified with Jesus? What can you do to actively change that in your heart and behavior? Reflect for a moment what this means.
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit.
Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:
I invite you to sit in silence feeling patient for your own faults and trials.
Summarize what insights you have gained during this meditation and meditate and visualize positive change in your life:
This is a listener funded podcast at patreon.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Updates:
2 MILLION DOWNLOADS
Final Question: What role does the Word have in your life?
This week I performed a funeral for a family from Africa. The amount of family that was physically present was not that large but there were many friends who were just as close as family in some ways and their presence and comfort was amazing.
Final Thought:
FIND ME ON:
Download my free app: Recenter with Christ
Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
Voicemail - (602) 888-3795
Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com
Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast
Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast
Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
Matthew 20:25-28
KJV
25 But Jesus called them unto him, and said, Ye know that the princes of the Gentiles exercise dominion over them, and they that are great exercise authority upon them.
26 But it shall not be so among you: but whosoever will be great among you, let him be your minister;
27 And whosoever will be chief among you, let him be your servant:
28 Even as the Son of man came not to be ministered unto, but to minister, and to give his life a ransom for many.
Final Thought:
FIND ME ON:
Download my free app: Recenter with Christ
Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
Voicemail - (602) 888-3795
Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com
Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast
Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast
Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
Revelation 2
9 “I know your tribulation and poverty, but you are rich. I know the slander of those who claim to be Jews and are not, but rather are members of the assembly of Satan. 10 Do not be afraid of anything that you are going to suffer. Indeed, the devil will throw some of you into prison, that you may be tested, and you will face an ordeal for ten days. Remain faithful until death, and I will give you the crown of life. 11 “‘“Whoever has ears ought to hear what the Spirit says to the churches. The victor shall not be harmed by the second death.”’
Final Thought:
FIND ME ON:
Download my free app: Recenter with Christ
Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
Voicemail - (602) 888-3795
Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com
Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast
438 I Know Your Tribulation, A Guided Christian Meditation on Revelation 2:9-11 with the Recenter With Christ app
I'm Chaplain Jared and I work as a hospice chaplain and an ICU chaplain. My purpose in making this podcast is to help you find more peace in your life and to be more open for your heart to be changed by the Spirit of God. By using centuries old form of Christian Meditation named Lectio Divina:
Outline: Relaxation, Reading, Meditation, Prayer, Contemplation and Visualization.
Get into a place where you can sit comfortably and uninterrupted for about 20 minutes.You should hopefully not be driving or anything tensing or unrelaxing. If you feel comfortable to do so, I invite you to close your eyes.
Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation:
Breathe and direct your thoughts to connecting with God. Let your stomach be a balloon inflate, deflate.
Bible verses for Meditation:
Revelation 2
NABRE
9 “I know your tribulation and poverty, but you are rich. I know the slander of those who claim to be Jews and are not, but rather are members of the assembly of Satan. 10 Do not be afraid of anything that you are going to suffer. Indeed, the devil will throw some of you into prison, that you may be tested, and you will face an ordeal for ten days. Remain faithful until death, and I will give you the crown of life. 11 “‘“Whoever has ears ought to hear what the Spirit says to the churches. The victor shall not be harmed by the second death.”’
ESV
“‘I know your tribulation and your poverty (but you are rich) and the slander of those who say that they are Jews and are not, but are a synagogue of Satan. 10 Do not fear what you are about to suffer. Behold, the devil is about to throw some of you into prison, that you may be tested, and for ten days you will have tribulation. Be faithful unto death, and I will give you the crown of life. 11 He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches. The one who conquers will not be hurt by the second death.’
Meditation:
God knows the suffering of his people. Just as in this scripture God knew the suffering of his saints in ancient times, so he knows your struggles. He knows how the world will go after good. Yet we can live without fear. Regardless of what the devil does we do not need to fear. Much of our human worries are about things that we cannot control. In this moment give those fears over to the Lord.
God has promised that those who trust in Him, those who come to Him, will be joint heirs with Christ. Regardless of our struggles we can remain faithful. Empowered by God we can do those things we need to do to overcome. We can embrace the peace of God.
The Second death refers to spiritual death, or our separation from God. Those who place their trust in God will not be harmed by the second death. We will overcome this world.
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit.
Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:
I invite you to sit in silence feeling patient for your own faults and trials.
Summarize what insights you have gained during this meditation and meditate and visualize positive change in your life:
This is a listener funded podcast at patreon.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Updates:
2 MILLION DOWNLOADS
Final Question: What role does the Word have in your life?
This week I performed a funeral for a family from Africa. The amount of family that was physically present was not that large but there were many friends who were just as close as family in some ways and their presence and comfort was amazing.
Final Thought:
FIND ME ON:
Download my free app: Recenter with Christ
Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
Voicemail - (602) 888-3795
Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com
Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast
Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast
Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
Matthew 12
NIV
46 While Jesus was still talking to the crowd, his mother and brothers stood outside, wanting to speak to him. 47 Someone told him, “Your mother and brothers are standing outside, wanting to speak to you.”
48 He replied to him, “Who is my mother, and who are my brothers?” 49 Pointing to his disciples, he said, “Here are my mother and my brothers. 50 For whoever does the will of my Father in heaven is my brother and sister and mother.”
436 My Family is Whoever Does the Will of The Father, A Guided Christian Meditation on Matthew 12:46-50 with the Recenter With Christ app
I'm Chaplain Jared and I work as a hospice chaplain and an ICU chaplain. My purpose in making this podcast is to help you find more peace in your life and to be more open for your heart to be changed by the Spirit of God. By using centuries old form of Christian Meditation named Lectio Divina:
Outline: Relaxation, Reading, Meditation, Prayer, Contemplation and Visualization.
Get into a place where you can sit comfortably and uninterrupted for about 20 minutes.You should hopefully not be driving or anything tensing or unrelaxing. If you feel comfortable to do so, I invite you to close your eyes.
Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation:
Breathe and direct your thoughts to connecting with God. Let your stomach be a balloon inflate, deflate.
Bible verses for Meditation:
Matthew 12
NIV
46 While Jesus was still talking to the crowd, his mother and brothers stood outside, wanting to speak to him. 47 Someone told him, “Your mother and brothers are standing outside, wanting to speak to you.”
48 He replied to him, “Who is my mother, and who are my brothers?” 49 Pointing to his disciples, he said, “Here are my mother and my brothers. 50 For whoever does the will of my Father in heaven is my brother and sister and mother.”
NASB
46 While He was still speaking to the crowds, behold, His mother and brothers were standing outside, seeking to speak to Him. 47 Someone said to Him, “Look, Your mother and Your brothers are standing outside, seeking to speak to You.” 48 But Jesus replied to the one who was telling Him and said, “Who is My mother, and who are My brothers?” 49 And extending His hand toward His disciples, He said, “Behold: My mother and My brothers! 50 For whoever does the will of My Father who is in heaven, he is My brother, and sister, and mother.”
Meditation:
This scripture has always been interesting and in some ways confusing to me. On its face it makes complete sense that Jesus prioritizes those who are obedient. He is teaching a fundamental point that God does not play favorites. In that sense, it is incredibly compelling as a way of changing our priorities and removing our human biases. It invites us to feel like even if we are not on the inside track or some special group, that God still loves us.
On the other hand I find it confusing because of the many ways that Jesus speaks so highly of his mother and looks to ensure that she is cared for even at the Cross. The mighty Jehovah himself is the one that proclaimed honoring father and mother as one of the top ten rules, making the list of ten commandments. Additionally scripture does not shy away from showing the importance of Jesus’s mother in the narrative.
These two priorities seem to be at odds with each other. I also find it an interesting ballance in my own life. Personally, my family is extremely important to me. My mother is a special woman that I will forever be grateful for. I appreciate her goodness, kindness, and example in so many ways. In the words of Abraham Lincoln, All that I am or hope to be I owe to my angel mother. She raised me as a single mother and I owe her the world. Additionally I consider the role of my wife and her motherly influence on our children, and it is so profoundly meaningful to me. I prefer her to all others. Yet I also recognize that loving others is the second great commandment. Luckily these are not mutually exclusive commands and we can honor God by loving and honoring his children.
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit.
Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:
I invite you to sit in silence feeling patient for your own faults and trials.
Summarize what insights you have gained during this meditation and meditate and visualize positive change in your life:
This is a listener funded podcast at patreon.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Updates:
2 MILLION DOWNLOADS
Final Question: What role does the Word have in your life?
This week I performed a funeral for a family from Africa. The amount of family that was physically present was not that large but there were many friends who were just as close as family in some ways and their presence and comfort was amazing.
Final Thought:
FIND ME ON:
Download my free app: Recenter with Christ
Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
Voicemail - (602) 888-3795
Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com
Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast
Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast
Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
NIV
4 Moses then wrote down everything the LORD had said. He got up early the next morning and built an altar at the foot of the mountain and set up twelve stone pillars representing the twelve tribes of Israel.
5 Then he sent young Israelite men, and they offered burnt offerings and sacrificed young bulls as fellowship offerings to the LORD.
6 Moses took half of the blood and put it in bowls, and the other half he splashed against the altar.
7 Then he took the Book of the Covenant and read it to the people. They responded, “We will do everything the LORD has said; we will obey.”
8 Moses then took the blood, sprinkled it on the people and said, “This is the blood of the covenant that the LORD has made with you in accordance with all these words.”
Final Thought:
FIND ME ON:
Download my free app: Recenter with Christ
Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
Voicemail - (602) 888-3795
Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com
Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast
Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast
Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
434 Behold the Blood of the Covenant, A Guided Christian Meditation on Exodus 24:4-8 with the Recenter With Christ app
I'm Chaplain Jared and I work as a hospice chaplain and an ICU chaplain. My purpose in making this podcast is to help you find more peace in your life and to be more open for your heart to be changed by the Spirit of God. By using centuries old form of Christian Meditation named Lectio Divina:
Outline: Relaxation, Reading, Meditation, Prayer, Contemplation and Visualization.
Get into a place where you can sit comfortably and uninterrupted for about 20 minutes.You should hopefully not be driving or anything tensing or unrelaxing. If you feel comfortable to do so, I invite you to close your eyes.
Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation:
Breathe and direct your thoughts to connecting with God. Let your stomach be a balloon inflate, deflate.
Bible verses for Meditation:
ESV
4 And Moses wrote down all the words of the Lord. He rose early in the morning and built an altar at the foot of the mountain, and twelve pillars, according to the twelve tribes of Israel. 5 And he sent young men of the people of Israel, who offered burnt offerings and sacrificed peace offerings of oxen to the Lord. 6 And Moses took half of the blood and put it in basins, and half of the blood he threw against the altar. 7 Then he took the Book of the Covenant and read it in the hearing of the people. And they said, “All that the Lord has spoken we will do, and we will be obedient.” 8 And Moses took the blood and threw it on the people and said, “Behold the blood of the covenant that the Lord has made with you in accordance with all these words.”
NIV
4 Moses then wrote down everything the LORD had said. He got up early the next morning and built an altar at the foot of the mountain and set up twelve stone pillars representing the twelve tribes of Israel.
5 Then he sent young Israelite men, and they offered burnt offerings and sacrificed young bulls as fellowship offerings to the LORD.
6 Moses took half of the blood and put it in bowls, and the other half he splashed against the altar.
7 Then he took the Book of the Covenant and read it to the people. They responded, “We will do everything the LORD has said; we will obey.”
8 Moses then took the blood, sprinkled it on the people and said, “This is the blood of the covenant that the LORD has made with you in accordance with all these words.”
Meditation:
Here Moses had already received the Ten Commandments and that is what he was presenting to the people. This represented a covenant or a testament between the law of God and the people. The people willingly agreed to follow the Law of God. They had been delivered from Egypt by the hand of God, quite obviously by the miracles of God and here God had laid out His rules. Yet even in the midst of what appears to be a straightforward promise there was sacrifice offered and the blood of that sacrifice was sprinkled on the people in the middle of this covenant or as some translations call it, testament.
To our modern sensibilities it may seem an unexpected aspect of this kind of promise that a sacrifice and blood would be involved. Why was a sacrifice needed? Why the blood? Perhaps we could look to Leviticus where it lays out the different kinds of sacrifices and what the purpose of those sacrifices but they were to redeem fallen people in the face of an all powerful and perfect God. It is important to recognize the symbolism for all these sacrifices. The book of Hebrews points out that the sacrifices were a symbol of Christ. Similarly, the blood that was sprinkled on them was a symbol of the coming blood of Christ.
Hebrews also points out that the old covenant or testament was incomplete without the New Testament or Covenant. The New Covenant or New Testament. Jesus says that the Covenant is played out in the last supper. Christ’s plan all along has been fulfilled and now we stand as the beneficiaries of a covenant we don't deserve because God knew that we need his grace in our human weakness. We remember Christ, we honor the covenant that he made with us, that he would redeem us if we believe in him and pick up our Cross and follow him.
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit.
Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:
I invite you to sit in silence feeling patient for your own faults and trials.
Summarize what insights you have gained during this meditation and meditate and visualize positive change in your life:
This is a listener funded podcast at patreon.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Updates:
2 MILLION DOWNLOADS
Final Question: What role does the Word have in your life?
Final Thought:
FIND ME ON:
Download my free app: Recenter with Christ
Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
Voicemail - (602) 888-3795
Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com
Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast
Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast
Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
NIV
11 Soon afterward, Jesus went to a town called Nain, and his disciples and a large crowd went along with him. 12 As he approached the town gate, a dead person was being carried out—the only son of his mother, and she was a widow. And a large crowd from the town was with her. 13 When the Lord saw her, his heart went out to her and he said, “Don’t cry.”
14 Then he went up and touched the bier they were carrying him on, and the bearers stood still. He said, “Young man, I say to you, get up!” 15 The dead man sat up and began to talk, and Jesus gave him back to his mother.
16 They were all filled with awe and praised God. “A great prophet has appeared among us,” they said. “God has come to help his people.”
FIND ME ON:
Download my free app: Recenter with Christ
Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
Voicemail - (602) 888-3795
Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com
Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast
Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast
Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
432 I Say To You Get Up, A Guided Christian Meditation on Luke 7:11-16 with the Recenter With Christ app
I'm Chaplain Jared and I work as a hospice chaplain and an ICU chaplain. My purpose in making this podcast is to help you find more peace in your life and to be more open for your heart to be changed by the Spirit of God. By using centuries old form of Christian Meditation named Lectio Divina:
Outline: Relaxation, Reading, Meditation, Prayer, Contemplation and Visualization.
Get into a place where you can sit comfortably and uninterrupted for about 20 minutes.You should hopefully not be driving or anything tensing or unrelaxing. If you feel comfortable to do so, I invite you to close your eyes.
Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation:
Breathe and direct your thoughts to connecting with God. Let your stomach be a balloon inflate, deflate.
Bible verses for Meditation:
NIV
11 Soon afterward, Jesus went to a town called Nain, and his disciples and a large crowd went along with him. 12 As he approached the town gate, a dead person was being carried out—the only son of his mother, and she was a widow. And a large crowd from the town was with her. 13 When the Lord saw her, his heart went out to her and he said, “Don’t cry.”
14 Then he went up and touched the bier they were carrying him on, and the bearers stood still. He said, “Young man, I say to you, get up!” 15 The dead man sat up and began to talk, and Jesus gave him back to his mother.
16 They were all filled with awe and praised God. “A great prophet has appeared among us,” they said. “God has come to help his people.”
ESV
1 Soon afterward[c] he went to a town called Nain, and his disciples and a great crowd went with him. 12 As he drew near to the gate of the town, behold, a man who had died was being carried out, the only son of his mother, and she was a widow, and a considerable crowd from the town was with her. 13 And when the Lord saw her, he had compassion on her and said to her, “Do not weep.” 14 Then he came up and touched the bier, and the bearers stood still. And he said, “Young man, I say to you, arise.” 15 And the dead man sat up and began to speak, and Jesus[d] gave him to his mother. 16 Fear seized them all, and they glorified God, saying, “A great prophet has arisen among us!” and “God has visited his people!”
Meditation:
What is the correct course for our lives?
How do we know what the right way for our life is to be?
Luke shares this experience where Christ dramatically changes the direction of this mothers life, and brings this young man back from the grave. How many people died during the time of Jesus and we don't have more than a couple examples where Jesus raised people from the dead. What is it that made the death of this young man special? The fact is that we do not fully understand the plan and way of God. Additionally the power that Jesus uses shows his absolute dominance over the limits of this world. The things we see as limitations are completely meaningless to Him. Yet with that said, those who follow Christ are in the same world and exposed to the same limits. Without the power of a supreme God we cannot escape those limits. The faithful are susceptible to human failings. The apostles were killed and died and Christ did not raise them in the mortal way.
It is important to note that this is not referring to resurrection which is an essential gift God gave us through the resurrection of Christ. Resurrection is in the plan for each one of us. Imagine for a moment how wonderful it is to realize that we need not maintain a scarcity mindset regarding life. In other words we don’t have to covet our own time and fear the inevitable loss due to mortality. If we celebrate stories like this how much more powerful is it to consider Christ resurrecting people by the millions or billions. God’s power to undo the limits of our humanity can help us overcome the natural emotions that come from our mortality also. Ultimately it is God who controls this and we can learn to trust Jesus as our true savior both of body and spirit.
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit.
Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:
I invite you to sit in silence feeling patient for your own faults and trials.
Summarize what insights you have gained during this meditation and meditate and visualize positive change in your life:
This is a listener funded podcast at patreon.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Updates:
2 MILLION DOWNLOADS
Final Question: What role does the Word have in your life?
Final Thought:
FIND ME ON:
Download my free app: Recenter with Christ
Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
Voicemail - (602) 888-3795
Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com
Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast
Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast
Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
NIV
33 When they came to the place called the Skull, they crucified him there, along with the criminals—one on his right, the other on his left. 34 Jesus said, “Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they are doing.”And they divided up his clothes by casting lots.
35 The people stood watching, and the rulers even sneered at him. They said, “He saved others; let him save himself if he is God’s Messiah, the Chosen One.”
FIND ME ON:
Download my free app: Recenter with Christ
Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
Voicemail - (602) 888-3795
Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com
Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast
Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast
Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
NRSV
13 So they went and found everything as he had told them; and they prepared the Passover meal.
14 When the hour came, he took his place at the table, and the apostles with him. 15 He said to them, “I have eagerly desired to eat this Passover with you before I suffer; 16 for I tell you, I will not eat it until it is fulfilled in the kingdom of God.” 17 Then he took a cup, and after giving thanks he said, “Take this and divide it among yourselves;
428 The Last Passover Supper, A Guided Christian Meditation on Luke 22:13-17 with the Recenter With Christ app
I'm Chaplain Jared and I work as a hospice chaplain and an ICU chaplain. My purpose in making this podcast is to help you find more peace in your life and to be more open for your heart to be changed by the Spirit of God. By using centuries old form of Christian Meditation named Lectio Divina:
Outline: Relaxation, Reading, Meditation, Prayer, Contemplation and Visualization.
Get into a place where you can sit comfortably and uninterrupted for about 20 minutes.You should hopefully not be driving or anything tensing or unrelaxing. If you feel comfortable to do so, I invite you to close your eyes.
Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation:
Breathe and direct your thoughts to connecting with God. Let your stomach be a balloon inflate, deflate.
Bible verses for Meditation:
Luke 22
NIV
13 They left and found things just as Jesus had told them. So they prepared the Passover.
14 When the hour came, Jesus and his apostles reclined at the table. 15 And he said to them, “I have eagerly desired to eat this Passover with you before I suffer. 16 For I tell you, I will not eat it again until it finds fulfillment in the kingdom of God.”
17 After taking the cup, he gave thanks and said, “Take this and divide it among you.
NRSV
13 So they went and found everything as he had told them; and they prepared the Passover meal.
14 When the hour came, he took his place at the table, and the apostles with him. 15 He said to them, “I have eagerly desired to eat this Passover with you before I suffer; 16 for I tell you, I will not eat it until it is fulfilled in the kingdom of God.” 17 Then he took a cup, and after giving thanks he said, “Take this and divide it among yourselves;
Meditation on Scripture:
During the lead up to Easter we look back to the things that happened during the last week of the life of Christ. One thing we often hear mentioned is the last supper, which was initiated right before Jesus’ death. He gathered His apostles and gave them bread and wine in remembrance of His body and His blood. This was directly connected to the Passover meal. The last supper was a passover meal. This is incredibly significant. The passover meal’s purpose was to remember how God saved the children of Israel when they were in bondage in Egypt. The Israelites painted lamb’s blood on the doorposts of their homes and the final plague passed over them. This final plague is when Pharaoh finally agreed to let the Israelites free. The destroying angel lit
Similarly, in the eyes of Christians, the death of Christ was the fulfillment of the practice of passover since it had been fulfilled.. Jesus says He would not eat or drink it again until it was fulfilled in the kingdom of God. When we partake of the Sacrament of last supper we should remember Jesus as the lamb of God creating an eternal passover, where his blood would spare us from the plague that would befall us due to our sinful actions.
May we always remember him, and trust in the blood of the Lamb to save us from destruction. God loves us enough to have created this whole plan for us. The being that created you, is able to save you. Nobody is beyond his ability to forgive. May we place our faith in Christ this Easter Season, as we remember the events leading up to his death on the cross for you and for me, may we recognize that this was foretold from the very beginning. He loves you and offers you redemption.
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit.
Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:
I invite you to sit in silence feeling patient for your own faults and trials.
Summarize what insights you have gained during this meditation and meditate and visualize positive change in your life:
This is a listener funded podcast at patreon.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Updates:
2 MILLION DOWNLOADS
Final Question: What role does the Word have in your life?
Final Thought:
FIND ME ON:
Download my free app: Recenter with Christ
Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
Voicemail - (602) 888-3795
Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com
Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast
Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast
Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
NRSV
13 So they went and found everything as he had told them; and they prepared the Passover meal.
14 When the hour came, he took his place at the table, and the apostles with him. 15 He said to them, “I have eagerly desired to eat this Passover with you before I suffer; 16 for I tell you, I will not eat it until it is fulfilled in the kingdom of God.” 17 Then he took a cup, and after giving thanks he said, “Take this and divide it among yourselves;
426 Do Not Fear Those Who Can Only Kill the Body, A Guided Christian Meditation on Luke 12:4-7 with the Recenter With Christ app
I'm Chaplain Jared and I work as a hospice chaplain and an ICU chaplain. My purpose in making this podcast is to help you find more peace in your life and to be more open for your heart to be changed by the Spirit of God. By using centuries old form of Christian Meditation named Lectio Divina:
Outline: Relaxation, Reading, Meditation, Prayer, Contemplation and Visualization.
Get into a place where you can sit comfortably and uninterrupted for about 20 minutes.You should hopefully not be driving or anything tensing or unrelaxing. If you feel comfortable to do so, I invite you to close your eyes.
Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation:
Breathe and direct your thoughts to connecting with God. Let your stomach be a balloon inflate, deflate.
Bible verses for Meditation:
NRSV
4 “I tell you, my friends, do not fear those who kill the body, and after that can do nothing more. 5 But I will warn you whom to fear: fear him who, after he has killed, has authority to cast into hell. Yes, I tell you, fear him! 6 Are not five sparrows sold for two pennies? Yet not one of them is forgotten in God’s sight. 7 But even the hairs of your head are all counted. Do not be afraid; you are of more value than many sparrows.
ESV
4 “I tell you, my friends, do not fear those who kill the body, and after that have nothing more that they can do. 5 But I will warn you whom to fear: fear him who, after he has killed, has authority to cast into hell. Yes, I tell you, fear him! 6 Are not five sparrows sold for two pennies? And not one of them is forgotten before God. 7 Why, even the hairs of your head are all numbered. Fear not; you are of more value than many sparrows.
Meditation on Scripture:
Life is full of opportunities to fear. Many times we call it by different names, anxiety, worry, even sometimes business. Does fear rule our hearts? Do we let worries of this world draw us away from the peace of Christ? Jesus said to not fear people who can only do things to your here on earth, the extreme example he gave is to not fear those who can only kill us. If anything we should fear God. Even so, he immediately tells of how God loves us far more than we deserve and to not be afraid because he values us more than sparro.
Does God want you to be afraid? The scriptures say we should fear God but that generally means we should recognize his power and it is more about having awe for God. God does not want us to be afraid as he says here. We should have reverence for the Lord but God does not give us the spirit of fear but of Power and Love ane a sound mind.
What are you afraid of? Is it something that you should fear? What can you do to learn to be less fearful of this world and trust in the Lord?
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit.
Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:
I invite you to sit in silence feeling patient for your own faults and trials.
Summarize what insights you have gained during this meditation and meditate and visualize positive change in your life:
This is a listener funded podcast at patreon.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Updates:
2 MILLION DOWNLOADS
Final Question: What role does the Word have in your life?
Final Thought:
FIND ME ON:
Download my free app: Recenter with Christ
Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
Voicemail - (602) 888-3795
Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com
Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast
Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast
Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
NRSV
12 Now I want you to know, brothers and sisters, that what has happened to me has actually served to advance the gospel. 13 As a result, it has become clear throughout the whole palace guard and to everyone else that I am in chains for Christ. 14 And because of my chains, most of the brothers and sisters have become confident in the Lord and dare all the more to proclaim the gospel without fear.
FIND ME ON:
Download my free app: Recenter with Christ
Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
Voicemail - (602) 888-3795
Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com
Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast
Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast
Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
424 That Which Happened Served the Gospel, A Guided Christian Meditation on Philippians 1:12-14 with the Recenter With Christ app
I'm Chaplain Jared and I work as a hospice chaplain and an ICU chaplain. My purpose in making this podcast is to help you find more peace in your life and to be more open for your heart to be changed by the Spirit of God. By using centuries old form of Christian Meditation named Lectio Divina:
Outline: Relaxation, Reading, Meditation, Prayer, Contemplation and Visualization.
Get into a place where you can sit comfortably and uninterrupted for about 20 minutes.You should hopefully not be driving or anything tensing or unrelaxing. If you feel comfortable to do so, I invite you to close your eyes.
Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation:
Breathe and direct your thoughts to connecting with God. Let your stomach be a balloon inflate, deflate.
Bible verses for Meditation:
NRSV
12 Now I want you to know, brothers and sisters, that what has happened to me has actually served to advance the gospel. 13 As a result, it has become clear throughout the whole palace guard and to everyone else that I am in chains for Christ. 14 And because of my chains, most of the brothers and sisters have become confident in the Lord and dare all the more to proclaim the gospel without fear.
KJV
12 But I would ye should understand, brethren, that the things which happened unto me have fallen out rather unto the furtherance of the gospel;
13 So that my bonds in Christ are manifest in all the palace, and in all other places;
14 And many of the brethren in the Lord, waxing confident by my bonds, are much more bold to speak the word without fear.
Meditation on Scripture:
Paul experienced hardship. He was placed in jail for his testimony of Christ. He was beaten and stoned. He experienced hardship far beyond what he would have had he not followed Christ. To him this made sense to him. Instead of looking as his persecution as a as curse from God, he saw it as meaningful.
He saw purpose in struggle. He saw that even though it was not what he would have chosen for himself, that some good and value came from his struggle.
When hard things happen in our life it can be extremely meaningful if we find a Godly purpose. It is also challenging and can take us some time to see that purpose. Think now of the unexpected purposes connected to hard things you have gone through.
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit.
Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:
I invite you to sit in silence feeling patient for your own faults and trials.
Summarize what insights you have gained during this meditation and meditate and visualize positive change in your life:
This is a listener funded podcast at patreon.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Updates:
2 MILLION DOWNLOADS
Final Question: What role does the Word have in your life?
Final Thought:
FIND ME ON:
Download my free app: Recenter with Christ
Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
Voicemail - (602) 888-3795
Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com
Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast
Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast
Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
Romans 5:5-8
NIV
5 Those who live according to the flesh have their minds set on what the flesh desires; but those who live in accordance with the Spirit have their minds set on what the Spirit desires. 6 The mind governed by the flesh is death, but the mind governed by the Spirit is life and peace. 7 The mind governed by the flesh is hostile to God; it does not submit to God’s law, nor can it do so. 8 Those who are in the realm of the flesh cannot please God.
422 To Be Spiritually Minded is Life and Peace, A Guided Christian Meditation on Romans 8:5-8 with the Recenter With Christ app
I'm Chaplain Jared and I work as a hospice chaplain and an ICU chaplain. My purpose in making this podcast is to help you find more peace in your life and to be more open for your heart to be changed by the Spirit of God. By using centuries old form of Christian Meditation named Lectio Divina:
Outline: Relaxation, Reading, Meditation, Prayer, Contemplation and Visualization.
Get into a place where you can sit comfortably and uninterrupted for about 20 minutes.You should hopefully not be driving or anything tensing or unrelaxing. If you feel comfortable to do so, I invite you to close your eyes.
Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation:
Breathe and direct your thoughts to connecting with God. Let your stomach be a balloon inflate, deflate.
Bible verses for Meditation:
Romans 5:5-8
NIV
5 Those who live according to the flesh have their minds set on what the flesh desires; but those who live in accordance with the Spirit have their minds set on what the Spirit desires. 6 The mind governed by the flesh is death, but the mind governed by the Spirit is life and peace. 7 The mind governed by the flesh is hostile to God; it does not submit to God’s law, nor can it do so. 8 Those who are in the realm of the flesh cannot please God.
NKJV
5 For those who live according to the flesh set their minds on the things of the flesh, but those who live according to the Spirit, the things of the Spirit. 6 For to be carnally minded is death, but to be spiritually minded is life and peace. 7 Because the carnal mind is enmity against God; for it is not subject to the law of God, nor indeed can be. 8 So then, those who are in the flesh cannot please God.
Meditation on Scripture:
What does it mean to be spiritually minded?
What does it mean to live according to the flesh?
The Glorious offer of Christ is that we can trust in Him as our savior, trust that he will take our sin, trust in Him and follow Him and our human weaknesses will be swallowed up. Our carnal human nature is hostile to God. We should not try and guard and protect our sin. We should not attempt to save a secret corner of our heart for sin, for the carnal ways of the flesh. So what do we do if we are assailed by carnal desires after we have received Christ? Even after we trust Christ, we are not free of temptation of carnal things, so what should we do about it? Draw unto God, confess it to Him. Confess our weakness to Him and not try and protect and guard our sin. We can turn our mind to Him in confidence and peace instead of angst and fear of the carnal.
Think of a time recently when you were tempted. Did you reach out to God in peace and love or did you feel fearful or worse, did you enjoy the secret thought? The truth is that each of us are tempted to do things in contrast to what we know to be right, yet with God’s help we can overcome that and we can learn to trust in the Spirit of God and embrace God’s peace instead of giving in. Spiritual maturity comes as we learn to trust in God, and trust that he can cleanse us and change us.We must learn to approach God not as a resentful child who resentfully gives in to the idea of not sinning, but as a grateful mature person who places values the word of God as THE standard they wish to live their life by.
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit.
Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:
I invite you to sit in silence feeling patient for your own faults and trials.
Summarize what insights you have gained during this meditation and meditate and visualize positive change in your life:
This is a listener funded podcast at patreon.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Updates:
2 MILLION DOWNLOADS
Final Question: What role does the Word have in your life?
Final Thought:
FIND ME ON:
Download my free app: Recenter with Christ
Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
Voicemail - (602) 888-3795
Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com
Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast
Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast
Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
KJV
Mark 4
36 And when they had sent away the multitude, they took him even as he was in the ship. And there were also with him other little ships.
37 And there arose a great storm of wind, and the waves beat into the ship, so that it was now full. 38 And he was in the hinder part of the ship, asleep on a pillow: and they awake him, and say unto him, Master, carest thou not that we perish? FIND ME ON:
Download my free app: Recenter with Christ
Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
Voicemail - (602) 888-3795
Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com
Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast
Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast
Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
420 Carest Not That We Perish, A Guided Christian Meditation on Mark 4:36-38 with the Recenter With Christ app
I'm Chaplain Jared and I work as a hospice chaplain and an ICU chaplain. My purpose in making this podcast is to help you find more peace in your life and to be more open for your heart to be changed by the Spirit of God. By using centuries old form of Christian Meditation named Lectio Divina:
Outline: Relaxation, Reading, Meditation, Prayer, Contemplation and Visualization.
Get into a place where you can sit comfortably and uninterrupted for about 20 minutes.You should hopefully not be driving or anything tensing or unrelaxing. If you feel comfortable to do so, I invite you to close your eyes.
Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation:
Breathe and direct your thoughts to connecting with God. Let your stomach be a balloon inflate, deflate.
Bible verses for Meditation:
KJV
Mark 4
36 And when they had sent away the multitude, they took him even as he was in the ship. And there were also with him other little ships.
37 And there arose a great storm of wind, and the waves beat into the ship, so that it was now full. 38 And he was in the hinder part of the ship, asleep on a pillow: and they awake him, and say unto him, Master, carest thou not that we perish?
NIV
36 Leaving the crowd behind, they took him along, just as he was, in the boat. There were also other boats with him. 37 A furious squall came up, and the waves broke over the boat, so that it was nearly swamped. 38 Jesus was in the stern, sleeping on a cushion. The disciples woke him and said to him, “Teacher, don’t you care if we drown?”
Meditation on Scripture:
When the storms in our life rage it can cause us to feel fear. We see the waves splashing and the wind blowing over our heads. We wonder why such storms are aloud to grow and build. Why was it that a storm came when Jesus was on board the ship? It may seem that when things are not smooth in our life that we are failing or worse that God is failing us.
We can wonder as the apostles did, does He care if we perish? As If God would only allow us to live through challenges if he didn’t care for us. This is a natural thought yet I think it demonstrates a misunderstanding of the purpose of our lives. We are not called to live carefree lives. What is important to know is that regardless of what we may perceive as the outcome in a given situation, God knows what it will do for us and to us. In this scripture Jesus saves them from the storm but not until it was nearly sinking the vessel. This caused them in the end to marvel at His greatness.
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit.
Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:
I invite you to sit in silence feeling patient for your own faults and trials.
Summarize what insights you have gained during this meditation and meditate and visualize positive change in your life:
This is a listener funded podcast at patreon.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Updates:
2 MILLION DOWNLOADS
Final Question: What role does the Word have in your life?
Final Thought:
FIND ME ON:
Download my free app: Recenter with Christ
Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
Voicemail - (602) 888-3795
Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com
Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast
Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast
Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
NIV
7 Now we pray to God that you will not do anything wrong—not so that people will see that we have stood the test but so that you will do what is right even though we may seem to have failed. 8 For we cannot do anything against the truth, but only for the truth. 9 We are glad whenever we are weak but you are strong; and our prayer is that you may be fully restored. 10 This is why I write these things when I am absent, that when I come I may not have to be harsh in my use of authority—the authority the Lord gave me for building you up, not for tearing you down. 11 Finally, brothers and sisters, rejoice! Strive for full restoration, encourage one another, be of one mind, live in peace. And the God of love and peace will be with you.
FIND ME ON:
Download my free app: Recenter with Christ
Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
Voicemail - (602) 888-3795
Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com
Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast
Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast
Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
416 The Lord is My Light and My Salvation, In Whom Shall I Fear, A Guided Christian Meditation on Psalms 27:1-5 with the Recenter With Christ app I'm Chaplain Jared and I work as a hospice chaplain and an ICU chaplain. My purpose in making this podcast is to help you find more peace in your life and to be more open for your heart to be changed by the Spirit of God. By using centuries old form of Christian Meditation named Lectio Divina:
Outline: Relaxation, Reading, Meditation, Prayer, Contemplation and Visualization.
Get into a place where you can sit comfortably and uninterrupted for about 20 minutes.You should hopefully not be driving or anything tensing or unrelaxing. If you feel comfortable to do so, I invite you to close your eyes.
Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation:
Breathe and direct your thoughts to connecting with God. Let your stomach be a balloon inflate, deflate.
Bible verses for Meditation:
Psalms 27
ESV
1 The Lord is my light and my salvation;
whom shall I fear?
The Lord is the stronghold of my life;
of whom shall I be afraid?
2 When evildoers assail me
to eat up my flesh,
my adversaries and foes,
it is they who stumble and fall.
3 Though an army encamp against me,
my heart shall not fear;
though war arise against me,
yet I will be confident.
4 One thing have I asked of the Lord,
that will I seek after:
that I may dwell in the house of the Lord
all the days of my life,
to gaze upon the beauty of the Lord
and to inquire in his temple.
5 For he will hide me in his shelter
in the day of trouble;
he will conceal me under the cover of his tent;
he will lift me high upon a rock.
NABRE
1 The Lord is my light and my salvation;
whom should I fear?
The Lord is my life’s refuge;
of whom should I be afraid?
2 When evildoers come at me
to devour my flesh,
These my enemies and foes
themselves stumble and fall.
3 Though an army encamp against me,
my heart does not fear;
Though war be waged against me,
even then do I trust.
4 One thing I ask of the Lord;
this I seek:
To dwell in the Lord’s house
all the days of my life,
To gaze on the Lord’s beauty,
to visit his temple.
5 For God will hide me in his shelter
in time of trouble,
He will conceal me in the cover of his tent;
Meditation on Scripture:
At many points in our lives and in history we may find reasons to worry and fear. Aggression across the world. Hate and malice between people. Military action. There are times when our hearts may worry. We may feel as though we are in a losing conflict with the enemy of Good. Yet we know that the enemy will not win. We do know that on earth there will be tribulations but we also know we can trust the Lord. We can trust in our God. Spend a moment and reflect on placing your trust in God.
David often talks about dwelling in the house of the Lord, yet he spent a great deal of his life on the run for his life. Dwelling in the house of the Lord does not always mean living in comfort, rather it is learning to confide in the Lord and find peace through God. If you notice yourself begin to fear, confide in the Lord. Trust that He rules all and will make all things right. He will hide us in His shelter.
May God bless our world with peace and may he bless us with spiritual peace.
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit.
Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:
I invite you to sit in silence feeling patient for your own faults and trials.
Summarize what insights you have gained during this meditation and meditate and visualize positive change in your life:
This is a listener funded podcast at patreon.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Updates:
2 MILLION DOWNLOADS
Final Question: What role does the Word have in your life?
Final Thought:
FIND ME ON:
Download my free app: Recenter with Christ
Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
Voicemail - (602) 888-3795
Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com
Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast
Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast
Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
416 The Lord is My Light and My Salvation, In Whom Shall I Fear, A Guided Christian Meditation on Psalms 27:1-5 with the Recenter With Christ app
I'm Chaplain Jared and I work as a hospice chaplain and an ICU chaplain. My purpose in making this podcast is to help you find more peace in your life and to be more open for your heart to be changed by the Spirit of God. By using centuries old form of Christian Meditation named Lectio Divina:
Outline: Relaxation, Reading, Meditation, Prayer, Contemplation and Visualization.
Get into a place where you can sit comfortably and uninterrupted for about 20 minutes.You should hopefully not be driving or anything tensing or unrelaxing. If you feel comfortable to do so, I invite you to close your eyes.
Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation:
Breathe and direct your thoughts to connecting with God. Let your stomach be a balloon inflate, deflate.
Bible verses for Meditation:
Psalms 27
ESV
1 The Lord is my light and my salvation;
whom shall I fear?
The Lord is the stronghold of my life;
of whom shall I be afraid?
2 When evildoers assail me
to eat up my flesh,
my adversaries and foes,
it is they who stumble and fall.
3 Though an army encamp against me,
my heart shall not fear;
though war arise against me,
yet I will be confident.
4 One thing have I asked of the Lord,
that will I seek after:
that I may dwell in the house of the Lord
all the days of my life,
to gaze upon the beauty of the Lord
and to inquire in his temple.
5 For he will hide me in his shelter
in the day of trouble;
he will conceal me under the cover of his tent;
he will lift me high upon a rock.
NABRE
1 The Lord is my light and my salvation;
whom should I fear?
The Lord is my life’s refuge;
of whom should I be afraid?
2 When evildoers come at me
to devour my flesh,
These my enemies and foes
themselves stumble and fall.
3 Though an army encamp against me,
my heart does not fear;
Though war be waged against me,
even then do I trust.
4 One thing I ask of the Lord;
this I seek:
To dwell in the Lord’s house
all the days of my life,
To gaze on the Lord’s beauty,
to visit his temple.
5 For God will hide me in his shelter
in time of trouble,
He will conceal me in the cover of his tent;
Meditation on Scripture:
At many points in our lives and in history we may find reasons to worry and fear. Aggression across the world. Hate and malice between people. Military action. There are times when our hearts may worry. We may feel as though we are in a losing conflict with the enemy of Good. Yet we know that the enemy will not win. We do know that on earth there will be tribulations but we also know we can trust the Lord. We can trust in our God. Spend a moment and reflect on placing your trust in God.
David often talks about dwelling in the house of the Lord, yet he spent a great deal of his life on the run for his life. Dwelling in the house of the Lord does not always mean living in comfort, rather it is learning to confide in the Lord and find peace through God. If you notice yourself begin to fear, confide in the Lord. Trust that He rules all and will make all things right. He will hide us in His shelter.
May God bless our world with peace and may he bless us with spiritual peace.
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit.
Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:
I invite you to sit in silence feeling patient for your own faults and trials.
Summarize what insights you have gained during this meditation and meditate and visualize positive change in your life:
This is a listener funded podcast at patreon.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Updates:
2 MILLION DOWNLOADS
Final Question: What role does the Word have in your life?
Final Thought:
FIND ME ON:
Download my free app: Recenter with Christ
Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
Voicemail - (602) 888-3795
Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com
Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast
Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast
Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
Matthew 28
NIV
16 Then the eleven disciples went to Galilee, to the mountain where Jesus had told them to go. 17 When they saw him, they worshiped him; but some doubted. 18 Then Jesus came to them and said, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. 19 Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, 20 and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.”
FIND ME ON:
Download my free app: Recenter with Christ
Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
Voicemail - (602) 888-3795
Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com
Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast
Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast
Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
Isaiah 42
NIV
5 This is what God the Lord says—
the Creator of the heavens, who stretches them out,
who spreads out the earth with all that springs from it,
who gives breath to its people,
and life to those who walk on it:
6 “I, the Lord, have called you in righteousness;
I will take hold of your hand.
I will keep you and will make you
to be a covenant for the people
and a light for the Gentiles,
7 to open eyes that are blind,
to free captives from prison
and to release from the dungeon those who sit in darkness. FIND ME ON:
Download my free app: Recenter with Christ
Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
Voicemail - (602) 888-3795
Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com
Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast
Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast
Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
412 I Will Keep You And Make You, A Guided Christian Meditation on Isaiah 42:5-7 with the Recenter With Christ app I'm Chaplain Jared and I work as a hospice chaplain and an ICU chaplain. My purpose in making this podcast is to help you find more peace in your life and to be more open for your heart to be changed by the Spirit of God. By using centuries old form of Christian Meditation named Lectio Divina:
Outline: Relaxation, Reading, Meditation, Prayer, Contemplation and Visualization.
Get into a place where you can sit comfortably and uninterrupted for about 20 minutes.You should hopefully not be driving or anything tensing or unrelaxing. If you feel comfortable to do so, I invite you to close your eyes.
Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation:
Breathe and direct your thoughts to connecting with God. Let your stomach be a balloon inflate, deflate.
Bible verses for Meditation:
Isaiah 42
NIV
5 This is what God the Lord says—
the Creator of the heavens, who stretches them out,
who spreads out the earth with all that springs from it,
who gives breath to its people,
and life to those who walk on it:
6 “I, the Lord, have called you in righteousness;
I will take hold of your hand.
I will keep you and will make you
to be a covenant for the people
and a light for the Gentiles,
7 to open eyes that are blind,
to free captives from prison
and to release from the dungeon those who sit in darkness.
NRSV
5 Thus says God, the Lord,
who created the heavens and stretched them out,
who spread out the earth and what comes from it,
who gives breath to the people upon it
and spirit to those who walk in it:
6 I am the Lord, I have called you in righteousness,
I have taken you by the hand and kept you;
I have given you as a covenant to the people,[a]
a light to the nations,
7 to open the eyes that are blind,
to bring out the prisoners from the dungeon,
from the prison those who sit in darkness.
Meditation on Scripture:
This is part of one of the Servant Songs. There are 4 such servant songs in Isaiah that point to the future role of Jesus Christ. How beautiful is this idea. The creator of heaven stretches out to us. Although he is the one that breathed life into us the very breath of life, he also reaches out to us. His breath gives us life and his spirit supports our life. As you breathe in, embrace that breath as the breath of life. When you feel encouragement of spirit and peace, embrace the spirit that God has put into you.
God takes us by the hand. He is willing to walk beside us even in the worst of times. A great challenge in life, probably one of the hardest struggles is to truly feel that God takes our hand even in the midst of struggle and suffering. Inevitably our lives will struggle. Each one of us will have times of sadness perhaps even profound sadness yet God is willing to hold our hand through it all.
As God walks with us hand in hand he brings light. At the beginning of the Gospel of John it equates God as the bringer of light and synonymous with the light. As God comes into our life he chases out darkness. God’s role of Savior, is the deliverer of us from darkness and the inevitable prison that is the consequences of our sin. We do not need to live in darkness. He can deliver us from all of that.
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit.
Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:
I invite you to sit in silence feeling patient for your own faults and trials.
Summarize what insights you have gained during this meditation and meditate and visualize positive change in your life:
This is a listener funded podcast at patreon.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Updates:
2 MILLION DOWNLOADS I Approaching
Final Question: What role does the Word have in your life?
Final Thought:
FIND ME ON:
Download my free app: Recenter with Christ
Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
Voicemail - (602) 888-3795
Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com
Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast
Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast
Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
ESV
1 The proverbs of Solomon son of David, king of Israel:
2 for gaining wisdom and instruction;
for understanding words of insight;
3 for receiving instruction in prudent behavior,
doing what is right and just and fair;
4 for giving prudence to those who are simple,
knowledge and discretion to the young—
5 let the wise listen and add to their learning,
and let the discerning get guidance—
6 for understanding proverbs and parables,
the sayings and riddles of the wise.
7 The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge,
but fools despise wisdom and instruction.
FIND ME ON:
Download my free app: Recenter with Christ
Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
Voicemail - (602) 888-3795
Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com
Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast
Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast
Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
410 The Fear of The Lord is the Beginning of Wisdom, A Guided Christian Meditation on Proverbs 1:1 with the Recenter With Christ app
I'm Chaplain Jared and I work as a hospice chaplain and an ICU chaplain. My purpose in making this podcast is to help you find more peace in your life and to be more open for your heart to be changed by the Spirit of God. By using centuries old form of Christian Meditation named Lectio Divina:
Outline: Relaxation, Reading, Meditation, Prayer, Contemplation and Visualization.
Get into a place where you can sit comfortably and uninterrupted for about 20 minutes.You should hopefully not be driving or anything tensing or unrelaxing. If you feel comfortable to do so, I invite you to close your eyes.
Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation:
Breathe and direct your thoughts to connecting with God. Let your stomach be a balloon inflate, deflate.
Bible verses for Meditation:
Proverbs 1
ESV
1 The proverbs of Solomon son of David, king of Israel:
2 for gaining wisdom and instruction;
for understanding words of insight;
3 for receiving instruction in prudent behavior,
doing what is right and just and fair;
4 for giving prudence to those who are simple,
knowledge and discretion to the young—
5 let the wise listen and add to their learning,
and let the discerning get guidance—
6 for understanding proverbs and parables,
the sayings and riddles of the wise.
7 The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge,
but fools despise wisdom and instruction.
KJV
1 The proverbs of Solomon the son of David, king of Israel;
2 To know wisdom and instruction; to perceive the words of understanding;
3 To receive the instruction of wisdom, justice, and judgment, and equity;
4 To give subtilty to the simple, to the young man knowledge and discretion.
5 A wise man will hear, and will increase learning; and a man of understanding shall attain unto wise counsels:
6 To understand a proverb, and the interpretation; the words of the wise, and their dark sayings.
7 The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge: but fools despise wisdom and instruction.
Meditation on Scripture:
Why is wisdom Good? Why is it important? Why does God care about wisdom? It is important how we perceive wisdom. God is the source of all truth. We believe in a God who formed the cosmos. In his hands he can hold the universe and look from its beginning to its end. There is no fact or truth that is outside of his understanding. We need not fear any truth. This scripture points to the idea that wisdom means that we will be able to learn from the truth of God. We will be willing to be instructed in things we do not understand.
Prudent action rivals understanding for importance when talking about wisdom. If we know all things but do not do what is right, what good is that knowledge for us? Wisdom in God draws us to understand His mysteries, but then also to walk in harmony with His ways.
Solomon was recognized as being one of the wisest men in scripture. It was a gift he requested from God. It allowed him to become renowned worldwide during his time. Kings from other nations came to learn from him due to his wisdom. He became wealthy and as foreing visitors visited they brought him additional wealth. He was able to adorn the temple with Gold and fine things. Yet with all his wisdom came pride. He started to drink his own kool aid so to speak he drifted from the knowledge of God. This is why the last line is so important. The fear of the Lord and maintaining humility before God is crucial for us to not lose the whole purpose.
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit.
Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:
I invite you to sit in silence feeling patient for your own faults and trials.
Summarize what insights you have gained during this meditation and meditate and visualize positive change in your life:
This is a listener funded podcast at patreon.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Updates:
2 MILLION DOWNLOADS I Approaching
Final Question: What role does the Word have in your life?
Final Thought:
FIND ME ON:
Download my free app: Recenter with Christ
Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
Voicemail - (602) 888-3795
Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com
Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast
Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast
Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
NIV
17 So I tell you this, and insist on it in the Lord, that you must no longer live as the Gentiles do, in the futility of their thinking. 18 They are darkened in their understanding and separated from the life of God because of the ignorance that is in them due to the hardening of their hearts. 19 Having lost all sensitivity, they have given themselves over to sensuality so as to indulge in every kind of impurity, and they are full of greed.
FIND ME ON:
Download my free app: Recenter with Christ
Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
Voicemail - (602) 888-3795
Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com
Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast
Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast
Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
408 Do Not Walk In Darkness, A Guided Christian Meditation on Ephesians 4:17-19 with the Recenter With Christ app These are the verses immediately preceding those covered in episode 192
I'm Chaplain Jared and I work as a hospice chaplain and an ICU chaplain. My purpose in making this podcast is to help you find more peace in your life and to be more open for your heart to be changed by the Spirit of God. By using centuries old form of Christian Meditation named Lectio Divina:
Outline: Relaxation, Reading, Meditation, Prayer, Contemplation and Visualization.
Get into a place where you can sit comfortably and uninterrupted for about 20 minutes.You should hopefully not be driving or anything tensing or unrelaxing. If you feel comfortable to do so, I invite you to close your eyes.
Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation:
Breathe and direct your thoughts to connecting with God. Let your stomach be a balloon inflate, deflate.
Bible verses for Meditation:
NIV
17 So I tell you this, and insist on it in the Lord, that you must no longer live as the Gentiles do, in the futility of their thinking. 18 They are darkened in their understanding and separated from the life of God because of the ignorance that is in them due to the hardening of their hearts. 19 Having lost all sensitivity, they have given themselves over to sensuality so as to indulge in every kind of impurity, and they are full of greed.
NASB
17 So I say this, and affirm in the Lord, that you are to no longer walk just as the Gentiles also walk, in the futility of their minds, 18 being darkened in their understanding, excluded from the life of God because of the ignorance that is in them, because of the hardness of their heart; 19 and they, having become callous, have given themselves up to indecent behavior for the practice of every kind of impurity with greediness.
Meditation on Scripture:
The meaning of these verses is direct but complex. God’s way is perfect. The way he provides is what is best for us. An example of this is the impact of faith and church attendance blesses our lives. This week I was at a Chaplain conference with a large number of other chaplains. The presenter is a well respected health researcher who has published hundreds of articles and dozens of books. The area of research he presented was the health impacts of religious involvement. In some ways I am conflicted with this. We should not be religious for our own benefit but as an expression of the gratitude that fills our hearts for the grace, love, and guidance of an Almighty God.
Yet it is extremely compelling to look at the research. Just as this scripture says, God’s plan is perfect for us. He makes our way blameless. Church involvement is overwhelmingly connected to positive emotional, psychological, and even physical benefits. This is virtually a scientific fact that Church attendance is strongly correlated to better wellbeing. Everything from depression, anxiety, reducing negative behaviors, deaths of despair, and general wellbeing. Yet the greatest benefits are spiritual which cannot be judged by human judgements. God saves us through His grace.
When He started guiding early Christians to gather, they started experiencing these benefits from that time and over the last 2 thousand years. May we benefit from the plan God laid out for our lives, and whenever possible join in worship with others. This podcast is a great way to center your soul on the Lord and it is not meant to replace the value gained in a community of faithful Christians working together for Good. If you have fallen out of activity for some reason recently, I invite you to find a community of faith. God created us to be in communion with other faithful people.
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit.
Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:
I invite you to sit in silence feeling patient for your own faults and trials.
Summarize what insights you have gained during this meditation and meditate and visualize positive change in your life:
This is a listener funded podcast at patreon.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Updates:
2 MILLION DOWNLOADS I Approaching
Final Question: What role does the Word have in your life?
Final Thought:
FIND ME ON:
Download my free app: Recenter with Christ
Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
Voicemail - (602) 888-3795
Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com
Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast
Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast
Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
NIV
1 Therefore, I urge you, brothers and sisters, in view of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God—this is your true and proper worship. 2 Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will.
3 For by the grace given me I say to every one of you: Do not think of yourself more highly than you ought, but rather think of yourself with sober judgment, in accordance with the faith God has distributed to each of you.
FIND ME ON:
Download my free app: Recenter with Christ
Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
Voicemail - (602) 888-3795
Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com
Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast
Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast
Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
404 Do Not Conform To The Pattern Of The World, A Guided Christian Meditation on Romans 12:1-3 with the Recenter With Christ app
I'm Chaplain Jared and I work as a hospice chaplain and an ICU chaplain, my purpose in making this podcast is to help you find more peace in your life and to be more open for your heart to be changed by the Spirit of God. By using centuries old form of Christian Meditation named Lectio Divina:
Outline: Relaxation, Reading, Meditation, Prayer, Contemplation and Visualization.
Get into a place where you can sit comfortably and uninterrupted for about 20 minutes.You should hopefully not be driving or anything tensing or unrelaxing. If you feel comfortable to do so, I invite you to close your eyes.
Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation:
Breathe and direct your thoughts to connecting with God. Let your stomach be a balloon inflate, deflate.
Bible verses for Meditation:
Romans 12
NIV
1 Therefore, I urge you, brothers and sisters, in view of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God—this is your true and proper worship. 2 Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will.
3 For by the grace given me I say to every one of you: Do not think of yourself more highly than you ought, but rather think of yourself with sober judgment, in accordance with the faith God has distributed to each of you.
NRSVCE
1 I appeal to you therefore, brothers and sisters, by the mercies of God, to present your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and acceptable to God, which is your spiritual worship. 2 Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your minds, so that you may discern what is the will of God—what is good and acceptable and perfect.
3 For by the grace given to me I say to everyone among you not to think of yourself more highly than you ought to think, but to think with sober judgment, each according to the measure of faith that God has assigned.
Meditation on Scripture:
The bodies we inhabit are directly connected to the plan God has for us. He was not surprised when our first parents underwent the fall. He offered us a plan of salvation to rescue us. Now we are here on earth with bodies which are fragile and wear out. When we think about the role of our physical body in God’s plan for us it becomes clear that there are various messages about this in scripture. We learn from Corinthians that our bodies are temples to God, additionally there is guidance that we should care for our bodies, with that said they should be out of respect for the gift they are from God and how they allow us to do God’s will. We should not treat our bodies as something to worship but as a tool to worship the Lord.
This particular scripture gives more insight on how we should be willing to make our bodies a sacrifice. I think this is quite different from being destructive to our body. In this way we should not attempt to destroy the gift God has given but we should be willing to prioritize the things of God over earthly concerns. It seems the main message is for us to not be overly focused on ourselves. So during this time take time to ponder these things and rejoice in the great glory of God and the transformation God offers us. What a blessing that God offers us his grace. May we be sober and mindful in attempting always to embrace the grace of God and follow His will for us.
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit.
Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:
I invite you to sit in silence feeling patient for your own faults and trials.
Summarize what insights you have gained during this meditation and meditate and visualize positive change in your life:
This is a listener funded podcast at patreon.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Updates:
2 MILLION DOWNLOADS I Approaching
Final Question: What role does the Word have in your life?
Final Thought:
FIND ME ON:
Download my free app: Recenter with Christ
Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
Voicemail - (602) 888-3795
Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com
Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast
Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast
Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
Bible verses for Meditation:
John 1:1-5
KJV
1 In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God.
2 The same was in the beginning with God.
3 All things were made by him; and without him was not any thing made that was made.
4 In him was life; and the life was the light of men.
5 And the light shineth in darkness; and the darkness comprehended it n
402 In The Beginning Was The Word, A Guided Christian Meditation on John 1:1-5 with the Recenter With Christ app
I'm Chaplain Jared and I work as a hospice chaplain and an ICU chaplain, my purpose in making this podcast is to help you find more peace in your life and to be more open for your heart to be changed by the Spirit of God. By using centuries old form of Christian Meditation named Lectio Divina:
Outline: Relaxation, Reading, Meditation, Prayer, Contemplation and Visualization.
Get into a place where you can sit comfortably and uninterrupted for about 20 minutes.You should hopefully not be driving or anything tensing or unrelaxing. If you feel comfortable to do so, I invite you to close your eyes.
Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation:
Breathe and direct your thoughts to connecting with God. Let your stomach be a balloon inflate, deflate.
Bible verses for Meditation:
John 1:1-5
KJV
1 In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God.
2 The same was in the beginning with God.
3 All things were made by him; and without him was not any thing made that was made.
4 In him was life; and the life was the light of men.
5 And the light shineth in darkness; and the darkness comprehended it not.
NABRE
In the beginning was the Word,
and the Word was with God,
and the Word was God.
2 He was in the beginning with God.
3 All things came to be through him,
and without him nothing came to be.
What came to be 4 through him was life,
and this life was the light of the human race;
5 the light shines in the darkness,
and the darkness has not overcome it.
Meditation on Scripture:
Many times we speak of the word of God as though it refers to the Bible or some specific knowledge imparted by the Bible. The Word means something far greater. The Word existed from the beginning at it was with God and it was God. The act of creation occurred through the Word. The word brings order. The Word organizes chaos. The Word sets truth. The Word declares what is righteous. The Word declares victory over sin and death. The Word represents more than just information it represents consciousness. God was conscious before the world began and will be forever after it is gone. As Christians we recognize the priority and identity of God in all these things.
And in the act of creation we were made in the image of God. We were breathed into us the breath of life, the light of the human race. We have consciousness. Our role as agents is a reflection of the light of Christ that shines in the darkness. We did not come to where we are without God and we certainly cannot get to where God wants us to be without this same influence. When we ponder on how our life needs to change, it need not be from a place of shame but of one that embraces the role of the breath of life God gave us.
I hope that we can feel peaceful growth this year and always through Christ our Lord. He will guide us to what is most important as we humbly listen.
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit.
Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:
I invite you to sit in silence feeling patient for your own faults and trials.
Summarize what insights you have gained during this meditation and meditate and visualize positive change in your life:
This is a listener funded podcast at patreon.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Updates:
2 MILLION DOWNLOADS I Approaching
Final Question: What role does the Word have in your life?
Final Thought:
FIND ME ON:
Download my free app: Recenter with Christ
Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
Voicemail - (602) 888-3795
Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com
Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast
Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast
Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
Revelation 21
NIV
5 He who was seated on the throne said, “I am making everything new!” Then he said, “Write this down, for these words are trustworthy and true.”
6 He said to me: “It is done. I am the Alpha and the Omega, the Beginning and the End. To the thirsty I will give water without cost from the spring of the water of life. 7 Those who are victorious will inherit all this, and I will be their God and they will be my children.
NASB
5 And He who sits on the throne said, “Behold, I am making all things new.” And He *said, “Write, for these words are faithful and true.” 6 Then He said to me, “It is done. I am the Alpha and the Omega, the beginning and the end. I will give water to the one who thirsts from the spring of the water of life, without cost. 7 The one who overcomes will inherit these things, and I will be his God and he will be My son.
400 I Am The Alpha And The Omega, A Guided Christian Meditation on Revelation 21:5-7 with the Recenter With Christ app
I'm Chaplain Jared and I work as a hospice chaplain and an ICU chaplain, my purpose in making this podcast is to help you find more peace in your life and to be more open for your heart to be changed by the Spirit of God. By using centuries old form of Christian Meditation named Lectio Divina:
Outline: Relaxation, Reading, Meditation, Prayer, Contemplation and Visualization.
Get into a place where you can sit comfortably and uninterrupted for about 20 minutes.You should hopefully not be driving or anything tensing or unrelaxing. If you feel comfortable to do so, I invite you to close your eyes.
Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation:
Breathe and direct your thoughts to connecting with God. Let your stomach be a balloon inflate, deflate.
Bible verses for Meditation:
Revelation 21
NIV
5 He who was seated on the throne said, “I am making everything new!” Then he said, “Write this down, for these words are trustworthy and true.”
6 He said to me: “It is done. I am the Alpha and the Omega, the Beginning and the End. To the thirsty I will give water without cost from the spring of the water of life. 7 Those who are victorious will inherit all this, and I will be their God and they will be my children.
NASB
5 And He who sits on the throne said, “Behold, I am making all things new.” And He *said, “Write, for these words are faithful and true.” 6 Then He said to me, “It is done. I am the Alpha and the Omega, the beginning and the end. I will give water to the one who thirsts from the spring of the water of life, without cost. 7 The one who overcomes will inherit these things, and I will be his God and he will be My son.
Meditation on Scripture:
God will make all things new. What does that mean? The way things are right now are not eternal. This earth and life are meant to be transient. There is an end to all things, but those that God decrees. He is the beginning and the end. All bad things eventually end, through Him. All bad things will end through Him. Yet he is there in the beginning. He has been around long before any of us and he will be there at the end ensuring that they end well. When our life takes unexpected and tragic turns, we can get trapped by the darkness. We may feel at times that the world will remain forever shrouded in curtains that prevent us from seeing God’s love and light but that is not the case. When our time on this earth ends and we arrive back at His side, I believe that all these earthly struggles will lose their potency and yet at this moment in our existence He was willed that we be here.
In the beginning God was light and that light will penetrate every dark corner. There is no place where His voice will not be heard. There is no place that is hidden from His ability to shine his light. There exist no impenetrable places for Him who can light all things. As in the beginning, the end will be full of His light. He offers to each of us that this light is available to us. Although there may be moments in our life where we may not feel it or see it, it will not be forever hidden from us.
How grateful I am that God offers this light to us. He will make us new, he will destroy what chains us down as we faithfully follow Him. God offers us to be joint heirs with Christ to all the Father has. Such an idea is something we cannot fully understand but He has created us to be His children. He is the living water and at the end of all things light will surround Him as he draws those who trust him forward to Him. If you find yourself struggling with faith, with doing those things that God has asked of you, may you place your faith in Jesus. May you place your faith in Jesus the Christ who will deliver us.
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit.
Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:
I invite you to sit in silence feeling patient for your own faults and trials.
Summarize what insights you have gained during this meditation and meditate and visualize positive change in your life:
This is a listener funded podcast at patreon.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Updates:
2 MILLION DOWNLOADS I Approaching
Final Question: How have you done about embracing God’s strength to arise?
Final Thought:
FIND ME ON:
Download my free app: Recenter with Christ
Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
Voicemail - (602) 888-3795
Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com
Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast
Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast
Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
Psalms 51
NIV
10 Create in me a pure heart, O God,
and renew a steadfast spirit within me.
11 Do not cast me from your presence
or take your Holy Spirit from me.
12 Restore to me the joy of your salvation
and grant me a willing spirit, to sustain me.
FIND ME ON:
Download my free app: Recenter with Christ
Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
Voicemail - (602) 888-3795
Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com
Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast
Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast
Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
398 Create In Me A Pure Heart, A Guided Christian Meditation on Psalms 51:10-12 with the Recenter With Christ app
I'm Chaplain Jared and I work as a hospice chaplain and an ICU chaplain, my purpose in making this podcast is to help you find more peace in your life and to be more open for your heart to be changed by the Spirit of God. By using centuries old form of Christian Meditation named Lectio Divina:
Outline: Relaxation, Reading, Meditation, Prayer, Contemplation and Visualization.
Get into a place where you can sit comfortably and uninterrupted for about 20 minutes.You should hopefully not be driving or anything tensing or unrelaxing. If you feel comfortable to do so, I invite you to close your eyes.
Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation:
Breathe and direct your thoughts to connecting with God. Let your stomach be a balloon inflate, deflate.
Bible verses for Meditation:
Psalms 51 NIV
10 Create in me a pure heart, O God,
and renew a steadfast spirit within me.
11 Do not cast me from your presence
or take your Holy Spirit from me.
12 Restore to me the joy of your salvation
and grant me a willing spirit, to sustain me.
ESV
10 Create in me a clean heart, O God,
and renew a right spirit within me.
11 Cast me not away from your presence,
and take not your Holy Spirit from me.
12 Restore to me the joy of your salvation,
and uphold me with a willing spirit.
Meditation on Scripture:
The power of God can transform our hearts. In what way has God changed your heart or made your heart pure?’
In what ways do you think God could make your heart more pure?
Closeness to the presence of God and purity of heart are directly related. Our sin separates us from God and the forgiveness He offers is what makes it possible for us to remain close to his presence. Here the Psalmist pleads to the Lord to not remove him from God’s presence. I think this is something we should constantly be mindful of. As you think about what you want to change about your life do not underestimate the role of God in that transformation. God restores us to the joy of His salvation and supports us in our changes with His spirit.
As we look forward to a better future may we be aware of God’s ability to transform us through His presence and may we become focused on what He wants to make out of our life.
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit.
Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:
I invite you to sit in silence feeling patient for your own faults and trials.
Summarize what insights you have gained during this meditation and meditate and visualize positive change in your life:
This is a listener funded podcast at patreon.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Updates:
2 MILLION DOWNLOADS I Approaching
Final Question: How have you done about embracing God’s strength to arise?
Final Thought:
FIND ME ON:
Download my free app: Recenter with Christ
Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
Voicemail - (602) 888-3795
Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com
Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast
Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast
Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
Luke 2
KJV
15 And it came to pass, as the angels were gone away from them into heaven, the shepherds said one to another, Let us now go even unto Bethlehem, and see this thing which is come to pass, which the Lord hath made known unto us.
16 And they came with haste, and found Mary, and Joseph, and the babe lying in a manger.
17 And when they had seen it, they made known abroad the saying which was told them concerning this child.
18 And all they that heard it wondered at those things which were told them by the shepherds.
19 But Mary kept all these things, and pondered them in her heart.
FIND ME ON:
Download my free app: Recenter with Christ
Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
Voicemail - (602) 888-3795
Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com
Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast
Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast
Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
396 Mary Pondered These Things in Her Heart, A Guided Christian Meditation on Luke 2:15-19 with the Recenter With Christ app
I'm Chaplain Jared and I work as a hospice chaplain and an ICU chaplain, my purpose in making this podcast is to help you find more peace in your life and to be more open for your heart to be changed by the Spirit of God. By using centuries old form of Christian Meditation named Lectio Divina:
Outline: Relaxation, Reading, Meditation, Prayer, Contemplation and Visualization.
Get into a place where you can sit comfortably and uninterrupted for about 20 minutes.You should hopefully not be driving or anything tensing or unrelaxing. If you feel comfortable to do so, I invite you to close your eyes.
Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation:
Breathe and direct your thoughts to connecting with God. Let your stomach be a balloon inflate, deflate.
Bible verses for Meditation:
Luke 2
KJV
15 And it came to pass, as the angels were gone away from them into heaven, the shepherds said one to another, Let us now go even unto Bethlehem, and see this thing which is come to pass, which the Lord hath made known unto us.
16 And they came with haste, and found Mary, and Joseph, and the babe lying in a manger.
17 And when they had seen it, they made known abroad the saying which was told them concerning this child.
18 And all they that heard it wondered at those things which were told them by the shepherds.
19 But Mary kept all these things, and pondered them in her heart.
NRSV
15 When the angels had left them and gone into heaven, the shepherds said to one another, “Let us go now to Bethlehem and see this thing that has taken place, which the Lord has made known to us.” 16 So they went with haste and found Mary and Joseph, and the child lying in the manger. 17 When they saw this, they made known what had been told them about this child; 18 and all who heard it were amazed at what the shepherds told them. 19 But Mary treasured all these words and pondered them in her heart.
Meditation on Scripture:
Luke 2 is the classic and often read account of the Christmas story. In it we learn of the announcement of the angels, the traveling to the Bethlehem, the City of David, the manger, and the sheppards. It represents a deeply moving telling of the birth of Jesus Christ in the humblest of circumstances. It must have been intense for Mary and Joseph. I love this scripture because it mentions something that is deeply important. When profound and important things happen, do we take the time to reflect on them?
How often do you ponder important things?
Do we make specific time to ponder the most important things in our life?
I feel that many times we don’t. For example, if we reflect now, when is the last time you spent time specifically dedicated to pondering the meaning of Christmas or how to bless the lives of those you love?
Many times we want to do these things but we dont make the time to do it. This scripture gives mind that Mary pondered on the nature of her Son’s mission. She thought of what his life would mean, and why God chose to connect with her in such deeply personal ways. If we allow the rush of life to move us along too swiftly, we will miss important opportunities to ponder on what is essential. What is something that is important in your life that you would like to dedicate more time pondering?
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit.
Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:
I invite you to sit in silence feeling patient for your own faults and trials.
Summarize what insights you have gained during this meditation and meditate and visualize positive change in your life:
This is a listener funded podcast at patreon.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Updates:
2 MILLION DOWNLOADS I APPOACHINg
Final Question: How have you done about embracing God’s strength to arise?
Final Thought:
FIND ME ON:
Download my free app: Recenter with Christ
Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
Voicemail - (602) 888-3795
Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com
Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast
Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast
Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
ACTS 26
NABRE
13 At midday, along the way, O king, I saw a light from the sky, brighter than the sun, shining around me and my traveling companions. 14 We all fell to the ground and I heard a voice saying to me in Hebrew, ‘Saul, Saul, why are you persecuting me? It is hard for you to kick against the goad.’ 15 And I said, ‘Who are you, sir?’ And the Lord replied, ‘I am Jesus whom you are persecuting. 16 Get up now, and stand on your feet. I have appeared to you for this purpose, to appoint you as a servant and witness of what you have seen [of me] and what you will be shown.17 I shall deliver you from this people and from the Gentiles to whom I send you,
KJV
13 At midday, O king, I saw in the way a light from heaven, above the brightness of the sun, shining round about me and them which journeyed with me.
14 And when we were all fallen to the earth, I heard a voice speaking unto me, and saying in the Hebrew tongue, Saul, Saul, why persecutest thou me? it is hard for thee to kick against the pricks.
15 And I said, Who art thou, Lord? And he said, I am Jesus whom thou persecutest.
16 But rise, and stand upon thy feet: for I have appeared unto thee for this purpose, to make thee a minister and a witness both of these things which thou hast seen, and of those things in the which I will appear unto thee;
17 Delivering thee from the people, and from the Gentiles, unto whom now I send thee,
NIV
14 to fulfill what was said through the prophet Isaiah:
15 “Land of Zebulun and land of Naphtali,
the Way of the Sea, beyond the Jordan,
Galilee of the Gentiles—
16 the people living in darkness
have seen a great light;
on those living in the land of the shadow of death
a light has dawned.”
17 From that time on Jesus began to preach, “Repent, for the kingdom of heaven has come near.”
392 The People Living In Darkness Have Seen A Great Light, A Guided Christian Meditation on Matthew 4:14-17 with the Recenter With Christ app
I'm Chaplain Jared and I work as a hospice chaplain and an ICU chaplain, my purpose in making this podcast is to help you find more peace in your life and to be more open for your heart to be changed by the Spirit of God. By using centuries old form of Christian Meditation named Lectio Divina:
Outline: Relaxation, Reading, Meditation, Prayer, Contemplation and Visualization.
Get into a place where you can sit comfortably and uninterrupted for about 20 minutes.You should hopefully not be driving or anything tensing or unrelaxing. If you feel comfortable to do so, I invite you to close your eyes.
Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation:
Breathe and direct your thoughts to connecting with God. Let your stomach be a balloon inflate, deflate.
Bible verses for Meditation:
Matthew 4
NIV
14 to fulfill what was said through the prophet Isaiah:
15 “Land of Zebulun and land of Naphtali,
the Way of the Sea, beyond the Jordan,
Galilee of the Gentiles—
16 the people living in darkness
have seen a great light;
on those living in the land of the shadow of death
a light has dawned.”
17 From that time on Jesus began to preach, “Repent, for the kingdom of heaven has come near.”
ESV
so that what was spoken by the prophet Isaiah might be fulfilled:
15 “The land of Zebulun and the land of Naphtali,
the way of the sea, beyond the Jordan, Galilee of the Gentiles—
16 the people dwelling in darkness
have seen a great light,
and for those dwelling in the region and shadow of death,
on them a light has dawned.”
17 From that time Jesus began to preach, saying, “Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is at hand.”
Meditation on Scripture:
I always find it inspiring to see Old Testament prophets prophecy of the coming of Christ. This scripture quotes Isaiah 9. This is the same Chapter where Isaiah declares that a virgin will conceive and bear a son. A great light comes from Galilee and gives light to those in darkness. Jesus was from Galilee and through his atonement gives light to all humanity that is trapped in darkness before receiving His light.
It then summarizes the message of Christ as “Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is at hand.” This is something that Jesus encouraged people to do and was a core part of His message. I think if we assume that repentance is a demand for shame, we miss God’s purpose. The Kingdom of Heaven is at hand. This is a frequent term in the book of Matthew. It is similar to the idea of the Kingdom of God. It represents living with Christ as our savior and embracing His grace. It also refers to the Church our eternal reward after this life.
I find it extremely reassuring that all these things are connected. Through Jesus light enters the world. May we feel that light as we are surrounded by a world full of darkness.
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit.
Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:
I invite you to sit in silence feeling patient for your own faults and trials.
Summarize what insights you have gained during this meditation and meditate and visualize positive change in your life:
This is a listener funded podcast at patreon.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Updates:
Final Question: What have you learned from God’s grace? What do you hope to learn from God’s grace?
Final Thought:
FIND ME ON:
Download my free app: Recenter with Christ
Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
Voicemail - (602) 888-3795
Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com
Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast
Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast
Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
NIV
17 As Jesus started on his way, a man ran up to him and fell on his knees before him. “Good teacher,” he asked, “what must I do to inherit eternal life?”
18 “Why do you call me good?” Jesus answered. “No one is good—except God alone. 19 You know the commandments: ‘You shall not murder, you shall not commit adultery, you shall not steal, you shall not give false testimony, you shall not defraud, honor your father and mother.’”
20 “Teacher,” he declared, “all these I have kept since I was a boy.”
21 Jesus looked at him and loved him. “One thing you lack,” he said. “Go, sell everything you have and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven. Then come, follow me.”
22 At this the man’s face fell. He went away sad, because he had great wealth.
23 Jesus looked around and said to his disciples, “How hard it is for the rich to enter the kingdom of God!”
FIND ME ON:
Download my free app: Recenter with Christ
Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
Voicemail - (602) 888-3795
Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com
Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast
Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast
Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
390 What Must I Do To Inherit Eternal Life, A Guided Christian Meditation on Mark 10:17-23 with the Recenter With Christ app
I'm Chaplain Jared and I work as a hospice chaplain and an ICU chaplain, my purpose in making this podcast is to help you find more peace in your life and to be more open for your heart to be changed by the Spirit of God. By using centuries old form of Christian Meditation named Lectio Divina:
Outline: Relaxation, Reading, Meditation, Prayer, Contemplation and Visualization.
Get into a place where you can sit comfortably and uninterrupted for about 20 minutes.You should hopefully not be driving or anything tensing or unrelaxing. If you feel comfortable to do so, I invite you to close your eyes.
Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation:
Breathe and direct your thoughts to connecting with God. Let your stomach be a balloon inflate, deflate.
Bible verses for Meditation:
NIV
17 As Jesus started on his way, a man ran up to him and fell on his knees before him. “Good teacher,” he asked, “what must I do to inherit eternal life?”
18 “Why do you call me good?” Jesus answered. “No one is good—except God alone. 19 You know the commandments: ‘You shall not murder, you shall not commit adultery, you shall not steal, you shall not give false testimony, you shall not defraud, honor your father and mother.’”
20 “Teacher,” he declared, “all these I have kept since I was a boy.”
21 Jesus looked at him and loved him. “One thing you lack,” he said. “Go, sell everything you have and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven. Then come, follow me.”
22 At this the man’s face fell. He went away sad, because he had great wealth.
23 Jesus looked around and said to his disciples, “How hard it is for the rich to enter the kingdom of God!”
NABRE
17 As he was setting out on a journey, a man ran up, knelt down before him, and asked him, “Good teacher, what must I do to inherit eternal life?” 18 Jesus answered him, “Why do you call me good? No one is good but God alone. 19 You know the commandments: ‘You shall not kill; you shall not commit adultery; you shall not steal; you shall not bear false witness; you shall not defraud; honor your father and your mother.’” 20 He replied and said to him, “Teacher, all of these I have observed from my youth.” 21 Jesus, looking at him, loved him and said to him, “You are lacking in one thing. Go, sell what you have, and give to [the] poor and you will have treasure in heaven; then come, follow me.” 22 At that statement his face fell, and he went away sad, for he had many possessions.
23 Jesus looked around and said to his disciples, “How hard it is for those who have wealth to enter the kingdom of God!”
Meditation on Scripture:
When we stand before the Lord at the judgement the question that we will most be curious to know is exactly the question that this young man asked Jesus. What must I do to inherit eternal life. Jesus’ answer here teaches us something about human will. What did Jesus demand from this young man? The thing he least wanted to give. Undoubtedly Jesus values charitable giving many places in scripture, yet is charity the act that earns a ticket into heaven? The problem here, among other things, is that he was not willing to follow what Jesus asked.
At this time, as perhaps today, those who were prosperous were seen as righteous. They were seen as the ones who were blessed by God for their goodness and righteousness. If we read the book of Job we see this philosophy playing out with his friends who condemn him. Jesus taught a profoundly different doctrine. Those who want to inherit all the Father gives, must give up hollow success. Instead they must prioritize the things of God. We must pick up our cross and follow Christ. According to the scriptures, the righteous are not saved from hardship.
In the verses that follow the people begin to be confused with this teaching. Since Jesus is teaching them the rich will not inherit the kingdom of God, the ask who will. Jesus answers that for human beings it is impossible, but all things are possible with God. Clearly earthly giving is important to Christian doctrine, yet it is not an act that will redeem us. The act that redeems us is reliance on Christ to save us from our sins. With God all things are possible.
In this season of Christ, may we remember that it is not through worldly possessions that heaven is either denied or granted, but rather reliance on God who can do all things. May the hope of Christ inspire us to be generous and content.
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit.
Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:
I invite you to sit in silence feeling patient for your own faults and trials.
Summarize what insights you have gained during this meditation and meditate and visualize positive change in your life:
This is a listener funded podcast at patreon.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Updates:
Final Question: What have you learned from God’s grace? What do you hope to learn from God’s grace?
Final Thought:
FIND ME ON:
Download my free app: Recenter with Christ
Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
Voicemail - (602) 888-3795
Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com
Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast
Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast
Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
Psalms 100
KJV
1 Make a joyful noise unto the Lord, all ye lands.
2 Serve the Lord with gladness: come before his presence with singing.
3 Know ye that the Lord he is God: it is he that hath made us, and not we ourselves; we are his people, and the sheep of his pasture.
4 Enter into his gates with thanksgiving, and into his courts with praise: be thankful unto him, and bless his name.
5 For the Lord is good; his mercy is everlasting; and his truth endureth to all generations.
FIND ME ON:
Download my free app: Recenter with Christ
Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
Voicemail - (602) 888-3795
Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com
Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast
Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast
Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
388 Enter Into His Gates With Thanksgiving, A Guided Christian Meditation on Psalms 100 with the Recenter With Christ app
I'm Chaplain Jared and I work as a hospice chaplain and an ICU chaplain, my purpose in making this podcast is to help you find more peace in your life and to be more open for your heart to be changed by the Spirit of God. By using centuries old form of Christian Meditation named Lectio Divina:
Outline: Relaxation, Reading, Meditation, Prayer, Contemplation and Visualization.
Get into a place where you can sit comfortably and uninterrupted for about 20 minutes.You should hopefully not be driving or anything tensing or unrelaxing. If you feel comfortable to do so, I invite you to close your eyes.
Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation:
Breathe and direct your thoughts to connecting with God. Let your stomach be a balloon inflate, deflate.
Bible verses for Meditation:
Psalms 100
KJV
1 Make a joyful noise unto the Lord, all ye lands.
2 Serve the Lord with gladness: come before his presence with singing.
3 Know ye that the Lord he is God: it is he that hath made us, and not we ourselves; we are his people, and the sheep of his pasture.
4 Enter into his gates with thanksgiving, and into his courts with praise: be thankful unto him, and bless his name.
5 For the Lord is good; his mercy is everlasting; and his truth endureth to all generations.
ESV
100
1 Make a joyful noise to the Lord, all the earth!
2 Serve the Lord with gladness!
Come into his presence with singing!
3 Know that the Lord, he is God!
It is he who made us, and we are his;
we are his people, and the sheep of his pasture.
4 Enter his gates with thanksgiving,
and his courts with praise!
Give thanks to him; bless his name!
5 For the Lord is good;
his steadfast love endures forever,
and his faithfulness to all generations
Meditation on Scripture:
In times of struggle it can be difficult to truly give gratitude to God. Yet I am convinced that gratitude is something that brings us closer to God’s spirit. I have felt this experience go both ways. At times I have been overwhelmed with a positive spiritual experience that fills me with gratitude to God for the Love he pours out. At other times I have made an effort to give gratitude to God which has led to a positive spiritual experience with His love.
The fact that we exist fills me with wonder. The unlikely nature of life is astounding as I discussed last episode. On top of that, the God of heaven chose to love us. He made us, we are his. We did not make ourselves. He leads us in a very difficult and narrow path. As we follow this narrow path it leads to His gate.
The fact that we can enter this gate at all is glorious and amazing. God loves you. Give gratitude to God for all the infinite blessings of God.
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit.
Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:
I invite you to sit in silence feeling patient for your own faults and trials.
Summarize what insights you have gained during this meditation and meditate and visualize positive change in your life:
This is a listener funded podcast at patreon.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Updates:
Final Question: What have you learned from God’s grace? What do you hope to learn from God’s grace?
Final Thought:
FIND ME ON:
Download my free app: Recenter with Christ
Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
Voicemail - (602) 888-3795
Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com
Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast
Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast
Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
KJV
Psalms 27
9 Hide not thy face far from me; put not thy servant away in anger: thou hast been my help; leave me not, neither forsake me, O God of my salvation.
10 When my father and my mother forsake me, then the Lord will take me up.
11 Teach me thy way, O Lord, and lead me in a plain path, because of mine enemies.
12 Deliver me not over unto the will of mine enemies: for false witnesses are risen up against me, and such as breathe out cruelty.
13 I had fainted, unless I had believed to see the goodness of the Lord in the land of the living.
14 Wait on the Lord: be of good courage, and he shall strengthen thine heart: wait, I say, on the Lord.
FIND ME ON:
Download my free app: Recenter with Christ
Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
Voicemail - (602) 888-3795
Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com
Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast
Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast
Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
386 The Lord Will Take Me In, A Guided Christian Meditation on Psalms 27:9-14 with the Recenter With Christ app
I'm Chaplain Jared and I work as a hospice chaplain and an ICU chaplain, my purpose in making this podcast is to help you find more peace in your life and to be more open for your heart to be changed by the Spirit of God. By using centuries old form of Christian Meditation named Lectio Divina:
Outline: Relaxation, Reading, Meditation, Prayer, Contemplation and Visualization.
Get into a place where you can sit comfortably and uninterrupted for about 20 minutes.You should hopefully not be driving or anything tensing or unrelaxing. If you feel comfortable to do so, I invite you to close your eyes.
Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation:
Breathe and direct your thoughts to connecting with God. Let your stomach be a balloon inflate, deflate.
Bible verses for Meditation:
KJV
Psalms 27
9 Hide not thy face far from me; put not thy servant away in anger: thou hast been my help; leave me not, neither forsake me, O God of my salvation.
10 When my father and my mother forsake me, then the Lord will take me up.
11 Teach me thy way, O Lord, and lead me in a plain path, because of mine enemies.
12 Deliver me not over unto the will of mine enemies: for false witnesses are risen up against me, and such as breathe out cruelty.
13 I had fainted, unless I had believed to see the goodness of the Lord in the land of the living.
14 Wait on the Lord: be of good courage, and he shall strengthen thine heart: wait, I say, on the Lord.
NABRE
9 Do not hide your face from me;
do not repel your servant in anger.
You are my salvation; do not cast me off;
do not forsake me, God my savior!
10 Even if my father and mother forsake me,
the Lord will take me in.
11 Lord, show me your way;
lead me on a level path
because of my enemies.
12 Do not abandon me to the desire of my foes;
malicious and lying witnesses have risen against me.
13 I believe I shall see the Lord’s goodness
in the land of the living.
14 Wait for the Lord, take courage;
be stouthearted, wait for the Lord
Meditation on Scripture:
As humans, God created us to be interconnected with others. This is a fact that we cant escape. This is most pronounced by our profound early dependence in life. Each and every one of us have so many different relationships with others. Sometimes our meaningful relationships don't turn out as we wish. The sad truth is that so many people in life feel the pain of abandonment by those they would have loved to trust. Broken trust, neglect, and pain. Many times these feelings persist throughout many years.
Yet this is not the end of the story. We are not locked forever into a never ending loop. One of the profound blessings we have been given is the ability to grow. We have the ability to rise above our circumstances. If you or someone you know is locked into feelings like these you are not forever to be locked into the past. Our happiness and well being is not dependent exclusively on other people or our outward situation. What’s more, the all powerful God is strong enough to help us overcome.
This is in part because we were created in the image of God, but far more important because the God of heaven chose to offer us redemption. Regardless of what relationship struggles we have had, God’s peace can heal our hearts and fill the empty holes that have been cut by others. Be of good cheer and trust in the goodness of God and he will strengthen our hearts. God can heal our hearts and give us his peace.
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit.
Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:
I invite you to sit in silence feeling patient for your own faults and trials.
Summarize what insights you have gained during this meditation and meditate and visualize positive change in your life:
This is a listener funded podcast at patreon.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Updates:
Final Question: What have you learned from God’s grace? What do you hope to learn from God’s grace?
Final Thought:
FIND ME ON:
Download my free app: Recenter with Christ
Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
Voicemail - (602) 888-3795
Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com
Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast
Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast
Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
NABRE
11 For the grace of God has appeared, saving all 12 and training us to reject godless ways and worldly desires and to live temperately, justly, and devoutly in this age, 13 as we await the blessed hope, the appearance of the glory of the great God and of our savior Jesus Christ, 14 who gave himself for us to deliver us from all lawlessness and to cleanse for himself a people as his own, eager to do what is good.
FIND ME ON:
Download my free app: Recenter with Christ
Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
Voicemail - (602) 888-3795
Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com
Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast
Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast
Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
384 Grace Trains Us to Say “No” to Ungodliness, A Guided Christian Meditation on Titus 2:11-14 with the Recenter With Christ app
I'm Chaplain Jared and I work as a hospice chaplain and an ICU chaplain, my purpose in making this podcast is to help you find more peace in your life and to be more open for your heart to be changed by the Spirit of God. By using centuries old form of Christian Meditation named Lectio Divina:
Outline: Relaxation, Reading, Meditation, Prayer, Contemplation and Visualization.
Get into a place where you can sit comfortably and uninterrupted for about 20 minutes.You should hopefully not be driving or anything tensing or unrelaxing. If you feel comfortable to do so, I invite you to close your eyes.
Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation:
Breathe and direct your thoughts to connecting with God. Let your stomach be a balloon inflate, deflate.
Bible verses for Meditation:
Colossians 1
Titus 2
NIV
11 For the grace of God has appeared that offers salvation to all people. 12 It teaches us to say “No” to ungodliness and worldly passions, and to live self-controlled, upright and godly lives in this present age, 13 while we wait for the blessed hope—the appearing of the glory of our great God and Savior, Jesus Christ, 14 who gave himself for us to redeem us from all wickedness and to purify for himself a people that are his very own, eager to do what is good.
NABRE
11 For the grace of God has appeared, saving all 12 and training us to reject godless ways and worldly desires and to live temperately, justly, and devoutly in this age, 13 as we await the blessed hope, the appearance of the glory of the great God and of our savior Jesus Christ, 14 who gave himself for us to deliver us from all lawlessness and to cleanse for himself a people as his own, eager to do what is good.
Meditation on Scripture:
The scriptures make it clear that Grace does far more than forgive us at the last second as we attempt to sneak into heaven. In the incomprehensible mercy of God, God chose to do more with His grace than this. I think as believers and followers of Christ we rightly are quite interested in understanding the nature of salvation. We understand that it is by the Grace of God that we overcome sin. What’s more, this is not something that waits until the last moment. This scripture seems to teach an important nuance in the Gospel of Jesus Christ that Grace both redeems us but also provides strength to resist evil and gain mastery over our fallen human nature. God is interested in bringing the Kingdom of Heaven to earth. How is this done? As we patiently await reunion with Christ, grace teaches us self-control. Imagine what the world would look like if all humans at once rejected ungodliness and lived free of evil. I believe this is God’s invitation to us.
This scripture shows us that grace teaches us, it instructs us with the goal of getting us to reject earthly desires and ungodly things. To what end does God do this? Must we rush in to explain that God can forgive all that ungodliness anyway and therefore that ungodliness doesn't matter? In our strong desire to fully embrace the impact of grace in our lives, we trust that it is through His grace that we are able to be forgiven and also educated in godliness. This trust then allows us to let go of shame and embrace the Love of God. We can receive the redeeming love only He can offer. We can look our sin directly in the face with the faith that our sins won't overwhelm the grace of God, and that with his help we can remove it from our actions. Beyond that, grace continues its work in us.
What lessons have you learned from Grace? Have you learned how to embrace the Kingdom of Heaven in your heart? Can you say at this moment that you have learned perfect self-control? I know that I cannot make that claim. As such, we have more to learn from Grace. As we truly place our faith in him, He will continue to lead us and teach us. He purifies all those who trust him as their Savior and then leads us as we remain steadfast in faith.
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit.
Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:
I invite you to sit in silence feeling patient for your own faults and trials.
Summarize what insights you have gained during this meditation and meditate and visualize positive change in your life:
This is a listener funded podcast at patreon.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Updates:
Final Question: What have you learned from God’s grace? What do you hope to learn from God’s grace?
Final Thought:
FIND ME ON:
Download my free app: Recenter with Christ
Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
Voicemail - (602) 888-3795
Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com
Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast
Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast
Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
NRSV
16 for in him all things in heaven and on earth were created, things visible and invisible, whether thrones or dominions or rulers or powers—all things have been created through him and for him. 17 He himself is before all things, and in him all things hold together. 18 He is the head of the body, the church; he is the beginning, the firstborn from the dead, so that he might come to have first place in everything. 19 For in him all the fullness of God was pleased to dwell, 20 and through him God was pleased to reconcile to himself all things, whether on earth or in heaven, by making peace through the blood of his cross.
FIND ME ON:
Download my free app: Recenter with Christ
Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
Voicemail - (602) 888-3795
Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com
Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast
Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast
Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
382 In Him All Things Were Are Held Together, A Guided Christian Meditation on Colossians 1:16-20 with the Recenter With Christ app
I'm Chaplain Jared and I work as a hospice chaplain and an ICU chaplain, my purpose in making this podcast is to help you find more peace in your life and to be more open for your heart to be changed by the Spirit of God. By using centuries old form of Christian Meditation named Lectio Divina:
Outline: Relaxation, Reading, Meditation, Prayer, Contemplation and Visualization.
Get into a place where you can sit comfortably and uninterrupted for about 20 minutes.You should hopefully not be driving or anything tensing or unrelaxing. If you feel comfortable to do so, I invite you to close your eyes.
Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation:
Breathe and direct your thoughts to connecting with God. Let your stomach be a balloon inflate, deflate.
Bible verses for Meditation:
Colossians 1
NIV
16 For in him all things were created: things in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or powers or rulers or authorities; all things have been created through him and for him. 17 He is before all things, and in him all things hold together. 18 And he is the head of the body, the church; he is the beginning and the firstborn from among the dead, so that in everything he might have the supremacy. 19 For God was pleased to have all his fullness dwell in him, 20 and through him to reconcile to himself all things, whether things on earth or things in heaven, by making peace through his blood, shed on the cross.
NRSV
16 for in him all things in heaven and on earth were created, things visible and invisible, whether thrones or dominions or rulers or powers—all things have been created through him and for him. 17 He himself is before all things, and in him all things hold together. 18 He is the head of the body, the church; he is the beginning, the firstborn from the dead, so that he might come to have first place in everything. 19 For in him all the fullness of God was pleased to dwell, 20 and through him God was pleased to reconcile to himself all things, whether on earth or in heaven, by making peace through the blood of his cross.
Meditation on Scripture:
Recently I have been thinking and focusing a lot on creation. This is a subject that has been deeply interesting to people of faith who are scientifically minded. This has always been a profound interest for me. My background is in science. I taught math at the University level and as well as in depth physics. I find that the wonders of the intricacies of the way our physical world works shows the glory of God. I recently gave a sermon on the evidence for God and intelligent design of the Cosmos. One powerful evidence for God’s creation considers how finely tuned the universe must be in order to allow for the possibility of creation. Even the precisions of the strength of gravity alone is a powerful testimony. The strength of gravity must be more specific than one in a billionth of a billionth. If gravity was stronger galaxies would have imploded in on themselves and our universe would not have expanded to make way for our galaxy and solar system. If it was weaker then molecules would have flown apart and no planets or stars could have been created. This is only one aspect of the fine tuning of the universe. Ove a dozen similar arguments exist. Creation is a fascinating subject.
This scripture talks about all things being created through God and how God was before them all. Immediately then it transitions to talking about authorities and thrones. So the question is when it says God holds things together, what does that mean? In some ways the intuitive understanding is that God holds together thrones etc. Additionally it may be that God holds all creation together. The way that the ideas of creation and authority pass back and forth may suggest that God does both.
God holds the universe together. God’s influence extends to Gravity and other fundamental forces such as the weak and strong nuclear forces as well as electrostatic force. Similarly God represents the highest form of order in every sense, including the puny organizations of human power. This means he holds all authority in the universe to govern as our Ruler. This is in terms of nature and our lives. The very existence of our earth and the nuclear reactions that occur in our sun are all guided by God holding them together. There is no chaos in your life that is beyond God’s authority. The same God who pulls together black holes is the same God that can draw our hearts together.
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit.
Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:
I invite you to sit in silence feeling patient for your own faults and trials.
Summarize what insights you have gained during this meditation and meditate and visualize positive change in your life:
This is a listener funded podcast at patreon.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Updates:
Final Question: How does God’s grace empower you to be able to take accountability for your failings?
Final Thought:
FIND ME ON:
Download my free app: Recenter with Christ
Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
Voicemail - (602) 888-3795
Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com
Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast
Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast
Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
KJV
2 For there was a tabernacle made; the first, wherein was the candlestick, and the table, and the shewbread; which is called the sanctuary.
3 And after the second veil, the tabernacle which is called the Holiest of all;
4 Which had the golden censer, and the ark of the covenant overlaid round about with gold, wherein was the golden pot that had manna, and Aaron's rod that budded, and the tables of the covenant;
5 And over it the cherubims of glory shadowing the mercyseat; of which we cannot now speak particularly.
6 Now when these things were thus ordained, the priests went always into the first tabernacle, accomplishing the service of God.
7 But into the second went the high priest alone once every year, not without blood, which he offered for himself, and for the errors of the people:
8 The Holy Ghost this signifying, that the way into the holiest of all was not yet made manifest, while as the first tabernacle was yet standing:
FIND ME ON:
Download my free app: Recenter with Christ
Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
Voicemail - (602) 888-3795
Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com
Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast
Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast
Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
380 The Way Into The Holy of Holies is Christ, A Guided Christian Meditation on Hebrews 9:2-8 with the Recenter With Christ app
I'm Chaplain Jared and I work as a hospice chaplain and an ICU chaplain, my purpose in making this podcast is to help you find more peace in your life and to be more open for your heart to be changed by the Spirit of God. By using centuries old form of Christian Meditation named Lectio Divina:
Outline: Relaxation, Reading, Meditation, Prayer, Contemplation and Visualization.
Get into a place where you can sit comfortably and uninterrupted for about 20 minutes.You should hopefully not be driving or anything tensing or unrelaxing. If you feel comfortable to do so, I invite you to close your eyes.
Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation:
Breathe and direct your thoughts to connecting with God. Let your stomach be a balloon inflate, deflate.
Bible verses for Meditation:
Hebrews 9
NASB
2 For a tabernacle was equipped, the outer sanctuary, in which were the lampstand, the table, and the sacred bread; this is called the Holy Place. 3 Behind the second veil there was a tabernacle which is called the Most Holy Place, 4 having a golden altar of incense and the ark of the covenant covered on all sides with gold, in which was a golden jar holding the manna, Aaron’s staff which budded, and the tablets of the covenant; 5 and above it were the cherubim of glory overshadowing the atoning cover; but about these things we cannot now speak in detail.
6 Now when these things have been so prepared, the priests are continually entering the outer tabernacle, performing the divine worship, 7 but into the second, only the high priest enters once a year, not without taking blood which he offers for himself and for the sins of the people committed in ignorance. 8 The Holy Spirit is signifying this, that the way into the holy place has not yet been disclosed while the outer tabernacle is still standing,
KJV
2 For there was a tabernacle made; the first, wherein was the candlestick, and the table, and the shewbread; which is called the sanctuary.
3 And after the second veil, the tabernacle which is called the Holiest of all;
4 Which had the golden censer, and the ark of the covenant overlaid round about with gold, wherein was the golden pot that had manna, and Aaron's rod that budded, and the tables of the covenant;
5 And over it the cherubims of glory shadowing the mercyseat; of which we cannot now speak particularly.
6 Now when these things were thus ordained, the priests went always into the first tabernacle, accomplishing the service of God.
7 But into the second went the high priest alone once every year, not without blood, which he offered for himself, and for the errors of the people:
8 The Holy Ghost this signifying, that the way into the holiest of all was not yet made manifest, while as the first tabernacle was yet standing:
Meditation on Scripture:
In Old Testament times the temple was divided into multiple different regions. There was an outer courtyard where there were altars where the sacrifices were made. Then the actual tabernacle had two different sections. The holy place, here referred to as the sanctuary, and the inner most sacred place called the holy of holies. The inner Holy of Holies was entered only by the high priest once each year. It was only after atonement was made. This scripture relates that process to the sacrifice of Christ. This is why I love the Book of Hebrews. It connects the old testament sacrificial system with the sacrifice of Christ. The sacrifices in the temple were meant to be a symbol of the sacrifice of Christ. As such, Christ passes the first tabernacle and enters into the second tabernacle, into the Holy of Holies, through the sacrifice of His own blood.
The reason I wanted to think about holy places today is to reflect on what makes a place holy? What is it that makes a place a sanctuary? According to this scripture it is by meaningful sacrifice. The question then becomes, what sacrifice? The sacrifice here is the Atonement of Christ. What is it that makes a place holy in our time? Is it not the same thing? When we attempt to remember and acknowledge the sacrifice of Christ in our lives it becomes holy. As we attempt to live that way, to remember Christ and live in His way, in the walls of our own home it becomes holy.
Do you live in holy places? Do you make the places holy around you by remembering the High Priest Jesus Christ. Do we invite him into our lives and into our homes and churches?
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit.
Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:
I invite you to sit in silence feeling patient for your own faults and trials.
Summarize what insights you have gained during this meditation and meditate and visualize positive change in your life:
This is a listener funded podcast at patreon.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Updates:
Final Question: How does God’s grace empower you to be able to take accountability for your failings?
Final Thought:
FIND ME ON:
Download my free app: Recenter with Christ
Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
Voicemail - (602) 888-3795
Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com
Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast
Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast
Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
Deuteronomy 18
NRSV
15 The Lord your God will raise up for you a prophet like me from among your own people; you shall heed such a prophet. 16 This is what you requested of the Lord your God at Horeb on the day of the assembly when you said: “If I hear the voice of the Lord my God any more, or ever again see this great fire, I will die.” 17 Then the Lord replied to me: “They are right in what they have said. 18 I will raise up for them a prophet like you from among their own people; I will put my words in the mouth of the prophet, who shall speak to them everything that I command. 19 Anyone who does not heed the words that the prophet shall speak in my name, I myself will hold accountable.
FIND ME ON:
Download my free app: Recenter with Christ
Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
Voicemail - (602) 888-3795
Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com
Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast
Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast
Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
378 I Will Raise Up For Them A Prophet, A Guided Christian Meditation on Deuteronomy 18:15-19 with the Recenter With Christ app
I'm Chaplain Jared and I work as a hospice chaplain and an ICU chaplain, my purpose in making this podcast is to help you find more peace in your life and to be more open for your heart to be changed by the Spirit of God. By using centuries old form of Christian Meditation named Lectio Divina:
Outline: Relaxation, Reading, Meditation, Prayer, Contemplation and Visualization.
Get into a place where you can sit comfortably and uninterrupted for about 20 minutes.You should hopefully not be driving or anything tensing or unrelaxing. If you feel comfortable to do so, I invite you to close your eyes.
Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation:
Breathe and direct your thoughts to connecting with God. Let your stomach be a balloon inflate, deflate.
Bible verses for Meditation:
Deuteronomy 18
NRSV
15 The Lord your God will raise up for you a prophet like me from among your own people; you shall heed such a prophet. 16 This is what you requested of the Lord your God at Horeb on the day of the assembly when you said: “If I hear the voice of the Lord my God any more, or ever again see this great fire, I will die.” 17 Then the Lord replied to me: “They are right in what they have said. 18 I will raise up for them a prophet like you from among their own people; I will put my words in the mouth of the prophet, who shall speak to them everything that I command. 19 Anyone who does not heed the words that the prophet shall speak in my name, I myself will hold accountable.
NASB
15 “The Lord your God will raise up for you a prophet like me from among you, from your countrymen; to him you shall listen. 16 This is in accordance with everything that you asked of the Lord your God at Horeb on the day of the assembly, saying, ‘Do not let me hear the voice of the Lord my God again, and do not let me see this great fire anymore, or I will die!’ 17 And the Lord said to me, ‘They have spoken well. 18 I will raise up for them a prophet from among their countrymen like you, and I will put My words in his mouth, and he shall speak to them everything that I command him. 19 And it shall come about that whoever does not listen to My words which he speaks in My name, I Myself will require it of him.
Meditation on Scripture:
In Acts Chapter 3 Paul claims that this scripture is referring to Jesus Christ. The greater prophet who will come and give the word of the Lord. More importantly as John says. Jesus IS the Word. The God of Abraham Isaac and Jacob is the same God. He told how He would come into the world. He told us what we needed to do and here Moses is telling how important it will be to heed the words of Jesus. It is essential.
The Lord prepared everything in advance. He knew what would be needed. He knew what errors we would make and what help we would need. He knew what sins we would commit and how we would be lost without a Savior. As such, he offers a Savior. He offers His own son. Why did God tell us all of this? What does God want us to do with this information?
What does God want you to do? Are you heeding His voice?
Jesus is the great prophet, one greater than John the Baptist, greater than any man. The only sinless person to ever walk the earth, and yet he was not just a person. He was far more. He was the Messiah, the Anointed one to take away the sins of the world through His sacrifice.
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit.
Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:
I invite you to sit in silence feeling patient for your own faults and trials.
Summarize what insights you have gained during this meditation and meditate and visualize positive change in your life:
This is a listener funded podcast at patreon.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Updates:
Final Question: How does God’s grace empower you to be able to take accountability for your failings?
Final Thought:
FIND ME ON:
Download my free app: Recenter with Christ
Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
Voicemail - (602) 888-3795
Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com
Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast
Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast
Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
NIV
3 Or don’t you know that all of us who were baptized into Christ Jesus were baptized into his death? 4 We were therefore buried with him through baptism into death in order that, just as Christ was raised from the dead through the glory of the Father, we too may live a new life.
5 For if we have been united with him in a death like his, we will certainly also be united with him in a resurrection like his.
FIND ME ON:
Download my free app: Recenter with Christ
Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
Voicemail - (602) 888-3795
Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com
Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast
Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast
Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
376 We Are Baptized Into the Death of Christ, A Guided Christian Meditation on Romans 6:3-5 with the Recenter With Christ app
I'm Chaplain Jared and I work as a hospice chaplain and an ICU chaplain, my purpose in making this podcast is to help you find more peace in your life and to be more open for your heart to be changed by the Spirit of God. By using centuries old form of Christian Meditation named Lectio Divina:
Outline: Relaxation, Reading, Meditation, Prayer, Contemplation and Visualization.
Get into a place where you can sit comfortably and uninterrupted for about 20 minutes.You should hopefully not be driving or anything tensing or unrelaxing. If you feel comfortable to do so, I invite you to close your eyes.
Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation:
Breathe and direct your thoughts to connecting with God. Let your stomach be a balloon inflate, deflate.
Bible verses for Meditation:
Romans 6
NIV
3 Or don’t you know that all of us who were baptized into Christ Jesus were baptized into his death? 4 We were therefore buried with him through baptism into death in order that, just as Christ was raised from the dead through the glory of the Father, we too may live a new life.
5 For if we have been united with him in a death like his, we will certainly also be united with him in a resurrection like his.
KJV
3 Know ye not, that so many of us as were baptized into Jesus Christ were baptized into his death?
4 Therefore we are buried with him by baptism into death: that like as Christ was raised up from the dead by the glory of the Father, even so we also should walk in newness of life.
5 For if we have been planted together in the likeness of his death, we shall be also in the likeness of his resurrection
Meditation on Scripture:
Today I led a baptismal service for a young man. It has been wonderful seeing his desire to transform his life. He lives in government housing and has been recently attempting to turn his life toward God. Right after he came out of the water, he was glowing and explained a wonderful feeling that filled him. I explained how this was the spirit and it was a signal of how God would continue to inspire him going forward. I then taught him how the Holy Spirit can guide his life.
I find these types of moments to be precious beyond words. It is a manifestation of Gods love and power. As we give our lives over to God, we receive the promise of redemption by having our sin wiped away. As I saw this young man go down into the water and then rise up with joy filling his heart it reminded me of the joy of grace.
Each of us are in the same need before God. Regardless of where we are in life or how long we have been walking with God, each of us rely on the same grace for our salvation. As such we should remember the goodness of God to us. I invite you to help encourage those who attempt to walk with Christ or those who don’t yet know him, that we can help others revive the joy that comes from following Christ into the waters of baptism.
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit.
Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:
I invite you to sit in silence feeling patient for your own faults and trials.
Summarize what insights you have gained during this meditation and meditate and visualize positive change in your life:
This is a listener funded podcast at patreon.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Updates:
Final Question: How does God’s grace empower you to be able to take accountability for your failings?
Final Thought:
FIND ME ON:
Download my free app: Recenter with Christ
Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
Voicemail - (602) 888-3795
Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com
Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast
Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast
Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
NIV
16 Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego replied to him, “King Nebuchadnezzar, we do not need to defend ourselves before you in this matter.
17 If we are thrown into the blazing furnace, the God we serve is able to deliver us from it, and he will deliver us from Your Majesty’s hand.
18 But even if he does not, we want you to know, Your Majesty, that we will not serve your gods or worship the image of gold you have set up.”
FIND ME ON:
Download my free app: Recenter with Christ
Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
Voicemail - (602) 888-3795
Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com
Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast
Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast
Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
374 We Don’t Need to Defend Ourselves from The World, A Guided Christian Meditation on Daniel 3:16-18 with the Recenter With Christ app
I'm Chaplain Jared and I work as a hospice chaplain and an ICU chaplain, my purpose in making this podcast is to help you find more peace in your life and to be more open for your heart to be changed by the Spirit of God. By using centuries old form of Christian Meditation named Lectio Divina:
Outline: Relaxation, Reading, Meditation, Prayer, Contemplation and Visualization.
Get into a place where you can sit comfortably and uninterrupted for about 20 minutes.You should hopefully not be driving or anything tensing or unrelaxing. If you feel comfortable to do so, I invite you to close your eyes.
Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation:
Breathe and direct your thoughts to connecting with God. Let your stomach be a balloon inflate, deflate.
Bible verses for Meditation:
Daniel 3:16-18
NIV
16 Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego replied to him, “King Nebuchadnezzar, we do not need to defend ourselves before you in this matter.
17 If we are thrown into the blazing furnace, the God we serve is able to deliver us from it, and he will deliver us from Your Majesty’s hand.
18 But even if he does not, we want you to know, Your Majesty, that we will not serve your gods or worship the image of gold you have set up.”
KJV
16 Shadrach, Meshach, and Abed-nego, answered and said to the king, O Nebuchadnezzar, we are not careful to answer thee in this matter.
17 If it be so, our God whom we serve is able to deliver us from the burning fiery furnace, and he will deliver us out of thine hand, O king.
18 But if not, be it known unto thee, O king, that we will not serve thy gods, nor worship the golden image which thou hast set up
Meditation on Scripture:
This story is a miraculous display of courage. Many times when we say we trust God what we mean is that we trust He will do what we think is right. I think this is a wonderful thing to challenge inside of ourselves. It is a powerful thing to trust in God even if he doesn’t deliver you how and when you think he should.
In this story the King created an idol and tried to force everyone to worship. This act of courage is a clear demonstration of real and powerful Faith. Open your heart to faith now. In this moment open yourself to the courageous type of faith. Feel within yourself where you courage resides. Reflect on your courage in the Lord.
Imagine yourself being courageous in doing the things you feel God wants you to do. I truly feel that courage is part of our personal development. God allows us to enter situations that require courage and tenacity, but when we come out the other end we can do so with even more faith and trust than before.
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit.
Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:
I invite you to sit in silence feeling patient for your own faults and trials.
Summarize what insights you have gained during this meditation and meditate and visualize positive change in your life:
This is a listener funded podcast at patreon.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Updates:
Final Question: How does God’s grace empower you to be able to take accountability for your failings?
Final Thought:
FIND ME ON:
Download my free app: Recenter with Christ
Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
Voicemail - (602) 888-3795
Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com
Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast
Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast
Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
James 4
NABRE
13 Come now, you who say, “Today or tomorrow we shall go into such and such a town, spend a year there doing business, and make a profit”— 14 you have no idea what your life will be like tomorrow. You are a puff of smoke that appears briefly and then disappears. 15 Instead you should say, “If the Lord wills it, we shall live to do this or that.” 16 But now you are boasting in your arrogance. All such boasting is evil. 17 So for one who knows the right thing to do and does not do it, it is a sin.
FIND ME ON:
Download my free app: Recenter with Christ
Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
Voicemail - (602) 888-3795
Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com
Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast
Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast
Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
372 Doing What We Know To Be Right, A Guided Christian Meditation on James 4:13-17 with the Recenter With Christ app
I'm Chaplain Jared and I work as a hospice chaplain and an ICU chaplain, my purpose in making this podcast is to help you find more peace in your life and to be more open for your heart to be changed by the Spirit of God. By using centuries old form of Christian Meditation named Lectio Divina:
Outline: Relaxation, Reading, Meditation, Prayer, Contemplation and Visualization.
Get into a place where you can sit comfortably and uninterrupted for about 20 minutes.You should hopefully not be driving or anything tensing or unrelaxing. If you feel comfortable to do so, I invite you to close your eyes.
Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation:
Breathe and direct your thoughts to connecting with God. Let your stomach be a balloon inflate, deflate.
Bible verses for Meditation:
James4
NRSV
13 Come now, you who say, “Today or tomorrow we will go to such and such a town and spend a year there, doing business and making money.” 14 Yet you do not even know what tomorrow will bring. What is your life? For you are a mist that appears for a little while and then vanishes. 15 Instead you ought to say, “If the Lord wishes, we will live and do this or that.” 16 As it is, you boast in your arrogance; all such boasting is evil. 17 Anyone, then, who knows the right thing to do and fails to do it, commits sin.
NABRE
13 Come now, you who say, “Today or tomorrow we shall go into such and such a town, spend a year there doing business, and make a profit”— 14 you have no idea what your life will be like tomorrow. You are a puff of smoke that appears briefly and then disappears. 15 Instead you should say, “If the Lord wills it, we shall live to do this or that.” 16 But now you are boasting in your arrogance. All such boasting is evil. 17 So for one who knows the right thing to do and does not do it, it is a sin
Meditation on Scripture:
In a great eternal irony when we feel shame and run from responsibility before our sin, we become even more disempowered and less able to overcome our failings. Who among us can truly say they do everything they know they should? When we are able to accept our wrong doing before the Lord for not doing what we should, while embracing His grace, we are in a much better position to actually do something about it. We are in a position to ask forgiveness, we are in a position to change. It is not enough to simply ignore that we do wrong things, but we need to come to terms with our fault before the Lord for the myriad things we do against His will. It can be paradoxical when we truly are able to be honest about our fallen state and petition the Lord for forgiveness at first we may feel as though we walk through fire but as we continue in faith, this fire is quenched by God. And yet all of us can receive God’s grace as we trust Jesus as our savior.
It seems that there is a connection to sin and the illusion that we are able to control the future in general. When we operate under the assumption that we control the world, we may think that we get to choose the consequences of our actions, which is a complete falsehood. We can not choose the actions of tomorrow no more than we can choose the effects of sin. There is a deep and eternal connection to truly receiving God’s grace, and our willingness to be honest with our failings. And ironically we can become more willing to look our sin in the face when we trust God’s grace. The Gospel is not a message of vanilla self acceptance but true redemption from the hellish consequences of choosing evil. Our peace then, does not come from covering our sin but from the assurance that God has indeed redeemed us from it all. This is the peace Jesus offers.
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit.
Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:
I invite you to sit in silence feeling patient for your own faults and trials.
Summarize what insights you have gained during this meditation and meditate and visualize positive change in your life:
This is a listener funded podcast at patreon.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Updates:
Final Question: How does God’s grace empower you to be able to take accountability for your failings?
Final Thought:
FIND ME ON:
Download my free app: Recenter with Christ
Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
Voicemail - (602) 888-3795
Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com
Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast
Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast
Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
370 Worthy Is The Lamb Who Was Slain, A Guided Christian Meditation on Revelation 5:11-14 with the Recenter With Christ app
I'm Chaplain Jared and I work as a hospice chaplain and an ICU chaplain, my purpose in making this podcast is to help you find more peace in your life and to be more open for your heart to be changed by the Spirit of God. By using centuries old form of Christian Meditation named Lectio Divina:
Outline: Relaxation, Reading, Meditation, Prayer, Contemplation and Visualization.
Get into a place where you can sit comfortably and uninterrupted for about 20 minutes.You should hopefully not be driving or anything tensing or unrelaxing. If you feel comfortable to do so, I invite you to close your eyes.
Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation:
Breathe and direct your thoughts to connecting with God. Let your stomach be a balloon inflate, deflate.
Bible verses for Meditation:
Revelation 5
ESV
11 Then I looked, and I heard around the throne and the living creatures and the elders the voice of many angels, numbering myriads of myriads and thousands of thousands, 12 saying with a loud voice,
“Worthy is the Lamb who was slain,
to receive power and wealth and wisdom and might
and honor and glory and blessing!”
13 And I heard every creature in heaven and on earth and under the earth and in the sea, and all that is in them, saying,
“To him who sits on the throne and to the Lamb
be blessing and honor and glory and might forever and ever!”
14 And the four living creatures said, “Amen!” and the elders fell down and worshiped.
KJV
11 And I beheld, and I heard the voice of many angels round about the throne and the beasts and the elders: and the number of them was ten thousand times ten thousand, and thousands of thousands;
12 Saying with a loud voice, Worthy is the Lamb that was slain to receive power, and riches, and wisdom, and strength, and honour, and glory, and blessing.
13 And every creature which is in heaven, and on the earth, and under the earth, and such as are in the sea, and all that are in them, heard I saying, Blessing, and honour, and glory, and power, be unto him that sitteth upon the throne, and unto the Lamb for ever and ever.
14 And the four beasts said, Amen. And the four and twenty elders fell down and worshipped him that liveth for ever and ever.
Meditation on Scripture:
I often have some message to apply scripture to our life. Here I want to take an opportunity to simply say. Worthy is the Lamb who was slain. Blessing and honor and glory and power be unto him that sits on the throne and the Lamb. I almost can't hear this music without thinking of the music from Handel’s Messiah. Such power in these words.
That Lamb here referred to is Jesus Christ who went like a lamb to the slaughter for our behalf. How grateful I am for that. Glory to God. The goodness and greatness of God do not need our acts of worship and praise, yet God offers us the opportunity to recognize His glory. God’s goodness is obvious and even the very stones of the earth could proclaim His goodness if He asked it. There is a peace that enters us as we acknowledge the eternal truth of the source of Goodness and light. Let the goodness of our God soften your heart to allow His love to touch your soul, to transform you in his image.
Spend time today, in this moment, thanking God for his goodness, thanking him for bringing light to our universe, for bringing love into us who so desperately need it. God loves you. The God of heaven. The one deemed worthy to sit on the throne of the universe, who is full of glory and deserving of honor, who offers His blessing. Praise be to God. May we feel his glory deep in our heart.
In the end, The heavens as well as the faithful on earth will declare together that Jesus is the Christ and is the only way back to the Father. Join in this worship by letting God touch your heart with this assurance today.
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit.
Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:
I invite you to sit in silence feeling patient for your own faults and trials.
Summarize what insights you have gained during this meditation and meditate and visualize positive change in your life:
This is a listener funded podcast at patreon.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Updates:
Final Question: What does the rest of the Lord look like?
Final Thought:
FIND ME ON:
Download my free app: Recenter with Christ
Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
Voicemail - (602) 888-3795
Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com
Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast
Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast
Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
368 I Will Meditate on the Work of the Lord, A Guided Christian Meditation on Psalms 77:6-12 with the Recenter With Christ app
I'm Chaplain Jared and I work as a hospice chaplain and an ICU chaplain, my purpose in making this podcast is to help you find more peace in your life and to be more open for your heart to be changed by the Spirit of God. By using centuries old form of Christian Meditation named Lectio Divina:
Outline: Relaxation, Reading, Meditation, Prayer, Contemplation and Visualization.
Get into a place where you can sit comfortably and uninterrupted for about 20 minutes.You should hopefully not be driving or anything tensing or unrelaxing. If you feel comfortable to do so, I invite you to close your eyes.
Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation:
Breathe and direct your thoughts to connecting with God. Let your stomach be a balloon inflate, deflate.
Bible verses for Meditation:
Psalms 77:6-12
NABRE
6 I consider the days of old;
the years long past 7 I remember.
At night I ponder in my heart;
and as I meditate, my spirit probes:
8 “Will the Lord reject us forever,
never again show favor?
9 Has God’s mercy ceased forever?
The promise to go unfulfilled for future ages?
10 Has God forgotten how to show mercy,
in anger withheld his compassion?”
Selah
11 I conclude: “My sorrow is this,
the right hand of the Most High has abandoned us.”
12 I will recall the deeds of the Lord;
yes, recall your wonders of old.
KJV
6 I call to remembrance my song in the night:
I commune with mine own heart: and my spirit made diligent search.
7 Will the Lord cast off for ever?
and will he be favourable no more?
8 Is his mercy clean gone for ever?
doth his promise fail for evermore?
9 Hath God forgotten to be gracious?
hath he in anger shut up his tender mercies? Selah.
10 And I said, This is my infirmity:
but I will remember the years of the right hand of the most High.
11 I will remember the works of the Lord:
surely I will remember thy wonders of old.
12 I will meditate also of all thy work,
and talk of thy doings.
Meditation on Scripture:
What does it mean to remember? What does it mean? What sorts of things do we choose to remember, or never forget. As we remember the tragedies from 20 years ago and the many other tragedies that have followed we can focus on the earthly actions. We can become embittered or fearful. The value in remembering should not be found in this. The value of remembering things is to help improve our lives and those around us. At some point, everyone we know and everything we own will be left on earth, and the only thing we will carry with us is our experiences and the records kept in heaven. When we think of always remembering, may we integrate these things with the most important thing to remember, which is our faith.
What does it mean to always remember the Lord? That may seem like a basic question but ponder that for a moment. What does it mean to always remember the Lord? What impact would that have one our day to day life? How would that impact the way we experience conflict. It would also change the way we experience fear, and influence how we are motivated to follow God. And this would also overlap with how we remember tragedy.
An equally important thing to consider is how God remembers us even amidst our trials and struggles. And how He chooses to forget our sins due to His mercy. Our entire existence is transformed through this chain of remembrance between God and us. How blessed we are to have such a God.
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit.
Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:
I invite you to sit in silence feeling patient for your own faults and trials.
Summarize what insights you have gained during this meditation and meditate and visualize positive change in your life:
This is a listener funded podcast at patreon.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Updates:
Final Question: What does the rest of the Lord look like?
Final Thought:
FIND ME ON:
Download my free app: Recenter with Christ
Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
Voicemail - (602) 888-3795
Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com
Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast
Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast
Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
Psalms 77:6-12
NABRE
6 I consider the days of old;
the years long past 7 I remember.
At night I ponder in my heart;
and as I meditate, my spirit probes:
8 “Will the Lord reject us forever,
never again show favor?
9 Has God’s mercy ceased forever?
The promise to go unfulfilled for future ages?
10 Has God forgotten how to show mercy,
in anger withheld his compassion?”
Selah
11 I conclude: “My sorrow is this,
the right hand of the Most High has abandoned us.”
12 I will recall the deeds of the Lord;
yes, recall your wonders of old.
FIND ME ON:
Download my free app: Recenter with Christ
Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
Voicemail - (602) 888-3795
Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com
Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast
Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast
Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
368 I Will Meditate on the Work of the Lord, A Guided Christian Meditation on Psalms 77:6-12 with the Recenter With Christ app
I'm Chaplain Jared and I work as a hospice chaplain and an ICU chaplain, my purpose in making this podcast is to help you find more peace in your life and to be more open for your heart to be changed by the Spirit of God. By using centuries old form of Christian Meditation named Lectio Divina:
Outline: Relaxation, Reading, Meditation, Prayer, Contemplation and Visualization.
Get into a place where you can sit comfortably and uninterrupted for about 20 minutes.You should hopefully not be driving or anything tensing or unrelaxing. If you feel comfortable to do so, I invite you to close your eyes.
Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation:
Breathe and direct your thoughts to connecting with God. Let your stomach be a balloon inflate, deflate.
Bible verses for Meditation:
Psalms 77:6-12
NABRE
6 I consider the days of old;
the years long past 7 I remember.
At night I ponder in my heart;
and as I meditate, my spirit probes:
8 “Will the Lord reject us forever,
never again show favor?
9 Has God’s mercy ceased forever?
The promise to go unfulfilled for future ages?
10 Has God forgotten how to show mercy,
in anger withheld his compassion?”
Selah
11 I conclude: “My sorrow is this,
the right hand of the Most High has abandoned us.”
12 I will recall the deeds of the Lord;
yes, recall your wonders of old.
KJV
6 I call to remembrance my song in the night:
I commune with mine own heart: and my spirit made diligent search.
7 Will the Lord cast off for ever?
and will he be favourable no more?
8 Is his mercy clean gone for ever?
doth his promise fail for evermore?
9 Hath God forgotten to be gracious?
hath he in anger shut up his tender mercies? Selah.
10 And I said, This is my infirmity:
but I will remember the years of the right hand of the most High.
11 I will remember the works of the Lord:
surely I will remember thy wonders of old.
12 I will meditate also of all thy work,
and talk of thy doings.
Meditation on Scripture:
What does it mean to remember? What does it mean? What sorts of things do we choose to remember, or never forget. As we remember the tragedies from 20 years ago and the many other tragedies that have followed we can focus on the earthly actions. We can become embittered or fearful. The value in remembering should not be found in this. The value of remembering things is to help improve our lives and those around us. At some point, everyone we know and everything we own will be left on earth, and the only thing we will carry with us is our experiences and the records kept in heaven. When we think of always remembering, may we integrate these things with the most important thing to remember, which is our faith.
What does it mean to always remember the Lord? That may seem like a basic question but ponder that for a moment. What does it mean to always remember the Lord? What impact would that have one our day to day life? How would that impact the way we experience conflict. It would also change the way we experience fear, and influence how we are motivated to follow God. And this would also overlap with how we remember tragedy.
An equally important thing to consider is how God remembers us even amidst our trials and struggles. And how He chooses to forget our sins due to His mercy. Our entire existence is transformed through this chain of remembrance between God and us. How blessed we are to have such a God.
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit.
Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:
I invite you to sit in silence feeling patient for your own faults and trials.
Summarize what insights you have gained during this meditation and meditate and visualize positive change in your life:
This is a listener funded podcast at patreon.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Updates:
Final Question: What does the rest of the Lord look like?
Final Thought:
FIND ME ON:
Download my free app: Recenter with Christ
Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
Voicemail - (602) 888-3795
Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com
Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast
Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast
Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
1 Timothy 1
KJV
11 According to the glorious gospel of the blessed God, which was committed to my trust.
12 And I thank Christ Jesus our Lord, who hath enabled me, for that he counted me faithful, putting me into the ministry;
13 Who was before a blasphemer, and a persecutor, and injurious: but I obtained mercy, because I did it ignorantly in unbelief.
14 And the grace of our Lord was exceeding abundant with faith and love which is in Christ Jesus.
FIND ME ON:
Download my free app: Recenter with Christ
Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
Voicemail - (602) 888-3795
Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com
Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast
Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast
Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
366 God Trusts Us With His Gospel, A Guided Christian Meditation on 1 Timothy 1:11-13 with the Recenter With Christ app
I'm Chaplain Jared and I work as a hospice chaplain and an ICU chaplain, my purpose in making this podcast is to help you find more peace in your life and to be more open for your heart to be changed by the Spirit of God. By using centuries old form of Christian Meditation named Lectio Divina:
Outline: Relaxation, Reading, Meditation, Prayer, Contemplation and Visualization.
Get into a place where you can sit comfortably and uninterrupted for about 20 minutes.You should hopefully not be driving or anything tensing or unrelaxing. If you feel comfortable to do so, I invite you to close your eyes.
Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation:
Breathe and direct your thoughts to connecting with God. Let your stomach be a balloon inflate, deflate.
Bible verses for Meditation:
1 Timothy 1
KJV
11 According to the glorious gospel of the blessed God, which was committed to my trust.
12 And I thank Christ Jesus our Lord, who hath enabled me, for that he counted me faithful, putting me into the ministry;
13 Who was before a blasphemer, and a persecutor, and injurious: but I obtained mercy, because I did it ignorantly in unbelief.
14 And the grace of our Lord was exceeding abundant with faith and love which is in Christ Jesus.
NABRE
11 according to the glorious gospel of the blessed God, with which I have been entrusted.
12 I am grateful to him who has strengthened me, Christ Jesus our Lord, because he considered me trustworthy in appointing me to the ministry.
13 I was once a blasphemer and a persecutor and an arrogant man, but I have been mercifully treated because I acted out of ignorance in my unbelief.
14 Indeed, the grace of our Lord has been abundant, along with the faith and love that are in Christ Jesus.
Meditation on Scripture:
What is success in life? What is it that we want out of life? How much of that success is due to our own efforts and how much is due to luck? When we look at our life and our eternal destiny we can consider the same balance. We are enormously fortunate that the blessed God chose to scoop us out of where we have been and invite us into a path of Love and transformation.He considers us trustworthy of His gospel. Despite our failings he loves us and offers His abundant grace.
When things are difficult all around and we feel frustrated, sad, tired, or overwhelmed, consider that we have been counted faithful by Jesus Christ. Herein is our faith, not that we trust in our adherence to perfection, but we rejoice that the God of heaven has chosen to love us. How blessed are we.
Part of the good news of the Gospel that Paul is preaching here is that we do not need to constantly destroy ourselves for who we have been or things we struggle with. We learn to let those go to our loving God who deals with us with mercy as we place our faith in Jesus. As we trust our Savior we overcome our human weakness and rise up in the trust of the Lord.
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit.
Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:
I invite you to sit in silence feeling patient for your own faults and trials.
Summarize what insights you have gained during this meditation and meditate and visualize positive change in your life:
This is a listener funded podcast at patreon.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Updates:
Final Question: What does the rest of the Lord look like?
Final Thought:
FIND ME ON:
Download my free app: Recenter with Christ
Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
Voicemail - (602) 888-3795
Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com
Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast
Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast
Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
Bible verses for Meditation:
Matthew 7
NIV
24 “Therefore everyone who hears these words of mine and puts them into practice is like a wise man who built his house on the rock. 25 The rain came down, the streams rose, and the winds blew and beat against that house; yet it did not fall, because it had its foundation on the rock. 26 But everyone who hears these words of mine and does not put them into practice is like a foolish man who built his house on sand. 27 The rain came down, the streams rose, and the winds blew and beat against that house, and it fell with a great crash.”
FIND ME ON:
Download my free app: Recenter with Christ
Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
Voicemail - (602) 888-3795
Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com
Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast
Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast
Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
364 Build Upon A Rock, A Guided Christian Meditation on Matthew 7:24-27 with the Recenter With Christ app
I'm Chaplain Jared and I work as a hospice chaplain and an ICU chaplain, my purpose in making this podcast is to help you find more peace in your life and to be more open for your heart to be changed by the Spirit of God. By using centuries old form of Christian Meditation named Lectio Divina:
Outline: Relaxation, Reading, Meditation, Prayer, Contemplation and Visualization.
Get into a place where you can sit comfortably and uninterrupted for about 20 minutes.You should hopefully not be driving or anything tensing or unrelaxing. If you feel comfortable to do so, I invite you to close your eyes.
Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation:
Breathe and direct your thoughts to connecting with God. Let your stomach be a balloon inflate, deflate.
Bible verses for Meditation:
Matthew 7
NIV
24 “Therefore everyone who hears these words of mine and puts them into practice is like a wise man who built his house on the rock. 25 The rain came down, the streams rose, and the winds blew and beat against that house; yet it did not fall, because it had its foundation on the rock. 26 But everyone who hears these words of mine and does not put them into practice is like a foolish man who built his house on sand. 27 The rain came down, the streams rose, and the winds blew and beat against that house, and it fell with a great crash.”
NRSV
24 “Everyone then who hears these words of mine and acts on them will be like a wise man who built his house on rock. 25 The rain fell, the floods came, and the winds blew and beat on that house, but it did not fall, because it had been founded on rock. 26 And everyone who hears these words of mine and does not act on them will be like a foolish man who built his house on sand. 27 The rain fell, and the floods came, and the winds blew and beat against that house, and it fell—and great was its fall!”
Meditation on Scripture:
So many different compelling challenges are in front of us that at times we can be swept away by the fear and strain they cause. There is so much to draw us away from the peace of God, too much to list here. I find it interesting that in this story there is a recommendation that we build on a solid foundation. Why does that matter if it is not meant to rain on the righteous. Good people have storms come at them as well. For this reason Jesus says we need to start with a solid foundation. Belief in Christ as our savior is the foundation. Christ himself is the chief cornerstone.
After the foundation we must build. What do we build with? The things Jesus has asked us to do. If we want to be safe from the storms of life we need to do what Jesus asks us to do. Not because that will cause us to escape them, but that it will allow us to weather them. We do not need to fear the collapse of our soul or character if we constantly strive to do what Jesus asks us to do, and he does ask us to follow Him.
With that said, if we follow Christ’s commandments without really trusting in Him or having our faith founded on Him then our house is weak. What things do you know that you need to be doing more of in your life? What things do you need to be doing less of? These are the ways in which we build our house through Christ. Ponder on what things those are.
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit.
Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:
I invite you to sit in silence feeling patient for your own faults and trials.
Summarize what insights you have gained during this meditation and meditate and visualize positive change in your life:
This is a listener funded podcast at patreon.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Updates:
Final Question: What does the rest of the Lord look like?
Final Thought:
FIND ME ON:
Download my free app: Recenter with Christ
Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
Voicemail - (602) 888-3795
Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com
Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast
Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast
Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
362 Live Peaceably with Everyone, A Guided Christian Meditation on Romans 12:17-19 with the Recenter With Christ app
Romans 12
NIV
17 Do not repay anyone evil for evil. Be careful to do what is right in the eyes of everyone. 18 If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone. 19 Do not take revenge, my dear friends, but leave room for God’s wrath, for it is written: “It is mine to avenge; I will repay,” says the Lord.
Final Thought:
FIND ME ON:
Download my free app: Recenter with Christ
Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
Voicemail - (602) 888-3795
Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com
Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast
Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast
Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
362 Live Peaceably with Everyone, A Guided Christian Meditation on Romans 12:17-19 with the Recenter With Christ app
I'm Chaplain Jared and I work as a hospice chaplain and an ICU chaplain, my purpose in making this podcast is to help you find more peace in your life and to be more open for your heart to be changed by the Spirit of God. By using centuries old form of Christian Meditation named Lectio Divina:
Outline: Relaxation, Reading, Meditation, Prayer, Contemplation and Visualization.
Get into a place where you can sit comfortably and uninterrupted for about 20 minutes.You should hopefully not be driving or anything tensing or unrelaxing. If you feel comfortable to do so, I invite you to close your eyes.
Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation:
Breathe and direct your thoughts to connecting with God. Let your stomach be a balloon inflate, deflate.
Bible verses for Meditation:
Romans 12
NIV
17 Do not repay anyone evil for evil. Be careful to do what is right in the eyes of everyone. 18 If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone. 19 Do not take revenge, my dear friends, but leave room for God’s wrath, for it is written: “It is mine to avenge; I will repay,” says the Lord.
KJV
17 Recompense to no man evil for evil. Provide things honest in the sight of all men.
18 If it be possible, as much as lieth in you, live peaceably with all men.
19 Dearly beloved, avenge not yourselves, but rather give place unto wrath: for it is written, Vengeance is mine; I will repay, saith the Lord.
Meditation on Scripture:
Vengeance is an experience that has been present since the earliest days of human existence. It’s intoxicating lire can be tempting for all of us who have been harmed by someone. It temps is to intentionally hurt another for nothing other than the enjoyment of that pain. It is a sort of directed masochism. Here Paul says it is paying evil for evil. In a more clear statement, revenge is evil. Most of the time it is understandable why we feel the dramatic pull toward revenge but that is not our place to cool claim that it should be welcome in our heart.
When we let those feelings hold sway in us, it negatively impacts us. Even we feel unable to let go of the feeling, we can begin by at least wanting the feeling to leave instead of nurturing it. We can trust our all powerful God who will ensure that justice is done. God knows exactly how and when to give mercy and justice. His decision are infinitely better than ours.
As our faith in God grows so does our faith that All that is wrong and evil will be avenged. The great irony comes when we consider our need for mercy from the offenses we have done to others. Those same acts that may have instilled feelings of revenge in others. True faith in God grows into an understanding that His grace and forgiveness should not apply only to us, but to all those who come to him and repent through faith. Thankfully God is not as vengeful as we may occasionally deserve. Thanks be to God for His unending grace.
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit.
Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:
I invite you to sit in silence feeling patient for your own faults and trials.
Summarize what insights you have gained during this meditation and meditate and visualize positive change in your life:
This is a listener funded podcast at patreon.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Updates:
Final Question: What does the rest of the Lord look like?
Final Thought:
FIND ME ON:
Download my free app: Recenter with Christ
Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
Voicemail - (602) 888-3795
Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com
Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast
Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast
Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
362 Live Peaceably with Everyone, A Guided Christian Meditation on Romans 12:17-19 with the Recenter With Christ app
I'm Chaplain Jared and I work as a hospice chaplain and an ICU chaplain, my purpose in making this podcast is to help you find more peace in your life and to be more open for your heart to be changed by the Spirit of God. By using centuries old form of Christian Meditation named Lectio Divina:
Outline: Relaxation, Reading, Meditation, Prayer, Contemplation and Visualization.
Get into a place where you can sit comfortably and uninterrupted for about 20 minutes.You should hopefully not be driving or anything tensing or unrelaxing. If you feel comfortable to do so, I invite you to close your eyes.
Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation:
Breathe and direct your thoughts to connecting with God. Let your stomach be a balloon inflate, deflate.
Bible verses for Meditation:
Romans 12
NIV
17 Do not repay anyone evil for evil. Be careful to do what is right in the eyes of everyone. 18 If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone. 19 Do not take revenge, my dear friends, but leave room for God’s wrath, for it is written: “It is mine to avenge; I will repay,” says the Lord.
KJV
17 Recompense to no man evil for evil. Provide things honest in the sight of all men.
18 If it be possible, as much as lieth in you, live peaceably with all men.
19 Dearly beloved, avenge not yourselves, but rather give place unto wrath: for it is written, Vengeance is mine; I will repay, saith the Lord.
Meditation on Scripture:
Vengeance is an experience that has been present since the earliest days of human existence. It’s intoxicating lire can be tempting for all of us who have been harmed by someone. It temps is to intentionally hurt another for nothing other than the enjoyment of that pain. It is a sort of directed masochism. Here Paul says it is paying evil for evil. In a more clear statement, revenge is evil. Most of the time it is understandable why we feel the dramatic pull toward revenge but that is not our place to cool claim that it should be welcome in our heart.
When we let those feelings hold sway in us, it negatively impacts us. Even we feel unable to let go of the feeling, we can begin by at least wanting the feeling to leave instead of nurturing it. We can trust our all powerful God who will ensure that justice is done. God knows exactly how and when to give mercy and justice. His decision are infinitely better than ours.
As our faith in God grows so does our faith that All that is wrong and evil will be avenged. The great irony comes when we consider our need for mercy from the offenses we have done to others. Those same acts that may have instilled feelings of revenge in others. True faith in God grows into an understanding that His grace and forgiveness should not apply only to us, but to all those who come to him and repent through faith. Thankfully God is not as vengeful as we may occasionally deserve. Thanks be to God for His unending grace.
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit.
Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:
I invite you to sit in silence feeling patient for your own faults and trials.
Summarize what insights you have gained during this meditation and meditate and visualize positive change in your life:
This is a listener funded podcast at patreon.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Updates:
Final Question: What does the rest of the Lord look like?
Final Thought:
FIND ME ON:
Download my free app: Recenter with Christ
Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
Voicemail - (602) 888-3795
Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com
Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast
Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast
Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
Romans 12
NRSV
9 Let love be genuine; hate what is evil, hold fast to what is good;
10 love one another with mutual affection; outdo one another in showing honor.
11 Do not lag in zeal, be ardent in spirit, serve the Lord.
12 Rejoice in hope, be patient in suffering, persevere in prayer.
13 Contribute to the needs of the saints; extend hospitality to strangers.
14 Bless those who persecute you; bless and do not curse them.
15 Rejoice with those who rejoice, weep with those who weep.
16 Live in harmony with one another; do not be haughty, but associate with the lowly; do not claim to be wiser than you are.
FIND ME ON:
Download my free app: Recenter with Christ
Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
Voicemail - (602) 888-3795
Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com
Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast
Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast
Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
360 Let Love Be Genuine and Hate What is Evil, A Guided Christian Meditation on Romans 12:9-16 with the Recenter With Christ app
I'm Chaplain Jared and I work as a hospice chaplain and an ICU chaplain, my purpose in making this podcast is to help you find more peace in your life and to be more open for your heart to be changed by the Spirit of God. By using centuries old form of Christian Meditation named Lectio Divina:
Outline: Relaxation, Reading, Meditation, Prayer, Contemplation and Visualization.
Get into a place where you can sit comfortably and uninterrupted for about 20 minutes.You should hopefully not be driving or anything tensing or unrelaxing. If you feel comfortable to do so, I invite you to close your eyes.
Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation:
Breathe and direct your thoughts to connecting with God. Let your stomach be a balloon inflate, deflate.
Bible verses for Meditation:
Romans 12
NRSV
9 Let love be genuine; hate what is evil, hold fast to what is good;
10 love one another with mutual affection; outdo one another in showing honor.
11 Do not lag in zeal, be ardent in spirit, serve the Lord.
12 Rejoice in hope, be patient in suffering, persevere in prayer.
13 Contribute to the needs of the saints; extend hospitality to strangers.
14 Bless those who persecute you; bless and do not curse them.
15 Rejoice with those who rejoice, weep with those who weep.
16 Live in harmony with one another; do not be haughty, but associate with the lowly; do not claim to be wiser than you are.
NABRE
9 Let love be sincere; hate what is evil, hold on to what is good; 10 love one another with mutual affection; anticipate one another in showing honor. 11 Do not grow slack in zeal, be fervent in spirit, serve the Lord. 12 Rejoice in hope, endure in affliction, persevere in prayer. 13 Contribute to the needs of the holy ones, exercise hospitality. 14 Bless those who persecute [you], bless and do not curse them. 15 Rejoice with those who rejoice, weep with those who weep. 16 Have the same regard for one another; do not be haughty but associate with the lowly; do not be wise in your own estimation.
Meditation on Scripture:
Hate what is evil and hold fast to what is good. Evil is not defined as other people in this scripture, as though it were some eternal villain. It is evil acts and tendencies: the rejection of God. Paul taught us to not become conceited. We are not meant to separate ourselves above others, even if, or especially if, we have the truth of God in our hearts. We are meant to bless our enemies and love sincerely and deeply. We are meant to develop our gifts and share them.
Why do we need to hold fast to what is good? Why does God want us to avoid conceit? Is it to prove to God that we belong in heaven? Or is It is because he wants us to be the best version of what we are capable of? That comes through God’s word speaking truth into our lives as we learn to avoid evil and hold fast to the good. We learn how to compassionately connect with others. As we do we gain a community of people who are there for us when we hurt. This is one of the roles that the church community plays.
If you find yourself longing for happiness, commit to ways in which you can live this scripture. How can you love more, how can you be connected to others, how can you serve others? How can you do your highest service? This brings a fulfillment in life. As we are surrounded by love, the other aspects of life which are hard, are improved. We gain strength and endurance to do the work God has for us. God’s love leads to loving action.
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit.
Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:
I invite you to sit in silence feeling patient for your own faults and trials.
Summarize what insights you have gained during this meditation and meditate and visualize positive change in your life:
This is a listener funded podcast at patreon.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Updates:
Final Question: What does the rest of the Lord look like?
Final Thought:
FIND ME ON:
Download my free app: Recenter with Christ
Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
Voicemail - (602) 888-3795
Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com
Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast
Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast
Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
Bible verses for Meditation:
Hebrews 4
NIV
19 Jesus saw that they wanted to ask him about this, so he said to them, “Are you asking one another what I meant when I said, ‘In a little while you will see me no more, and then after a little while you will see me’? 20 Very truly I tell you, you will weep and mourn while the world rejoices. You will grieve, but your grief will turn to joy. 21 A woman giving birth to a child has pain because her time has come; but when her baby is born she forgets the anguish because of her joy that a child is born into the world. 22 So with you: Now is your time of grief, but I will see you again and you will rejoice, and no one will take away your joy. 23 In that day you will no longer ask me anything. Very truly I tell you, my Father will give you whatever you ask in my name
FIND ME ON:
Download my free app: Recenter with Christ
Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
Voicemail - (602) 888-3795
Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com
Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast
Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast
Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
358 No One Will Take Your Joy, A Guided Christian Meditation on John 16:19-23 with the Recenter With Christ app
I'm Chaplain Jared and I work as a hospice chaplain and an ICU chaplain, my purpose in making this podcast is to help you find more peace in your life and to be more open for your heart to be changed by the Spirit of God. By using centuries old form of Christian Meditation named Lectio Divina:
Outline: Relaxation, Reading, Meditation, Prayer, Contemplation and Visualization.
Get into a place where you can sit comfortably and uninterrupted for about 20 minutes.You should hopefully not be driving or anything tensing or unrelaxing. If you feel comfortable to do so, I invite you to close your eyes.
Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation:
Breathe and direct your thoughts to connecting with God. Let your stomach be a balloon inflate, deflate.
Bible verses for Meditation:
Hebrews 4
NIV
19 Jesus saw that they wanted to ask him about this, so he said to them, “Are you asking one another what I meant when I said, ‘In a little while you will see me no more, and then after a little while you will see me’? 20 Very truly I tell you, you will weep and mourn while the world rejoices. You will grieve, but your grief will turn to joy. 21 A woman giving birth to a child has pain because her time has come; but when her baby is born she forgets the anguish because of her joy that a child is born into the world. 22 So with you: Now is your time of grief, but I will see you again and you will rejoice, and no one will take away your joy. 23 In that day you will no longer ask me anything. Very truly I tell you, my Father will give you whatever you ask in my name
NRSV
19 Jesus knew that they wanted to ask him, so he said to them, “Are you discussing among yourselves what I meant when I said, ‘A little while, and you will no longer see me, and again a little while, and you will see me’? 20 Very truly, I tell you, you will weep and mourn, but the world will rejoice; you will have pain, but your pain will turn into joy. 21 When a woman is in labor, she has pain, because her hour has come. But when her child is born, she no longer remembers the anguish because of the joy of having brought a human being into the world. 22 So you have pain now; but I will see you again, and your hearts will rejoice, and no one will take your joy from you. 23 On that day you will ask nothing of me. Very truly, I tell you, if you ask anything of the Father in my name, he will give it to you.
Meditation on Scripture:
What do we rejoice about in life? What causes us to mourn? What are you pursuing in life? In my experience joy is deeply connected with what we pursue. The most simple summary I could give is that joy is the pursuit of light. Pursuit of eternal good. If we chase feelings instead of a relationship with the God of joy, how do we expect to have long lasting joy. If we are only concerned with this current moment without a concern for where we want to get long term, we will be unable to follow the path of God.
Those early disciples likely could not imagine anything worse than having Jesus go way. If the choice was left to them they would have prevented Jesus’ departure and thus would have halted His victory over death. Luckily God was willing to make them uncomfortable for a while and to put them through pain so that all humanity could live. Luckily he allows us to go through seasons of pain and struggle so we can draw closer to His Light. Jesus points to Motherhood as a supreme example of this kind of painful joy.
When they received the holy spirit, they finally understood and became able to rejoice in the earthly mission of Jesus. Our joy will be to be reunited with God. When that happens we will have nothing left to ask of Him because He will pour out His Love on us forever more. So for now, may we press forward in following His light, and sharing His loving light with all those we meet.
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit.
Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:
I invite you to sit in silence feeling being patient for your own faults and trials.
Summarize what insights you have gained during this meditation and meditate and visualize positive change in your life:
This is a listener funded podcast at patreon.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Updates:
Final Question: What does the rest of the Lord look like?
Final Thought:
FIND ME ON:
Download my free app: Recenter with Christ
Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
Voicemail - (602) 888-3795
Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com
Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast
Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast
Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
Bible verses for Meditation:
Hebrews 4
NRSV
8 For if Joshua had given them rest, God would not speak later about another day. 9 So then, a sabbath rest still remains for the people of God; 10 for those who enter God’s rest also cease from their labors as God did from his. 11 Let us therefore make every effort to enter that rest, so that no one may fall through such disobedience as theirs.
FIND ME ON:
Download my free app: Recenter with Christ
Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
Voicemail - (602) 888-3795
Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com
Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast
Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast
Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
356 Entering in God’s Day of Rest , A Guided Christian Meditation on Hebrews 4:8-11 with the Recenter With Christ app
I'm Chaplain Jared and I work as a hospice chaplain and an ICU chaplain, my purpose in making this podcast is to help you find more peace in your life and to be more open for your heart to be changed by the Spirit of God. By using centuries old form of Christian Meditation named Lectio Divina:
Outline: Relaxation, Reading, Meditation, Prayer, Contemplation and Visualization.
Get into a place where you can sit comfortably and uninterrupted for about 20 minutes.You should hopefully not be driving or anything tensing or unrelaxing. If you feel comfortable to do so, I invite you to close your eyes.
Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation:
Breathe and direct your thoughts to connecting with God. Let your stomach be a balloon inflate, deflate.
Bible verses for Meditation:
Hebrews 4
NRSV
8 For if Joshua had given them rest, God would not speak later about another day. 9 So then, a sabbath rest still remains for the people of God; 10 for those who enter God’s rest also cease from their labors as God did from his. 11 Let us therefore make every effort to enter that rest, so that no one may fall through such disobedience as theirs.
NABRE
8 Now if Joshua had given them rest, he would not have spoken afterwards of another day. 9 Therefore, a sabbath rest still remains for the people of God. 10 And whoever enters into God’s rest, rests from his own works as God did from his. 11 Therefore, let us strive to enter into that rest, so that no one may fall after the same example of disobedience.
Meditation on Scripture:
Joshua helped deliver the people of Israel from their captivity in Egypt. He assisted them and helped lead them as they marched through the desert. He led them into the promised land God had promised them. And yet here, scripture states that this was not the rest that was the highest form of rest. To be delivered to a land prepared specifically for them is not the deliverance destined for the Messiah.
The Messiah came to deliver rest from our human weakness. He helps us overcome our weaknesses. This rest comes not by luxurious living according to the way of the world. We can be sitting on a fancy beach or along a mountain stream and be overwhelmed by the fear of this world and the fear of ourselves. God offers rest, true rest. How does He do this? He offers rest through trusting in Him.
Can we be at peace without truly believing that God will make everything turn out OK. Can we have rest when we feel that the current life situation we are in is permanent and there is no hope to change it? Are you in agreement with God about His ability to transform the things you think are so unmovable in your life?
Faith in God is not meant to be some abstract theology. It is meant to be a deep trust that moves us to action through the Spirit. As you enjoy the Sabbath day, resting from your labor, ponder how you trust God. Not if you are in alignment to facts of the life of Jesus, but if you trust God to be your redeemer.
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit.
Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:
I invite you to sit in silence feeling being patient for your own faults and trials.
Summarize what insights you have gained during this meditation and meditate and visualize positive change in your life:
This is a listener funded podcast at patreon.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Updates:
Final Question: What does the rest of the Lord look like?
Final Thought:
FIND ME ON:
Download my free app: Recenter with Christ
Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
Voicemail - (602) 888-3795
Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com
Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast
Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast
Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
Ephesians 3
NIV
17 so that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith. And I pray that you, being rooted and established in love, 18 may have power, together with all the Lord’s holy people, to grasp how wide and long and high and deep is the love of Christ, 19 and to know this love that surpasses knowledge—that you may be filled to the measure of all the fullness of God.
20 Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us, 21 to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, for ever and ever! Amen.
FIND ME ON:
Download my free app: Recenter with Christ
Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
Voicemail - (602) 888-3795
Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com
Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast
Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast
Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
354 Be Rooted and Grounded in Love, A Guided Christian Meditation on Ephesians 3:17-21 with the Recenter With Christ app
I'm Chaplain Jared and I work as a hospice chaplain and an ICU chaplain, my purpose in making this podcast is to help you find more peace in your life and to be more open for your heart to be changed by the Spirit of God. By using centuries old form of Christian Meditation named Lectio Divina:
Outline: Relaxation, Reading, Meditation, Prayer, Contemplation and Visualization.
Get into a place where you can sit comfortably and uninterrupted for about 20 minutes.You should hopefully not be driving or anything tensing or unrelaxing. If you feel comfortable to do so, I invite you to close your eyes.
Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation:
Breathe and direct your thoughts to connecting with God. Let your stomach be a balloon inflate, deflate.
Bible verses for Meditation:
Ephesians 3
NIV
17 so that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith. And I pray that you, being rooted and established in love, 18 may have power, together with all the Lord’s holy people, to grasp how wide and long and high and deep is the love of Christ, 19 and to know this love that surpasses knowledge—that you may be filled to the measure of all the fullness of God.
20 Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us, 21 to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, for ever and ever! Amen.
ESV
17 so that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith—that you, being rooted and grounded in love, 18 may have strength to comprehend with all the saints what is the breadth and length and height and depth, 19 and to know the love of Christ that surpasses knowledge, that you may be filled with all the fullness of God.
20 Now to him who is able to do far more abundantly than all that we ask or think, according to the power at work within us, 21 to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, forever and ever. Amen.
Meditation on Scripture:
When we look at our lives and what we are unable to do we often feel discouraged. When we hear about our fallen nature, or think about our sin we can be tempted to feel shame or worthlessness. This scripture gives an amazing perspective. The Gospel of Jesus Christ is rooted in love. When we look at forgiveness as the outpouring of God’s love it changes it. When repentance becomes an act of receiving God's love through grace, we can be transformed by God. Shame is not a necessary thing for those who love God. When we are rooted deep and wide in the love of Christ, our actions are motivated by living as God would want. Not out of fear but rooted in love. Love is the central theme of the gospel and it propels us forward even in the middle of events we never would have chosen. Sometimes it is long after these moments that we realize God’s purposes
God is able to do more for us that we could ever really know to ask for. When we get through this life I am certain when we are standing in heaven with Christ that we will see the wisdom of what He allowed us to go through and we will see how He used those experiences to transform us in ways we never would have thought to ask for. He gives more abundantly than all that we ask or think. This is by way of His spirit working in us.
Then when we glorify God it is not to make us feel worthless but it is out of gratitude for him building us up in ways we never before had understood. Creating in us something greater than we ever could. His goodness may not be seen right away but in the end all creation will acknowledge the goodness of God to His children. Glory be to God for his unspeakable gifts, some of which we didn’t even understand at the time.
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit.
Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:
I invite you to sit in silence feeling being patient for your own faults and trials.
Summarize what insights you have gained during this meditation and meditate and visualize positive change in your life:
This is a listener funded podcast at patreon.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Updates:
Final Question: Why did God give you freedom of spirit?
Final Thought: There is a kind of authenticity we can learn from what Paul says here. Intimacy is more than physical, it is emotional and spiritual as well. As we learn to be one with God as it says in John 17 (as Ge is one with the father) we also are one with each other both in intimate relationships, friendships, families, and every other kind of relationship.
FIND ME ON:
Download my free app: Recenter with Christ
Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
Voicemail - (602) 888-3795
Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com
Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast
Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast
Twitter - @ChristianMedPodp
352 Be of One Flesh, A Guided Christian Meditation on Ephesians 5:30-33 with the Recenter With Christ app
I'm Chaplain Jared and I work as a hospice chaplain and an ICU chaplain, my purpose in making this podcast is to help you find more peace in your life and to be more open for your heart to be changed by the Spirit of God. By using centuries old form of Christian Meditation named Lectio Divina:
Outline: Relaxation, Reading, Meditation, Prayer, Contemplation and Visualization.
Get into a place where you can sit comfortably and uninterrupted for about 20 minutes.You should hopefully not be driving or anything tensing or unrelaxing. If you feel comfortable to do so, I invite you to close your eyes.
Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation:
Breathe and direct your thoughts to connecting with God. Let your stomach be a balloon inflate, deflate.
Bible verses for Meditation:
Ephesians 5:31-33
New American Standard Bible
31 For this reason a man shall leave his father and his mother and be joined to his wife, and the two shall become one flesh. 32 This mystery is great; but I am speaking with reference to Christ and the church. 33 Nevertheless, as for you individually, each husband is to love his own wife the same as himself, and the wife must see to it that she respects her husband.
31 For this cause shall a man leave his father and mother, and shall be joined unto his wife, and they two shall be one flesh. 32 This is a great mystery: but I speak concerning Christ and the church. 33 Nevertheless let every one of you in particular so love his wife even as himself; and the wife see that she reverence her husband.
Meditation on Scripture:
I made an emergency visit to San Diego with my work. An extremely devoted husband suddenly had lost his wife. As we spoke I pondered the beautiful thing that was lost. Extremely often in my line of work I find myself giving gratitude for the those in my life that I love, especially my wife.
I am exceptionally aware that many people live life without this in their life through a wide variety of reasons, yet the principles are profoundly instructive. Paul uses devoted marital love as a metaphor for the Love of God over the church. He equates this to a great Mystery. There is a connection between all Love. It is all rooted in Christ’s love.
He then goes a step further to give recommendations to people based on their need, not to set relative value. In the same way the book of Corinthians includes a focus on sexual purity while the book of Hebrews focuses on explaining the symbolic prophecy of Christ. God gives us the concerto we need.
God loves us all and yet each one of us have different needs before the Lord. It is my experience in counseling with couples that husbands more often want more respect in relationships and wives want more love. Paul states that here by way of guidance. God gives us what we need to be challenged and grow but he usually gives guidance we can learn from if we try hard enough.
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit.
Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:
I invite you to sit in silence feeling being patient for your own faults and trials.
Summarize what insights you have gained during this meditation and meditate and visualize positive change in your life:
This is a listener funded podcast at patreon.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Updates:
Final Question: Why did God give you freedom of spirit?
Final Thought: There is a kind of authenticity we can learn from what Paul says here. Intimacy is more than physical, it is emotional and spiritual as well. As we learn to be one with God as it says in John 17 (as Ge is one with the father) we also are one with each other both in intimate relationships, friendships, families, and every other kind of relationship.
FIND ME ON:
Download my free app: Recenter with Christ
Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
Voicemail - (602) 888-3795
Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com
Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast
Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast
Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
Bible verses for Meditation:
Luke 22
KJV
40 And when he was at the place, he said unto them, Pray that ye enter not into temptation.
41 And he was withdrawn from them about a stone's cast, and kneeled down, and prayed,
42 Saying, Father, if thou be willing, remove this cup from me: nevertheless not my will, but thine, be done.
43 And there appeared an angel unto him from heaven, strengthening him.
44 And being in an agony he prayed more earnestly: and his sweat was as it were great drops of blood falling down to the ground.
45 And when he rose up from prayer, and was come to his disciples, he found them sleeping for sorrow,
46 And said unto them, Why sleep ye? rise and pray, lest ye enter into temptation
FIND ME ON:
Download my free app: Recenter with Christ
Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
Voicemail - (602) 888-3795
Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com
Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast
Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast
Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
350 Not My Will But Thine Be Done, A Guided Christian Meditation on luke 22:40-45 with the Recenter With Christ app
I'm Chaplain Jared and I work as a hospice chaplain and an ICU chaplain, my purpose in making this podcast is to help you find more peace in your life and to be more open for your heart to be changed by the Spirit of God. By using centuries old form of Christian Meditation named Lectio Divina:
Outline: Relaxation, Reading, Meditation, Prayer, Contemplation and Visualization.
Get into a place where you can sit comfortably and uninterrupted for about 20 minutes.You should hopefully not be driving or anything tensing or unrelaxing. If you feel comfortable to do so, I invite you to close your eyes.
Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation:
Breathe and direct your thoughts to connecting with God. Let your stomach be a balloon inflate, deflate.
Bible verses for Meditation:
Luke 22
KJV
40 And when he was at the place, he said unto them, Pray that ye enter not into temptation.
41 And he was withdrawn from them about a stone's cast, and kneeled down, and prayed,
42 Saying, Father, if thou be willing, remove this cup from me: nevertheless not my will, but thine, be done.
43 And there appeared an angel unto him from heaven, strengthening him.
44 And being in an agony he prayed more earnestly: and his sweat was as it were great drops of blood falling down to the ground.
45 And when he rose up from prayer, and was come to his disciples, he found them sleeping for sorrow,
46 And said unto them, Why sleep ye? rise and pray, lest ye enter into temptation.
NIV
40 On reaching the place, he said to them, “Pray that you will not fall into temptation.” 41 He withdrew about a stone’s throw beyond them, knelt down and prayed, 42 “Father, if you are willing, take this cup from me; yet not my will, but yours be done.” 43 An angel from heaven appeared to him and strengthened him. 44 And being in anguish, he prayed more earnestly, and his sweat was like drops of blood falling to the ground.
45 When he rose from prayer and went back to the disciples, he found them asleep, exhausted from sorrow. 46 “Why are you sleeping?” he asked them. “Get up and pray so that you will not fall into temptation.”
Meditation on Scripture:
Sometimes we find it easy to philosophize about scripture and God's word. The terrible leveler is pain. Over the last week someone I care about more than almost anyone on earth is suffering with immense pain.in moments like this fancy theology seems unfocused. The depth of Gods truth begins to be seen not in complexity but by faithfulness. How completely do we believe and trust God? This question is far more important than how deeply we understand the academic aspects of the gospel. Even the most simple faith is profound when it runs deep into the soul.
How deeply in us is our understanding of God’s mercy and purpose?
Do you need to understand God’s purpose in your life in order to trust Him? Perhaps this was the root of what Jesus meant when he began and ended with an admonition to the apostles that they pray to avoid entering temptation. He repeated it twice. God is intimately familiar with the challenge of suffering.
Pain tears down the false scaffolding of speculative doctrine. It tears open our hearts and exposes them to sunlight. These moments most often only gain clarity of purpose after the moment has passed when we most wanted to understand purpose. When we trust God, in these moments we can let go of instantaneous demands for purpose and trust that it will come. Then we have a very small piece of understanding of what Jesus said when he said, not my will but thine be done.
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit.
Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:
I invite you to sit in silence feeling being patient for your own faults and trials.
Summarize what insights you have gained during this meditation and meditate and visualize positive change in your life:
This is a listener funded podcast at patreon.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Updates:
Final Question: Why did God give you freedom of spirit?
Final Thought: God’s plan was meant to try us and to push us to rely on Him.
FIND ME ON:
Download my free app: Recenter with Christ
Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
Voicemail - (602) 888-3795
Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com
Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast
Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast
Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
350 Not My Will But Thine Be Done, A Guided Christian Meditation on luke 22:40-45 with the Recenter With Christ app
I'm Chaplain Jared and I work as a hospice chaplain and an ICU chaplain, my purpose in making this podcast is to help you find more peace in your life and to be more open for your heart to be changed by the Spirit of God. By using centuries old form of Christian Meditation named Lectio Divina:
Outline: Relaxation, Reading, Meditation, Prayer, Contemplation and Visualization.
Get into a place where you can sit comfortably and uninterrupted for about 20 minutes.You should hopefully not be driving or anything tensing or unrelaxing. If you feel comfortable to do so, I invite you to close your eyes.
Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation:
Breathe and direct your thoughts to connecting with God. Let your stomach be a balloon inflate, deflate.
Bible verses for Meditation:
Luke 22
KJV
40 And when he was at the place, he said unto them, Pray that ye enter not into temptation.
41 And he was withdrawn from them about a stone's cast, and kneeled down, and prayed,
42 Saying, Father, if thou be willing, remove this cup from me: nevertheless not my will, but thine, be done.
43 And there appeared an angel unto him from heaven, strengthening him.
44 And being in an agony he prayed more earnestly: and his sweat was as it were great drops of blood falling down to the ground.
45 And when he rose up from prayer, and was come to his disciples, he found them sleeping for sorrow,
46 And said unto them, Why sleep ye? rise and pray, lest ye enter into temptation.
NIV
40 On reaching the place, he said to them, “Pray that you will not fall into temptation.” 41 He withdrew about a stone’s throw beyond them, knelt down and prayed, 42 “Father, if you are willing, take this cup from me; yet not my will, but yours be done.” 43 An angel from heaven appeared to him and strengthened him. 44 And being in anguish, he prayed more earnestly, and his sweat was like drops of blood falling to the ground.
45 When he rose from prayer and went back to the disciples, he found them asleep, exhausted from sorrow. 46 “Why are you sleeping?” he asked them. “Get up and pray so that you will not fall into temptation.”
Meditation on Scripture:
Sometimes we find it easy to philosophize about scripture and God's word. The terrible leveler is pain. Over the last week someone I care about more than almost anyone on earth is suffering with immense pain.in moments like this fancy theology seems unfocused. The depth of Gods truth begins to be seen not in complexity but by faithfulness. How completely do we believe and trust God? This question is far more important than how deeply we understand the academic aspects of the gospel. Even the most simple faith is profound when it runs deep into the soul.
How deeply in us is our understanding of God’s mercy and purpose?
Do you need to understand God’s purpose in your life in order to trust Him? Perhaps this was the root of what Jesus meant when he began and ended with an admonition to the apostles that they pray to avoid entering temptation. He repeated it twice. God is intimately familiar with the challenge of suffering.
Pain tears down the false scaffolding of speculative doctrine. It tears open our hearts and exposes them to sunlight. These moments most often only gain clarity of purpose after the moment has passed when we most wanted to understand purpose. When we trust God, in these moments we can let go of instantaneous demands for purpose and trust that it will come. Then we have a very small piece of understanding of what Jesus said when he said, not my will but thine be done.
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit.
Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:
I invite you to sit in silence feeling being patient for your own faults and trials.
Summarize what insights you have gained during this meditation and meditate and visualize positive change in your life:
This is a listener funded podcast at patreon.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Updates:
Final Question: Why did God give you freedom of spirit?
Final Thought: God’s plan was meant to try us and to push us to rely on Him.
FIND ME ON:
Download my free app: Recenter with Christ
Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
Voicemail - (602) 888-3795
Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com
Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast
Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast
Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
Bible verses for Meditation:
Galatians 5:13-15
NIV
13 You, my brothers and sisters, were called to be free. But do not use your freedom to indulge the flesh; rather, serve one another humbly in love.
14 For the entire law is fulfilled in keeping this one command: “Love your neighbor as yourself.” 15 If you bite and devour each other, watch out or you will be destroyed by each other.
FIND ME ON:
Download my free app: Recenter with Christ
Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
Voicemail - (602) 888-3795
Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com
Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast
Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast
Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
I'm Chaplain Jared and I work as a hospice chaplain and an ICU chaplain, my purpose in making this podcast is to help you find more peace in your life and to be more open for your heart to be changed by the Spirit of God. By using centuries old form of Christian Meditation named Lectio Divina:
Outline: Relaxation, Reading, Meditation, Prayer, Contemplation and Visualization.
Get into a place where you can sit comfortably and uninterrupted for about 20 minutes.You should hopefully not be driving or anything tensing or unrelaxing. If you feel comfortable to do so, I invite you to close your eyes.
Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation:
Breathe and direct your thoughts to connecting with God. Let your stomach be a balloon inflate, deflate.
Bible verses for Meditation:
Galatians 5:13-15
NASB
13 For you were called to freedom, brothers and sisters; only do not turn your freedom into an opportunity for the flesh, but serve one another through love.
14 For the whole Law is fulfilled in one word, in the statement, “You shall love your neighbor as yourself.”
15 But if you bite and devour one another, take care that you are not consumed by one another.
NIV
13 You, my brothers and sisters, were called to be free. But do not use your freedom to indulge the flesh; rather, serve one another humbly in love.
14 For the entire law is fulfilled in keeping this one command: “Love your neighbor as yourself.” 15 If you bite and devour each other, watch out or you will be destroyed by each other.
Meditation on Scripture:
What is freedom? How do we obtain true freedom? According to this scripture, what should we do with our freedom? Many times when we think of freedom it is something that fills us with the ability to do what we want. The scriptures mention freedom various times. Here it says we are called to freedom, to be free. Yet what is that call? It is the call of Christ. Jesus is who offers us the ability to be free of the most serious consequences in existence, that of sin and human weakness. Here we are corrected from using freedom as an excuse to do whatever it is that we want instead God offered freedom to us to help transform us to his image.
The way Paul suggests that here is to say that we should use our freedom in service and love. He reiterates the pronouncement of Jesus who said that the second great commandment was to love our neighbor as ourselves. Loving God with all our heart, mind, might, and strength was the first. Our freedom allows us to do those things that would improve us and make us more in His image. We are called to love, we are called to freedom to allow us to do that.
As we faithfully follow Christ, we have power to answer this call. We receive true freedom which is to do what is most important for us to do, not necessarily what our current desires dictate to us.
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit.
Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:
I invite you to sit in silence feeling being patient for your own faults and trials.
Summarize what insights you have gained during this meditation and meditate and visualize positive change in your life:
This is a listener funded podcast at patreon.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Updates:
Final Question: Why did God give you freedom of spirit?
Final Thought: God’s plan was meant to try us and to push us to rely on Him.
FIND ME ON:
Download my free app: Recenter with Christ
Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
Voicemail - (602) 888-3795
Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com
Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast
Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast
Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
Bible verses for Meditation:
Matthew 18:1-5
NABRE
1 At that time the disciples approached Jesus and said, “Who is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven?”
2 He called a child over, placed it in their midst,
3 and said, “Amen, I say to you, unless you turn and become like children, you will not enter the kingdom of heaven.
4 Whoever humbles himself like this child is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven.
5 And whoever receives one child such as this in my name receives me.
FIND ME ON:
Download my free app: Recenter with Christ
Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
Voicemail - (602) 888-3795
Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com
Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast
Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast
Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
346 Become Like a Little Child, A Guided Christian Meditation on Matthew 18:1-5 with the Recenter With Christ app
I'm Chaplain Jared and I work as a hospice chaplain and an ICU chaplain, my purpose in making this podcast is to help you find more peace in your life and to be more open for your heart to be changed by the Spirit of God. By using centuries old form of Christian Meditation named Lectio Divina:
Outline: Relaxation, Reading, Meditation, Prayer, Contemplation and Visualization.
Get into a place where you can sit comfortably and uninterrupted for about 20 minutes.You should hopefully not be driving or anything tensing or unrelaxing. If you feel comfortable to do so, I invite you to close your eyes.
Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation:
Breathe and direct your thoughts to connecting with God. Let your stomach be a balloon inflate, deflate.
Bible verses for Meditation:
Matthew 18:1-5
NABRE
1 At that time the disciples approached Jesus and said, “Who is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven?”
2 He called a child over, placed it in their midst,
3 and said, “Amen, I say to you, unless you turn and become like children, you will not enter the kingdom of heaven.
4 Whoever humbles himself like this child is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven.
5 And whoever receives one child such as this in my name receives me.
KJV
1 At the same time came the disciples unto Jesus, saying, Who is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven?
2 And Jesus called a little child unto him, and set him in the midst of them,
3 And said, Verily I say unto you, Except ye be converted, and become as little children, ye shall not enter into the kingdom of heaven.
4 Whosoever therefore shall humble himself as this little child, the same is greatest in the kingdom of heaven.
5 And whoso shall receive one such little child in my name receiveth me.
Meditation on Scripture:
This week I have been spending time with some family members with very small children and babies. Since my children are teens now, it reminded me of the unmitigated joy children can share into our lives. This got me thinking about this teaching of Jesus. There is some much wisdom in what Jesus said, yet also much more is learned as we reflect on it deeper.
Childhood is a unique state that each person is a child at one point although it is drastically different. This experience, however, varies widely between us. This leaves us with the question of what we need to do. What is it about Childhood that Jesus spoke about? In what ways are we meant to emulate children? What similarities do you have with children? What makes you different from a child?
In many ways maturity is positive. We gain the ability to think more abstractly and have more power to work for the good of others. We have the ability to learn how to soothe ourselves when we experience negative emotion. But we also learn deceit and selfishness. We learn to be more close minded and determined in our own ways. Perhaps one thing to note is that Jesus asks us to be child-like, not child-ish. It can be helpful to note the ways in which Jesus was child-like. Jesus has the perfect balance of Childlike innocence and maturity. Ponder for a moment in what way you can become more child like as Jesus is asking for here.
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit.
Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:
I invite you to sit in silence feeling being patient for your own faults and trials.
Summarize what insights you have gained during this meditation and meditate and visualize positive change in your life:
This is a listener funded podcast at patreon.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Updates:
Final Question: In what ways do you struggle with seeing people as objects at times?
Final Thought: God’s plan was meant to try us and to push us to rely on Him.
FIND ME ON:
Download my free app: Recenter with Christ
Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
Voicemail - (602) 888-3795
Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com
Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast
Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast
Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
Bible verses for Meditation:
Hebrew 12:7-11
NIV
7 Endure hardship as discipline; God is treating you as his children. For what children are not disciplined by their father? 8 If you are not disciplined—and everyone undergoes discipline—then you are not legitimate, not true sons and daughters at all.9 Moreover, we have all had human fathers who disciplined us and we respected them for it. How much more should we submit to the Father of spirits and live! 10 They disciplined us for a little while as they thought best; but God disciplines us for our good, in order that we may share in his holiness. 11 No discipline seems pleasant at the time, but painful. Later on, however, it produces a harvest of righteousness and peace for those who have been trained by it.
ESV
7 It is for discipline that you have to endure. God is treating you as sons. For what son is there whom his father does not discipline? 8 If you are left without discipline, in which all have participated, then you are illegitimate children and not sons. 9 Besides this, we have had earthly fathers who disciplined us and we respected them. Shall we not much more be subject to the Father of spirits and live? 10 For they disciplined us for a short time as it seemed best to them, but he disciplines us for our good, that we may share his holiness. 11 For the moment all discipline seems painful rather than pleasant, but later it yields the peaceful fruit of righteousness to those who have been trained by it.
FIND ME ON:
Download my free app: Recenter with Christ
Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
Voicemail - (602) 888-3795
Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com
Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast
Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast
Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
344 We Share in God’s Holiness Through Discipline, A Guided Christian Meditation on 1 Peter 3:15-17 with the Recenter With Christ app
I'm Chaplain Jared and I work as a hospice chaplain and an ICU chaplain, my purpose in making this podcast is to help you find more peace in your life and to be more open for your heart to be changed by the Spirit of God. By using centuries old form of Christian Meditation named Lectio Divina:
Outline: Relaxation, Reading, Meditation, Prayer, Contemplation and Visualization.
Get into a place where you can sit comfortably and uninterrupted for about 20 minutes.You should hopefully not be driving or anything tensing or unrelaxing. If you feel comfortable to do so, I invite you to close your eyes.
Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation:
Breathe and direct your thoughts to connecting with God. Let your stomach be a balloon inflate, deflate.
Bible verses for Meditation:
Hebrew 12:7-11
NIV
7 Endure hardship as discipline; God is treating you as his children. For what children are not disciplined by their father? 8 If you are not disciplined—and everyone undergoes discipline—then you are not legitimate, not true sons and daughters at all.9 Moreover, we have all had human fathers who disciplined us and we respected them for it. How much more should we submit to the Father of spirits and live! 10 They disciplined us for a little while as they thought best; but God disciplines us for our good, in order that we may share in his holiness. 11 No discipline seems pleasant at the time, but painful. Later on, however, it produces a harvest of righteousness and peace for those who have been trained by it.
ESV
7 It is for discipline that you have to endure. God is treating you as sons. For what son is there whom his father does not discipline? 8 If you are left without discipline, in which all have participated, then you are illegitimate children and not sons. 9 Besides this, we have had earthly fathers who disciplined us and we respected them. Shall we not much more be subject to the Father of spirits and live? 10 For they disciplined us for a short time as it seemed best to them, but he disciplines us for our good, that we may share his holiness. 11 For the moment all discipline seems painful rather than pleasant, but later it yields the peaceful fruit of righteousness to those who have been trained by it.
Meditation on Scripture:
You have everything you need to do what you need to do. God has given you exactly what you need. Greatest of all He has helped us overcome sin. He created a plan whereby we would grow well beyond our limitations. We receive His holiness through faithfully receiving His grace. Here, that transforming power of Grace, is called discipline. If we think we will receive His grace without being changed we are missing something. Yet it is important that we learn to recognize God’s discipline and be trained by it. When we learn it’s lessons we are prepared to receice the peaceful fruit of righteousness.
God is our Holy Father. Better than any earthly father and more loving. Sometimes images of earthly fathers can provide a metaphor for how God loves us, sometimes those examples are unhelpful. More caring and compassionate than any you know.
Regardless of your personal experience spend a moment to imagine the ideal image of a loving amd caring father. Someone who cares about their children and works for their betterment.
Now image god in that role. Now recognize that whatever the best image you could conjure it does not compare to what God feels for you. You are loved by a perfectly loving God.
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit.
Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:
I invite you to sit in silence feeling being patient for your own faults and trials.
Summarize what insights you have gained during this meditation and meditate and visualize positive change in your life:
This is a listener funded podcast at patreon.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Updates:
Final Question: In what ways do you struggle with seeing people as objects at times?
Final Thought: God’s plan was meant to try us and to push us to rely on Him.
FIND ME ON:
Download my free app: Recenter with Christ
Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
Voicemail - (602) 888-3795
Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com
Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast
Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast
Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation:
Breathe and direct your thoughts to connecting with God. Let your stomach be a balloon inflate, deflate.
Bible verses for Meditation:
15 But in your hearts revere Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect,
16 keeping a clear conscience, so that those who speak maliciously against your good behavior in Christ may be ashamed of their slander.
17 For it is better, if it is God’s will, to suffer for doing good than for doing evil.
NRSV
15 but in your hearts sanctify Christ as Lord. Always be ready to make your defense to anyone who demands from you an accounting for the hope that is in you;
16 yet do it with gentleness and reverence. Keep your conscience clear, so that, when you are maligned, those who abuse you for your good conduct in Christ may be put to shame.
17 For it is better to suffer for doing good, if suffering should be God’s will, than to suffer for doing evil.
FIND ME ON:
Download my free app: Recenter with Christ
Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
Voicemail - (602) 888-3795
Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com
Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast
Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast
Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
342 Be Prepared to Give The Reason for Your Hope, A Guided Christian Meditation on 1 Peter 3:15-17 with the Recenter With Christ app
I'm Chaplain Jared and I work as a hospice chaplain and an ICU chaplain, my purpose in making this podcast is to help you find more peace in your life and to be more open for your heart to be changed by the Spirit of God. By using centuries old form of Christian Meditation named Lectio Divina:
Outline: Relaxation, Reading, Meditation, Prayer, Contemplation and Visualization.
Get into a place where you can sit comfortably and uninterrupted for about 20 minutes.You should hopefully not be driving or anything tensing or unrelaxing. If you feel comfortable to do so, I invite you to close your eyes.
Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation:
Breathe and direct your thoughts to connecting with God. Let your stomach be a balloon inflate, deflate.
Bible verses for Meditation:
15 But in your hearts revere Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect,
16 keeping a clear conscience, so that those who speak maliciously against your good behavior in Christ may be ashamed of their slander.
17 For it is better, if it is God’s will, to suffer for doing good than for doing evil.
NRSV
15 but in your hearts sanctify Christ as Lord. Always be ready to make your defense to anyone who demands from you an accounting for the hope that is in you;
16 yet do it with gentleness and reverence. Keep your conscience clear, so that, when you are maligned, those who abuse you for your good conduct in Christ may be put to shame.
17 For it is better to suffer for doing good, if suffering should be God’s will, than to suffer for doing evil.
Meditation on Scripture:
What testimony do you have to share? One of shame, fear, and insecurity or one of hope, love, and gratitude? What reasons would you give of your hope? Do you follow Christ to gain earthly rewards? This scripture shows us that regardless of what we do in life, we will inevitably encounter hardship. How we act in the middle of this hardship can be a testimony of our faith.
The way we share our faith also indicates how we feel about it. For example when we share our faith because it fills us with hope and joy, that more fully represents how Jesus taught. Jesus didn’t promise earthly blessings, in fact he often taught that our lives will certainly have hardship, but the would be there to help us carry the weight.
Prepare today for a deeper level of trust in Christ. Not that he will give us what we want, but that he will give us what we need. It is better to follow God in hardship then to have a seemingly life of ease without God.
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit.
Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:
I invite you to sit in silence feeling being patient for your own faults and trials.
Summarize what insights you have gained during this meditation and meditate and visualize positive change in your life:
This is a listener funded podcast at patreon.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Updates:
Final Question: In what ways do you struggle with seeing people as objects at times?
Final Thought: God’s plan was meant to try us and to push us to rely on Him.
FIND ME ON:
Download my free app: Recenter with Christ
Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
Voicemail - (602) 888-3795
Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com
Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast
Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast
Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
Bible verses for Meditation:
Psalms 139
NIV
13 For you created my inmost being;
you knit me together in my mother’s womb.
14 I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made;
your works are wonderful,
I know that full well.
15 My frame was not hidden from you
when I was made in the secret place,
when I was woven together in the depths of the earth.
16 Your eyes saw my unformed body;
all the days ordained for me were written in your book
before one of them came to be.
340 I Am Fearfully And Wonderfully Made, A Guided Christian Meditation on Psalms 139:13-16 with the Recenter With Christ app
I'm Chaplain Jared and I work as a hospice chaplain and an ICU chaplain, my purpose in making this podcast is to help you find more peace in your life and to be more open for your heart to be changed by the Spirit of God. By using centuries old form of Christian Meditation named Lectio Divina:
Outline: Relaxation, Reading, Meditation, Prayer, Contemplation and Visualization.
Get into a place where you can sit comfortably and uninterrupted for about 20 minutes.You should hopefully not be driving or anything tensing or unrelaxing. If you feel comfortable to do so, I invite you to close your eyes.
Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation:
Breathe and direct your thoughts to connecting with God. Let your stomach be a balloon inflate, deflate.
Bible verses for Meditation:
Psalms 139
NIV
13 For you created my inmost being;
you knit me together in my mother’s womb.
14 I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made;
your works are wonderful,
I know that full well.
15 My frame was not hidden from you
when I was made in the secret place,
when I was woven together in the depths of the earth.
16 Your eyes saw my unformed body;
all the days ordained for me were written in your book
before one of them came to be.
NABRE
13 You formed my inmost being;
you knit me in my mother’s womb.
14 I praise you, because I am wonderfully made;
wonderful are your works!
My very self you know.
15 My bones are not hidden from you,
When I was being made in secret,
fashioned in the depths of the earth.[e]
16 Your eyes saw me unformed;
in your book all are written down;
my days were shaped, before one came to be.
Meditation on Scripture:
What are the implications of being wonderfully made? Does it mean being flaw proof? Does it mean that we are invincible to the fall and sin? What implications does this have for how we should treat ourselves and others?
A great tragedy occurs when we treat ourselves and others like objects. If we are not careful this can creep into our thinking and behavior. This is becoming increasingly common in a digital age.. It becomes easy to be cruel, judgmental, or apathetic to other people when we see them as a prop in our own life or as a statistic. It is harder to be cruel and mean when we become familiar with people’s humanity. The love that Jesus asks of us is easier when we see the humanity in others. The truth is that each person is made in God’s image. Similarly each person has complexity and beauty along with faults and insecurities.
We can experience spiritual injuries when we ignore the humanity in others. We objectify people when we see them only for their attractiveness, skills, or even their race or their worldview, politics, or religion. Each human being is a creation of God. Each person’s body was carefully and meticulously grown in a mother’s womb. Each person struggles with temptation. Satan asails us all.
Let us all unite our hearts, mind, might, and strength together as we recognize our own humanity and that of those around us.
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit.
Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:
I invite you to sit in silence feeling being patient for your own faults and trials.
Summarize what insights you have gained during this meditation and meditate and visualize positive change in your life:
This is a listener funded podcast at patreon.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Updates:
Final Question: In what ways do you struggle with seeing people as objects at times?
Final Thought: God’s plan was meant to try us and to push us to rely on Him.
FIND ME ON:
Download my free app: Recenter with Christ
Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
Voicemail - (602) 888-3795
Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com
Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast
Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast
Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
Bible verses for Meditation:
ACTS 2:42-47
NIV
42 They devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching and to fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer. 43 Everyone was filled with awe at the many wonders and signs performed by the apostles. 44 All the believers were together and had everything in common. 45 They sold property and possessions to give to anyone who had need. 46 Every day they continued to meet together in the temple courts. They broke bread in their homes and ate together with glad and sincere hearts, 47 praising God and enjoying the favor of all the people. And the Lord added to their number daily those who were being saved.
FIND ME ON:
Download my free app: Recenter with Christ
Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
Voicemail - (602) 888-3795
Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com
Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast
Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast
Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
338 All Who Believed Were Together, A Guided Christian Meditation on Acts 2:42-47 with the Recenter With Christ app
I'm Chaplain Jared and I work as a hospice chaplain and an ICU chaplain, my purpose in making this podcast is to help you find more peace in your life and to be more open for your heart to be changed by the Spirit of God. By using centuries old form of Christian Meditation named Lectio Divina:
Outline: Relaxation, Reading, Meditation, Prayer, Contemplation and Visualization.
Get into a place where you can sit comfortably and uninterrupted for about 20 minutes.You should hopefully not be driving or anything tensing or unrelaxing. If you feel comfortable to do so, I invite you to close your eyes.
Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation:
Breathe and direct your thoughts to connecting with God. Let your stomach be a balloon inflate, deflate.
Bible verses for Meditation:
ACTS 2:42-47
NIV
42 They devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching and to fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer. 43 Everyone was filled with awe at the many wonders and signs performed by the apostles. 44 All the believers were together and had everything in common. 45 They sold property and possessions to give to anyone who had need. 46 Every day they continued to meet together in the temple courts. They broke bread in their homes and ate together with glad and sincere hearts, 47 praising God and enjoying the favor of all the people. And the Lord added to their number daily those who were being saved.
ESV
42 And they devoted themselves to the apostles' teaching and the fellowship, to the breaking of bread and the prayers. 43 And awe came upon every soul, and many wonders and signs were being done through the apostles. 44 And all who believed were together and had all things in common. 45 And they were selling their possessions and belongings and distributing the proceeds to all, as any had need. 46 And day by day, attending the temple together and breaking bread in their homes, they received their food with glad and generous hearts, 47 praising God and having favor with all the people. And the Lord added to their number day by day those who were being saved.
Meditation on Scripture:
I love scriptures that describe ways in which ancient Christians worshiped together. It seems clear that from the very early days of the faith, that meeting was crucial. This was true even when it posed great risk to the people, if they were discovered. They met in homes in secret. Why did they risk so much to gather together? Because they followed inspired teachings on how much gathering benefits us as humans. We are fallen and prone to sin. When we join together in intention and worship we inspire each other. We learn that people can try really hard and still fail, just like us.
Clearly there will not be a test to get into heaven where church attendance has some relevant score. Much more important is the notion of why God asked us to gather in the first place. In the story where the shepard goes after the one lost sheep, we often consider that person to be someone else or some long past version of us. God’s goal for us to is to help transform us into a more holy version of ourselves through His grace. When we drink in the refreshing water of communal worship of the Almighty God it inspires us to continue along the path with the other 99 sheep. The Shepherd is still inviting us by the still waters and to the green pastures. The more important truth is forgiveness of sin and redemption but God’s grace doesn't stop there. It transforms us by submission to His guidance.
Together we are stronger. You will strengthen others and be strengthened in return, all while being exposed to the weaknesses of other humans. If you have gotten away from communal worship in person, I invite you to pray to find a meaningful way to do that.
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit.
Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:
I invite you to sit in silence feeling being patient for your own faults and trials.
Summarize what insights you have gained during this meditation and meditate and visualize positive change in your life:
This is a listener funded podcast at patreon.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Updates:
Final Question: How can you more clearly walk with the 99 and help the other sheep from becoming lost?
Final Thought: God’s plan was meant to try us and to push us to rely on Him.
FIND ME ON:
Download my free app: Recenter with Christ
Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
Voicemail - (602) 888-3795
Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com
Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast
Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast
Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
Bible verses for Meditation:
ESV
12 And they told Mordecai what Esther had said. 13 Then Mordecai told them to reply to Esther, “Do not think to yourself that in the king's palace you will escape any more than all the other Jews. 14 For if you keep silent at this time, relief and deliverance will rise for the Jews from another place, but you and your father's house will perish. And who knows whether you have not come to the kingdom for such a time as this?
NRSV
12 When they told Mordecai what Esther had said, 13 Mordecai told them to reply to Esther, “Do not think that in the king’s palace you will escape any more than all the other Jews. 14 For if you keep silence at such a time as this, relief and deliverance will rise for the Jews from another quarter, but you and your father’s family will perish. Who knows? Perhaps you have come to royal dignity for just such a time as this.”
FIND ME ON:
Download my free app: Recenter with Christ
Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
Voicemail - (602) 888-3795
Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com
Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast
Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast
Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
336 You Have Come For Such a Time As This, A Guided Christian Meditation on Esther 4:12-14 with the Recenter With Christ app
I'm Chaplain Jared and I work as a hospice chaplain and an ICU chaplain, my purpose in making this podcast is to help you find more peace in your life and to be more open for your heart to be changed by the Spirit of God. By using centuries old form of Christian Meditation named Lectio Divina:
Outline: Relaxation, Reading, Meditation, Prayer, Contemplation and Visualization.
Get into a place where you can sit comfortably and uninterrupted for about 20 minutes.You should hopefully not be driving or anything tensing or unrelaxing. If you feel comfortable to do so, I invite you to close your eyes.
Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation:
Breathe and direct your thoughts to connecting with God. Let your stomach be a balloon inflate, deflate.
Bible verses for Meditation:
ESV
12 And they told Mordecai what Esther had said. 13 Then Mordecai told them to reply to Esther, “Do not think to yourself that in the king's palace you will escape any more than all the other Jews. 14 For if you keep silent at this time, relief and deliverance will rise for the Jews from another place, but you and your father's house will perish. And who knows whether you have not come to the kingdom for such a time as this?
NRSV
12 When they told Mordecai what Esther had said, 13 Mordecai told them to reply to Esther, “Do not think that in the king’s palace you will escape any more than all the other Jews. 14 For if you keep silence at such a time as this, relief and deliverance will rise for the Jews from another quarter, but you and your father’s family will perish. Who knows? Perhaps you have come to royal dignity for just such a time as this.”
Meditation on Scripture:
The context of this scripture is important. In the account, Esther was born as a Jew yet that identity was hidden. The Isralite name of Hadassah was not used and instead she was called Esther. The King was looking for a new wife after his last wife had been insubordinate. Esther could have seen her role as a one of random chance or divine guidance. When Haman attempted to kill the Jews, Esther risked her own life to appear before the king without an invitation. She rejected a life of comfort for the greater good.
When we as Believers in the God of heaven, think that challenges in our lives are unfair interruptions in what should be a smooth life, it demonstrates that we dont understand God’s plan. When we suppose that things in life should be smooth, we discount the role of Christ who took upon him suffering for our sake. When we feel that we have not been dealt with fairly, we miss the fact that it is mercy that we are not treated as we deserve, because each of us fall short of the perfection that would be demanded by a perfect God.
Redemption, and life itself is not meant to smooth out unneeded bumps on the road back to comfortable glory. Our lives are not meant to be smooth progress toward an eventuality of heavenly life with God, rather they are meant to be a refiner’s fire of challenges to prepare us for a future we don’t deserve but that has been offered through God’s grace. Jesus said take up our cross and follow Him. You were born with the available resources to bear the weight of the burdens you carry. You were never meant to do it alone.
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit.
Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:
I invite you to sit in silence feeling being patient for your own faults and trials.
Summarize what insights you have gained during this meditation and meditate and visualize positive change in your life:
This is a listener funded podcast at patreon.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Updates:
Final Question: How has God strengthened you in the middle of your struggle?
Final Thought: God’s plan was meant to try us and to push us to rely on Him.
FIND ME ON:
Download my free app: Recenter with Christ
Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
Voicemail - (602) 888-3795
Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com
Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast
Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast
Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
334 I Will Counsel You With My Loving Eye, A Guided Christian Meditation on Psalms 32:8-11 with the Recenter With Christ app
I'm Chaplain Jared and I work as a hospice chaplain and an ICU chaplain, my purpose in making this podcast is to help you find more peace in your life and to be more open for your heart to be changed by the Spirit of God. By using centuries old form of Christian Meditation named Lectio Divina:
Outline: Relaxation, Reading, Meditation, Prayer, Contemplation and Visualization.
Get into a place where you can sit comfortably and uninterrupted for about 20 minutes.You should hopefully not be driving or anything tensing or unrelaxing. If you feel comfortable to do so, I invite you to close your eyes.
Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation:
Breathe and direct your thoughts to connecting with God. Let your stomach be a balloon inflate, deflate.
Bible verses for Meditation:
NIV
8 I will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go;
I will counsel you with my loving eye on you.
9 Do not be like the horse or the mule,
which have no understanding
but must be controlled by bit and bridle
or they will not come to you.
10 Many are the woes of the wicked,
but the Lord’s unfailing love
surrounds the one who trusts in him.
11 Rejoice in the Lord and be glad, you righteous;
sing, all you who are upright in heart!
KJV
8 I will instruct thee and teach thee in the way which thou shalt go: I will guide thee with mine eye.
9 Be ye not as the horse, or as the mule, which have no understanding: whose mouth must be held in with bit and bridle, lest they come near unto thee.
10 Many sorrows shall be to the wicked: but he that trusteth in the Lord, mercy shall compass him about.
11 Be glad in the Lord, and rejoice, ye righteous: and shout for joy, all ye that are upright in heart.
Meditation on Scripture:
How do you receive teaching from the Lord? How do you receive His truth? I hope it involves the scriptures, but even if it does how do you get God’s truth into your head from the words on the page? This scripture points out that God does not want us to behave like unthinking animals in our desire to pursue His course in life. When Jesus commanded that we follow Him, I suspect he didn’t intend for us to be mindless. He wants us to attempt, even though we are flawed in our attempts, then we are empowered by Grace.
I believe that, in order to learn from God, that God desires us to humble ourselves before Him and approach His word with hunger to learn. This is facilitated when we discard the distractions of this world. This is why I spend so much focus and energy on inviting you to put aside the distractions of the world, so that you can encounter the spirit of God instead of being focused on the world.
This is also why we pray, and read scripture during the meditations. We attempt to remove the distractions of the world, expose ourselves to God’s word directly by reading, then plead for guidance from a loving father, then we sit in contemplation trying to reconcile it all.
Yesterday someone was telling me how much this podcast had helped them and I let them know that it was their relationship with God that helped, this podcast only helped them remove the distractions of life so they could focus on listening to what God had placed on their heart. My deepest prayer is that each of us can continue to develop our relationship with God and grow closer to Him and His promised Spiritual growth.
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit.
Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:
I invite you to sit in silence feeling being patient for your own faults and trials.
Summarize what insights you have gained during this meditation and meditate and visualize positive change in your life:
This is a listener funded podcast at patreon.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Updates:
Final Question: Do you spend time cultivating courage?
I think the answer to this question is complex. In the Beatitudes Jesus pronounces a blessing on the pure in heart, for the shall see God. It is clear that we are not made clear through our own goodness, but it seems equally disingenuous for us to intentionally allow sin in our minds and then proclaim ourselves pure before God. To understand God we rely in God’s mercy as we faithfully come unto Him. Just as this scripture says, the love of the Lord surrounds us as we trust in Him.
FIND ME ON:
Download my free app: Recenter with Christ
Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
Voicemail - (602) 888-3795
Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com
Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast
Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast
Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
334 I Will Counsel You With My Loving Eye, A Guided Christian Meditation on Psalms 32:8-11 with the Recenter With Christ app
I'm Chaplain Jared and I work as a hospice chaplain and an ICU chaplain, my purpose in making this podcast is to help you find more peace in your life and to be more open for your heart to be changed by the Spirit of God. By using centuries old form of Christian Meditation named Lectio Divina:
Outline: Relaxation, Reading, Meditation, Prayer, Contemplation and Visualization.
Get into a place where you can sit comfortably and uninterrupted for about 20 minutes.You should hopefully not be driving or anything tensing or unrelaxing. If you feel comfortable to do so, I invite you to close your eyes.
Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation:
Breathe and direct your thoughts to connecting with God. Let your stomach be a balloon inflate, deflate.
Bible verses for Meditation:
NIV
8 I will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go;
I will counsel you with my loving eye on you.
9 Do not be like the horse or the mule,
which have no understanding
but must be controlled by bit and bridle
or they will not come to you.
10 Many are the woes of the wicked,
but the Lord’s unfailing love
surrounds the one who trusts in him.
11 Rejoice in the Lord and be glad, you righteous;
sing, all you who are upright in heart!
KJV
8 I will instruct thee and teach thee in the way which thou shalt go: I will guide thee with mine eye.
9 Be ye not as the horse, or as the mule, which have no understanding: whose mouth must be held in with bit and bridle, lest they come near unto thee.
10 Many sorrows shall be to the wicked: but he that trusteth in the Lord, mercy shall compass him about.
11 Be glad in the Lord, and rejoice, ye righteous: and shout for joy, all ye that are upright in heart.
Meditation on Scripture:
How do you receive teaching from the Lord? How do you receive His truth? I hope it involves the scriptures, but even if it does how do you get God’s truth into your head from the words on the page? This scripture points out that God does not want us to behave like unthinking animals in our desire to pursue His course in life. When Jesus commanded that we follow Him, I suspect he didn’t intend for us to be mindless. He wants us to attempt, even though we are flawed in our attempts, then we are empowered by Grace.
I believe that, in order to learn from God, that God desires us to humble ourselves before Him and approach His word with hunger to learn. This is facilitated when we discard the distractions of this world. This is why I spend so much focus and energy on inviting you to put aside the distractions of the world, so that you can encounter the spirit of God instead of being focused on the world.
This is also why we pray, and read scripture during the meditations. We attempt to remove the distractions of the world, expose ourselves to God’s word directly by reading, then plead for guidance from a loving father, then we sit in contemplation trying to reconcile it all.
Yesterday someone was telling me how much this podcast had helped them and I let them know that it was their relationship with God that helped, this podcast only helped them remove the distractions of life so they could focus on listening to what God had placed on their heart. My deepest prayer is that each of us can continue to develop our relationship with God and grow closer to Him and His promised Spiritual growth.
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit.
Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:
I invite you to sit in silence feeling being patient for your own faults and trials.
Summarize what insights you have gained during this meditation and meditate and visualize positive change in your life:
This is a listener funded podcast at patreon.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Updates:
Final Question: Do you spend time cultivating courage?
I think the answer to this question is complex. In the Beatitudes Jesus pronounces a blessing on the pure in heart, for the shall see God. It is clear that we are not made clear through our own goodness, but it seems equally disingenuous for us to intentionally allow sin in our minds and then proclaim ourselves pure before God. To understand God we rely in God’s mercy as we faithfully come unto Him. Just as this scripture says, the love of the Lord surrounds us as we trust in Him.
FIND ME ON:
Download my free app: Recenter with Christ
Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
Voicemail - (602) 888-3795
Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com
Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast
Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast
Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
NIV
6 And you, son of man, do not be afraid of them or their words. Do not be afraid, though briers and thorns are all around you and you live among scorpions. Do not be afraid of what they say or be terrified by them, though they are a rebellious people. 7 You must speak my words to them, whether they listen or fail to listen, for they are rebellious. 8 But you, son of man, listen to what I say to you. Do not rebel like that rebellious people; open your mouth and eat what I give you.”
FIND ME ON:
Download my free app: Recenter with Christ
Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
Voicemail - (602) 888-3795
Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com
Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast
Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast
Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
332 Do Not Fear, Even As You Sit Among Scorpions, A Guided Christian Meditation on Ezekiel 2:6-10 with the Recenter With Christ app
I'm Chaplain Jared and I work as a hospice chaplain and an ICU chaplain, my purpose in making this podcast is to help you find more peace in your life and to be more open for your heart to be changed by the Spirit of God. By using centuries old form of Christian Meditation named Lectio Divina:
Outline: Relaxation, Reading, Meditation, Prayer, Contemplation and Visualization.
Get into a place where you can sit comfortably and uninterrupted for about 20 minutes.You should hopefully not be driving or anything tensing or unrelaxing. If you feel comfortable to do so, I invite you to close your eyes.
Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation:
Breathe and direct your thoughts to connecting with God. Let your stomach be a balloon inflate, deflate.
Bible verses for Meditation:
NIV
6 And you, son of man, do not be afraid of them or their words. Do not be afraid, though briers and thorns are all around you and you live among scorpions. Do not be afraid of what they say or be terrified by them, though they are a rebellious people. 7 You must speak my words to them, whether they listen or fail to listen, for they are rebellious. 8 But you, son of man, listen to what I say to you. Do not rebel like that rebellious people; open your mouth and eat what I give you.”
NABRE
6 But as for you, son of man, do not fear them or their words. Do not fear, even though there are briers or thorns and you sit among scorpions. Do not be afraid of their words or be terrified by their looks for they are a rebellious house. 7 You must speak my words to them, whether they hear or resist, because they are rebellious. 8 But you, son of man, hear me when I speak to you and do not rebel like this rebellious house. Open your mouth and eat what I am giving you.
Meditation on Scripture:
Ezekiel receives for very intense and abstract revelations. God speaks to him to inspire him to rise up and fulfill the call. Earlier in the chapter God asked him to rise to his feed. Once on his feet he told him to carry on regardless of the outcome of his actions. He calls him Ben Adam, which means Son of Man, or more generally, human being. Christ himself takes on this title. Each of us are Ben Adam, we are created from our first parents Adam and Eve and can take courage from this same scripture. This whole scripture is meant to inspire Ezekial to great action.
In our lives we seek peace through Christ. When we feel fear there are two equally important tracks. One is to try and seek peace and calm. The other is to seek strength and bravery to overcome the fears we feel. When God commands that we don't fear, this can be an invitation to trust in Him, the source of the most enduring courage imaginable. When our faith in God grows our fear of what the world can do diminishes.
We can carry out the commands of God regardless of how we feel it is going, regardless of the outcome, just as Ezekial was commanded by God. Until we too can not fear although we live among thorns and scorpions metaphorically. Undoubtedly each of us will have opportunities to engage a courageous faith in God. When we feel that fear, rejoice in the opportunity to rise up in the power of God and make the attempt that He is asking for.
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit.
Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:
I invite you to sit in silence feeling being patient for your own faults and trials.
Summarize what insights you have gained during this meditation and meditate and visualize positive change in your life:
This is a listener funded podcast at patreon.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Updates:
Final Question: Do you spend time cultivating courage?
Final Thought: God transforms us. Many scriptures talk about this. This comes about as we trust our lives to Christ. We learn to follow. We learn to listen to the spirit by rejecting what we know to be evil and by learning to Love as Christ did. We learn to rejoice always and pray unceasingly.
FIND ME ON:
Download my free app: Recenter with Christ
Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
Voicemail - (602) 888-3795
Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com
Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast
Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast
Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
1 Thessalonians
NIV
16 Rejoice always, 17 pray continually, 18 give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus. 19 Do not quench the Spirit. 20 Do not treat prophecies with contempt 21 but test them all; hold on to what is good, 22 reject every kind of evil.
NRSV
16 Rejoice always, 17 pray without ceasing, 18 give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you. 19 Do not quench the Spirit. 20 Do not despise the words of prophets, 21 but test everything; hold fast to what is good; 22 abstain from every form of evil.
FIND ME ON:
Download my free app: Recenter with Christ
Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
Voicemail - (602) 888-3795
Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com
Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast
Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast
Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
330 Rejoice Always, Pray Continually, A Guided Christian Meditation on 1 Thessalonians 5:16-22 with the Recenter With Christ app
I'm Chaplain Jared and I work as a hospice chaplain and an ICU chaplain, my purpose in making this podcast is to help you find more peace in your life and to be more open for your heart to be changed by the Spirit of God. By using centuries old form of Christian Meditation named Lectio Divina:
Outline: Relaxation, Reading, Meditation, Prayer, Contemplation and Visualization.
Get into a place where you can sit comfortably and uninterrupted for about 20 minutes.You should hopefully not be driving or anything tensing or unrelaxing. If you feel comfortable to do so, I invite you to close your eyes.
Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation:
Breathe and direct your thoughts to connecting with God. Let your stomach be a balloon inflate, deflate.
Bible verses for Meditation:
1 Thessalonians
NIV
16 Rejoice always, 17 pray continually, 18 give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus. 19 Do not quench the Spirit. 20 Do not treat prophecies with contempt 21 but test them all; hold on to what is good, 22 reject every kind of evil.
NRSV
16 Rejoice always, 17 pray without ceasing, 18 give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you. 19 Do not quench the Spirit. 20 Do not despise the words of prophets, 21 but test everything; hold fast to what is good; 22 abstain from every form of evil.
Meditation on Scripture:
What simple words of wisdom. Rejoice always. And pray without ceasing. What is it that we are meant to rejoice for? For the goodness of God to us in all circumstances. God’s will for us is that we rejoice and find gratitude for our many blessings. This is not an antidote for struggle, this is more of training of our mental and spiritual habits. It takes a concerted effort to develop these habits. When we encounter beauty no matter how small, we can practice giving thanks for it. Not as a denial of the difficulties of other parts of our life, but to honor the good that also exists alongside the challenge. The more we place our focus on the good the better we will be at spotting it. As we build these habits stronger we will be able to do this easier.
When you see a sunset, rejoice. When you feel a gentle breeze on your skin, rejoice. When you feel the love of God despite many failings and challenges, rejoice the most and give thanks to God. These efforts that we have to find joy and thanksgiving don’t cheapen our suffering. They give it context. Do not quench the spirit. Let it burn within you. Engage in the challenging work of continuing in the path of Jesus and receiving his saving grace. We can test things to ensure they are from God and hold fast to what is good while rejecting what is evil.
If you struggle with this, pray to God continually. Ask God for help. The glory and love of God are all around you at all times, sometimes we just need to develop the muscle to see it.
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit.
Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:
I invite you to sit in silence feeling being patient for your own faults and trials.
Summarize what insights you have gained during this meditation and meditate and visualize positive change in your life:
This is a listener funded podcast at patreon.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Updates:
Final Question: What is something you can rejoice about?
Final Thought: God transforms us. Many scriptures talk about this. This comes about as we trust our lives to Christ. We learn to follow. We learn to listen to the spirit by rejecting what we know to be evil and by learning to Love as Christ did. We learn to rejoice always and pray unceasingly.
FIND ME ON:
Download my free app: Recenter with Christ
Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
Voicemail - (602) 888-3795
Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com
Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast
Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast
Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
FIND ME ON:
Download my free app: Recenter with Christ
Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
Voicemail - (602) 888-3795
Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com
Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast
Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast
Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
328 Train Yourselves to Be Godly, A Guided Christian Meditation on 1 Timothy 4:7-10 with the Recenter With Christ app
I'm Chaplain Jared and I work as a hospice chaplain and an ICU chaplain, my purpose in making this podcast is to help you find more peace in your life and to be more open for your heart to be changed by the Spirit of God. By using centuries old form of Christian Meditation named Lectio Divina:
Outline: Relaxation, Reading, Meditation, Prayer, Contemplation and Visualization.
Get into a place where you can sit comfortably and uninterrupted for about 20 minutes.You should hopefully not be driving or anything tensing or unrelaxing. If you feel comfortable to do so, I invite you to close your eyes.
Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation:
Breathe and direct your thoughts to contactxing God. Let your stomach be a balloon inflate, deflate.
Bible verses for Meditation:
1 Timothy 4
ESV
7 Have nothing to do with irreverent, silly myths. Rather train yourself for godliness; 8 for while bodily training is of some value, godliness is of value in every way, as it holds promise for the present life and also for the life to come. 9 The saying is trustworthy and deserving of full acceptance. 10 For to this end we toil and strive, because we have our hope set on the living God, who is the Savior of all people, especially of those who believe.
NABRE
7 Avoid profane and silly myths. Train yourself for devotion, 8 for, while physical training is of limited value, devotion is valuable in every respect, since it holds a promise of life both for the present and for the future. 9 This saying is trustworthy and deserves full acceptance. 10 For this we toil and struggle, because we have set our hope on the living God, who is the savior of all, especially of those who believe.
Meditation on Scripture:
Yesterday I went on a hike. This was not a leisurely trip into nature but an intentional trip with a family who was mourning profoundly. A young man from this family had tragically died recently and they were feeling his absence. A little bit ago I performed the funeral. We rejoiced in his reunion with Christ even when we mourned his physical loss here. They decided to travel to a place in nature he loved as a large group and share some memories there.
As we hiked our blood flowed in our veins and we got a little exercise. When we arrived at the top of the mountain and a few words and prayers were shared, the tears flowed. Yet despite that, the beauty that surrounded us, mixed with the physical exertion of the climb made this trip feel less emotionally challenging than the previous day when we mourned him while sitting down.
The bodies that God has created for us respond to different situations. Some situations lead to greater spiritual strength and some to greater temptation. Sitting in silence before the Lord and setting our intention on prayer and scripture can have a positive effect about helping us connect with God as well. Yet it is not the physical act itself that is good for the soul. It is the devotion to God, which as this scripture says “holds a promise of life both for the present and for the future.” In this way I think as we involved either stillness devotion or moving devotion to God, we recognize that it is not the physical act itself that creates that meaning, rather it is our hearts in need which reach out to the one who created us. As you sit here prioritize the connection to God through devotion over the physical.
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit.
Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:
I invite you to sit in silence feeling being patient for your own faults and trials.
Summarize what insights you have gained during this meditation and meditate and visualize positive change in your life:
This is a listener funded podcast at patreon.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Updates:
Final Question: In what ways does your body contribute to or take away from your devotion?
Final Thought: This time of meditation can be a powerful way for you to connect with God and devote your soul to him each day. Yet dont see the posture or stillness as the thing that saves. God has created us, and as such we respond to the pace available in God’s spirit. I invite you to experiment with other bodily positions while communicating with God. Perhaps praying to God while going for a walk in the beauty of nature, perhaps while stretching your body. Our goal is not to find a magical position but to attempt to become more sensitive to hearing the peace he offers.
FIND ME ON:
Download my free app: Recenter with Christ
Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
Voicemail - (602) 888-3795
Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com
Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast
Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast
Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
NIV
4 Everyone who sins breaks the law; in fact, sin is lawlessness. 5 But you know that he appeared so that he might take away our sins. And in him is no sin. 6 No one who lives in him keeps on sinning. No one who continues to sin has either seen him or known him.
FIND ME ON:
Download my free app: Recenter with Christ
Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
Voicemail - (602) 888-3795
Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com
Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast
Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast
Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
324 Wisdom with Enter Your Heart, A Guided Christian Meditation on Proverbs 2:10-13 with the Recenter With Christ app
I'm Chaplain Jared and I work as a hospice chaplain and an ICU chaplain, my purpose in making this podcast is to help you find more peace in your life and to be more open for your heart to be changed by the Spirit of God. By using centuries old form of Christian Meditation named Lectio Divina:
Outline: Relaxation, Reading, Meditation, Prayer, Contemplation and Visualization.
Get into a place where you can sit comfortably and uninterrupted for about 20 minutes.You should hopefully not be driving or anything tensing or unrelaxing. If you feel comfortable to do so, I invite you to close your eyes.
Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation:
Breathe and direct you r thoughts to contacting God. Let your stomach be a balloon inflate, deflate.
Bible verses for Meditation:
KJV
10 When wisdom entereth into thine heart, and knowledge is pleasant unto thy soul;
11 Discretion shall preserve thee, understanding shall keep thee:
12 To deliver thee from the way of the evil man, from the man that speaketh froward things;
13 Who leave the paths of uprightness, to walk in the ways of darkness;
ESV
10 for wisdom will come into your heart,
and knowledge will be pleasant to your soul;
11 discretion will watch over you,
understanding will guard you,
12 delivering you from the way of evil,
from men of perverted speech,
13 who forsake the paths of uprightness
to walk in the ways of darkness,
Meditation on Scripture:
There is no way we have the capacity to have God tell us everything that we could know in this life. There is no way we have every decision before us laid out. Instead what God does is fills us with the wisdom to recognize the patterns of how we can live in wisdom. This wisdom only comes as we humble ourselves and give up our vain and foolish desires and yield to God’s spirit. For example God could give us a thousand rules of what we should do each day, or he gives us principles to live by. God does not need to list out all the names we could call someone, or all the sinful acts we are tempted to engage in. Instead we gain wisdom by uniting our will to His.
Let me ask you this. What principles do you live by? How are these principles aligned with God’s word? How could you apply God’s principles in your life.
As an example of this. The root of eternal wisdom is faith in God. As such, the first principle of the Gospel is Faith in the Lord Jesus Christ. More specifically we follow the principle that Jesus Christ is our Savior and Redeemer. It is by His grace and mercy that we have any hope of overcoming sin. What other principles do you live by? What principles guide your action with your family? What principles guide how you correct errors or deal with people you disagree with?
Ponder more on God’s principles for us.
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit.
Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:
I invite you to sit in silence feeling being patient for your own faults and trials.
Summarize what insights you have gained during this meditation and meditate and visualize positive change in your life:
This is a listener funded podcast at patreon.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Updates:
Final Question: What principle do you feel God is calling you to live more consistent with?
Final Thought: Easter is Christ Victory Day. It is the day we remember that Christ overcame all, including sin, and death. May we keep it in our hearts that God offers us redemption and salvation.
FIND ME ON:
Download my free app: Recenter with Christ
Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
Voicemail - (602) 888-3795
Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com
Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast
Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast
Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
324 Wisdom with Enter Your Heart, A Guided Christian Meditation on Proverbs 2:10-13 with the Recenter With Christ app
I'm Chaplain Jared and I work as a hospice chaplain and an ICU chaplain, my purpose in making this podcast is to help you find more peace in your life and to be more open for your heart to be changed by the Spirit of God. By using centuries old form of Christian Meditation named Lectio Divina:
Outline: Relaxation, Reading, Meditation, Prayer, Contemplation and Visualization.
Get into a place where you can sit comfortably and uninterrupted for about 20 minutes.You should hopefully not be driving or anything tensing or unrelaxing. If you feel comfortable to do so, I invite you to close your eyes.
Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation:
Breathe and direct you r thoughts to contacting God. Let your stomach be a balloon inflate, deflate.
Bible verses for Meditation:
KJV
10 When wisdom entereth into thine heart, and knowledge is pleasant unto thy soul;
11 Discretion shall preserve thee, understanding shall keep thee:
12 To deliver thee from the way of the evil man, from the man that speaketh froward things;
13 Who leave the paths of uprightness, to walk in the ways of darkness;
ESV
10 for wisdom will come into your heart,
and knowledge will be pleasant to your soul;
11 discretion will watch over you,
understanding will guard you,
12 delivering you from the way of evil,
from men of perverted speech,
13 who forsake the paths of uprightness
to walk in the ways of darkness,
Meditation on Scripture:
There is no way we have the capacity to have God tell us everything that we could know in this life. There is no way we have every decision before us laid out. Instead what God does is fills us with the wisdom to recognize the patterns of how we can live in wisdom. This wisdom only comes as we humble ourselves and give up our vain and foolish desires and yield to God’s spirit. For example God could give us a thousand rules of what we should do each day, or he gives us principles to live by. God does not need to list out all the names we could call someone, or all the sinful acts we are tempted to engage in. Instead we gain wisdom by uniting our will to His.
Let me ask you this. What principles do you live by? How are these principles aligned with God’s word? How could you apply God’s principles in your life.
As an example of this. The root of eternal wisdom is faith in God. As such, the first principle of the Gospel is Faith in the Lord Jesus Christ. More specifically we follow the principle that Jesus Christ is our Savior and Redeemer. It is by His grace and mercy that we have any hope of overcoming sin. What other principles do you live by? What principles guide your action with your family? What principles guide how you correct errors or deal with people you disagree with?
Ponder more on God’s principles for us.
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit.
Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:
I invite you to sit in silence feeling being patient for your own faults and trials.
Summarize what insights you have gained during this meditation and meditate and visualize positive change in your life:
This is a listener funded podcast at patreon.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Updates:
Final Question: What principle do you feel God is calling you to live more consistent with?
Final Thought: Easter is Christ Victory Day. It is the day we remember that Christ overcame all, including sin, and death. May we keep it in our hearts that God offers us redemption and salvation.
FIND ME ON:
Download my free app: Recenter with Christ
Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
Voicemail - (602) 888-3795
Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com
Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast
Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast
Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
Bible verses for Meditation:
NIV
17 On the first day of the Festival of Unleavened Bread, the disciples came to Jesus and asked, “Where do you want us to make preparations for you to eat the Passover?”
18 He replied, “Go into the city to a certain man and tell him, ‘The Teacher says: My appointed time is near. I am going to celebrate the Passover with my disciples at your house.’” 19 So the disciples did as Jesus had directed them and prepared the Passover.
20 When evening came, Jesus was reclining at the table with the Twelve. 21 And while they were eating, he said, “Truly I tell you, one of you will betray me.”
FIND ME ON:
Download my free app: Recenter with Christ
Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
Voicemail - (602) 888-3795
Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com
Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast
Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast
Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
322 Jesus Fulfills the Passover with Easter, A Guided Christian Meditation on Matthew 26:17-21 with the Recenter With Christ app
I'm Chaplain Jared and I work as a hospice chaplain and an ICU chaplain, my purpose in making this podcast is to help you find more peace in your life and to be more open for your heart to be changed by the Spirit of God. By using centuries old form of Christian Meditation named Lectio Divina:
Outline: Relaxation, Reading, Meditation, Prayer, Contemplation and Visualization.
Get into a place where you can sit comfortably and uninterrupted for about 20 minutes.You should hopefully not be driving or anything tensing or unrelaxing. If you feel comfortable to do so, I invite you to close your eyes.
Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation:
Breathe and direct your thoughts to contacting God. Let your stomach be a balloon inflate, deflate.
Bible verses for Meditation:
1 Corinthians 15
NIV
17 On the first day of the Festival of Unleavened Bread, the disciples came to Jesus and asked, “Where do you want us to make preparations for you to eat the Passover?”
18 He replied, “Go into the city to a certain man and tell him, ‘The Teacher says: My appointed time is near. I am going to celebrate the Passover with my disciples at your house.’” 19 So the disciples did as Jesus had directed them and prepared the Passover.
20 When evening came, Jesus was reclining at the table with the Twelve. 21 And while they were eating, he said, “Truly I tell you, one of you will betray me.”
ESV
17 Now on the first day of Unleavened Bread the disciples came to Jesus, saying, “Where will you have us prepare for you to eat the Passover?” 18 He said, “Go into the city to a certain man and say to him, ‘The Teacher says, My time is at hand. I will keep the Passover at your house with my disciples.’” 19 And the disciples did as Jesus had directed them, and they prepared the Passover.
20 When it was evening, he reclined at table with the twelve. 21 And as they were eating, he said, “Truly, I say to you, one of you will betray me.”
Meditation on Scripture:
In our current days, many people find themselves wondering why such things are allowed to happen. They find themselves questioning the fairness of what happens through the world. We hear of people who seem to be trying to live God’s ways suffering. We hear the wicked prospering for a time. I have talked to people who are angry with God. Yet after the flury of emotion runs its course, how can humans stand in Judgement of Jehovah who submitted himself to be killed unjustly.
At Easter we remember the sacrifice of Jesus. His death made our eternal life possible. Yet of all the beings that have walked the earth, he deserved suffering the least. Yet he went through it. One may ask why God would choose to redeem his people in such a painful and humiliating way as public torture, yet so it was. Faith is not enough to spare us from all temptation and pain. And this has been set up as a truth from the beginning.
The last week of Jesus’ life was during Passover. It was a time He and His disciples were honoring and celebrating the deliverance of the people of Israel from captivity and even death. Yet even in these preparations, he knew that he would not be passed over. This scripture and others clearly show his foreknowledge. His life would not be spared as it was for the first born in Egypt. He accepted the will of His Father. He accepted betrayal by one of his own.
When we are tempted to judge the world as unfair, or to claim that God has abandoned the faithful, let us remember how it is that our freedom was won. On this easter may we ponder the humbling realization that we deserve the ills that happen to us far more than Christ did His. Jesus fulfilled the Passover. He was the sacrificial lamb to redeem us all as Paul talks about in 1 Cor 5.
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit.
Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:
I invite you to sit in silence feeling being patient for your own faults and trials.
Summarize what insights you have gained during this meditation and meditate and visualize positive change in your life:
This is a listener funded podcast at patreon.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Updates:
Final Question: How are the sting of sin and death related?
Final Thought: Easter is Christ Victory Day. It is the day we remember that Christ overcame all, including sin, and death. May we keep it in our hearts that God offers us redemption and salvation.
FIND ME ON:
Download my free app: Recenter with Christ
Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
Voicemail - (602) 888-3795
Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com
Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast
Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast
Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
320 Where is Death’s Victory, A Guided Christian Meditation on 1 Corinthians 15:55-58 with the Recenter With Christ app
I'm Chaplain Jared and I work as a hospice chaplain and an ICU chaplain, my purpose in making this podcast is to help you find more peace in your life and to be more open for your heart to be changed by the Spirit of God. By using centuries old form of Christian Meditation named Lectio Divina:
Outline: Relaxation, Reading, Meditation, Prayer, Contemplation and Visualization.
Get into a place where you can sit comfortably and uninterrupted for about 20 minutes.You should hopefully not be driving or anything tensing or unrelaxing. If you feel comfortable to do so, I invite you to close your eyes.
Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation:
Breathe and direct your thoughts to contacting God. Let your stomach be a balloon inflate, deflate.
Bible verses for Meditation:
1 Corinthians 15
NIV
55 “Where, O death, is your victory?
Where, O death, is your sting?”[i]
56 The sting of death is sin, and the power of sin is the law. 57 But thanks be to God! He gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ.
58 Therefore, my dear brothers and sisters, stand firm. Let nothing move you. Always give yourselves fully to the work of the Lord, because you know that your labor in the Lord is not in vain.
KJV
55 O death, where is thy sting? O grave, where is thy victory?
56 The sting of death is sin; and the strength of sin is the law.
57 But thanks be to God, which giveth us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ.
58 Therefore, my beloved brethren, be ye stedfast, unmoveable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, forasmuch as ye know that your labour is not in vain in the Lord.
Meditation on Scripture:
What is it that is celebrated at Easter? This scripture equates the victory of Christ over death and sin. What is that correlation? How is it that Christ takes away the sting of the grave? What is the correlation between victory over sin and the grave?
Having served many families suffering after the death of someone close, it is often filled with pain. Yet here Paul quotes Isaiah saying that Death has no sting. I find mourning around death is much more intense when there is doubt about the eternal destiny of the person who has died. There is an inherent conflict in this. In my experience our human weakness is often not able to fully grasp the plans of God immediately. Even in cases when people have great faith that their loved one will be OK and is at God’s side, their absence is felt. I see this as quite different from what this scripture speaks of and feel that there is no lack of faith that contributes to natural mourning. Ultimately Christ can comfort our hearts around the suffering cause by all sources, death, sin, and even the temporary separation of the faithful. When we, in faith lay our pain at the feet of Christ, he carries it with us. We become yolked with Him.
As we prepare our hearts and minds to worship God and remember the victory of Easter, it is valuable to turn our hearts to this triumph. May we truly feel the help that Christ offers. It may not always come at once, or when we expect, but Christ can help us remain strong enough to overcome.
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit.
Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:
I invite you to sit in silence feeling being patient for your own faults and trials.
Summarize what insights you have gained during this meditation and meditate and visualize positive change in your life:
This is a listener funded podcast at patreon.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Updates:
Final Question: How are the sting of sin and death related?
Final Thought: Easter is Christ Victory Day. It is the day we remember that Christ overcame all, including sin, and death. May we keep it in our hearts that God offers us redemption and salvation.
FIND ME ON:
Download my free app: Recenter with Christ
Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
Voicemail - (602) 888-3795
Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com
Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast
Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast
Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
Ecclesiastes 4
NIV
4 The word of the Lord came to me, saying,
5
“Before I formed you in the womb I knew[a] you,
before you were born I set you apart;
I appointed you as a prophet to the nations.”
6 “Alas, Sovereign Lord,” I said, “I do not know how to speak; I am too young.”
7 But the Lord said to me, “Do not say, ‘I am too young.’ You must go to everyone I send you to and say whatever I command you. 8 Do not be afraid of them, for I am with you and will rescue you,” declares the Lord.
318 Before I Formed You in the Womb I Knew You, A Guided Christian Meditation on Jeremiah 1:4-8 with the Recenter With Christ app
I'm Chaplain Jared and I work as a hospice chaplain and an ICU chaplain, my purpose in making this podcast is to help you find more peace in your life and to be more open for your heart to be changed by the Spirit of God. By using centuries old form of Christian Meditation named Lectio Divina:
Outline: Relaxation, Reading, Meditation, Prayer, Contemplation and Visualization.
Get into a place where you can sit comfortably and uninterrupted for about 20 minutes.You should hopefully not be driving or anything tensing or unrelaxing. If you feel comfortable to do so, I invite you to close your eyes.
Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation:
Breathe and direct your thoughts to contacting God. Let your stomach be a balloon inflate, deflate.
Bible verses for Meditation:
Ecclesiastes 4
NIV
4 The word of the Lord came to me, saying,
5
“Before I formed you in the womb I knew[a] you,
before you were born I set you apart;
I appointed you as a prophet to the nations.”
6 “Alas, Sovereign Lord,” I said, “I do not know how to speak; I am too young.”
7 But the Lord said to me, “Do not say, ‘I am too young.’ You must go to everyone I send you to and say whatever I command you. 8 Do not be afraid of them, for I am with you and will rescue you,” declares the Lord.
NRSV
4 Now the word of the Lord came to me saying,
5 “Before I formed you in the womb I knew you,
and before you were born I consecrated you;
I appointed you a prophet to the nations.”
6 Then I said, “Ah, Lord God! Truly I do not know how to speak, for I am only a boy.” 7 But the Lord said to me,
“Do not say, ‘I am only a boy’;
for you shall go to all to whom I send you,
and you shall speak whatever I command you.
8 Do not be afraid of them,
for I am with you to deliver you,
says the Lord.”
Meditation on Scripture:
The account of the calling of Jeremiah teaches valuable lessons. God is aware of his children. Whether it is Jeremiah or each one of us. There are many times in our lives when we may feel that the world is chaos. We may see no purpose in how things progress in our lives, Yet God knows us. He is familiar with our Character, our potential, our strengths, our profound weaknesses. Not only does he know us and he is aware of what we can do, he understands how we can learn and grow with him. When Jeremiah was feeling the natural experience of being overwhelmed before God due to his weakness and ignorance, God encouraged him by saying he will be directed. God has claimed that he will deliver us if we believe and follow Him.
I had an experience of this. I am traveling in another state from my home. I came to visit family and be present for a baptism. While I was here I was made aware that one of the people I work with was involved in a horrible accident and was flown into a hospital not 30 minutes from where I was during the call. It was hundreds of miles way from my home and yet God had me where i needed to be and I was able to provide support.
I cant claim to understand God’s timing in the unfortunate situations in our lives, but I do know that God watches over us. He gives us what we need. He loves us, and expects us to approach Him to be washed from sin, forgiven, and redeemed. He is our redeemer. You may not understand God’s purpose in your life. You may not be able to see the pattern amidst the chaos but I can assure you it is there, but we probably wont understand it until later.
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit.
Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:
I invite you to sit in silence feeling being patient for your own faults and trials.
Summarize what insights you have gained during this meditation and meditate and visualize positive change in your life:
This is a listener funded podcast at patreon.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Updates:
Final Question: What ways has God shown you that he knows you?
Final Thought: Foster fondness and build feelings of mutual service.
FIND ME ON:
Download my free app: Recenter with Christ
Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
Voicemail - (602) 888-3795
Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com
Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast
Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast
Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
Ecclesiastes 4
NIV
9 Two are better than one,
because they have a good return for their labor:
10 If either of them falls down,
one can help the other up.
But pity anyone who falls
and has no one to help them up.
11 Also, if two lie down together, they will keep warm.
But how can one keep warm alone?
12 Though one may be overpowered,
two can defend themselves.
A cord of three strands is not quickly broken.
FIND ME ON:
Download my free app: Recenter with Christ
Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
Voicemail - (602) 888-3795
Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com
Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast
Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast
Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
316 Two Are Better Than One, A Guided Christian Meditation on Ecclesiastes 4:9-12 with the Recenter With Christ app
I'm Chaplain Jared and I work as a hospice chaplain and an ICU chaplain, my purpose in making this podcast is to help you find more peace in your life and to be more open for your heart to be changed by the Spirit of God. By using centuries old form of Christian Meditation named Lectio Divina:
Outline: Relaxation, Reading, Meditation, Prayer, Contemplation and Visualization.
Get into a place where you can sit comfortably and uninterrupted for about 20 minutes.You should hopefully not be driving or anything tensing or unrelaxing. If you feel comfortable to do so, I invite you to close your eyes.
Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation:
Breathe and direct your thoughts to contacting God. Let your stomach be a balloon inflate, deflate.
Bible verses for Meditation:
Ecclesiastes 4
NIV
9 Two are better than one,
because they have a good return for their labor:
10 If either of them falls down,
one can help the other up.
But pity anyone who falls
and has no one to help them up.
11 Also, if two lie down together, they will keep warm.
But how can one keep warm alone?
12 Though one may be overpowered,
two can defend themselves.
A cord of three strands is not quickly broken.
NRSV
9 Two are better than one, because they have a good reward for their toil.
10 For if they fall, one will lift up the other; but woe to one who is alone and falls and does not have another to help.
11 Again, if two lie together, they keep warm; but how can one keep warm alone?
12 And though one might prevail against another, two will withstand one. A threefold cord is not quickly broken.
Meditation on Scripture:
The subheading of this scripture in the NRSV version of the bible calls this section the value of a true friend. I have been spending time thinking about this recently. There is such deep and profound value in real and deep friendship. We benefit so much from positive relationships as much as we stand to be hurt by these same relationships. The greatest example of this is in marriage. In the recent weeks I have been working with various couples and so this thought of deep and profound friendship has been on my mind.
True friends lift each other up. When they give of themselves they receive benefit for that because the friendship gains strength. The fire of the testimony remains strong together, the warmth of their affection stays warm. When their forces are united they can do amazing things together. We should seek to foster and grow these kind of relationships around us in wisdom. Loneliness are far too common. This can occur even for people living in close proximity to others. So what is it that makes us feel connected? We feel seen and understood. We feel that we know the dreams of the other and they know ours.
In intimate relationships this takes on a unifying purpose. The success in our relationships can be seen as the degree to which we can work toward our deeply held dreams while also working toward the dreams of those we care about. I want you to take a moment and ponder on what the deeply held goals are of those closest to you. Ponder on how you can support that.
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit.
Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:
I invite you to sit in silence feeling being patient for your own faults and trials.
Summarize what insights you have gained during this meditation and meditate and visualize positive change in your life:
This is a listener funded podcast at patreon.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Updates:
Final Question: How can you learn more about the dreams of others?
Final Thought: Foster fondness and build feelings of mutual service.
FIND ME ON:
Download my free app: Recenter with Christ
Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
Voicemail - (602) 888-3795
Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com
Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast
Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast
Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
314 Abraham’s Promise Came Through Faith, A Guided Christian Meditation on Romans 4:13-17 with the Recenter With Christ app
I'm Chaplain Jared and I work as a hospice chaplain and an ICU chaplain, my purpose in making this podcast is to help you find more peace in your life and to be more open for your heart to be changed by the Spirit of God. By using centuries old form of Christian Meditation named Lectio Divina:
Outline: Relaxation, Reading, Meditation, Prayer, Contemplation and Visualization.
Get into a place where you can sit comfortably and uninterrupted for about 20 minutes.You should hopefully not be driving or anything tensing or unrelaxing. If you feel comfortable to do so, I invite you to close your eyes.
Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation:
Breathe and direct your thoughts to contacting God. Let your stomach be a balloon inflate, deflate.
Bible verses for Meditation:
Romans 4:13-17
NRSV
13 For the promise that he would inherit the world did not come to Abraham or to his descendants through the law but through the righteousness of faith. 14 If it is the adherents of the law who are to be the heirs, faith is null and the promise is void. 15 For the law brings wrath; but where there is no law, neither is there violation.
16 For this reason it depends on faith, in order that the promise may rest on grace and be guaranteed to all his descendants, not only to the adherents of the law but also to those who share the faith of Abraham (for he is the father of all of us, 17 as it is written, “I have made you the father of many nations”)—in the presence of the God in whom he believed, who gives life to the dead and calls into existence the things that do not exist.
KJV
13 For the promise, that he should be the heir of the world, was not to Abraham, or to his seed, through the law, but through the righteousness of faith.
14 For if they which are of the law be heirs, faith is made void, and the promise made of none effect:
15 Because the law worketh wrath: for where no law is, there is no transgression.
16 Therefore it is of faith, that it might be by grace; to the end the promise might be sure to all the seed; not to that only which is of the law, but to that also which is of the faith of Abraham; who is the father of us all,
17 (As it is written, I have made thee a father of many nations,) before him whom he believed, even God, who quickeneth the dead, and calleth those things which be not as though they were.
Meditation on Scripture:
Sometimes we speak about how the law is in direct contrast to the way of Christ. This scripture points out an interesting comparison. The father of Israel is Abraham and when you look through the old testament there is not a great deal of rules set up with the covenant of Abraham. In fact it seems to be more of a promise from God that he will be their God with the understanding that he wanted them to follow. This seems to be what the Abrahamic covenant was about.
This is how Paul paints it as well. Abraham was made the father of nations through faith. Abraham surely did receive the promise of God and it has been clearly fulfilled. With that said, it is a clear demonstration how trust in God leads to the fulfillment of blessings. God’s word is always fulfilled, including when he proclaims blessings.
Paul then points to how it is of faith, through grace to the end of the promise might be offered to the seed, including those who believe as Abraham did. As followers of Christ we also believe in the same God, Jehovah, that Abraham did. As a result we can be blessed by the same faith and reliance that Abraham did, if we are willing to follow the spirit to where God leads us. God will be our father as we trust in this covenant. Glory be to God for his mercy and grace.
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit.
Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:
I invite you to sit in silence feeling being patient for your own faults and trials.
Summarize what insights you have gained during this meditation and meditate and visualize positive change in your life:
This is a listener funded podcast at patreon.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Updates:
Final Question: How do you see faith leading to blessings in your life?
Final Thought: Perhaps we can then see the big conflict between the Law of Moses and the teachings of the savior through a different light. Perhaps it was the rigidity with which the people applied the law that caused it to be such a distraction from Jesus. The people had set up their own expectations on God, as a result they didnt recognize the divinity of Jesus when he did come. Fulfillment of the Law has never been possible by our own merits. Even in the Old Testament sacrificial offerings were made for failure to uphold the law. This was given to turn the hearts of the people to the mercy of God and to prepare them for the coming of the Lamb of God who would take away the sins of the people for all who place their faith in Him.
FIND ME ON:
Download my free app: Recenter with Christ
Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
Voicemail - (602) 888-3795
Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com
Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast
Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast
Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
314 Abraham’s Promise Came Through Faith, A Guided Christian Meditation on Romans 4:13-17 with the Recenter With Christ app
I'm Chaplain Jared and I work as a hospice chaplain and an ICU chaplain, my purpose in making this podcast is to help you find more peace in your life and to be more open for your heart to be changed by the Spirit of God. By using centuries old form of Christian Meditation named Lectio Divina:
Outline: Relaxation, Reading, Meditation, Prayer, Contemplation and Visualization.
Get into a place where you can sit comfortably and uninterrupted for about 20 minutes.You should hopefully not be driving or anything tensing or unrelaxing. If you feel comfortable to do so, I invite you to close your eyes.
Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation:
Breathe and direct your thoughts to contacting God. Let your stomach be a balloon inflate, deflate.
Bible verses for Meditation:
Romans 4:13-17
NRSV
13 For the promise that he would inherit the world did not come to Abraham or to his descendants through the law but through the righteousness of faith. 14 If it is the adherents of the law who are to be the heirs, faith is null and the promise is void. 15 For the law brings wrath; but where there is no law, neither is there violation.
16 For this reason it depends on faith, in order that the promise may rest on grace and be guaranteed to all his descendants, not only to the adherents of the law but also to those who share the faith of Abraham (for he is the father of all of us, 17 as it is written, “I have made you the father of many nations”)—in the presence of the God in whom he believed, who gives life to the dead and calls into existence the things that do not exist.
KJV
13 For the promise, that he should be the heir of the world, was not to Abraham, or to his seed, through the law, but through the righteousness of faith.
14 For if they which are of the law be heirs, faith is made void, and the promise made of none effect:
15 Because the law worketh wrath: for where no law is, there is no transgression.
16 Therefore it is of faith, that it might be by grace; to the end the promise might be sure to all the seed; not to that only which is of the law, but to that also which is of the faith of Abraham; who is the father of us all,
17 (As it is written, I have made thee a father of many nations,) before him whom he believed, even God, who quickeneth the dead, and calleth those things which be not as though they were.
Meditation on Scripture:
Sometimes we speak about how the law is in direct contrast to the way of Christ. This scripture points out an interesting comparison. The father of Israel is Abraham and when you look through the old testament there is not a great deal of rules set up with the covenant of Abraham. In fact it seems to be more of a promise from God that he will be their God with the understanding that he wanted them to follow. This seems to be what the Abrahamic covenant was about.
This is how Paul paints it as well. Abraham was made the father of nations through faith. Abraham surely did receive the promise of God and it has been clearly fulfilled. With that said, it is a clear demonstration how trust in God leads to the fulfillment of blessings. God’s word is always fulfilled, including when he proclaims blessings.
Paul then points to how it is of faith, through grace to the end of the promise might be offered to the seed, including those who believe as Abraham did. As followers of Christ we also believe in the same God, Jehovah, that Abraham did. As a result we can be blessed by the same faith and reliance that Abraham did, if we are willing to follow the spirit to where God leads us. God will be our father as we trust in this covenant. Glory be to God for his mercy and grace.
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit.
Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:
I invite you to sit in silence feeling being patient for your own faults and trials.
Summarize what insights you have gained during this meditation and meditate and visualize positive change in your life:
This is a listener funded podcast at patreon.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Updates:
Final Question: How do you see faith leading to blessings in your life?
Final Thought: Perhaps we can then see the big conflict between the Law of Moses and the teachings of the savior through a different light. Perhaps it was the rigidity with which the people applied the law that caused it to be such a distraction from Jesus. The people had set up their own expectations on God, as a result they didnt recognize the divinity of Jesus when he did come. Fulfillment of the Law has never been possible by our own merits. Even in the Old Testament sacrificial offerings were made for failure to uphold the law. This was given to turn the hearts of the people to the mercy of God and to prepare them for the coming of the Lamb of God who would take away the sins of the people for all who place their faith in Him.
FIND ME ON:
Download my free app: Recenter with Christ
Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
Voicemail - (602) 888-3795
Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com
Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast
Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast
Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
Bible verses for Meditation:
1 John 3:1-3
NIV
3 See what great love the Father has lavished on us, that we should be called children of God! And that is what we are! The reason the world does not know us is that it did not know him. 2 Dear friends, now we are children of God, and what we will be has not yet been made known. But we know that when Christ appears, we shall be like him, for we shall see him as he is. 3 All who have this hope in him purify themselves, just as he is pure.
FIND ME ON:
Download my free app: Recenter with Christ
Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
Voicemail - (602) 888-3795
Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com
Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast
Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast
Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
312 When Christ Appears We Shall Be Like Him, A Guided Christian Meditation on 1 John 3:1-3 with the Recenter With Christ app
I'm Chaplain Jared and I work as a hospice chaplain and an ICU chaplain, my purpose in making this podcast is to help you find more peace in your life and to be more open for your heart to be changed by the Spirit of God. By using centuries old form of Christian Meditation named Lectio Divina:
Outline: Relaxation, Reading, Meditation, Prayer, Contemplation and Visualization.
Get into a place where you can sit comfortably and uninterrupted for about 20 minutes.You should hopefully not be driving or anything tensing or unrelaxing. If you feel comfortable to do so, I invite you to close your eyes.
Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation:
Breathe and direct your thoughts to contacting God. Let your stomach be a balloon inflate, deflate.
Bible verses for Meditation:
1 John 3:1-3
NIV
3 See what great love the Father has lavished on us, that we should be called children of God! And that is what we are! The reason the world does not know us is that it did not know him. 2 Dear friends, now we are children of God, and what we will be has not yet been made known. But we know that when Christ appears,[a] we shall be like him, for we shall see him as he is. 3 All who have this hope in him purify themselves, just as he is pure.
KJV
3 Behold, what manner of love the Father hath bestowed upon us, that we should be called the sons of God: therefore the world knoweth us not, because it knew him not.
2 Beloved, now are we the sons of God, and it doth not yet appear what we shall be: but we know that, when he shall appear, we shall be like him; for we shall see him as he is.
3 And every man that hath this hope in him purifieth himself, even as he is pure.
Meditation on Scripture:
We have been apart from God in this life. In this life we rely on faith. In fact it is this faith that purifies us as it says in this scripture. Yet despite the purifying faith we miss His presence. I believe that when we are reunited with Jesus it will be both an awe inspiring and humbling experience yet at the same time it will feel familiar. We will recognize the feelings of love and I expect that we will even recognize his face as He gazes back at us. We will be like him, he will be familiar to us. Because we live along side of His spirit in this life.
Over the last handful of months I have been away. I was far north in the frozen Arctic. I lived something that was very different than my normal life. I lived differently. I was around different people. Yet when I returned home to my family, it was as if no time had passed at all. In fact this is something that I found quite astonishing. It was the strangest experience to compare what I thought returning home would feel like, versus what it felt like. When I walked in the door and surprised my family with an early return we all were filled with emotion, yet how soon I felt as though I was right back into the swing of life going grocery shopping.
I anticipate that so will heaven be. The various decades that we have spent on earth will evaporate and dissolve as we are embraced in the overwhelming love of God. If you need some encouragement I will tell you. Place your faith in this joyous reunion that God has promised. We are purified into this familiarity with God, not due to who we are but due to who God is and what He has chosen to offer us through his infinite atonement. Prepare for a joyous reunion with a loving God. Believe in Him and then follow in the path He has laid out.
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit.
Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:
I invite you to sit in silence feeling being patient for your own faults and trials.
Summarize what insights you have gained during this meditation and meditate and visualize positive change in your life:
This is a listener funded podcast at patreon.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Updates:
Final Question: Do you hope for a joyous reunion with your loving God?
Final Thought: God has laid out what He wants from us and it doesn't involve earthly achievements. It involves following the way. Trusting in Him as our only hope and embracing a life as God’s disciple.
FIND ME ON:
Download my free app: Recenter with Christ
Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
Voicemail - (602) 888-3795
Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com
Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast
Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast
Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
Mark 1:9-13
NIV
9 At that time Jesus came from Nazareth in Galilee and was baptized by John in the Jordan. 10 Just as Jesus was coming up out of the water, he saw heaven being torn open and the Spirit descending on him like a dove. 11 And a voice came from heaven: “You are my Son, whom I love; with you I am well pleased.”
12 At once the Spirit sent him out into the wilderness, 13 and he was in the wilderness forty days, being tempted by Satan. He was with the wild animals, and angels attended him.
FIND ME ON:
Download my free app: Recenter with Christ
Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
Voicemail - (602) 888-3795
Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com
Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast
Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast
Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
310 Temptation Follows the Covenant, A Guided Christian Meditation on Mark 1:9-13 with the Recenter With Christ app
I'm Chaplain Jared and I work as a hospice chaplain and an ICU chaplain, my purpose in making this podcast is to help you find more peace in your life and to be more open for your heart to be changed by the Spirit of God. By using centuries old form of Christian Meditation named Lectio Divina:
Outline: Relaxation, Reading, Meditation, Prayer, Contemplation and Visualization.
Get into a place where you can sit comfortably and uninterrupted for about 20 minutes.You should hopefully not be driving or anything tensing or unrelaxing. If you feel comfortable to do so, I invite you to close your eyes.
Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation:
Breathe and direct your thoughts to contacting God. Let your stomach be a balloon inflate, deflate.
Bible verses for Meditation:
Mark 1:9-13
NIV
9 At that time Jesus came from Nazareth in Galilee and was baptized by John in the Jordan. 10 Just as Jesus was coming up out of the water, he saw heaven being torn open and the Spirit descending on him like a dove. 11 And a voice came from heaven: “You are my Son, whom I love; with you I am well pleased.”
12 At once the Spirit sent him out into the wilderness, 13 and he was in the wilderness forty days, being tempted by Satan. He was with the wild animals, and angels attended him.
ESV
9 In those days Jesus came from Nazareth of Galilee and was baptized by John in the Jordan. 10 And when he came up out of the water, immediately he saw the heavens being torn open and the Spirit descending on him like a dove. 11 And a voice came from heaven, “You are my beloved Son; with you I am well pleased.”
12 The Spirit immediately drove him out into the wilderness. 13 And he was in the wilderness forty days, being tempted by Satan. And he was with the wild animals, and the angels were ministering to him.
Meditation on Scripture:
The account of the baptism and temptation of Jesus are much longer in the Gospel of Matthew. They also are separated by a chapter marker. This has had the unintended consequence of separating these stories yet they are intrinsically connected. It is not a coincidence that the Temptation of Christ immediately followed His baptism. It may seem strange or inequitable that Christ would have been tempted immediately following something that has been recognized and presented in Christianity as an induction into the community of God. Of course Jesus did not need any purification associated with Baptism yet regardless the only documented temptation of Jesus occurred right afterward.
It may seem in our life that once we commit to live as God would want that doors will open making that easy for us. Perhaps we expect that God will clear all the weeds away from the path or that he will make things turn out easier in our efforts to overcome Sin. What this demonstrates is the persistence of the Enemy to destroy forward progress. Sometimes it is at our greatest points of potential that we experience the greatest temptation.
What is also modeled is that if we can remain faithful and resist temptation while also making efforts to grow closer to God, therein is an amazing combo. With our determination and willingness to continue to strive to overcome temptation God will give us the boost we need to make the progress we most need.
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit.
Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:
I invite you to sit in silence feeling being patient for your own faults and trials.
Summarize what insights you have gained during this meditation and meditate and visualize positive change in your life:
This is a listener funded podcast at patreon.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Updates:
Final Question: When do you experience your greatest temptation?
Final Thought: Something that seems to be indicated is that we need not judge our spiritual progress based on how hard we are tempted but rather how we can overcome those temptations through God’s help. Jesus quoted scripture and referred to the value of reliance on God. It is certainly true that our human condition is hopeless without God and without the victory obtained through the Cross. This introduced grace and offered it to us. May the grace of God help us overcome temptation when it comes our way, even increasing temptation.
FIND ME ON:
Download my free app: Recenter with Christ
Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
Voicemail - (602) 888-3795
Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com
Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast
Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast
Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
NIV
9 When they had crossed, Elijah said to Elisha, “Ask what I shall do for you, before I am taken from you.” And Elisha said, “Please let there be a double portion of your spirit on me.” 10 And he said, “You have asked a hard thing; yet, if you see me as I am being taken from you, it shall be so for you, but if you do not see me, it shall not be so.” 11 And as they still went on and talked, behold, chariots of fire and horses of fire separated the two of them. And Elijah went up by a whirlwind into heaven. 12 And Elisha saw it and he cried, “My father, my father! The chariots of Israel and its horsemen!” And he saw him no more.
FIND ME ON:
Download my free app: Recenter with Christ
Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
Voicemail - (602) 888-3795
Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com
Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast
Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast
Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
308 Elijah Rides to Heaven on a Chariot of Fire, A Guided Christian Meditation on Mark 2 Kings 2:9-12 with the Recenter With Christ app
I'm Chaplain Jared and I work as a hospice chaplain and an ICU chaplain, my purpose in making this podcast is to help you find more peace in your life and to be more open for your heart to be changed by the Spirit of God. By using centuries old form of Christian Meditation named Lectio Divina:
Outline: Relaxation, Reading, Meditation, Prayer, Contemplation and Visualization.
Get into a place where you can sit comfortably and uninterrupted for about 20 minutes.You should hopefully not be driving or anything tensing or unrelaxing. If you feel comfortable to do so, I invite you to close your eyes.
Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation:
Breathe and direct your thoughts to contacting God. Let your stomach be a balloon inflate, deflate.
Bible verses for Meditation:
2 Kings 2:9-12
KJV
9 When they had crossed, Elijah said to Elisha, “Ask what I shall do for you, before I am taken from you.” And Elisha said, “Please let there be a double portion of your spirit on me.” 10 And he said, “You have asked a hard thing; yet, if you see me as I am being taken from you, it shall be so for you, but if you do not see me, it shall not be so.” 11 And as they still went on and talked, behold, chariots of fire and horses of fire separated the two of them. And Elijah went up by a whirlwind into heaven. 12 And Elisha saw it and he cried, “My father, my father! The chariots of Israel and its horsemen!” And he saw him no more.
NIV
9 When they had crossed, Elijah said to Elisha, “Ask what I shall do for you, before I am taken from you.” And Elisha said, “Please let there be a double portion of your spirit on me.” 10 And he said, “You have asked a hard thing; yet, if you see me as I am being taken from you, it shall be so for you, but if you do not see me, it shall not be so.” 11 And as they still went on and talked, behold, chariots of fire and horses of fire separated the two of them. And Elijah went up by a whirlwind into heaven. 12 And Elisha saw it and he cried, “My father, my father! The chariots of Israel and its horsemen!” And he saw him no more.
Meditation on Scripture:
As with various examples in the Old Testament the accounts there are some miraculous things occuring in this scripture. Elijah was a great prophet. He was close to God’s power and accessed it various times to great effect. Elisha came to be the protégé of Elijah. In fact it was a revelation that caused Elijah to seek out Elisha as his successor. As a result, he sought out and found Elisha and Elisha followed him immediately. Elijah adoptped him as though he were his own son.
Elisha spent some time at Elijah’s side learning from the experienced prophet. He saw many things and valued highly the abilities that God had blessed him with. Elijah put upon his student the mantle of prophet, yet when he was given this opportunity to ask for something in return from the prophet, he asked for twice his spirit, perhaps in reference to the natural rights of inheritance of the oldest son, or perhaps as a literal doubling of the powers Elijah displayed.
The thing that I want to place a little focus on is this idea that there are two distinct things occuring here. One is a very clear depiction of God choosing someone and making that revelation clear. The other is the choice and desire of Elisha to receive from God and how that was honored. Many times we can get too locked into how we think God works and we lose sight of the dynamic that God encourages. For example why was the blessing of Spirit that Elisha requested not automatically bestowed? Why did he have to ask for it then wait?
Perhaps one explanation is that God wants to work with us. He wants us to submit to him and train our will and desire to the things that are good for us in the long run. It seems that God directs us in our life but then wants us to come along for the ride and follow. Pray to God as though all decisions are in His hands, then use your own insight to pursue the best gifts as you can. What greater gift can there be than closeness with God’s spirit which leads to eternal life with God.
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit.
Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:
I invite you to sit in silence feeling being patient for your own faults and trials.
Summarize what insights you have gained during this meditation and meditate and visualize positive change in your life:
This is a listener funded podcast at patreon.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Updates: What Sims, Worries, Doubts or Fears would you be willing to give up for an increase in God’s Spirit. To be clear we don’t purchase the gifts of God with obedience. We don’t perform some act then earn some specific benefit. We demonstrate to God that we value what the Almighty God values. We allow God to slowly transform our will to mirror His. God commands us to do things that will develop us into being what He wants us to be. God asks us to do things that will bless us and others, even when those things will not benefit us in the short run.
Final Thought:
FIND ME ON:
Download my free app: Recenter with Christ
Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
Voicemail - (602) 888-3795
Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com
Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast
Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast
Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
Mark 1:29-33
NIV
29 As soon as they left the synagogue, they went with James and John to the home of Simon and Andrew. 30 Simon’s mother-in-law was in bed with a fever, and they immediately told Jesus about her. 31 So he went to her, took her hand and helped her up. The fever left her and she began to wait on them.
32 That evening after sunset the people brought to Jesus all the sick and demon-possessed. 33 The whole town gathered at the door,
FIND ME ON:
Download my free app: Recenter with Christ
Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
Voicemail - (602) 888-3795
Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com
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Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast
Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
306 Jesus Heals Simon’s Mother, A Guided Christian Meditation on Mark 1:29-33 with the Recenter With Christ app
I'm Chaplain Jared and I work as a hospice chaplain and an ICU chaplain, my purpose in making this podcast is to help you find more peace in your life and to be more open for your heart to be changed by the Spirit of God. By using centuries old form of Christian Meditation named Lectio Divina:
Outline: Relaxation, Reading, Meditation, Prayer, Contemplation and Visualization.
Get into a place where you can sit comfortably and uninterrupted for about 20 minutes.You should hopefully not be driving or anything tensing or unrelaxing. If you feel comfortable to do so, I invite you to close your eyes.
Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation:
Breathe and direct your thoughts to contacting God. Let your stomach be a balloon inflate, deflate.
Bible verses for Meditation:
Mark 1:29-33
NIV
29 As soon as they left the synagogue, they went with James and John to the home of Simon and Andrew. 30 Simon’s mother-in-law was in bed with a fever, and they immediately told Jesus about her. 31 So he went to her, took her hand and helped her up. The fever left her and she began to wait on them.
32 That evening after sunset the people brought to Jesus all the sick and demon-possessed. 33 The whole town gathered at the door,
ESV
29 And immediately he left the synagogue and entered the house of Simon and Andrew, with James and John. 30 Now Simon's mother-in-law lay ill with a fever, and immediately they told him about her. 31 And he came and took her by the hand and lifted her up, and the fever left her, and she began to serve them. 32 That evening at sundown they brought to him all who were sick or oppressed by demons. 33 And the whole city was gathered together at the door.
Meditation on Scripture:
Many times when we think of Jesus healing large groups of people. Yet he also healed people close to Him. This scripture makes me so curious about how people received this healing. Were they surprised? Did Simon Peter already believe in Jesus when he did this or was this something that convinced Him of Jesus’ power and divinity?
This was a time without antibiotics. It was a time were medicine in general had little to offer that would help to combat sickness. This makes Jesus’ healing even more appreciated. The only thing that they had to rely on was Jesus. Perhaps because of this many believed as a result of His miracles. Those close to Him and those know never met Jesus before the miracles.
I want to highlight these two ideas that make it more challenging for us to understand Jesus. We don’t get to see Him work his miracles. We don’t get to see him cry over Lazarus’ death. We dont feel the electricity in the air when the people shared the stories of his miracles. Similarly we dont understand the type of dependance that these people would have felt. If we get sick we have other reliable resources to help in many cases, even critical ones. As a result many people envy those who got to walk with Jesus.
On the flip side, we have access to the whole story. We can read the story from beginning to end, told by direct witnesses who are able to tell their story in a way that fills in a lot of details that many people in the Time of Jesus would not have known about. What a blessing it is to have these stories of how Jesus cared for those people he knew and also those he didnt.
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit.
Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:
I invite you to sit in silence feeling being patient for your own faults and trials.
Summarize what insights you have gained during this meditation and meditate and visualize positive change in your life:
This is a listener funded podcast at patreon.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Updates:
Final Thought:
FIND ME ON:
Download my free app: Recenter with Christ
Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
Voicemail - (602) 888-3795
Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com
Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast
Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast
Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
NIV
24 Then Jesus said to his disciples, “Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross and follow me. 25 For whoever wants to save their life will lose it, but whoever loses their life for me will find it. 26 What good will it be for someone to gain the whole world, yet forfeit their soul? Or what can anyone give in exchange for their soul?
FIND ME ON:
Download my free app: Recenter with Christ
Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
Voicemail - (602) 888-3795
Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com
Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast
Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast
Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
304 What Would You Exchange for Your Soul?, A Guided Christian Meditation on 1 Matthew 16:24-26 with the Recenter With Christ app
I'm Chaplain Jared and I work as a hospice chaplain and an ICU chaplain, my purpose in making this podcast is to help you find more peace in your life and to be more open for your heart to be changed by the Spirit of God. By using centuries old form of Christian Meditation named Lectio Divina:
Outline: Relaxation, Reading, Meditation, Prayer, Contemplation and Visualization.
Get into a place where you can sit comfortably and uninterrupted for about 20 minutes.You should hopefully not be driving or anything tensing or unrelaxing. If you feel comfortable to do so, I invite you to close your eyes.
Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation:
Breathe and direct your thoughts to contacting God. Let your stomach be a balloon inflate, deflate.
Bible verses for Meditation:
Matthew 16:24-26
KJV
24 ¶ Then said Jesus unto his disciples, If any man will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow me.
25 For whosoever will save his life shall lose it: and whosoever will lose his life for my sake shall find it.
26 For what is a man profited, if he shall gain the whole world, and lose his own soul? or what shall a man give in exchange for his soul?
NIV
24 Then Jesus said to his disciples, “Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross and follow me. 25 For whoever wants to save their life will lose it, but whoever loses their life for me will find it. 26 What good will it be for someone to gain the whole world, yet forfeit their soul? Or what can anyone give in exchange for their soul?
Meditation on Scripture:
What would you exchange for the forfeit of your soul? Obviously when confronted with this question, we may respond differently than the way it actually shows up in our life. Most of the time it is not given as a choice that clearly. It is simply human desire. I really enjoy this question due to the way it can cause us to think about ourselves. When we ask ourselves clear questions like this it can help give our mind clarity. Similarly if we were to ask ourselves if we trust God’s plan we would agree but what about when tragedy hits?
When we are overly focused on this world, it makes the things of this world much harder to manage. For example, when there is a death of someone close to us, or an unforseen situation that arises. If we view the purpose of our existence to stay like we are now forever and be content with perpetual mortality, then we can get rocked to our core. When however, we realize that there is nothing we can do to hold the mortal world together, we can allow normal human emotions to move through us while not becoming trapped by them. It can give a perspective that helps us rise above.
The good news about this is not only that Jesus came to overcome sin and death, but that we can grow and develop spiritually by truly understanding that and believing it. Jesus came to earth because this world is made of clay and will invariably come to an end. It is through our faith in the one who fixxes all eternal problems, that we gain the ability to rise above temporary things and place our focus on eternity. The most beautiful truth of all is that Jesus makes this question irrelevant if we follow Him. We don’t have to hate good things, we dont have to reject all happiness and comfort, we dont need to live in constant fear of sin. We can enjoy the good of life while trusting in God’s ability to help us rise above it.
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit.
Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:
I invite you to sit in silence feeling being patient for your own faults and trials.
Summarize what insights you have gained during this meditation and meditate and visualize positive change in your life:
This is a listener funded podcast at patreon.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Updates:
Final Question: Do you really value the things of God above the things of this world?
Final Thought: When we are forced to choose between happiness and God that is a false dilemma. When we follow God that is how we find lasting happiness. It is a discipline that takes time to wrestle with. Focusing on God allows us to feel more connected to others, not less. It also allows us more flexibility to understand we dont need to fear as much what happens on earth. We can place our eternal trust in God and wait for his majesty.
FIND ME ON:
Download my free app: Recenter with Christ
Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
Voicemail - (602) 888-3795
Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com
Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast
Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast
Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
Jonah 3:6-10
ESV
6 The word reached the king of Nineveh, and he arose from his throne, removed his robe, covered himself with sackcloth, and sat in ashes. 7 And he issued a proclamation and published through Nineveh, “By the decree of the king and his nobles: Let neither man nor beast, herd nor flock, taste anything. Let them not feed or drink water, 8 but let man and beast be covered with sackcloth, and let them call out mightily to God. Let everyone turn from his evil way and from the violence that is in his hands. 9 Who knows? God may turn and relent and turn from his fierce anger, so that we may not perish.”
10 When God saw what they did, how they turned from their evil way, God relented of the disaster that he had said he would do to them, and he did not do it.
FIND ME ON:
Download my free app: Recenter with Christ
Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
Voicemail - (602) 888-3795
Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com
Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast
Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast
Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
302 God Saw That They Had Returned, A Guided Christian Meditation on Jonah 3:6-10 with the Recenter With Christ app
I'm Chaplain Jared and I work as a hospice chaplain and an ICU chaplain, my purpose in making this podcast is to help you find more peace in your life and to be more open for your heart to be changed by the Spirit of God. By using centuries old form of Christian Meditation named Lectio Divina:
Outline: Relaxation, Reading, Meditation, Prayer, Contemplation and Visualization.
Get into a place where you can sit comfortably and uninterrupted for about 20 minutes.You should hopefully not be driving or anything tensing or unrelaxing. If you feel comfortable to do so, I invite you to close your eyes.
Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation:
Breathe and direct your thoughts to contacting God. Let your stomach be a balloon inflate, deflate.
Bible verses for Meditation:
Jonah 3:6-10
ESV
6 The word reached the king of Nineveh, and he arose from his throne, removed his robe, covered himself with sackcloth, and sat in ashes. 7 And he issued a proclamation and published through Nineveh, “By the decree of the king and his nobles: Let neither man nor beast, herd nor flock, taste anything. Let them not feed or drink water, 8 but let man and beast be covered with sackcloth, and let them call out mightily to God. Let everyone turn from his evil way and from the violence that is in his hands. 9 Who knows? God may turn and relent and turn from his fierce anger, so that we may not perish.”
10 When God saw what they did, how they turned from their evil way, God relented of the disaster that he had said he would do to them, and he did not do it.
NRSV
6 The word reached the king of Nineveh, and he arose from his throne, removed his robe, covered himself with sackcloth, and sat in ashes. 7 And he issued a proclamation and published through Nineveh, “By the decree of the king and his nobles: Let neither man nor beast, herd nor flock, taste anything. Let them not feed or drink water, 8 but let man and beast be covered with sackcloth, and let them call out mightily to God. Let everyone turn from his evil way and from the violence that is in his hands. 9 Who knows? God may turn and relent and turn from his fierce anger, so that we may not perish.”
10 When God saw what they did, how they turned from their evil way, God relented of the disaster that he had said he would do to them, and he did not do it.
Meditation on Scripture:
Something that always try and maintain is a balance between the graduate of God and a closeness that helps motivate my human heart. Similarly there is a balance between trying desperately to follow the path of Jesus and also accepting Gods grace when we inevitably fail. God honors repentance. God seems to value our feeble efforts as long as we are not deceptive in half hearted confessions or desires for us to feel we earn grace.
Gods grace comes as an unparalleled gift. Yet how do we receive this gift? Do we casually accept that of course God should forgive those who profess faith or do we accept how monumental it is that God has chosen to do this and lay out a clear plan whereby we are saved from certain destruction.
This scripture is inspiring to me because it demonstrates humility, clarity, and intensity in devotion. The king accepted a great need. He didn’t congratulate himself for getting an escape card. He poured out genuine grief at his sin. He also encouraged his people to do it as well. As a result God stated the hand of destruction for the city (which ironically frustrated Jonah). My hope is that we can embrace Gods grace while also recognizing how desperate we are for it and how grateful we should be to be saved from our fate.
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit.
Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:
I invite you to sit in silence feeling being patient for your own faults and trials.
Summarize what insights you have gained during this meditation and meditate and visualize positive change in your life:
This is a listener funded podcast at patreon.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Updates:
Final Question: How do you perceive grace?
Final Thought: I invite you to spend time pondering the above question do we see grace as the natural and logical consequence of the fall or do we see it with profound emotions of gratitude. I think it is normal for all people to struggle with this balance from time to time, which is what makes it such a valuable subject to focus on.
FIND ME ON:
Download my free app: Recenter with Christ
Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
Voicemail - (602) 888-3795
Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com
Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast
Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast
Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
300 You Know Me Lord, A Guided Christian Meditation on Psalms 139:1-6 with the Recenter With Christ app
I'm Chaplain Jared and I work as a hospice chaplain and an ICU chaplain, my purpose in making this podcast is to help you find more peace in your life and to be more open for your heart to be changed by the Spirit of God. By using centuries old form of Christian Meditation named Lectio Divina:
Outline: Relaxation, Reading, Meditation, Prayer, Contemplation and Visualization.
Get into a place where you can sit comfortably and uninterrupted for about 20 minutes.You should hopefully not be driving or anything tensing or unrelaxing. If you feel comfortable to do so, I invite you to close your eyes.
Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation:
Breathe and direct your thoughts to contacting God. Let your stomach be a balloon inflate, deflate.
Bible verses for Meditation:
Psalm 139:1-6
NIV
1 You have searched me, Lord,
and you know me.
2 You know when I sit and when I rise;
you perceive my thoughts from afar.
3 You discern my going out and my lying down;
you are familiar with all my ways.
4 Before a word is on my tongue
you, Lord, know it completely.
5 You hem me in behind and before,
and you lay your hand upon me.
6 Such knowledge is too wonderful for me,
too lofty for me to attain.
KJV
1 O lord, thou hast searched me, and known me.
2 Thou knowest my downsitting and mine uprising, thou understandest my thought afar off.
3 Thou compassest my path and my lying down, and art acquainted with all my ways.
4 For there is not a word in my tongue, but, lo, O Lord, thou knowest it altogether.
5 Thou hast beset me behind and before, and laid thine hand upon me.
6 Such knowledge is too wonderful for me; it is high, I cannot attain unto it.
Meditation on Scripture:
Through much of our lives we struggle to be comfortable with who we are or who we want to be. Many people wrestle with identity. Either don’t have a well defined sense of who they are or an overly rigid perception of who we are. But under all of that, God knows us. Wether we are see it or not God knows us. He knows about our aspirations. He knows about our desires. Our goals. He knows our struggles with them.
When we feel disappointed with our progress or we feel discouraged about how things turn out, we can rest assured that God understands us. He knows us.I find that language lacking. In Spanish there is two very distinct words for knowing. You know facts, you may even know that certain people exist, but to know a person means to understand them. To be familiar with them. The way in which God knows us is deeper than that. He knows our inner workings. He was there when we were made.
God knows you. All the things you are ashamed of and embarrassed of. All the things you want to hide, he already knows. He already decided to overcome them. Through the cross Jesus overcame it all. Because He knows why you need Him. Because he loves you. So with Gods help you can get back up and try again.
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit.
Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:
I invite you to sit in silence feeling being patient for your own faults and trials.
Summarize what insights you have gained during this meditation and meditate and visualize positive change in your life:
This is a listener funded podcast at patreon.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Updates:
Final Question: What is something that God could help you improve inside of you?
Final Thought: Many times we set Mew Years resolutions and struggle to fulfil them. Let me just say that there is nothing magical about the arbitrary day that was selected as the New Year. You can continue each day to move forward. God cheers on our goals of following in the path Jesus gave us.
FIND ME ON:
Download my free app: Recenter with Christ
Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
Voicemail - (602) 888-3795
Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com
Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast
Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast
Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
KJV
In the beginning God created the heaven and the earth.
2 And the earth was without form, and void; and darkness was upon the face of the deep. And the Spirit of God moved upon the face of the waters.
3 And God said, Let there be light: and there was light.
4 And God saw the light, that it was good: and God divided the light from the darkness.
5 And God called the light Day, and the darkness he called Night. And the evening and the morning were the first day
FIND ME ON:
Download my free app: Recenter with Christ
Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
Voicemail - (602) 888-3795
Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com
Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast
Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast
Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
298 And God Said, Let There Be Light, A Guided Christian Meditation on Genesis 1:1-5 with the Recenter With Christ app
I'm Chaplain Jared and I work as a hospice chaplain and an ICU chaplain, my purpose in making this podcast is to help you find more peace in your life and to be more open for your heart to be changed by the Spirit of God. By using centuries old form of Christian Meditation named Lectio Divina:
Outline: Relaxation, Reading, Meditation, Prayer, Contemplation and Visualization.
Get into a place where you can sit comfortably and uninterrupted for about 20 minutes.You should hopefully not be driving or anything tensing or unrelaxing. If you feel comfortable to do so, I invite you to close your eyes.
Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation:
Breathe and direct your thoughts to contacting God. Let your stomach be a balloon inflate, deflate.
Bible verses for Meditation:
Genesis 1:1-51
KJV
In the beginning God created the heaven and the earth.
2 And the earth was without form, and void; and darkness was upon the face of the deep. And the Spirit of God moved upon the face of the waters.
3 And God said, Let there be light: and there was light.
4 And God saw the light, that it was good: and God divided the light from the darkness.
5 And God called the light Day, and the darkness he called Night. And the evening and the morning were the first day.
NABRE
1 In the beginning, when God created the heavens and the earth— 2 and the earth was without form or shape, with darkness over the abyss and a mighty wind sweeping over the waters—
3 Then God said: Let there be light, and there was light. 4 God saw that the light was good. God then separated the light from the darkness. 5 God called the light “day,” and the darkness he called “night.” Evening came, and morning followed—the first day.
Meditation on Scripture:
The verbage used for the kingdom of God is one that evokes familiarity. As we ponder what Heaven will be like I think it will feel extremely familiar when we get there. Not because it exactly like our earth, but that God has created our souls with the intention of bringing us to Him. The Home of God is coming among mortals. What a powerful thought. Jesus often declared that the Kingdom of Heaven could be brought to earth as we believe in Jesus and follow him. When this happens it will not be something to fear but something to cause Joy. God will be our ruler in every sense of the word.
When Heaven comes to us we will rejoice and it will be a time of reflection on our life and how grateful we are to God for the mercy He extends to us. When we are with Him there ill be no more pain, no more crying. He will heal all our wounds. As it says in Isaiah, with His stripes we are healed. This could be compared to the separation from light and darkness, yet he has more he wants to do with us before we come back Home. I have stood many times at the threshold of death and watched people silently pass over and can affirm that God’s spirit is present when His children pass to the next life.
Many people fear death, we fear the unknown but this scripture clearly points out that it will be glorious to be with Him. This doesn’t mean we should rush to get there. God has goals and intentions for us here. As we are apart from God we learn and grow through the hardship we dislike so much. This all forges us to become like him. As it says in 1 John 3:2, when he appears we will know him because we shall be like Him. When our turn comes it will be a glorious reunion.
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit.
Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:
I invite you to sit in silence feeling being patient for your own faults and trials.
Summarize what insights you have gained during this meditation and meditate and visualize positive change in your life:
This is a listener funded podcast at patreon.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Updates:
Final Question: Where do you see the light of creation in your life?
Final Thought: The demonstration of God’s creation shows his power. The rest of scripture shows his concern for our growth. Creation of God’s universe took multiple acts from the most powerful being in the universe. Instead of snapping his fingers and materializing a fully formed world, God demonstrates both in Genesis 1 and 2 different focuses on creation. His work on you is also complex. Overcoming the effects of sin could be compared to separating the light from the darkness, yet there is much more that God does in our lives. He continues to move in our lives even after offering us redemption from sin, eternal grace moves us to the image of God.
FIND ME ON:
Download my free app: Recenter with Christ
Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
Voicemail - (602) 888-3795
Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com
Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast
Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast
Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
NIV
1 Then I saw “a new heaven and a new earth,” for the first heaven and the first earth had passed away, and there was no longer any sea.
2 I saw the Holy City, the new Jerusalem, coming down out of heaven from God, prepared as a bride beautifully dressed for her husband.
3 And I heard a loud voice from the throne saying, “Look! God’s dwelling place is now among the people, and he will dwell with them. They will be his people, and God himself will be with them and be their God.
4 ‘He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death’ or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of things has passed away.”
FIND ME ON:
Download my free app: Recenter with Christ
Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
Voicemail - (602) 888-3795
Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com
Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast
Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast
Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
296 I Saw a New Heaven and a New Earth, A Guided Christian Meditation on Revelations 21:1-4 with the Recenter With Christ app
I'm Chaplain Jared and I work as a hospice chaplain and an ICU chaplain, my purpose in making this podcast is to help you find more peace in your life and to be more open for your heart to be changed by the Spirit of God. By using centuries old form of Christian Meditation named Lectio Divina:
Outline: Relaxation, Reading, Meditation, Prayer, Contemplation and Visualization.
Get into a place where you can sit comfortably and uninterrupted for about 20 minutes.You should hopefully not be driving or anything tensing or unrelaxing. If you feel comfortable to do so, I invite you to close your eyes.
Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation:
Breathe and direct your thoughts to contacting God. Let your stomach be a balloon inflate, deflate.
Bible verses for Meditation:
Revelations 21:1-4
NIV
1 Then I saw “a new heaven and a new earth,” for the first heaven and the first earth had passed away, and there was no longer any sea.
2 I saw the Holy City, the new Jerusalem, coming down out of heaven from God, prepared as a bride beautifully dressed for her husband.
3 And I heard a loud voice from the throne saying, “Look! God’s dwelling place is now among the people, and he will dwell with them. They will be his people, and God himself will be with them and be their God.
4 ‘He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death’ or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of things has passed away.”
NRSV
1 Then I saw a new heaven and a new earth; for the first heaven and the first earth had passed away, and the sea was no more. 2 And I saw the holy city, the new Jerusalem, coming down out of heaven from God, prepared as a bride adorned for her husband. 3 And I heard a loud voice from the throne saying,
“See, the home of God is among mortals.
He will dwell with them;
they will be his peoples,
and God himself will be with them;
4 he will wipe every tear from their eyes.
Death will be no more;
mourning and crying and pain will be no more,
for the first things have passed away.”
Meditation on Scripture:
The verbage used for the kingdom of God is one that evokes familiarity. As we ponder what Heaven will be like I think it will feel extremely familiar when we get there. Not because it exactly like our earth, but that God has created our souls with the intention of bringing us to Him. The Home of God is coming among mortals. What a powerful thought. Jesus often declared that the Kingdom of Heaven could be brought to earth as we believe in Jesus and follow him. When this happens it will not be something to fear but something to cause Joy. God will be our ruler in every sense of the word.
When Heaven comes to us we will rejoice and it will be a time of reflection on our life and how grateful we are to God for the mercy He extends to us. When we are with Him there ill be no more pain, no more crying. He will heal all our wounds. As it says in Isaiah, with His stripes we are healed. I have stood many times at the threshold of death and watched people silently pass over and can affirm that God’s spirit is present when His children pass to the next life.
Many people fear death, we fear the unknown but this scripture clearly points out that it will be glorious to be with Him. This doesn’t mean we should rush to get there. God has goals and intentions for us here. As we are apart from God we learn and grow through the hardship we dislike so much. This all forges us to become like him. As it says in 1 John 3:2, when he appears we will know him because we shall be like Him. When our turn comes it will be a glorious reunion.
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit.
Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:
I invite you to sit in silence feeling being patient for your own faults and trials.
Summarize what insights you have gained during this meditation and meditate and visualize positive change in your life:
This is a listener funded podcast at patreon.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Updates:
Final Question: What can you do to prepare for the Kingdom of God coming to earth?
Final Thought: The scriptures provide different scenarios of how people experience God’s presence. In some respects it is an overwhelming experience. Even as Angels appear unto people one of the things that they seem to consistently say is for the people to not be afraid. In some ways it will likely be an awe inspiring and intense experience, but I also trust that the Goodness, Grace, and Love of God will overwhelm any fear we may feel. As we look into Jesus’ eyes and see an unending well of Love and we in turn worship God.
FIND ME ON:
Download my free app: Recenter with Christ
Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
Voicemail - (602) 888-3795
Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com
Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast
Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast
Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
Psalm 89:1-6
NIV
1 I will sing of the Lord’s great love forever;
with my mouth I will make your faithfulness known
through all generations.
2 I will declare that your love stands firm forever,
that you have established your faithfulness in heaven itself.
3 You said, “I have made a covenant with my chosen one,
I have sworn to David my servant,
4 ‘I will establish your line forever
and make your throne firm through all generations.’”
5 The heavens praise your wonders, Lord,
your faithfulness too, in the assembly of the holy ones.
6 For who in the skies above can compare with the Lord?
Who is like the Lord among the heavenly beings?
7 In the council of the holy ones God is greatly feared;
he is more awesome than all who surround him.
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294 The Heavens Praise Your Wonders, A Guided Christian Meditation on Psalms 89:1-7 with the Recenter With Christ app
I'm Chaplain Jared and I work as a hospice chaplain and an ICU chaplain, my purpose in making this podcast is to help you find more peace in your life and to be more open for your heart to be changed by the Spirit of God. By using centuries old form of Christian Meditation named Lectio Divina:
Outline: Relaxation, Reading, Meditation, Prayer, Contemplation and Visualization.
Get into a place where you can sit comfortably and uninterrupted for about 20 minutes.You should hopefully not be driving or anything tensing or unrelaxing. If you feel comfortable to do so, I invite you to close your eyes.
Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation:
Breathe and direct your thoughts to contacting God. Let your stomach be a balloon inflate, deflate.
Bible verses for Meditation:
Psalm 89:1-6
NIV
1 I will sing of the Lord’s great love forever;
with my mouth I will make your faithfulness known
through all generations.
2 I will declare that your love stands firm forever,
that you have established your faithfulness in heaven itself.
3 You said, “I have made a covenant with my chosen one,
I have sworn to David my servant,
4 ‘I will establish your line forever
and make your throne firm through all generations.’”
5 The heavens praise your wonders, Lord,
your faithfulness too, in the assembly of the holy ones.
6 For who in the skies above can compare with the Lord?
Who is like the Lord among the heavenly beings?
7 In the council of the holy ones God is greatly feared;
he is more awesome than all who surround him.
NRSV
1 I will sing of your steadfast love, O Lord, forever;
with my mouth I will proclaim your faithfulness to all generations.
2 I declare that your steadfast love is established forever;
your faithfulness is as firm as the heavens.
3 You said, “I have made a covenant with my chosen one,
I have sworn to my servant David:
4 ‘I will establish your descendants forever,
and build your throne for all generations.’”Selah
5 Let the heavens praise your wonders, O Lord,
your faithfulness in the assembly of the holy ones.
6 For who in the skies can be compared to the Lord?
Who among the heavenly beings is like the Lord,
7 a God feared in the council of the holy ones,
great and awesome above all that are around him?
Meditation on Scripture:
In this Psalm a profound truth is shared. The love of God is eternal. Ponder for a moment how firm are the heavens.
How eternal is the dwelling of God. The real in which God dwells is unmovable. Yet the love of God is as eternal as the heavens. In fact the heavens are subservient to God and they declare his glory. As you go out in the night and look up into the sky we are reminded how amazing the universe is. The wide expanse of Gods heavens is astounding. In fact the heavens have shown signs through the years. The birth of Christ was signaled by a star in the heavens.
Imagine that billions of miles away an enormous flaming ball of nuclear fusion was created at just the right time to point the magi to the baby Jesus. Even the closest stars are so far that it takes light years to travel to our eyes. God in his preparation set things up with enough advanced time to allow the light reach earth at the perfect moment. As it says in Psalms 19, the heavens declare the glory of God.
As we ponder the new beginnings represented by the new year may each of us recognize the travel of the heavenly bodies is numbered and designed by God. The rotation of our earth around the Sun is pronounced by Our God. The Goals that you form for the coming rotation will be within the same power of the Almighty God. As we set good intentions and goals may we remember the source of true power, the power to improve and change, as it comes from our Loving Father.
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit.
Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:
I invite you to sit in silence feeling being patient for your own faults and trials.
Summarize what insights you have gained during this meditation and meditate and visualize positive change in your life:
This is a listener funded podcast at patreon.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Updates:
Final Question:
Final Thought:
FIND ME ON:
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Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
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KJV
4 For thou hast broken the yoke of his burden, and the staff of his shoulder, the rod of his oppressor, as in the day of Midian.
5 For every battle of the warrior is with confused noise, and garments rolled in blood; but this shall be with burning and fuel of fire.
6 For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given: and the government shall be upon his shoulder: and his name shall be called Wonderful, Counsellor, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace.
7 Of the increase of his government and peace there shall be no end, upon the throne of David, and upon his kingdom, to order it, and to establish it with judgment and with justice from henceforth even for ever. The zeal of the Lord of hosts will perform this.
FIND ME ON:
Download my free app: Recenter with Christ
Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
Voicemail - (602) 888-3795
Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com
Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast
Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast
Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
292 For Unto Us a Child is Born, A Guided Christian Meditation on Isaiah 9:4-7 with the Recenter With Christ app
I'm Chaplain Jared and I work as a hospice chaplain and an ICU chaplain, my purpose in making this podcast is to help you find more peace in your life and to be more open for your heart to be changed by the Spirit of God. By using centuries old form of Christian Meditation named Lectio Divina:
Outline: Relaxation, Reading, Meditation, Prayer, Contemplation and Visualization.
Get into a place where you can sit comfortably and uninterrupted for about 20 minutes.You should hopefully not be driving or anything tensing or unrelaxing. If you feel comfortable to do so, I invite you to close your eyes.
Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation:
Breathe and direct your thoughts to contacting God. Let your stomach be a balloon inflate, deflate.
Bible verses for Meditation:
Isaiah 9:4-7
ESV
4 For the yoke of his burden,
and the staff for his shoulder,
the rod of his oppressor,
you have broken as on the day of Midian.
5 For every boot of the tramping warrior in battle tumult
and every garment rolled in blood
will be burned as fuel for the fire.
6 For to us a child is born,
to us a son is given;
and the government shall be upon his shoulder,
and his name shall be called
W onderful Counselor, Mighty God,
Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.
7 Of the increase of his government and of peace
there will be no end,
on the throne of David and over his kingdom,
to establish it and to uphold it
with justice and with righteousness
from this time forth and forevermore.
The zeal of the Lord of hosts will do this.
kjv
4 For thou hast broken the yoke of his burden, and the staff of his shoulder, the rod of his oppressor, as in the day of Midian.
5 For every battle of the warrior is with confused noise, and garments rolled in blood; but this shall be with burning and fuel of fire.
6 For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given: and the government shall be upon his shoulder: and his name shall be called Wonderful, Counsellor, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace.
7 Of the increase of his government and peace there shall be no end, upon the throne of David, and upon his kingdom, to order it, and to establish it with judgment and with justice from henceforth even for ever. The zeal of the Lord of hosts will perform this.
Meditation on Scripture:
The connections of this scripture are interesting and form a web of understanding about Jesus’s life. This is a familiar pronouncement and shows up in many places, including Handel’s Hallelujah Chorus in the Messiah. It is hard for me to hear these words and not be overcome with the spirit of God at that beautiful song pronouncing these words. And his name will be called, Wonderful, Counselor, The Mighty God, The Everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace. All of these are names for Jesus. A study of the numerous names referring to Jesus can be enlightening in and of itself as each one reflects different truths about God.
There are multiple levels in which this scripture is fulfilled. Matthew states that this prophecy was fulfilled when Jesus began preaching in Matthew 4 which represented the beginning of his ministry. Earlier in this chapter it says. “the people who dwell in darkness have seen a great light.” This was a metaphor for both the star that signaled the birth of the Baby Jesus but also the light that His teachings brought when he formally began His ministry.
As we commemorate the Christmas Season may we remember the power of this message. All of us who would have lived in darkness forever, we have seen a great light. That light is the Glory of the Lord. May we truly receive him as the Prince of Peace.
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit.
Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:
I invite you to sit in silence feeling being patient for your own faults and trials.
Summarize what insights you have gained during this meditation and meditate and visualize positive change in your life:
This is a listener funded podcast at patreon.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Updates:
Final Question: In what ways does the Christmas season represent light in your life?
Final Thought: It is fun to get caught up in the festivities and family traditions associated with the Christmas season. May we not forget, however, that the true purpose of this season is the Birth of Jesus Christ and the coming of his life saving, eternity saving, ministry. My hope is that we enjoy good time together with loved ones while remembering the power of Christ over the grave and over sin.
FIND ME ON:
Download my free app: Recenter with Christ
Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
Voicemail - (602) 888-3795
Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com
Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast
Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast
Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
Isaiah 61:1-4
ESV
1 The Spirit of the Lord God is upon me,
because the Lord has anointed me
to bring good news to the poor;
he has sent me to bind up the brokenhearted,
to proclaim liberty to the captives,
and the opening of the prison to those who are bound;
2 to proclaim the year of the Lord's favor,
and the day of vengeance of our God;
to comfort all who mourn;
3 to grant to those who mourn in Zion—
to give them a beautiful headdress instead of ashes,
the oil of gladness instead of mourning,
the garment of praise instead of a faint spirit;
that they may be called oaks of righteousness,
the planting of the Lord, that he may be glorified.
4 They shall build up the ancient ruins;
they shall raise up the former devastations;
they shall repair the ruined cities,
the devastations of many generations.
FIND ME ON:
Download my free app: Recenter with Christ
Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
Voicemail - (602) 888-3795
Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com
Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast
Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast
Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
290 Proclaim The Year of the Lord, A Guided Christian Meditation on Isaiah 61:1-4 with the Recenter With Christ app
I'm Chaplain Jared and I work as a hospice chaplain and an ICU chaplain, my purpose in making this podcast is to help you find more peace in your life and to be more open for your heart to be changed by the Spirit of God. By using centuries old form of Christian Meditation named Lectio Divina:
Outline: Relaxation, Reading, Meditation, Prayer, Contemplation and Visualization.
Get into a place where you can sit comfortably and uninterrupted for about 20 minutes.You should hopefully not be driving or anything tensing or unrelaxing. If you feel comfortable to do so, I invite you to close your eyes.
Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation:
Breathe and direct your thoughts to contacting God. Let your stomach be a balloon inflate, deflate.
Bible verses for Meditation:
Isaiah 61:1-4
ESV
1 The Spirit of the Lord God is upon me,
because the Lord has anointed me
to bring good news to the poor;
he has sent me to bind up the brokenhearted,
to proclaim liberty to the captives,
and the opening of the prison to those who are bound;
2 to proclaim the year of the Lord's favor,
and the day of vengeance of our God;
to comfort all who mourn;
3 to grant to those who mourn in Zion—
to give them a beautiful headdress instead of ashes,
the oil of gladness instead of mourning,
the garment of praise instead of a faint spirit;
that they may be called oaks of righteousness,
the planting of the Lord, that he may be glorified.
4 They shall build up the ancient ruins;
they shall raise up the former devastations;
they shall repair the ruined cities,
the devastations of many generations.
NABRE
1 The spirit of the Lord God is upon me,
because the Lord has anointed me;
he has sent me to bring good news to the oppressed,
to bind up the brokenhearted,
to proclaim liberty to the captives,
and release to the prisoners;
2 to proclaim the year of the Lord’s favor,
and the day of vengeance of our God;
to comfort all who mourn;
3 to provide for those who mourn in Zion—
to give them a garland instead of ashes,
the oil of gladness instead of mourning,
the mantle of praise instead of a faint spirit.
They will be called oaks of righteousness,
the planting of the Lord, to display his glory.
4 They shall build up the ancient ruins,
they shall raise up the former devastations;
they shall repair the ruined cities,
the devastations of many generations.
Meditation on Scripture:
This scripture is important. It is the one selected by Jesus to be read in the synagogue. When he finished reading it he told the people that the scripture had been fulfilled in their ears that day. It is comforting to see Jesus declare so clearly his mission and the fulfillment of prophecy. The coming of Christ certainly represents the year of the Lord’s favor. He brings comfort and cheer. Garland instead of ashes. For this we feel joy. For this we shall rejoice.
Despite whatever hard things occurred in Zion, whatever mourning and sadness, Jesus proclaimed that God would help clear that. There will be building instead of destruction. Repair instead of ruin. If we feel our lives are not what they should. If we feel there has been devastation, this is nothing beyond the power of Jesus. Not because he always fixes the situation right away, but because he gives us what we need to get through it.
Those who followed Jesus may have thought that this was not fulfillment of prophecy because the Temple was destroyed roughly 40 years later. They would not have seen the deliverance from Rome as they wanted, they may not have recognized the far more important victory. The victory over sin and death. May we not judge the success of God incorrectly.
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit.
Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:
I invite you to sit in silence feeling being patient for your own faults and trials.
Summarize what insights you have gained during this meditation and meditate and visualize positive change in your life:
This is a listener funded podcast at patreon.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Updates:
Final Question: What can you do to help keep the waters clean for others?
Final Thought: The analogy is not complete. In other words there is nothing that you or I can do to truly muddy Jesus. He has already risen above our sin and carelessness through his Atonement. The metaphor I am applying is that there are things that make it hard for others to follow God and partake of the life giving water. We should be willing to take a look in the mirror and stop those things.
FIND ME ON:
Download my free app: Recenter with Christ
Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
Voicemail - (602) 888-3795
Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com
Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast
Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast
Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
NABRE
Isaiah 40:1-5
1 Comfort, give comfort to my people,
says your God.
2 Speak to the heart of Jerusalem, and proclaim to her
that her service has ended,
that her guilt is expiated,
That she has received from the hand of the Lord
double for all her sins.
3 A voice proclaims:
In the wilderness prepare the way of the Lord!
Make straight in the wasteland a highway for our God!
4 Every valley shall be lifted up,
every mountain and hill made low;
The rugged land shall be a plain,
the rough country, a broad valley.
5 Then the glory of the Lord shall be revealed,
and all flesh shall see it together;
for the mouth of the Lord has spoken.
FIND ME ON:
Download my free app: Recenter with Christ
Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
Voicemail - (602) 888-3795
Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com
Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast
Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast
Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
Bible verses for Meditation:
NABRE
Isaiah 40:1-5
1 Comfort, give comfort to my people,
says your God.
2 Speak to the heart of Jerusalem, and proclaim to her
that her service has ended,
that her guilt is expiated,
That she has received from the hand of the Lord
double for all her sins.
3 A voice proclaims:
In the wilderness prepare the way of the Lord!
Make straight in the wasteland a highway for our God!
4 Every valley shall be lifted up,
every mountain and hill made low;
The rugged land shall be a plain,
the rough country, a broad valley.
5 Then the glory of the Lord shall be revealed,
and all flesh shall see it together;
for the mouth of the Lord has spoken.
ESV
40 Comfort, comfort my people, says your God.
2 Speak tenderly to Jerusalem,
and cry to her
that her warfare is ended,
that her iniquity is pardoned,
that she has received from the Lord's hand
double for all her sins.
3 A voice cries:
“In the wilderness prepare the way of the Lord;
make straight in the desert a highway for our God.
4 Every valley shall be lifted up,
and every mountain and hill be made low;
the uneven ground shall become level,
and the rough places a plain.
5 And the glory of the Lord shall be revealed,
and all flesh shall see it together,
for the mouth of the Lord has spoken.”
Meditation on Scripture:
These are the words proclaimed by John the Baptist. When the Pharisees asked John if he was the messiah he said this as recorded in the Gospel of John. John brought baptism to prepare the way of the Lord. Later when Jesus declared he was the way, it was in fulfillment of John’s, and Isaiah’s prophecy. The Glory of the Lord will be revealed to all flesh. John declares that there is hope. There is comfort Isaiah spoke of.
Although we are surrounded by sin, although our human condition created such a dependency, we have hope that the Glory of God will bring comfort. The valleys will be raised up. Eventually there will be no more valley of the shadow of death.
In the coming months as millions place their focus on the Birth of our Savior may we remember the fulfillment of prophecy as Jesus’ glory will fill the earth and the hearts of all those who believe that His birth marks the central point in time as the enunciation of our Salvation. May Gods glory fill your hearts as we ponder the birth of Jesus who serves as the Savior of the World.
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit.
Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:
I invite you to sit in silence feeling being patient for your own faults and trials.
Summarize what insights you have gained during this meditation and meditate and visualize positive change in your life:
This is a listener funded podcast at patreon.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Updates:
Final Question: What can you do to help keep the waters clean for others?
Final Thought: The analogy is not complete. In other words there is nothing that you or I can do to truly muddy Jesus. He has already risen above our sin and carelessness through his Atonement. The metaphor I am applying is that there are things that make it hard for others to follow God and partake of the life giving water. We should be willing to take a look in the mirror and stop those things.
FIND ME ON:
Download my free app: Recenter with Christ
Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
Voicemail - (602) 888-3795
Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com
Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast
Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast
Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
1 Corinthians 1:4-9
NIV
4 I always thank my God for you because of his grace given you in Christ Jesus. 5 For in him you have been enriched in every way—with all kinds of speech and with all knowledge— 6 God thus confirming our testimony about Christ among you. 7 Therefore you do not lack any spiritual gift as you eagerly wait for our Lord Jesus Christ to be revealed. 8 He will also keep you firm to the end, so that you will be blameless on the day of our Lord Jesus Christ. 9 God is faithful, who has called you into fellowship with his Son, Jesus Christ our Lord.
FIND ME ON:
Download my free app: Recenter with Christ
Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
Voicemail - (602) 888-3795
Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com
Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast
Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast
Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
I'm Chaplain Jared and I work as a hospice chaplain and an ICU chaplain, my purpose in making this podcast is to help you find more peace in your life and to be more open for your heart to be changed by the Spirit of God. By using centuries old form of Christian Meditation named Lectio Divina:
Outline: Relaxation, Reading, Meditation, Prayer, Contemplation and Visualization.
Get into a place where you can sit comfortably and uninterrupted for about 20 minutes.You should hopefully not be driving or anything tensing or unrelaxing. If you feel comfortable to do so, I invite you to close your eyes.
Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation:
Breathe and direct your thoughts to contacting God. Let your stomach be a balloon inflate, deflate.
Bible verses for Meditation:
1 Cor 1:4-9
NIV
4 I always thank my God for you because of his grace given you in Christ Jesus. 5 For in him you have been enriched in every way—with all kinds of speech and with all knowledge— 6 God thus confirming our testimony about Christ among you. 7 Therefore you do not lack any spiritual gift as you eagerly wait for our Lord Jesus Christ to be revealed. 8 He will also keep you firm to the end, so that you will be blameless on the day of our Lord Jesus Christ. 9 God is faithful, who has called you into fellowship with his Son, Jesus Christ our Lord.
KJV
4 I thank my God always on your behalf, for the grace of God which is given you by Jesus Christ;
5 That in every thing ye are enriched by him, in all utterance, and in all knowledge;
6 Even as the testimony of Christ was confirmed in you:
7 So that ye come behind in no gift; waiting for the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ:
8 Who shall also confirm you unto the end, that ye may be blameless in the day of our Lord Jesus Christ.
9 God is faithful, by whom ye were called unto the fellowship of his Son Jesus Christ our Lord.
Meditation on Scripture:
Paul opens his letter to the Corinthians with this frank thanks from His heart. Paul gives gratitude that the people he was writing had come to embrace the grace of Jesus. It is a profound demonstration of his serving heart. Gods grace for others can be a profound blessing. In fact as we come to embrace the love of God the positive feelings we feel at the blessings of others can be enhanced and can lead to some of the deepest joys possible.
The challenge is also that it can be very difficult to have such positive experiences with those whom we don’t share easy relationships with. I am extremely aware that even loving people can have complex feelings for some people. This includes their own families. Holiday times can be exceptionally challenging for many people who either are not able to be close to loved ones due to distance or death. Similarly it can be difficult when it is possible to gather and stress and emotion fill the air.
In this moment, may we strive to hold compassion for others in our hearts, specifically for those who we struggle with. It is not necessary to embrace the stress and negative emotions of others. The goal should be to pour out positive intention by the way of God’s grace. Spend a moment with this intention.
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit.
Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:
I invite you to sit in silence feeling being patient for your own faults and trials.
Summarize what insights you have gained during this meditation and meditate and visualize positive change in your life:
This is a listener funded podcast at patreon.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Updates:
Final Question: What can you do to help keep the waters clean for others?
Final Thought: The analogy is not complete. In other words there is nothing that you or I can do to truly muddy Jesus. He has already risen above our sin and carelessness through his Atonement. The metaphor I am applying is that there are things that make it hard for others to follow God and partake of the life giving water. We should be willing to take a look in the mirror and stop those things.
FIND ME ON:
Download my free app: Recenter with Christ
Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
Voicemail - (602) 888-3795
Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com
Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast
Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast
Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
Bible verses for Meditation:
Ezekiel 34:17-19
NIV
17 “‘As for you, my flock, this is what the Sovereign Lord says: I will judge between one sheep and another, and between rams and goats. 18 Is it not enough for you to feed on the good pasture? Must you also trample the rest of your pasture with your feet? Is it not enough for you to drink clear water? Must you also muddy the rest with your feet? 19 Must my flock feed on what you have trampled and drink what you have muddied with your feet?
KJV
17 And as for you, O my flock, thus saith the Lord God; Behold, I judge between cattle and cattle, between the rams and the he goats.
18 Seemeth it a small thing unto you to have eaten up the good pasture, but ye must tread down with your feet the residue of your pastures? and to have drunk of the deep waters, but ye must foul the residue with your feet?
19 And as for my flock, they eat that which ye have trodden with your feet; and they drink that which ye have fouled with your feet.
FIND ME ON:
Download my free app: Recenter with Christ
Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
Voicemail - (602) 888-3795
Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com
Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast
Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast
Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
284 is It Not Enough For You To Drink Clear Water, A Guided Christian Meditation on Ezekiel 34:17-19 with the Recenter With Christ app
I'm Chaplain Jared and I work as a hospice chaplain and an ICU chaplain, my purpose in making this podcast is to help you find more peace in your life and to be more open for your heart to be changed by the Spirit of God. By using centuries old form of Christian Meditation named Lectio Divina:
Outline: Relaxation, Reading, Meditation , Prayer, Contemplation and Visualization.
Get into a place where you can sit comfortably and uninterrupted for about 20 minutes.You should hopefully not be driving or anything tensing or unrelaxing. If you feel comfortable to do so, I invite you to close your eyes.
Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation:
Breathe and direct your thoughts to contacting God. Let your stomach be a balloon inflate, deflate.
Bible verses for Meditation:
Ezekiel 34:17-19
NIV
17 “‘As for you, my flock, this is what the Sovereign Lord says: I will judge between one sheep and another, and between rams and goats. 18 Is it not enoug for you to feed on the good pasture? Must you also trample the rest of your pasture with your feet? Is it not enough for you to drink clear water? Must you also muddy the rest with your feet? 19 Must my flock feed on what you have trampled and drink what you have muddied with your feet?
KJV
17 And as for you, O my flock, thus saith the Lord God; Behold, I judge between cattle and cattle, between the rams and the he goats.
18 Seemeth it a small thing unto you to have eaten up the good pasture, but ye must tread down with your feet the residue of your pastures? and to have drunk of the deep waters, but ye must foul the residue with your feet?
19 And as for my flock, they eat that which ye have trodden with your feet; and they drink that which ye have fouled with your feet.
Meditation on Scripture:
This scripture provides an amazingly clear analogy of people who four the clear and pure water by thoughtless action. Much of this chapter is devoted to calling out leaders. Some people may feel a little relieved to think that this scripture is not aimed at them. Perhaps it is only for those unspecific bad church leaders who are malicious in doing wrong.
That is not the only kind of people who cause the pure living water to be muddied. Jesus Called himself the living water. Our actions can make it harder for others to come into Christ. Each one of us in our way does things that are careless and muddy the clear waters and foul the pasture for others. The Pastor’s goal is that each sheep has clean water and good pasture that hasn’t been messed up by other sheep. Sometimes we are the trampling sheep. Sometimes our grass it trampled it. That may through thoughtless action that has harmed you or someone else. That may be through gossip, it may be through a variety of sins or inaction.
If you have spent any amount of time listening to this podcast you know I don’t delight in shame. So I invite you to embrace the love contained here. God wants us all to have access to pure water. The solution is by listening to the good shepherd be being directed by God. Then valuing the things of God enough to try and make sure we don’t make it more difficult for others to feast on the Love of God. Some people are in direct and obvious leadership roles. Others are leaders simply by believing in Jesus. If you believe in Jesus as your savior others may look to you as an example of how Christians behave. Let us not foul the water that others are drinking from.
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit.
Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:
I invite you to sit in silence feeling being patient for your own faults and trials.
Summarize what insights you have gained during this meditation and meditate and visualize positive change in your life:
This is a listener funded podcast at patreon.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Updates:
Final Question: What can you do to help keep the waters clean for others?
Final Thought: The analogy is not complete. In other words there is nothing that you or I can do to truly muddy Jesus. He has already risen above our sin and carelessness through his Atonement. The metaphor I am applying is that there are things that make it hard for others to follow God and partake of the life giving water. We should be willing to take a look in the mirror and stop those things.
FIND ME ON:
Download my free app: Recenter with Christ
Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
Voicemail - (602) 888-3795
Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com
Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast
Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast
Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
Psalm 123
NABRE
1 A song of ascents.
To you I raise my eyes,
to you enthroned in heaven.
2 Yes, like the eyes of servants
on the hand of their masters,
Like the eyes of a maid
on the hand of her mistress,
So our eyes are on the Lord our God,
till we are shown favor.
3 Show us favor, Lord, show us favor,
for we have our fill of contempt.
4 Our souls are more than sated
with mockery from the insolent,
with contempt from the arrogant.
FIND ME ON:
Download my free app: Recenter with Christ
Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
Voicemail - (602) 888-3795
Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com
Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast
Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast
Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
282 To You Enthroned in Heaven, A Guided Christian Meditation on Psalm 123 with the Recenter With Christ app
I'm Chaplain Jared and I work as a hospice chaplain and an ICU chaplain, my purpose in making this podcast is to help you find more peace in your life and to be more open for your heart to be changed by the Spirit of God. By using centuries old form of Christian Meditation named Lectio Divina:
Outline: Relaxation, Reading, Meditation , Prayer, Contemplation and Visualization.
Get into a place where you can sit comfortably and uninterrupted for about 20 minutes.You should hopefully not be driving or anything tensing or unrelaxing. If you feel comfortable to do so, I invite you to close your eyes.
Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation:
Breathe and direct your thoughts to contacting God. Let your stomach be a balloon inflate, deflate.
Bible verses for Meditation:
Psalm 123
NABRE
1 A song of ascents.
To you I raise my eyes,
to you enthroned in heaven.
2 Yes, like the eyes of servants
on the hand of their masters,
Like the eyes of a maid
on the hand of her mistress,
So our eyes are on the Lord our God,
till we are shown favor.
3 Show us favor, Lord, show us favor,
for we have our fill of contempt.
4 Our souls are more than sated
with mockery from the insolent,
with contempt from the arrogant.
KJV
1 Unto thee lift I up mine eyes, O thou that dwellest in the heavens.
2 Behold, as the eyes of servants look unto the hand of their masters, and as the eyes of a maiden unto the hand of her mistress; so our eyes wait upon the Lord our God, until that he have mercy upon us.
3 Have mercy upon us, O Lord, have mercy upon us: for we are exceedingly filled with contempt.
4 Our soul is exceedingly filled with the scorning of those that are at ease, and with the contempt of the proud.
Meditation on Scripture:
What does the sovereignty of God really mean? What does it mean for God to sit on a throne? If we think that it simply means that God is in charge of things, or that he controls things that is still limited. This scripture reflects a dependance, an acknowledgment of our need before God. God is sovereign in the universe. That means that whatever we do will not harm or destroy him, other than causing ourselves and others to regress spiritually. In the greatest demonstration of grace possible, God loves us. For God so loved the world that he Gave his Son as it says in John.
As we ponder the effects of human choices, they are not trivial. It would be incomplete to say that what we do doesn’t matter because only God’s actions matter. However knowing the limits of our current human ability can alleviate much of our anxiety about our feelings of lack of control in life. When we realize that what we choose in the world matters at the same time it is not supreme we recognize that what God asks us for is intention and action not outcomes.
When we have done all we can, we implore to the Lord to bestow his grace on us. Grace is more than a simple forgiveness. The grace of God speaks into our weakness and takes over everything beyond our action. We can then rest assured that regardless of the choices of others, regardless of who leads in the world, the grace of God can ensure that whatever events occur they can be to our benefit and blessing. As a result of this, there is no need to worry about what we cannot control.
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit.
Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:
I invite you to sit in silence feeling being patient for your own faults and trials.
Summarize what insights you have gained during this meditation and meditate and visualize positive change in your life:
This is a listener funded podcast at patreon.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Updates:
Final Question: What do you ask the Lord for?
Final Thought: In this scripture it references an overwhelming plea to God. It begs for peace and consolation in the face of near constant contempt. As it is now, there are many willing to pour out contempt on others. There is a surplus of that kind of treatment going around. There are many methods of overcoming feelings of contempt. Many of which we have covered in this podcast. The focus here is for the grace and mercy of God to overcome this contempt. As we embrace the acceptance of the single most important being in the universe we are more able to accept the contempt of those who are less important.
FIND ME ON:
Download my free app: Recenter with Christ
Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
Voicemail - (602) 888-3795
Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com
Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast
Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast
Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
NIV
25 “At that time the kingdom of heaven will be like ten virgins who took their lamps and went out to meet the bridegroom. 2 Five of them were foolish and five were wise. 3 The foolish ones took their lamps but did not take any oil with them. 4 The wise ones, however, took oil in jars along with their lamps.
FIND ME ON:
Download my free app: Recenter with Christ
Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
Voicemail - (602) 888-3795
Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com
Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast
Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast
Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
280 The Wise Take Extra Oil, A Guided Christian Meditation on Matthew 5:1-4 with the Recenter With Christ app
I'm Chaplain Jared and I work as a hospice chaplain and an ICU chaplain, my purpose in making this podcast is to help you find more peace in your life and to be more open for your heart to be changed by the Spirit of God. By using centuries old form of Christian Meditation named Lectio Divina:
Outline: Relaxation, Reading, Meditation, Prayer, Contemplation and Visualization.
Get into a place where you can sit comfortably and uninterrupted for about 20 minutes.You should hopefully not be driving or anything tensing or unrelaxing. If you feel comfortable to do so, I invite you to close your eyes.
Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation:
Breathe and direct your thoughts to contacting God. Let your stomach be a balloon inflate, deflate.
Bible verses for Meditation:
NIV
25 “At that time the kingdom of heaven will be like ten virgins who took their lamps and went out to meet the bridegroom. 2 Five of them were foolish and five were wise. 3 The foolish ones took their lamps but did not take any oil with them. 4 The wise ones, however, took oil in jars along with their lamps.
NABRE
1 Then the kingdom of heaven will be like ten virgins who took their lamps and went out to meet the bridegroom.
2 Five of them were foolish and five were wise.
3 The foolish ones, when taking their lamps, brought no oil with them,
4 but the wise brought flasks of oil with their lamps.
Meditation on Scripture:
During times of unrest and uncertainty people start gathering things that they need. We see this during hurricanes, earthquakes, and pandemics. People hoard things that they think would help them sustain their way of life that they may not have access to. Fear can drive people to do things that they wouldn’t do otherwise. Yet preparation is not always based in fear, but often can be in wisdom. For example, when we lived on the East Coast my family always had extra stores of food and water in preparation for hurricanes, that way when the hurricane warnings came, we didnt ever have to stress or worry about grabbing those items at the last second. The thing is that we constantly rotated out the water and food so that they would be fresh and useful if they were ever needed.
Now applying these lessons to our lives we can begin to ask ourselves what the extra oil would be in our own lives. What is your oil, extra oil?
Jesus indicates that this oil has to do with preparation and entrance in with Him.
This is in reference to our spiritual preparation. We should not wait until times of catastrophe to cry out to God. We miss out on many spiritual blessings if we become complacent and stop developing our spiritual relationship and understanding of God. Some days our lives are in catastrophe, and some days they are calm. The question before us is what do we do to prepare spiritually. What do you do to replace your oil?
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit.
Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:
I invite you to sit in silence feeling being patient for your own faults and trials.
Summarize what insights you have gained during this meditation and meditate and visualize positive change in your life:
This is a listener funded podcast at patreon.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Updates:
Final Question: What do you plan on doing to fill extra stores of spiritual oil.
Final Thought: God has greater desires for us than to profess saving faith at one point in our life and muddle through until we die. With the aid of His spirit we can continue to store up extra spiritual oil, not only that we can help people realize the need for them to build their own reserves. There are undoubtedly ways that you can positively influence those around you to more fully live in the love of God.
FIND ME ON:
Download my free app: Recenter with Christ
Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
Voicemail - (602) 888-3795
Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com
Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast
Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast
Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
Bible verses for Meditation:
John 5:41-44
NIV
41 “I do not accept glory from human beings,
42 but I know you. I know that you do not have the love of God in your hearts.
43 I have come in my Father’s name, and you do not accept me; but if someone else comes in his own name, you will accept him.
44 How can you believe since you accept glory from one another but do not seek the glory that comes from the only God?
FIND ME ON:
Download my free app: Recenter with Christ
Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
Voicemail - (602) 888-3795
Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com
Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast
Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast
Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
278 I Do Not Accept Glory from Human Beings, A Guided Christian Meditation on John 5:41-44 with the Recenter With Christ app
I'm Chaplain Jared and I work as a hospice chaplain and an ICU chaplain, my purpose in making this podcast is to help you find more peace in your life and to be more open for your heart to be changed by the Spirit of God. By using centuries old form of Christian Meditation named Lectio Divina:
Outline: Relaxation, Reading, Meditation, Prayer, Contemplation and Visualization.
Get into a place where you can sit comfortably and uninterrupted for about 20 minutes.You should hopefully not be driving or anything tensing or unrelaxing. If you feel comfortable to do so, I invite you to close your eyes.
Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation:
Breathe and direct your thoughts to contacting God. Let your stomach be a balloon inflate, deflate.
Bible verses for Meditation:
John 5:41-44
NIV
41 “I do not accept glory from human beings,
42 but I know you. I know that you do not have the love of God in your hearts.
43 I have come in my Father’s name, and you do not accept me; but if someone else comes in his own name, you will accept him.
44 How can you believe since you accept glory from one another but do not seek the glory that comes from the only God?
KJV
41 I receive not honour from men.
42 But I know you, that ye have not the love of God in you.
43 I am come in my Father's name, and ye receive me not: if another shall come in his own name, him ye will receive.
44 How can ye believe, which receive honour one of another, and seek not the honour that cometh from God only?
Meditation on Scripture:
This scripture occurs when Jesus is rebuking those who claim to follow the scriptures but have no love of God in their hearts. I chose to cover this scripture so that we can critically examine the role of human approval and the value of prioritizing God. Due to a lot of reasons people are becoming overly invested in the opinions of other people to the point of inducing hatred in their hearts. People mistakenly think that these human perspectives become the most important thing in determining the way we interact with each other as human beings.
As followers of Jesus Christ we should be suspicious of anyone who promises salvation in their own name. There is nothing short of the Grace of God which is enough to deliver us from the weakness inherent in the human heart. Knowing this, the enemy attempts to create an artificial salvation through human communal hatred. I invite you to become suspicious of dedication to things that inspire hatred. Our faith should certainly not require that nor should anything else.
If we attempt to adhere to the laws of God while fostering hatred or feelings of superiority in our hearts then we are no better than pharisees. Jesus gives a higher calling. One that requires us to humble ourselves. Jesus came to save us, and in so doing shared a message denouncing human pride. Our loyalty should be to God above all else.
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit.
Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:
I invite you to sit in silence feeling being patient for your own faults and trials.
Summarize what insights you have gained during this meditation and meditate and visualize positive change in your life:
This is a listener funded podcast at patreon.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Updates:
Final Question: In what ways are you similar to the pharisees Jesus denounced?
Final Thought: Our loyalties should focus on learning how to fulfill the commands of Jesus, which is to love God, love our neighbor, then follow Him in faith. Human pride and loyalties to political ideals can foul our ability to live the command of God. I don’t mean to say that any secular activity is a distraction from God, but as we pursue any human or secular activities we need to keep them in the proper priority. Love of God should be the highest value we work toward. Loving others comes second to that.
FIND ME ON:
Download my free app: Recenter with Christ
Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
Voicemail - (602) 888-3795
Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com
Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast
Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast
Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
Bible verses for Meditation:
Ecclesiastes 3:1-5
NIV
1 There is a time for everything,
and a season for every activity under the heavens:
2 a time to be born and a time to die,
a time to plant and a time to uproot,
3 a time to kill and a time to heal,
a time to tear down and a time to build,
4 a time to weep and a time to laugh,
a time to mourn and a time to dance,
5 a time to scatter stones and a time to gather them,
a time to embrace and a time to refrain from embracing,
FIND ME ON:
Download my free app: Recenter with Christ
Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
Voicemail - (602) 888-3795
Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com
Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast
Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast
Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
276 To Everything There’s A Season, A Guided Christian Meditation on Ecclesiastes 3:1-5 with the Recenter With Christ app
I'm Chaplain Jared and I work as a hospice chaplain and an ICU chaplain, my purpose in making this podcast is to help you find more peace in your life and to be more open for your heart to be changed by the Spirit of God. By using centuries old form of Christian Meditation named Lectio Divina:
Outline: Relaxation, Reading, Meditation, Prayer, Contemplation and Visualization.
Get into a place where you can sit comfortably and uninterrupted for about 20 minutes.You should hopefully not be driving or anything tensing or unrelaxing. If you feel comfortable to do so, I invite you to close your eyes.
Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation:
Breathe and direct your thoughts to contacting God. Let your stomach be a balloon inflate, deflate.
Bible verses for Meditation:
Ecclesiastes 3:1-5
NIV
1 There is a time for everything,
and a season for every activity under the heavens:
2 a time to be born and a time to die,
a time to plant and a time to uproot,
3 a time to kill and a time to heal,
a time to tear down and a time to build,
4 a time to weep and a time to laugh,
a time to mourn and a time to dance,
5 a time to scatter stones and a time to gather them,
a time to embrace and a time to refrain from embracing,
NRSV
1 For everything there is a season, and a time for every matter under heaven:
2 a time to be born, and a time to die;
a time to plant, and a time to pluck up what is planted;
3 a time to kill, and a time to heal;
a time to break down, and a time to build up;
4 a time to weep, and a time to laugh;
a time to mourn, and a time to dance;
5 a time to throw away stones, and a time to gather stones together;
a time to embrace, and a time to refrain from embracing;
Meditation on Scripture:
This scripture is an often quoted scripture about the timeliness of God. Many times when I have read this scripture, I see it as a reference to the impermanence of life. It seems to point to the unimportance of changes that occur. When we see it in the context of the previous chapter it adds additional meaning. In the greater context of the book of Ecclesiastes we see an existential wrestle with purposelessness.
The antidote to this purposelessness is God. In other words Although there are changes in life due to the extremes and the thing that happen to us in life, the answer remains unchanged. Its not just a meaningless change from some set of arbitrary markers. It is the fact that the love and purpose of God transcend all of these.
In your life, God loves in as you weep and as you laugh. God’s grace applies as we break down and build up. There are times when we embrace and refrain from embracing, yet our eternal worth before God remains unchanged. This awareness transforms these changes from meaningless noise, to a series of opportunities to reveal spiritual development. When we recognize a shortfall in what we want vs what we experience, our focus can go beyond the desire itself and look to the greater question of how we are developing in our love for God and our neighbor.
God’s goal for us includes undeserved unconditional love, as well as a saving grace and purifying force to lead us toward a recreation in the perfection of God. We don’t need to fear the bad times as some sort of indication that we are not measuring up. Those things come and go. What doesn’t have to be is our developing trust and in Him. Our faith can grow regardless of the circumstance of our life.
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit.
Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:
I invite you to sit in silence feeling being patient for your own faults and trials.
Summarize what insights you have gained during this meditation and meditate and visualize positive change in your life:
This is a listener funded podcast at patreon.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Updates:
Final Question: How do you treat the needs of others?
Final Thought: During last week’s episode I recommended a practice of enhancing the naturally occurring moments of life. This can lead to improved mood as we learn to give gratitude to God for these moments. I want to take a moment and perhaps slit a hair between salvation and bringing the kingdom of God into our lives here and now. If we trust Jesus as our savior, he takes our sins away. Yet this is not the only thing Jesus offered. He constantly was trying to teach the people how to bring the kingdom of Heaven to earth. That comes through consistently following Jesus. Practices of gratitude, expressions of worship and faith, as well the most important is developments in our capacity to love as Jesus did, reflect Jesus’ invitations and result in His promised blessings.
FIND ME ON:
Download my free app: Recenter with Christ
Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
Voicemail - (602) 888-3795
Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com
Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast
Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast
Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
274 Without God, Who Can Find Enjoyment, A Guided Christian Meditation on Ecclesiastes 2:22-28 with the Recenter With Christ app
I'm Chaplain Jared and I work as a hospice chaplain and an ICU chaplain, my purpose in making this podcast is to help you find more peace in your life and to be more open for your heart to be changed by the Spirit of God. By using centuries old form of Christian Meditation named Lectio Divina:
Outline: Relaxation, Reading, Meditation, Prayer, Contemplation and Visualization.
Get into a place where you can sit comfortably and uninterrupted for about 20 minutes.You should hopefully not be driving or anything tensing or unrelaxing. If you feel comfortable to do so, I invite you to close your eyes.
Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation:
Breathe and direct your thoughts to contacting God. Let your stomach be a balloon inflate, deflate.
Bible verses for Meditation:
Ecclesiastes 2:22-28
NIV
22 What do people get for all the toil and anxious striving with which they labor under the sun? 23 All their days their work is grief and pain; even at night their minds do not rest. This too is meaningless.
24 A person can do nothing better than to eat and drink and find satisfaction in their own toil. This too, I see, is from the hand of God,
25 for without him, who can eat or find enjoyment?
26 To the person who pleases him, God gives wisdom, knowledge and happiness, but to the sinner he gives the task of gathering and storing up wealth to hand it over to the one who pleases God. This too is meaningless, a chasing after the wind.
NLT
22 So what do people get in this life for all their hard work and anxiety?
23 Their days of labor are filled with pain and grief; even at night their minds cannot rest. It is all meaningless.
24 So I decided there is nothing better than to enjoy food and drink and to find satisfaction in work. Then I realized that these pleasures are from the hand of God.
25 For who can eat or enjoy anything apart from him?
26 God gives wisdom, knowledge, and joy to those who please him. But if a sinner becomes wealthy, God takes the wealth away and gives it to those who please him. This, too, is meaningless—like chasing the wind.
Meditation on Scripture:
Reading through Ecclesiastes is depressing in a way if we don’t realize what the underlying point is. King solomon the wise was lamenting a life devoid of meaning. He stopped giving gratitude to God, and living in God and it left him feeling empty. We have an opportunity to give glory to God, and that is what gives meaning to our action. God gives wisdom, knowledge, and joy to those who please him.
I want to invite you to a practice
It is a practice of learning how to feel more happiness and gratitude. When you experience something genuinely good, no matter how small. Apply this tactic. It may be viewing a pleasant sunset, finding a good parking spot when you are running late, or even something more prodounced like experiencing the love of family or joy in worship possibly even this meditation.
When you feel that experience, allow it to simmer in your awareness. Allow yourself to just have that positive feeling stay in your heart. Enhance it in your mind without forcing it to stay longer than is genuine.
Then take a moment to absorb it into your heart. This is kind of an abstract idea but allow it to sink in and realize it as a part of your life.
This strategy is a scientifically proven method for changing happy feelings into a personality trait. It comes from the book “hardwiring happiness” by doctor Rick hansen. It is also the basis for how I do the visualize step of the meditation. So without even realizing it, we have been applying this method.
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit.
Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:
I invite you to sit in silence feeling being patient for your own faults and trials.
Summarize what insights you have gained during this meditation and meditate and visualize positive change in your life:
This is a listener funded podcast at patreon.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Updates:
Final Question: How do you treat the needs of others?
Final Thought: HEAL
FIND ME ON:
Download my free app: Recenter with Christ
Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
Voicemail - (602) 888-3795
Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com
Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast
Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast
Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
274 Without God, Who Can Find Enjoyment, A Guided Christian Meditation on Ecclesiastes 2:22-28 with the Recenter With Christ app
I'm Chaplain Jared and I work as a hospice chaplain and an ICU chaplain, my purpose in making this podcast is to help you find more peace in your life and to be more open for your heart to be changed by the Spirit of God. By using centuries old form of Christian Meditation named Lectio Divina:
Outline: Relaxation, Reading, Meditation, Prayer, Contemplation and Visualization.
Get into a place where you can sit comfortably and uninterrupted for about 20 minutes.You should hopefully not be driving or anything tensing or unrelaxing. If you feel comfortable to do so, I invite you to close your eyes.
Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation:
Breathe and direct your thoughts to contacting God. Let your stomach be a balloon inflate, deflate.
Bible verses for Meditation:
Ecclesiastes 2:22-28
NIV
22 What do people get for all the toil and anxious striving with which they labor under the sun? 23 All their days their work is grief and pain; even at night their minds do not rest. This too is meaningless.
24 A person can do nothing better than to eat and drink and find satisfaction in their own toil. This too, I see, is from the hand of God,
25 for without him, who can eat or find enjoyment?
26 To the person who pleases him, God gives wisdom, knowledge and happiness, but to the sinner he gives the task of gathering and storing up wealth to hand it over to the one who pleases God. This too is meaningless, a chasing after the wind.
NLT
22 So what do people get in this life for all their hard work and anxiety?
23 Their days of labor are filled with pain and grief; even at night their minds cannot rest. It is all meaningless.
24 So I decided there is nothing better than to enjoy food and drink and to find satisfaction in work. Then I realized that these pleasures are from the hand of God.
25 For who can eat or enjoy anything apart from him?
26 God gives wisdom, knowledge, and joy to those who please him. But if a sinner becomes wealthy, God takes the wealth away and gives it to those who please him. This, too, is meaningless—like chasing the wind.
Meditation on Scripture:
Reading through Ecclesiastes is depressing in a way if we don’t realize what the underlying point is. King solomon the wise was lamenting a life devoid of meaning. He stopped giving gratitude to God, and living in God and it left him feeling empty. We have an opportunity to give glory to God, and that is what gives meaning to our action. God gives wisdom, knowledge, and joy to those who please him.
I want to invite you to a practice
It is a practice of learning how to feel more happiness and gratitude. When you experience something genuinely good, no matter how small. Apply this tactic. It may be viewing a pleasant sunset, finding a good parking spot when you are running late, or even something more prodounced like experiencing the love of family or joy in worship possibly even this meditation.
When you feel that experience, allow it to simmer in your awareness. Allow yourself to just have that positive feeling stay in your heart. Enhance it in your mind without forcing it to stay longer than is genuine.
Then take a moment to absorb it into your heart. This is kind of an abstract idea but allow it to sink in and realize it as a part of your life.
This strategy is a scientifically proven method for changing happy feelings into a personality trait. It comes from the book “hardwiring happiness” by doctor Rick hansen. It is also the basis for how I do the visualize step of the meditation. So without even realizing it, we have been applying this method.
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit.
Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:
I invite you to sit in silence feeling being patient for your own faults and trials.
Summarize what insights you have gained during this meditation and meditate and visualize positive change in your life:
This is a listener funded podcast at patreon.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Updates:
Final Question: How do you treat the needs of others?
Final Thought: HEAL
FIND ME ON:
Download my free app: Recenter with Christ
Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
Voicemail - (602) 888-3795
Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com
Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast
Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast
Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
Bible verses for Meditation:
KJV
23 And when he was entered into a ship, his disciples followed him.
24 And, behold, there arose a great tempest in the sea, insomuch that the ship was covered with the waves: but he was asleep.
25 And his disciples came to him, and awoke him, saying, Lord, save us: we perish.
26 And he saith unto them, Why are ye fearful, O ye of little faith? Then he arose, and rebuked the winds and the sea; and there was a great calm.
27 But the men marvelled, saying, What manner of man is this, that even the winds and the sea obey him!
NRSV
23 And when he got into the boat, his disciples followed him.
24 A windstorm arose on the sea, so great that the boat was being swamped by the waves; but he was asleep.
25 And they went and woke him up, saying, “Lord, save us! We are perishing!”
26 And he said to them, “Why are you afraid, you of little faith?” Then he got up and rebuked the winds and the sea; and there was a dead calm.
27 They were amazed, saying, “What sort of man is this, that even the winds and the sea obey him?”
Meditation on Scripture:
I have been somewhat vague in past episodes and social media but I spoke at the funeral for my brother’s wife this week. One of her favorite hymns was “Jesus, Savior, Pilot me”
1 Jesus, Savior, pilot me,
Over life's tempestuous sea;
Unknown waves before me roll,
Hiding rock and treach'rous shoal;
Chart and compass come from Thee:
Jesus, Savior, pilot me!
2 As a mother stills her child,
Thou canst hush the ocean wild;
Boist'rous waves obey Thy will
When Thou say'st to them, "Be still!"
Wondrous Sov'reign of the sea,
Jesus, Saviour, pilot me!
3 When at last I near the shore,
And the fearful breakers roar
'Twixt me and the peaceful rest,
Then, while leaning on Thy breast,
May I hear Thee say to me,
"Fear not, I will pilot thee!"
FIND ME ON:
Download my free app: Recenter with Christ
Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
Voicemail - (602) 888-3795
Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com
Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast
Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast
Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
272 Even the Winds and the Waves Obey Him - A Guided Christian Meditation on Matthew 8:23-27 with the Recenter With Christ app
I'm Chaplain Jared and I work as a hospice chaplain and an ICU chaplain, my purpose in making this podcast is to help you find more peace in your life and to be more open for your heart to be changed by the Spirit of God. By using centuries old form of Christian Meditation named Lectio Divina:
Outline: Relaxation, Reading, Meditation, Prayer, Contemplation and Visualization.
Get into a place where you can sit comfortably and uninterrupted for about 20 minutes.You should hopefully not be driving or anything tensing or unrelaxing. If you feel comfortable to do so, I invite you to close your eyes.
Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation:
Breathe and direct your thoughts to contacting God. Let your stomach be a balloon inflate, deflate.
Bible verses for Meditation:
KJV
23 And when he was entered into a ship, his disciples followed him.
24 And, behold, there arose a great tempest in the sea, insomuch that the ship was covered with the waves: but he was asleep.
25 And his disciples came to him, and awoke him, saying, Lord, save us: we perish.
26 And he saith unto them, Why are ye fearful, O ye of little faith? Then he arose, and rebuked the winds and the sea; and there was a great calm.
27 But the men marvelled, saying, What manner of man is this, that even the winds and the sea obey him!
NRSV
23 And when he got into the boat, his disciples followed him.
24 A windstorm arose on the sea, so great that the boat was being swamped by the waves; but he was asleep.
25 And they went and woke him up, saying, “Lord, save us! We are perishing!”
26 And he said to them, “Why are you afraid, you of little faith?” Then he got up and rebuked the winds and the sea; and there was a dead calm.
27 They were amazed, saying, “What sort of man is this, that even the winds and the sea obey him?”
Meditation on Scripture:
I have been somewhat vague in past episodes and social media but I spoke at the funeral for my brother’s wife this week. One of her favorite hymns was “Jesus, Savior, Pilot me”
1 Jesus, Savior, pilot me,
Over life's tempestuous sea;
Unknown waves before me roll,
Hiding rock and treach'rous shoal;
Chart and compass come from Thee:
Jesus, Savior, pilot me!
2 As a mother stills her child,
Thou canst hush the ocean wild;
Boist'rous waves obey Thy will
When Thou say'st to them, "Be still!"
Wondrous Sov'reign of the sea,
Jesus, Saviour, pilot me!
3 When at last I near the shore,
And the fearful breakers roar
'Twixt me and the peaceful rest,
Then, while leaning on Thy breast,
May I hear Thee say to me,
"Fear not, I will pilot thee!"
There are multiple purposes of this message. One is that the pilot is someone intimately familiar with the shore line, and were the dangerous rocks are. Modern day pilots work exclusively around one shoreline and guide each large ship into safety. Another aspect is that Jesus changes the whole equation. He is not only helping us deal with things he can’t change. He has power to change the forces of nature. This is equally applicable to us. He is equally capable to calm our hearts. I remember a distinct moment when I was feeling strong emotion, then upon reflection on these principles, peace and strength replaced the sadness. The Lord bound up my broken heart. Trust that God can do the same for you. He can, and will, either now or in the future.
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit.
Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:
I invite you to sit in silence feeling being patient for your own faults and trials.
Summarize what insights you have gained during this meditation and meditate and visualize positive change in your life:
This is a listener funded podcast at patreon.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Updates:
Final Question: Do you allow Jesus to be your pilot.
Final Thought: I have been doing this podcast for coming up on 3.5 years and have never missed releasing an episode until this week. Regardless of how busy I have been or how late I have stayed up I have always got it done. This week I redirected my flight from Washington DC to the home of a family member to be there to support. I didn’t have podcasting gear and I couldn't do the live mobile because I don’t have enough subscribers yet. I appreciate the thoughts of concern and support for those who have reached out on facebook and in emails. It means a lot knowing that my experience, even in death and grief, can be a testimony of God’s Glory and bring people peace. I want you to know that God is aware of your suffering and your full situation. Your suffering will be for but a brief moment and when it is over, your growth in God’s eyes and the love that you have learned to feel will be all that matters to you.
FIND ME ON:
Download my free app: Recenter with Christ
Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
Voicemail - (602) 888-3795
Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com
Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast
Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast
Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
Bible verses for Meditation:
Psalms 23:3-6
KJV
1The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want.
2 He maketh me to lie down in green pastures: he leadeth me beside the still waters.
3 He restoreth my soul: he leadeth me in the paths of righteousness for his name's sake.
4 Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for thou art with me; thy rod and thy staff they comfort me.
5 Thou preparest a table before me in the presence of mine enemies: thou anointest my head with oil; my cup runneth over.
6 Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life: and I will dwell in the house of the Lord for ever.
NABRE
The Lord is my shepherd;
there is nothing I lack.
2 In green pastures he makes me lie down;
to still waters he leads me;
3 he restores my soul.
He guides me along right paths
for the sake of his name.
4 Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death,
I will fear no evil, for you are with me;
your rod and your staff comfort me.
5 You set a table before me
in front of my enemies;
You anoint my head with oil;
my cup overflows.
6 Indeed, goodness and mercy will pursue me
all the days of my life;
I will dwell in the house of the Lord
for endless days.
FIND ME ON:
Download my free app: Recenter with Christ
Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
Voicemail - (602) 888-3795
Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com
Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast
Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast
Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
270 Though I Walk Through The Valley of the Shadow of Death, A Guided Christian Meditation on Psalms 23:1-6 with the Recenter With Christ app
I'm Chaplain Jared and I work as a hospice chaplain and an ICU chaplain, my purpose in making this podcast is to help you find more peace in your life and to be more open for your heart to be changed by the Spirit of God. By using centuries old form of Christian Meditation named Lectio Divina:
Outline: Relaxation, Reading, Meditation, Prayer, Contemplation and Visualization.
Get into a place where you can sit comfortably and uninterrupted for about 20 minutes.You should hopefully not be driving or anything tensing or unrelaxing. If you feel comfortable to do so, I invite you to close your eyes.
Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation:
Breathe and direct your thoughts to contacting God. Let your stomach be a balloon inflate, deflate.
Bible verses for Meditation:
Psalms 23:3-6
KJV
1The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want.
2 He maketh me to lie down in green pastures: he leadeth me beside the still waters.
3 He restoreth my soul: he leadeth me in the paths of righteousness for his name's sake.
4 Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for thou art with me; thy rod and thy staff they comfort me.
5 Thou preparest a table before me in the presence of mine enemies: thou anointest my head with oil; my cup runneth over.
6 Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life: and I will dwell in the house of the Lord for ever.
NABRE
The Lord is my shepherd;
there is nothing I lack.
2 In green pastures he makes me lie down;
to still waters he leads me;
3 he restores my soul.
He guides me along right paths
for the sake of his name.
4 Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death,
I will fear no evil, for you are with me;
your rod and your staff comfort me.
5 You set a table before me
in front of my enemies;
You anoint my head with oil;
my cup overflows.
6 Indeed, goodness and mercy will pursue me
all the days of my life;
I will dwell in the house of the Lord
for endless days.
Meditation on Scripture:
Much of my professional life is working with people encountering tragedy and suffering. Many times I spend time with others who are grieving losses. Most of the time I am not directly connected to those people. This week was different. I experienced a family tragedy. A dearly loved family member of mine was engaged in a lethal car accident. I have shed many tears as you can imagine.
What has been so comforting is the way in which God has bound up my broken heart not to the exclusion of sadness but just to prevent me from being driven into the dark recesses of the soul. In the middle of our mourning I have felt the concern and prayers of people across the world. There were church congregations fasting for our emotional wellbeing. We felt this support. God has an ability to bind up our broken hearts. As David says Though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death I will fear no evil for you are with me.
I have spent a long time thinking about suffering and how to comfort it. One thing I have come to believe, and I feel is represented in this scripture, is that fear around grief increases suffering and creates feelings of darkness. I don’t claim to understand the full depths of human suffering, but this is something that I am intuiting about grief. Not all sadness produces darkness. I think it is a gift of God that I am working to understand. If you are currently struggling with the depths of suffering, know that trusting in God can help us gain strength to carry on and grow toward the image of God. For now I echo David’s words. Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life: and I will dwell in the house of the Lord for ever.
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit.
Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:
I invite you to sit in silence feeling being patient for your own faults and trials.
Summarize what insights you have gained during this meditation and meditate and visualize positive change in your life:
This is a listener funded podcast at patreon.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Updates:
Final Question: Do you fear sadness?
Final Thought: I have been doing this podcast for coming up on 3.5 years and have never missed releasing an episode until this week. Regardless of how busy I have been or how late I have stayed up I have always got it done. This week I redirected my flight from Washington DC to the home of a family member to be there to support. I didn’t have podcasting gear and I couldn't do the live mobile because I don’t have enough subscribers yet. I appreciate the thoughts of concern and support for those who have reached out on facebook and in emails. It means a lot knowing that my experience, even in death and grief, can be a testimony of God’s Glory and bring people peace. I want you to know that God is aware of your suffering and your full situation. Your suffering will be for but a brief moment and when it is over, your growth in God’s eyes and the love that you have learned to feel will be all that matters to you.
FIND ME ON:
Download my free app: Recenter with Christ
Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
Voicemail - (602) 888-3795
Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com
Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast
Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast
Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
Bible verses for Meditation:
John 5:20-24
NRSV
20 The Father loves the Son and shows him all that he himself is doing; and he will show him greater works than these, so that you will be astonished. 21 Indeed, just as the Father raises the dead and gives them life, so also the Son gives life to whomever he wishes. 22 The Father judges no one but has given all judgment to the Son, 23 so that all may honor the Son just as they honor the Father. Anyone who does not honor the Son does not honor the Father who sent him. 24 Very truly, I tell you, anyone who hears my word and believes him who sent me has eternal life, and does not come under judgment, but has passed from death to life.
Download my free app: Recenter with Christ
Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
Voicemail - (602) 888-3795
Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com
Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast
Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast
Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
268 The Father Judges No One But Gives All Judgement to The Son, A Guided Christian Meditation on John 5:20-24 with the Recenter With Christ app
I'm Chaplain Jared and I work as a hospice chaplain and an ICU chaplain, my purpose in making this podcast is to help you find more peace in your life and to be more open for your heart to be changed by the Spirit of God. By using centuries old form of Christian Meditation named Lectio Divina:
Outline: Relaxation, Reading, Meditation, Prayer, Contemplation and Visualization.
Get into a place where you can sit comfortably and uninterrupted for about 20 minutes.You should hopefully not be driving or anything tensing or unrelaxing. If you feel comfortable to do so, I invite you to close your eyes.
Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation:
Breathe and direct your thoughts to contacting God. Let your stomach be a balloon inflate, deflate.
Bible verses for Meditation:
John 5:20-24
NRSV
20 The Father loves the Son and shows him all that he himself is doing; and he will show him greater works than these, so that you will be astonished. 21 Indeed, just as the Father raises the dead and gives them life, so also the Son gives life to whomever he wishes. 22 The Father judges no one but has given all judgment to the Son, 23 so that all may honor the Son just as they honor the Father. Anyone who does not honor the Son does not honor the Father who sent him. 24 Very truly, I tell you, anyone who hears my word and believes him who sent me has eternal life, and does not come under judgment, but has passed from death to life.
ESV
20 For the Father loves the Son and shows him all that he himself is doing. And greater works than these will he show him, so that you may marvel. 21 For as the Father raises the dead and gives them life, so also the Son gives life to whom he will. 22 For the Father judges no one, but has given all judgment to the Son, 23 that all may honor the Son, just as they honor the Father. Whoever does not honor the Son does not honor the Father who sent him. 24 Truly, truly, I say to you, whoever hears my word and believes him who sent me has eternal life. He does not come into judgment, but has passed from death to life.
Meditation on Scripture:
When you ponder the throne of God is it a moment of terror or a moment of joy?
There is a Holy Day in the Jewish Calendar this time of year called Rosh haShanah. It is a time when Jews ponder on forgiveness. It is a time to solemnly remember how we need forgiveness from God and celebrate Yom Kippur as the day of atonement. Even for many Christians the prospect of forgiveness seems unresolved despite clear teachings countering this fear. We know what God has asked and we know what we have done and continue to do. We read in the Book of Revelations about the Great White Throne of God. It is the throne from which God will stand in judgement. This is an idea that has cast terror and fear into people’s hearts for generations. It becomes obvious to see why, but not when we understand Jesus’ intentions with us.
This scripture says that the father will not stand in judgement at all. He has given all judgement to the Son. What is more it goes on to say that if we believe in Jesus will not stand in judgement at all. Ponder this, instead of standing trial before a God in fear and trembling, we will be received in love by a God of Mercy. The thing that you have been fearing will not go the way you fear it would.
With that said I think there is profound healing that comes from taking personal accountability for our sin. What do we do with our lives once we know that we our out of trouble so to speak. Do we get lazy and complacent? If so there is no way we can receive all the spiritual blessings God has in mind for us. As you ponder that your God was willing to allow the horrors of the cross to get out out of the horrors of being on the wrong side of the judgement seat I hope that you feel inspiration to draw nearer to God and embrace the Love he offers by following Christ’s law of love and discipleship.
I want you to ponder
This is a huge relief because if we were to go to trial we most certainly would be found guilty.
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit.
Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:
I invite you to sit in silence feeling being patient for your own faults and trials.
Summarize what insights you have gained during this meditation and meditate and visualize positive change in your life:
This is a listener funded podcast at patreon.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Updates:
Final Question: Do you live righteous to avoid judgement or to live in harmony with the God of Glory?
Final Thought: I encourage you to take full accountability for your actions, embrace the love of God, make amends, and then move forward with a purer heart than before. Through humility and grace we overcome our sinful natures and draw closer to God. If you find yourself only motivated to do good by the threat of hell, ponder the greater way Jesus has set before us. We can be inspired to live a heavenly life here on earth as Jesus taught. He has given us an unobtainable standard. He asks perfection and our job is to pursue it with humility and faith.
FIND ME ON:
Download my free app: Recenter with Christ
Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
Voicemail - (602) 888-3795
Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com
Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast
Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast
Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
NABRE
1 If there is any encouragement in Christ, any solace in love, any participation in the Spirit, any compassion and mercy,
2 complete my joy by being of the same mind, with the same love, united in heart, thinking one thing.
3 Do nothing out of selfishness or out of vainglory; rather, humbly regard others as more important than yourselves,
4 each looking out not for his own interests, but [also] everyone for those of others.
5 Have among yourselves the same attitude that is also yours in Christ Jesus,
FIND ME ON:
Download my free app: Recenter with Christ
Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
Voicemail - (602) 888-3795
Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com
Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast
Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast
Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
266 In Your Relationships Have the Mindset of Christ, A Guided Christian Meditation on Philipians 2:1-5 with the Recenter With Christ app
I'm Chaplain Jared and I work as a hospice chaplain and an ICU chaplain, my purpose in making this podcast is to help you find more peace in your life and to be more open for your heart to be changed by the Spirit of God. By using centuries old form of Christian Meditation named Lectio Divina:
Outline: Relaxation, Reading, Meditation, Prayer, Contemplation and Visualization.
Get into a place where you can sit comfortably and uninterrupted for about 20 minutes.You should hopefully not be driving or anything tensing or unrelaxing. If you feel comfortable to do so, I invite you to close your eyes.
Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation:
Breathe and direct your thoughts to contacting God. Let your stomach be a balloon inflate, deflate.
Bible verses for Meditation:
Philippians 2:1-5
NIV
1 Therefore if you have any encouragement from being united with Christ, if any comfort from his love, if any common sharing in the Spirit, if any tenderness and compassion,
2 then make my joy complete by being like-minded, having the same love, being one in spirit and of one mind.
3 Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves,
4 not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interests of the others.
5 In your relationships with one another, have the same mindset as Christ Jesus:
‘NABRE
1 If there is any encouragement in Christ, any solace in love, any participation in the Spirit, any compassion and mercy,
2 complete my joy by being of the same mind, with the same love, united in heart, thinking one thing.
3 Do nothing out of selfishness or out of vainglory; rather, humbly regard others as more important than yourselves,
4 each looking out not for his own interests, but [also] everyone for those of others.
5 Have among yourselves the same attitude that is also yours in Christ Jesus,
Meditation on Scripture:
When you hear this invitation from Christ what comes to your mind? I suspect that each of us think something different. Perhaps we think of challenging relationships, or beautiful relationships that have been attacked by conflict. Perhaps you feel shame or guilt, perhaps you feel vindication, or judgement on someone else. Continue to ponder this. How do you feel as you hear of Christ’s love for you? How is that different than the way you feel when you ponder your attitude in human relationships?
I believe that the example of Christ can help us reconcile the love we feel from God into the way in which we interact with others. Do we truly regard others as more important than ourselves? Are we willing to embrace the strength of God within us to become as Christ. Christ’s attitude was not one of self hatred, or lack of awareness of his value. He knew, as the Son of God he was of infinite worth. Similarly you as a child of God have infinite worth, not because you are so great but because God said so. He makes us join heirs with Christ. May we rise up to live more like an heir of glory. What can others take from us that is greater than what God does and will give us?
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit.
Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:
I invite you to sit in silence feeling being patient for your own faults and trials.
Summarize what insights you have gained during this meditation and meditate and visualize positive change in your life:
This is a listener funded podcast at patreon.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Updates:
Final Question: How do you treat the needs of others?
Final Thought: Some people are threatened by the idea to consider others as more important. This is especially dicey when people have been abused or mistreated. I believe that this message from Christ is not one of self hatred or degradation. As we embrace the value God has placed on us we are more able to let go the approval of others and the approval of the world. Because our value comes by Godly decree we also shouldn’t take pride in it. What are we that we should be considered greater than others? This is certainly a dichotomy but it is one that keeps us humble while also being empowered through God to rise up to overcome anything that would prevent us from living in the love of God.
FIND ME ON:
Download my free app: Recenter with Christ
Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
Voicemail - (602) 888-3795
Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com
Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast
Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast
Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
Romans 2:12-16
ESV
12 For all who have sinned without the law will also perish without the law, and all who have sinned under the law will be judged by the law. 13 For it is not the hearers of the law who are righteous before God, but the doers of the law who will be justified. 14 For when Gentiles, who do not have the law, by nature do what the law requires, they are a law to themselves, even though they do not have the law. 15 They show that the work of the law is written on their hearts, while their conscience also bears witness, and their conflicting thoughts accuse or even excuse them 16 on that day when, according to my gospel, God judges the secrets of men by Christ Jesus.
FIND ME ON:
Download my free app: Recenter with Christ
Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
Voicemail - (602) 888-3795
Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com
Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast
Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast
Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
264 Their Own Conscience Bears Witness, A Guided Christian Meditation on Romans 2:12-16 with the Recenter With Christ app
I'm Chaplain Jared and I work as a hospice chaplain and an ICU chaplain, my purpose in making this podcast is to help you find more peace in your life and to be more open for your heart to be changed by the Spirit of God. By using centuries old form of Christian Meditation named Lectio Divina:
Outline: Relaxation, Reading, Meditation, Prayer, Contemplation and Visualization.
Get into a place where you can sit comfortably and uninterrupted for about 20 minutes.You should hopefully not be driving or anything tensing or unrelaxing. If you feel comfortable to do so, I invite you to close your eyes.
Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation:
Breathe and direct your thoughts to contacting God. Let your stomach be a balloon inflate, deflate.
Bible verses for Meditation:
Romans 2:12-16
ESV
12 For all who have sinned without the law will also perish without the law, and all who have sinned under the law will be judged by the law. 13 For it is not the hearers of the law who are righteous before God, but the doers of the law who will be justified. 14 For when Gentiles, who do not have the law, by nature do what the law requires, they are a law to themselves, even though they do not have the law. 15 They show that the work of the law is written on their hearts, while their conscience also bears witness, and their conflicting thoughts accuse or even excuse them 16 on that day when, according to my gospel, God judges the secrets of men by Christ Jesus.
NRSV
12 All who have sinned apart from the law will also perish apart from the law, and all who have sinned under the law will be judged by the law. 13 For it is not the hearers of the law who are righteous in God’s sight, but the doers of the law who will be justified. 14 When Gentiles, who do not possess the law, do instinctively what the law requires, these, though not having the law, are a law to themselves. 15 They show that what the law requires is written on their hearts, to which their own conscience also bears witness; and their conflicting thoughts will accuse or perhaps excuse them 16 on the day when, according to my gospel, God, through Jesus Christ, will judge the secret thoughts of all.
Meditation on Scripture:
What is your conscience? This scripture contrasts the conscience with the heart, in other words it is something beyond the human heart. When you feel that you have done something wrong or are being tempted to do something wrong, how is it that we can know that? This above scripture is difficult to parse the exact meaning, there are others more skilled than I, but I think it is important to wrestle with this idea of conscience and how we can respond to it. Similarly, what are the effects of responding, or failing to respond to it?
The challenge is that, because of the fall, our will as humans is at odds with the desires of God. How is it then that people who are not Christians can have moral laws that share major components to the Ten Commandments and even the love of neighbor that Jesus taught? The challenge of reconciling this with the above scripture has a lot to do with where a conscience comes from. When Jesus said that we should let our light shine for others, what light is it that we are sharing? Is it the same light that Jesus said he was in John 1? In this way our conscience which guides us may be a representation of invitations from God’s light to take a certain action, or avoid a certain action. As we deny these invitations we become increasingly unable to perceive it. We become hardened even beyond our nature. Even those who
Our goal then is to adjudicate our conscience in the context of the light of God’s teachings and determine what action the Love of God is inspiring us toward. This requires an immense amount of humility and determination.
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit.
Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:
I invite you to sit in silence feeling being patient for your own faults and trials.
Summarize what insights you have gained during this meditation and meditate and visualize positive change in your life:
This is a listener funded podcast at patreon.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Updates:
Final Question: How do you treat people who reject God or Church?
Final Thought: In life we are not always the villains or the heroes. We are however, always in need of the help of God regardless of what we are doing. Over the coming days take time and think about specifically how you treat others who struggle with faith, doing things ’right, or who dont treat others well. Perhaps remember this scripture and realize the true goal is to bring joy to the lives of all we can and help them find lasting peace. God can help us find ways that we can do that in our lives. You can do that in ways I can’t and vice versa. Invite God to help you.
FIND ME ON:
Download my free app: Recenter with Christ
Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
Voicemail - (602) 888-3795
Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com
Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast
Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast
Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
Luke 15:27-31
NIV
27 ‘Your brother has come,’ he replied, ‘and your father has killed the fattened calf because he has him back safe and sound.’
28 “The older brother became angry and refused to go in. So his father went out and pleaded with him. 29 But he answered his father, ‘Look! All these years I’ve been slaving for you and never disobeyed your orders. Yet you never gave me even a young goat so I could celebrate with my friends. 30 But when this son of yours who has squandered your property with prostitutes comes home, you kill the fattened calf for him!’
31 “‘My son,’ the father said, ‘you are always with me, and everything I have is yours. 32 But we had to celebrate and be glad, because this brother of yours was dead and is alive again; he was lost and is found.’”
FIND ME ON:
Download my free app: Recenter with Christ
Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
Voicemail - (602) 888-3795
Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com
Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast
Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast
Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
I'm Chaplain Jared and I work as a hospice chaplain and an ICU chaplain, my purpose in making this podcast is to help you find more peace in your life and to be more open for your heart to be changed by the Spirit of God. By using centuries old form of Christian Meditation named Lectio Divina:
Outline: Relaxation, Reading, Meditation, Prayer, Contemplation and Visualization.
Get into a place where you can sit comfortably and uninterrupted for about 20 minutes.You should hopefully not be driving or anything tensing or unrelaxing. If you feel comfortable to do so, I invite you to close your eyes.
Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation:
Breathe and direct your thoughts to contacting God. Let your stomach be a balloon inflate, deflate.
Bible verses for Meditation:
Luke 15:27-31
NIV
27 ‘Your brother has come,’ he replied, ‘and your father has killed the fattened calf because he has him back safe and sound.’
28 “The older brother became angry and refused to go in. So his father went out and pleaded with him. 29 But he answered his father, ‘Look! All these years I’ve been slaving for you and never disobeyed your orders. Yet you never gave me even a young goat so I could celebrate with my friends. 30 But when this son of yours who has squandered your property with prostitutes comes home, you kill the fattened calf for him!’
31 “‘My son,’ the father said, ‘you are always with me, and everything I have is yours. 32 But we had to celebrate and be glad, because this brother of yours was dead and is alive again; he was lost and is found.’”
KJV
27 And he said unto him, Thy brother is come; and thy father hath killed the fatted calf, because he hath received him safe and sound.
28 And he was angry, and would not go in: therefore came his father out, and intreated him.
29 And he answering said to his father, Lo, these many years do I serve thee, neither transgressed I at any time thy commandment: and yet thou never gavest me a kid, that I might make merry with my friends:
30 But as soon as this thy son was come, which hath devoured thy living with harlots, thou hast killed for him the fatted calf.
31 And he said unto him, Son, thou art ever with me, and all that I have is thine.
32 It was meet that we should make merry, and be glad: for this thy brother was dead, and is alive again; and was lost, and is found.
Meditation on Scripture:
Many times when we look through the eyes of history, we see ourselves through a certain lens. We constantly look at things through the side we assume that we would have taken. We romanticize certain perspectives and sides and oversimplify others. You can see this in the different perspectives captured in classical literature and how differently we view things today.
For example, in the story of the prodigal son covered last week and this week. Which of the two sons do you identify more with? Which one are you like? The examples of Jesus would have had a different meaning to His audience at the time than they do to us, just in the way we think and reason.
I think Jesus uses such perfect examples with many facets. For example this story has different purpose depending on which one we see ourselves as. How do you see people who you feel have rejected God? How do you treat them? What do you think about them? What exceptions to you make for yourself that you don’t make for others?
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit.
Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:
I invite you to sit in silence feeling being patient for your own faults and trials.
Summarize what insights you have gained during this meditation and meditate and visualize positive change in your life:
This is a listener funded podcast at patreon.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Updates:
Final Question: How do you treat people who reject God or Church?
Final Thought: In life we are not always the villains or the heroes. We are however, always in need of the help of God regardless of what we are doing. Over the coming days take time and think about specifically how you treat others who struggle with faith, doing things ’right, or who dont treat others well. Perhaps remember this scripture and realize the true goal is to bring joy to the lives of all we can and help them find lasting peace. God can help us find ways that we can do that in our lives. You can do that in ways I can’t and vice versa. Invite God to help you.
FIND ME ON:
Download my free app: Recenter with Christ
Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
Voicemail - (602) 888-3795
Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com
Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast
Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast
Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
Bible verses for Meditation:
Luke 15:11-14
NRSV
11 Then Jesus said, “There was a man who had two sons. 12 The younger of them said to his father, ‘Father, give me the share of the property that will belong to me.’ So he divided his property between them. 13 A few days later the younger son gathered all he had and traveled to a distant country, and there he squandered his property in dissolute living. 14 When he had spent everything, a severe famine took place throughout that country, and he began to be in need.
FIND ME ON:
Download my free app: Recenter with Christ
Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
Voicemail - (602) 888-3795
Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com
Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast
Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast
Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
260 He Began To Be In Need, A Guided Christian Meditation on Luke 15:11-14 with the Recenter With Christ app
I'm Chaplain Jared and I work as a hospice chaplain and an ICU chaplain, my purpose in making this podcast is to help you find more peace in your life and to be more open for your heart to be changed by the Spirit of God. By using centuries old form of Christian Meditation named Lectio Divina:
Outline: Relaxation, Reading, Meditation, Prayer, Contemplation and Visualization.
Get into a place where you can sit comfortably and uninterrupted for about 20 minutes.You should hopefully not be driving or anything tensing or unrelaxing. If you feel comfortable to do so, I invite you to close your eyes.
Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation:
Breathe and direct your thoughts to contacting God. Let your stomach be a balloon inflate, deflate.
Bible verses for Meditation:
Luke 15:11-14
NRSV
11 Then Jesus said, “There was a man who had two sons. 12 The younger of them said to his father, ‘Father, give me the share of the property that will belong to me.’ So he divided his property between them. 13 A few days later the younger son gathered all he had and traveled to a distant country, and there he squandered his property in dissolute living. 14 When he had spent everything, a severe famine took place throughout that country, and he began to be in need.
NLT
11 To illustrate the point further, Jesus told them this story: “A man had two sons. 12 The younger son told his father, ‘I want my share of your estate now before you die.’ So his father agreed to divide his wealth between his sons.
13 “A few days later this younger son packed all his belongings and moved to a distant land, and there he wasted all his money in wild living. 14 About the time his money ran out, a great famine swept over the land, and he began to starve.
Meditation on Scripture:
There are times in our lives when we can grow distant from God. We can allow the allure of our world to draw us to pride or indifference to the value God offers. The is a simple grandeur of the life God calls us to and yet at times we lose sight of it. We lose sight of the promises he offers. We set our hearts on the wrong things.
Each one of us also knows other people who are not prioritizing God in their lives like they have in the past. Sometimes that person is us. Out of concern we wonder where their hearts are at.
Then in a moment of clarity you realize an emptiness. A feeling of purposelessness and loneliness. We begin to realize our want, our need before God. The worry of our mind can lead us through anxious paths. That is not the way back to the Father. He offers more. Later in this scripture, the young man remembers what his father has to offer and decides to return. The real question is how do we respond to the same feelings. What is your need before God? What is the most important thing you need in your life right now?
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit.
Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:
I invite you to sit in silence feeling being patient for your own faults and trials.
Summarize what insights you have gained during this meditation and meditate and visualize positive change in your life:
This is a listener funded podcast at patreon.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Updates:
Final Question: In what way are you most in need before God right now?
Final Thought: What does it mean for God to hear you and know your need? What is the difference between what you think you need and what you actually need? Many times we determine what our true needs are only to realize that we missed the mark. We may squander possibilities before us. Yet that is not how God will treat us. When we bring our hearts back to Him, He will always embrace us as we return but the road back may be dusty and long until we feel His embrace. I invite you to reach out to your loving father regarding your needs, your true needs, then do what he asks you.
FIND ME ON:
Download my free app: Recenter with Christ
Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
Voicemail - (602) 888-3795
Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com
Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast
Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast
Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
Bible verses for Meditation:
NABRE
6 Enter, let us bow down in worship;
let us kneel before the Lord who made us.
7 For he is our God,
we are the people he shepherds,
the sheep in his hands.
Oh, that today you would hear his voice:
8 Do not harden your hearts as at Meribah,
as on the day of Massah in the desert
FIND ME ON:
Download my free app: Recenter with Christ
Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
Voicemail - (602) 888-3795
Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com
Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast
Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast
Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
258 If Only You Would Hear His Voice, A Guided Christian Meditation on Psalms 95:6-8 with the Recenter With Christ app
I'm Chaplain Jared and I work as a hospice chaplain and an ICU chaplain, my purpose in making this podcast is to help you find more peace in your life and to be more open for your heart to be changed by the Spirit of God. By using centuries old form of Christian Meditation named Lectio Divina:
Outline: Relaxation, Reading, Meditation, Prayer, Contemplation and Visualization.
Get into a place where you can sit comfortably and uninterrupted for about 20 minutes.You should hopefully not be driving or anything tensing or unrelaxing. If you feel comfortable to do so, I invite you to close your eyes.
Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation:
Breathe and direct your thoughts to contacting God. Let your stomach be a balloon inflate, deflate.
Bible verses for Meditation:
NABRE
6 Enter, let us bow down in worship;
let us kneel before the Lord who made us.
7 For he is our God,
we are the people he shepherds,
the sheep in his hands.
Oh, that today you would hear his voice:
8 Do not harden your hearts as at Meribah,
as on the day of Massah in the desert.
ESV
6 Oh come, let us worship and bow down;
let us kneel before the Lord, our Maker!
7 For he is our God,
and we are the people of his pasture,
and the sheep of his hand.
Today, if you hear his voice,
8 do not harden your hearts, as at Meribah,
as on the day at Massah in the wilderness,
Meditation on Scripture:
What does God’s voice do in you? I’ve had conversations with people who are searching for a way to connect with God. It is my experience that the influence of the spirit reaches each of us in different ways. Just as each person has unique spiritual gifts, so too does each person receive God’s word differently. A huge part of the purpose of our lives is to learn how that works for us.
Once we learn to listen, what do we hear? What else in our lives can we hear? St Benedict said in the 500s AD, “Listen carefully, my child, to the teaching of the master and bend close the ear of your heart.”
I find this a powerful concept. Listen with the ear of our heart. When we learn to listen with this ear we can more clearly hear others and then love them. The teachings of our Master Jesus Christ constantly invite us to listen and follow. What does that listening and following look like in your life?
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit.
Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:
I invite you to sit in silence feeling being patient for your own faults and trials.
Summarize what insights you have gained during this meditation and meditate and visualize positive change in your life:
This is a listener funded podcast at patreon.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Updates:
Final Question: How does listening to God teach you to listen to others?
Final Thought: I periodically get emails from people who have used this very podcast to help them deal with relationships. For example, I have heard from people who connect with God to help them overcome current or past abusive relationships God’s influence helped them get emotionally and spiritually safe. I also had someone reach out to me and show me how the very last communication she ever had with her own mother was to recommend this podcast and her mom liked the text. Then her mother died. Having faith in Christ can speak into every single relationship we have, including those we consider our enemies.
FIND ME ON:
Download my free app: Recenter with Christ
Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
Voicemail - (602) 888-3795
Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com
Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast
Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast
Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
Bible verses for Meditation:
James 2:14-18
NIV
14 What good is it, my brothers and sisters, if someone claims to have faith but has no deeds? Can such faith save them? 15 Suppose a brother or a sister is without clothes and daily food. 16 If one of you says to them, “Go in peace; keep warm and well fed,” but does nothing about their physical needs, what good is it? 17 In the same way, faith by itself, if it is not accompanied by action, is dead.
18 But someone will say, “You have faith; I have deeds.”
Show me your faith without deeds, and I will show you my faith by my deeds.
FIND ME ON:
Download my free app: Recenter with Christ
Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
Voicemail - (602) 888-3795
Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com
Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast
Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast
Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
256 I Will Show You My Faith by my Deeds, A Guided Christian Meditation on James 2:14-18 with the Recenter With Christ app
I'm Chaplain Jared and I work as a hospice chaplain and an ICU chaplain, my purpose in making this podcast is to help you find more peace in your life and to be more open for your heart to be changed by the Spirit of God. By using centuries old form of Christian Meditation named Lectio Divina:
Outline: Relaxation, Reading, Meditation, Prayer, Contemplation and Visualization.
Get into a place where you can sit comfortably and uninterrupted for about 20 minutes.You should hopefully not be driving or anything tensing or unrelaxing. If you feel comfortable to do so, I invite you to close your eyes.
Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation:
Breathe and direct your thoughts to contacting God. Let your stomach be a balloon inflate, deflate.
Bible verses for Meditation:
James 2:14-18
NIV
14 What good is it, my brothers and sisters, if someone claims to have faith but has no deeds? Can such faith save them? 15 Suppose a brother or a sister is without clothes and daily food. 16 If one of you says to them, “Go in peace; keep warm and well fed,” but does nothing about their physical needs, what good is it? 17 In the same way, faith by itself, if it is not accompanied by action, is dead.
18 But someone will say, “You have faith; I have deeds.”
Show me your faith without deeds, and I will show you my faith by my deeds.
NABRE
14 What good is it, my brothers, if someone says he has faith but does not have works? Can that faith save him? 15 If a brother or sister has nothing to wear and has no food for the day, 16 and one of you says to them, “Go in peace, keep warm, and eat well,” but you do not give them the necessities of the body, what good is it? 17 So also faith of itself, if it does not have works, is dead.
18 Indeed someone may say, “You have faith and I have works.” Demonstrate your faith to me without works, and I will demonstrate my faith to you from my works.
Meditation on Scripture:
What does your faith motivate you to do? What do you wish your faith would motivate you to do? Faith is a principle of action. Our faith connects us to God and God can motivate us to greatness both in this life and the next. I want you to ponder how your faith motivates you in terms of other people. Having a Christ centered view of others is the foundation for positive human relationships. The way we connect with those closest to us is a direct reflection of our Christian faith.
What is the relationship between your faith and the way you live with others? Do we say to others Go in peace while not actually doing anything to help? Ponder for a moment the unique spiritual gifts that you have that may benefit others. Perhaps you have influence on others and can recommend this podcast or something helpful. Perhaps you have strong skills in one area or another. Perhaps you have a strong prayer life and can pray for others. I know I would appreciate all the prayers I can get. Consider how your actions can bring the Kingdom of Heaven to earth.
Consider this. There is no greater adventure than to ally with God. Our goal should be to receive the invitation that God gave us to live by his spirit. There is no greater adventure and this is what leads to His reward.
Is there some good thing
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit.
Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:
I invite you to sit in silence feeling being patient for your own faults and trials.
Summarize what insights you have gained during this meditation and meditate and visualize positive change in your life:
This is a listener funded podcast at patreon.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Updates:
Final Question: How do you plan to take up the courage of God?
Final Thought: I periodically get emails from people who have used this very podcast to help them deal with relationships. For example, I have heard from people who connect with God to help them overcome current or past abusive relationships God’s influence helped them get emotionally and spiritually safe. I also had someone reach out to me and show me how the very last communication she ever had with her own mother was to recommend this podcast and her mom liked the text. Then her mother died. Having faith in Christ can speak into every single relationship we have, including those we consider our enemies.
FIND ME ON:
Download my free app: Recenter with Christ
Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
Voicemail - (602) 888-3795
Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com
Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast
Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast
Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
Bible verses for Meditation:
Joshua 1:6-8
NRSV
6 Be strong and courageous; for you shall put this people in possession of the land that I swore to their ancestors to give them. 7 Only be strong and very courageous, being careful to act in accordance with all the law that my servant Moses commanded you; do not turn from it to the right hand or to the left, so that you may be successful wherever you go. 8 This book of the law shall not depart out of your mouth; you shall meditate on it day and night, so that you may be careful to act in accordance with all that is written in it. For then you shall make your way prosperous, and then you shall be successful.
Meditation on Scripture:
I think much of human weakness is rooted in fear. Fear we aren't enough. Some fear there isn't enough attention or glory for themselves. We fear for the safety of others and for unjust things in this world we both experience and cause. We fear what we dont understand both what we dont understand around us and what we dont understand within.
There are facets of our hearts that are dark as well a facet that longs for God. Each human heart carries within it a ferocity. Some have defined this as the warrior spirit. In the Lion the Witch and the Wardrobe series CS Lewis there is a character who is a symbol of Jesus. He is the Lion Aslan. Throughout scripture God is represented as the Lion of Judah. He is both ferocious and kind. The spirit of God within you has those elements as well.
Why should we take courage? To what end should we hope? To do what God wants us to do in all things. His covenant of old was around the law passed down to Moses. Now it is the way fo Jesus and is the root of the conscience He writes upon the fleshy tables of our heart. Be courageous to do what you know is right no matter what stands in your way, just be cautious it is really what God calls.
FIND ME ON:
Download my free app: Recenter with Christ
Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
Voicemail - (602) 888-3795
Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com
Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast
Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast
Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
254 Be Strong and of Good Courage, A Guided Christian Meditation on Joshua 1:6-8 with the Recenter With Christ app
I'm Chaplain Jared and I work as a hospice chaplain and an ICU chaplain, my purpose in making this podcast is to help you find more peace in your life and to be more open for your heart to be changed by the Spirit of God. By using centuries old form of Christian Meditation named Lectio Divina:
Outline: Relaxation, Reading, Meditation, Prayer, Contemplation and Visualization.
Get into a place where you can sit comfortably and uninterrupted for about 20 minutes.You should hopefully not be driving or anything tensing or unrelaxing. If you feel comfortable to do so, I invite you to close your eyes.
Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation:
Breathe and direct your thoughts to contacting God. Let your stomach be a balloon inflate, deflate.
Bible verses for Meditation:
Joshua 1:6-8
NRSV
6 Be strong and courageous; for you shall put this people in possession of the land that I swore to their ancestors to give them. 7 Only be strong and very courageous, being careful to act in accordance with all the law that my servant Moses commanded you; do not turn from it to the right hand or to the left, so that you may be successful wherever you go. 8 This book of the law shall not depart out of your mouth; you shall meditate on it day and night, so that you may be careful to act in accordance with all that is written in it. For then you shall make your way prosperous, and then you shall be successful.
KJV
6 Be strong and of a good courage: for unto this people shalt thou divide for an inheritance the land, which I sware unto their fathers to give them.
7 Only be thou strong and very courageous, that thou mayest observe to do according to all the law, which Moses my servant commanded thee: turn not from it to the right hand or to the left, that thou mayest prosper whithersoever thou goest.
8 This book of the law shall not depart out of thy mouth; but thou shalt meditate therein day and night, that thou mayest observe to do according to all that is written therein: for then thou shalt make thy way prosperous, and then thou shalt have good success.
Meditation on Scripture:
I think much of human weakness is rooted in fear. Fear we aren't enough. Some fear there isn't enough attention or glory for themselves. We fear for the safety of others and for unjust things in this world we both experience and cause. We fear what we dont understand both what we dont understand around us and what we dont understand within.
There are facets of our hearts that are dark as well a facet that longs for God. Each human heart carries within it a ferocity. Some have defined this as the warrior spirit. In the Lion the Witch and the Wardrobe series CS Lewis there is a character who is a symbol of Jesus. He is the Lion Aslan. Throughout scripture God is represented as the Lion of Judah. He is both ferocious and kind. The spirit of God within you has those elements as well.
Why should we take courage? To what end should we hope? To do what God wants us to do in all things. His covenant of old was around the law passed down to Moses. Now it is the way fo Jesus and is the root of the conscience He writes upon the fleshy tables of our heart. Be courageous to do what you know is right no matter what stands in your way, just be cautious it is really what God calls.
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit.
Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:
I invite you to sit in silence feeling being patient for your own faults and trials.
Summarize what insights you have gained during this meditation and meditate and visualize positive change in your life:
This is a listener funded podcast at patreon.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Updates:
Final Question: How do you plan to take up the courage of God?
Final Thought: Although most of the time we focus on the peace of God there is also a tenacity and ferocity of God. As God is within you, you also have access to this wild strength. When you stand before challenges you can either cower in fear or stand in courage being supported by the dreadful yet loving arm of God. Take courage. God is on your side.
FIND ME ON:
Download my free app: Recenter with Christ
Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
Voicemail - (602) 888-3795
Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com
Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast
Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast
Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
Bible verses for Meditation:
Romans 3:9-13
NIV
9 What shall we conclude then? Do we have any advantage? Not at all! For we have already made the charge that Jews and Gentiles alike are all under the power of sin. 10 As it is written:
“There is no one righteous, not even one;
11 there is no one who understands;
there is no one who seeks God.
12 All have turned away,
they have together become worthless;
there is no one who does good,
not even one.”
13 “Their throats are open graves;
their tongues practice deceit.”
“The poison of vipers is on their lips.”
Meditation on Scripture:
FIND ME ON:
Download my free app: Recenter with Christ
Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
Voicemail - (602) 888-3795
Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com
Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast
Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast
Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
252 Alike Under the Power of Sin, A Guided Christian Meditation on Romans 3:9-13 and the Recenter With Christ app
I'm Chaplain Jared and I work as a hospice chaplain and an ICU chaplain, my purpose in making this podcast is to help you find more peace in your life and to be more open for your heart to be changed by the Spirit of God. By using centuries old form of Christian Meditation named Lectio Divina:
Outline: Relaxation, Reading, Meditation, Prayer, Contemplation and Visualization.
Get into a place where you can sit comfortably and uninterrupted for about 20 minutes.You should hopefully not be driving or anything tensing or unrelaxing. If you feel comfortable to do so, I invite you to close your eyes.
Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation:
Breathe and direct your thoughts to contacting God. Let your stomach be a balloon inflate, deflate.
Bible verses for Meditation:
Romans 3:9-13
NIV
9 What shall we conclude then? Do we have any advantage? Not at all! For we have already made the charge that Jews and Gentiles alike are all under the power of sin. 10 As it is written:
“There is no one righteous, not even one;
11 there is no one who understands;
there is no one who seeks God.
12 All have turned away,
they have together become worthless;
there is no one who does good,
not even one.”
13 “Their throats are open graves;
their tongues practice deceit.”
“The poison of vipers is on their lips.”
NABRE
9 Well, then, are we better off? Not entirely, for we have already brought the charge against Jews and Greeks alike that they are all under the domination of sin, 10 as it is written:
“There is no one just, not one,
11 there is no one who understands,
there is no one who seeks God.
12 All have gone astray; all alike are worthless;
there is not one who does good,
[there is not] even one.
13 Their throats are open graves;
they deceive with their tongues;
the venom of asps is on their lips;
Meditation on Scripture:
Most of the time I focus on a message of God’s love and this may seem out of sync with that. I recognize the power of this scripture. Many people receive it differently. I know many people who receive this message with shame. It can seem like this is a message of the wrath of God and his anger at us sinners. I don’t think that needs to be our response to this message. This may seem counterintuitive but I think that a recognition of the darkness that resides in us can actually help us release shame. Many times as Christians and those who attempt to follow the master of peace, we feel some dissonance between our Godly aspirations and our heart at times. Each of us have within us the capacity for evil. When we can confess our hearts to God and are open about this there can be a sense of relief that He loves us despite our worst parts.
I recently Read the book Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde. It is a compelling story of a man who attempts to create a potion that allows him to split his good will and sinful nature into two different manifestations. Little by little as he gives license to his sinful nature the portion of him that remains good deteriorates. This is what we stand in danger of in life. We have a choice to yield to darkness or light. The evil that surrounds us, or the still small voice of God.
Modern psychological experiments like the Stanford Prison and Milgram experiments reiterate what we see echoed in history and scripture. Even regular people have a terrible capacity. Intimacy before God is an acknowledgement of reality. We don’t need God and redemption for some hypothetical sins but very real ones. Yet here is where the light of God illuminates the darkness. We are are not grateful to God for overlooking some slight annoyances but for loving and redeeming us for profound darkness and an eternity subjected to evil. He provides the way out. We need not remain slaves to sin as we follow Him in faith.
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit.
Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:
I invite you to sit in silence feeling being patient for your own faults and trials.
Summarize what insights you have gained during this meditation and meditate and visualize positive change in your life:
This is a listener funded podcast at patreon.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Updates:
Final Question: How do you relate to the idea of our sinful nature?
Final Thought: I want to mention something in the context of self honesty. For some people who suffer greatly from anxious negative self image the concept of being so blunt about our failings may seem like a black hole from which we can’t escape. If you find yourself overwhelmed by these sorts of thoughts I recommend finding someone to help you work through this. Obviously praying directly to God about it and continuing to meditate on His love for you is helpful but you may also find it helpful to have someone walk alongside of you as you reconcile your darker nature with the incredible and unstoppable love of the God of Heaven. God loves you.
FIND ME ON:
Download my free app: Recenter with Christ
Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
Voicemail - (602) 888-3795
Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com
Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast
Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast
Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
Bible verses for Meditation:
Isaiah 53
KJV
4 Surely he hath borne our griefs, and carried our sorrows: yet we did esteem him stricken, smitten of God, and afflicted.
5 But he was wounded for our transgressions, he was bruised for our iniquities: the chastisement of our peace was upon him; and with his stripes we are healed.
6 All we like sheep have gone astray; we have turned every one to his own way; and the Lord hath laid on him the iniquity of us all.
NRSV
4 Surely he has borne our infirmities
and carried our diseases;
yet we accounted him stricken,
struck down by God, and afflicted.
5 But he was wounded for our transgressions,
crushed for our iniquities;
upon him was the punishment that made us whole,
and by his bruises we are healed.
6 All we like sheep have gone astray;
we have all turned to our own way,
and the Lord has laid on him
the iniquity of us all.
FIND ME ON:
Download my free app: Recenter with Christ
Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
Voicemail - (602) 888-3795
Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com
Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast
Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast
Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
250 With His Stripes We Are Healed, A Guided Christian Meditation on Isaiah 53:4-6 (continued from episode 158) Recenter With Christ
I'm Chaplain Jared and I work as a hospice chaplain and an ICU chaplain, my purpose in making this podcast is to help you find more peace in your life and to be more open for your heart to be changed by the Spirit of God. By using centuries old form of Christian Meditation named Lectio Divina:
Outline: Relaxation, Reading, Meditation, Prayer, Contemplation and Visualization.
Get into a place where you can sit comfortably and uninterrupted for about 20 minutes.You should hopefully not be driving or anything tensing or unrelaxing. If you feel comfortable to do so, I invite you to close your eyes.
Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation:
Breathe and direct your thoughts to contacting God. Let your stomach be a balloon inflate, deflate.
Bible verses for Meditation:
Isaiah 53
KJV
4 Surely he hath borne our griefs, and carried our sorrows: yet we did esteem him stricken, smitten of God, and afflicted.
5 But he was wounded for our transgressions, he was bruised for our iniquities: the chastisement of our peace was upon him; and with his stripes we are healed.
6 All we like sheep have gone astray; we have turned every one to his own way; and the Lord hath laid on him the iniquity of us all.
NRSV
4 Surely he has borne our infirmities
and carried our diseases;
yet we accounted him stricken,
struck down by God, and afflicted.
5 But he was wounded for our transgressions,
crushed for our iniquities;
upon him was the punishment that made us whole,
and by his bruises we are healed.
6 All we like sheep have gone astray;
we have all turned to our own way,
and the Lord has laid on him
the iniquity of us all.
Meditation on Scripture:
This scripture came to me in an flash. I had nearly finished preparing another one when it became clear that I should change to this one. We need to be reminded that Jesus bore our grief. He carried our sorrow. Yet even in that, we don’t see it. Some people find themselves asking God where are you? When we are in this mindset we are willing to ignore the horrors of the Cross because we are having a hard time of life.
Yet even in the midst of this, Christ was wounded for our transgressions. The reason and the method of our redemption was a literal weight upon his back, that his mortal frame struggled to carry. Yet it is though those stripes that we are healed. This is far from a theological turn of a phrase. When we struggle to wonder were God is, this question is known to Him. He asked it too on the Cross when he cried “My God my God, why have you forsaken me?” Even in this declaration Jesus was quoting Psalm 22.
Remember this, in the middle of our struggle, God declares that His stripes heal us. Ponder in this moment how the challenge of life would be much greater with the knowledge that our lack of purity would cause us to be cast out from God’s presence forever the moment we die. As it is we struggle from time to time on earth. Sometimes we struggle more than we think we can overcome, yet even in the middle of that, we can trust in the Mercy of a God who forgives despite our failings. Thanks be to God for His indescribable gift.
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit.
Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:
I invite you to sit in silence feeling being patient for your own faults and trials.
Summarize what insights you have gained during this meditation and meditate and visualize positive change in your life:
This is a listener funded podcast at patreon.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Updates:
Final Question: What did you experience today as you pondered on the offering of God’s redemption?
Final Thought: Many people have reached out to me due changing situations that have brought unfold emotional and even spiritual hardship. Even in the middle of this, there is hope. There is promise of a better day ahead as we have faith. This is not a time when we need be somber and sad. It is a time when we can regather our strength, rise up and put off the things of this world as we place our focus on the Lord and what He has done for us. May gratitude replace the struggle in our hearts and may we experience His peace.
FIND ME ON:
Download my free app: Recenter with Christ
Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
Voicemail - (602) 888-3795
Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com
Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast
Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast
Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
Bible verses for Meditation:
1 John 4:7-12
NIV
7 Dear friends, let us love one another, for love comes from God. Everyone who loves has been born of God and knows God.
8 Whoever does not love does not know God, because God is love.
9 This is how God showed his love among us: He sent his one and only Son into the world that we might live through him.
10 This is love: not that we loved God, but that he loved us and sent his Son as an atoning sacrifice for our sins.
11 Dear friends, since God so loved us, we also ought to love one another.
12 No one has ever seen God; but if we love one another, God lives in us and his love is made complete in us.
FIND ME ON:
Download my free app: Recenter with Christ
Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
Voicemail - (602) 888-3795
Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com
Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast
Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast
Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
248 If We Love One Another, God Lives In Us, A Guided Christian Meditation on 1 John 4:7-12
I'm Chaplain Jared and I work as a hospice chaplain and an ICU chaplain, my purpose in making this podcast is to help you find more peace in your life and to be more open for your heart to be changed by the Spirit of God. By using centuries old form of Christian Meditation named Lectio Divina:
Outline: Relaxation, Reading, Meditation, Prayer, Contemplation and Visualization.
Get into a place where you can sit comfortably and uninterrupted for about 20 minutes.You should hopefully not be driving or anything tensing or unrelaxing. If you feel comfortable to do so, I invite you to close your eyes.
Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation:
Breathe and direct your thoughts to contacting God. Let your stomach be a balloon inflate, deflate.
Bible verses for Meditation:
1 John 4:7-12
NIV
7 Dear friends, let us love one another, for love comes from God. Everyone who loves has been born of God and knows God.
8 Whoever does not love does not know God, because God is love.
9 This is how God showed his love among us: He sent his one and only Son into the world that we might live through him.
10 This is love: not that we loved God, but that he loved us and sent his Son as an atoning sacrifice for our sins.
11 Dear friends, since God so loved us, we also ought to love one another.
12 No one has ever seen God; but if we love one another, God lives in us and his love is made complete in us.
NRSV
7 Beloved, let us love one another, because love is from God; everyone who loves is born of God and knows God.
8 Whoever does not love does not know God, for God is love.
9 God’s love was revealed among us in this way: God sent his only Son into the world so that we might live through him.
10 In this is love, not that we loved God but that he loved us and sent his Son to be the atoning sacrifice for our sins.
11 Beloved, since God loved us so much, we also ought to love one another.
12 No one has ever seen God; if we love one another, God lives in us, and his love is perfected in us.
Meditation on Scripture:
We know in our hearts that Love is the highest ideal for us to reach toward as we grown in our understanding of God. Unfortunately we all struggle with pieces of hate and rage in our hearts as well that can be provoked to come pouring out. In this moment let us take intention of embracing the love. It would be immature or incomplete for us to claim that we are free from hate. Yet John’s epistle equates love with faith. As our faith matures it must move toward love, for God is love.
What does it mean that God is love? I believe it means that God’s presence is primarily defined as love. In other words wherever and whenever we are near Him, we are encompassed by love. It is comparing fire to light. When we are in communion with God, we are living in His love. I remember a time when I was a young man and I was praying. I had a notion of faith and was actively praying to God. In one moment I became incredibly aware and confident that God could hear my prayer. My heart was overcome with a feeling that I was loved. My goal became to live in such a way that I invited that experience into my life as often as possible. I have accomplished this with many failures but a dedicated focus for decades. It is a feeling that has become much more common to me to me know but at one point in my life it was a new surprise.
I see the love of God as directly connected to the kind of faith that Jesus demands from us. Our goal should be then to live in that Love and to constantly pray and act to build that faith and love.
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit.
Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:
I invite you to sit in silence feeling being patient for your own faults and trials.
Summarize what insights you have gained during this meditation and meditate and visualize positive change in your life:
This is a listener funded podcast at patreon.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Updates:
Final Question: What can you do in your life to more clearly reflect the love of God?
Final Thought: My hope is that my repeated message focusing on love will not come across as unimaginative or unsophisticated. I firmly hold that there is nothing more important in our lives than God and His central message through Jesus Christ was a command to love and then to follow Him. It is my hope and expectation that the more focus we place on making our hearts open to the love of God, the more we invite God’s influence into our hearts. When it arrives it is the most rewarding thing we can seek. This Love forms the center of an eternal relationship with God.
FIND ME ON:
Download my free app: Recenter with Christ
Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
Voicemail - (602) 888-3795
Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com
Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast
Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast
Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
Bible verses for Meditation:
2 Kings 6:14-17
ESV
14 So he sent there horses and chariots and a great army, and they came by night and surrounded the city.
15 When the servant of the man of God rose early in the morning and went out, behold, an army with horses and chariots was all around the city. And the servant said, “Alas, my master! What shall we do?”
16 He said, “Do not be afraid, for those who are with us are more than those who are with them.”
17 Then Elisha prayed and said, “O Lord, please open his eyes that he may see.” So the Lord opened the eyes of the young man, and he saw, and behold, the mountain was full of horses and chariots of fire all around Elisha.FIND ME ON:
Download my free app: Recenter with Christ
Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
Voicemail - (602) 888-3795
Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com
Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast
Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast
Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
Bible verses for Meditation:
2 Kings 6:14-17
ESV
14 So he sent there horses and chariots and a great army, and they came by night and surrounded the city.
15 When the servant of the man of God rose early in the morning and went out, behold, an army with horses and chariots was all around the city. And the servant said, “Alas, my master! What shall we do?”
16 He said, “Do not be afraid, for those who are with us are more than those who are with them.”
17 Then Elisha prayed and said, “O Lord, please open his eyes that he may see.” So the Lord opened the eyes of the young man, and he saw, and behold, the mountain was full of horses and chariots of fire all around Elisha.FIND ME ON:
Download my free app: Recenter with Christ
Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
Voicemail - (602) 888-3795
Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com
Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast
Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast
Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
246 Do Not Be Afraid, There are More With Ws Than With Them, A Guided Christian Meditation on 2 Kings 6:14-17
I'm Chaplain Jared and I work as a hospice chaplain and an ICU chaplain, my purpose in making this podcast is to help you find more peace in your life and to be more open for your heart to be changed by the Spirit of God. By using centuries old form of Christian Meditation named Lectio Divina:
Outline: Relaxation, Reading, Meditation, Prayer, Contemplation and Visualization.
Get into a place where you can sit comfortably and uninterrupted for about 20 minutes.You should hopefully not be driving or anything tensing or unrelaxing. If you feel comfortable to do so, I invite you to close your eyes.
Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation:
Breathe and direct your thoughts to contacting God. Let your stomach be a balloon inflate, deflate.
Bible verses for Meditation:
2 Kings 6:14-17
ESV
14 So he sent there horses and chariots and a great army, and they came by night and surrounded the city.
15 When the servant of the man of God rose early in the morning and went out, behold, an army with horses and chariots was all around the city. And the servant said, “Alas, my master! What shall we do?”
16 He said, “Do not be afraid, for those who are with us are more than those who are with them.”
17 Then Elisha prayed and said, “O Lord, please open his eyes that he may see.” So the Lord opened the eyes of the young man, and he saw, and behold, the mountain was full of horses and chariots of fire all around Elisha.
NABRE
14 he sent there a strong force with horses and chariots. They arrived by night and encircled the city.
15 Early the next morning, when the servant of the man of God arose and went out, he saw the force with its horses and chariots surrounding the city. “Alas!” he said to Elisha. “What shall we do, my lord?”
16 Elisha answered, “Do not be afraid. Our side outnumbers theirs.”
17 Then he prayed, “O Lord, open his eyes, that he may see.” And the Lord opened the eyes of the servant, and he saw that the mountainside was filled with fiery chariots and horses around Elisha.
Meditation on Scripture:
The story of Elisha in the Hebew Bible is fascinating, inspiring, yet also intimidating. It is amazing to see such direct involvement between God and humans. We see here his absolute confidence and awareness of the protection of heaven. As people who attempt to follow God, we are constantly assailed by forces trying to drag us down. Those take many forms. I have had many people write me emails explaining their struggles with grief and other emotions as well there struggles with mental health. I have had many people write me with depression. I have had more than one write me about psychosis where they tell me how the struggle understanding what is reality. Each of us has our own struggle that will help us grow in ways we need.
When Jesus encountered a blind man his disciples asked who sinned to make the man blind. There was a built in assumption that the blindness must have been a curse from God. Jesus dismissed this idea and said it was to show the power of God. Similarly I think we should be cautious to think that people who struggle with mood disorders or mental illness have somehow invited it by sin. Perhaps it is to invite you to learn and grow. Mental health can challenge our expectations of fairness and it should. One in five people has or while have a diagnosable mental health disorder at some point in their life. There is no shame in struggle.
If you are struggling with mental health, know this. Many good people are also. Many people of faith are weighed down by similar weights. The important thing to know is that you are not facing it alone. Those that are with you are far greater than those who oppose you. Adding to that, the God of the universe is on your side. I truly believe that each of us is surrounded by the forces of God to lift us up and help us. I suggest you seek whatever help you need to move through the though times in your life. Be humble and persistent to get the help you need. God loves you. This life with be a blessing for you in the long run if our struggle draws us to God.
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit.
Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:
I invite you to sit in silence feeling being patient for your own faults and trials.
Summarize what insights you have gained during this meditation and meditate and visualize positive change in your life:
This is a listener funded podcast at patreon.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Updates:
Final Question: What biases do you have about mental health?
Final Thought: Having served as a hospital Chaplain, I have encountered many people with severe mental health disorders. I have meet more than one person who told me they were God himself. As humans it is hard to respond to things that are outside of our experience. Mental health issues can feel that way. Even more common struggles like bipolar, anxiety, and depression can feel unfamiliar and even uncomfortable if you haven't encountered them before. I can assure you that all people who are working through mental health struggles are children of God. He loves you just as profoundly as anyone else. The heavens are there supporting you even in this moment you are hearing this. God loves you and you can stay strong. Find the help that you need and you can rise up and overcome.
FIND ME ON:
Download my free app: Recenter with Christ
Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
Voicemail - (602) 888-3795
Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com
Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast
Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast
Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
NRSV
23 Let us hold fast to the confession of our hope without wavering, for he who has promised is faithful. 24 And let us consider how to provoke one another to love and good deeds, 25 not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another, and all the more as you see the Day approaching.
FIND ME ON:
Download my free app: Recenter with Christ
Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
Voicemail - (602) 888-3795
Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com
Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast
Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast
Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
Bible verses for Meditation:
Hebrews 10:23-25
NABRE
23 Let us hold unwaveringly to our confession that gives us hope, for he who made the promise is trustworthy. 24 We must consider how to rouse one another to love and good works. 25 We should not stay away from our assembly, as is the custom of some, but encourage one another, and this all the more as you see the day drawing near.
NRSV
23 Let us hold fast to the confession of our hope without wavering, for he who has promised is faithful. 24 And let us consider how to provoke one another to love and good deeds, 25 not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another, and all the more as you see the Day approaching.
Meditation on Scripture:
Hebrews is a powerful text. It teaches us that Christ is a High Priest that came to perform a redeeming sacrifice for us. This is a prevalent theme as is how we can serve each other. This scripture has a few powerful messages for us in that. First is to maintain an unwavering confession of our hope in Him even in the middle of such uncertainty. God’s promise is trustworthy. Another powerful aspect is the idea that we provoke each other to love and good deeds. Generally provoking someone tends to be used as a negative. Sometimes we provoke others to anger or even sadness. As Christians our goal should be to help each other live the highest law that Christ gave, which is to learn how to love deeply. This scripture also talks of gathering together. As we ponder collectively what it looks like to gather together in our context let us be mindful of others that we don’t provoke them to shame or rejection due to physical concerns.
Gathering is a sacred tradition instituted by God even before the coming of Christ. We have more tools available to gather than ever before. How are we using them? Are we using our technology to reach out to those who are hesitant to meet due to physical health? As you and your congregation consider what is appropriate for meeting I hope we can find ways to make worship available to as many people as possible using all available technology and tools. I don’t think technology can ever truly replace the value of physically worshiping together but I hope we can be mindful of reaching out to others who are isolated and vulnerable. Let us encourage one another and provoke each other to good deeds and love.
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit.
Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:
I invite you to sit in silence feeling being patient for your own faults and trials.
Summarize what insights you have gained during this meditation and meditate and visualize positive change in your life:
This is a listener funded podcast at patreon.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Updates:
Final Question: How can you provoke others to love and good deeds?
Final Thought: This has been and continues to be a very stressful time for many people. I think in this context it is valuable that we are patient with others and ourselves. The love of God extends to us even when we make extremely poor choices. To act as Jesus would I believe includes aspiring to this kind of love. Perhaps over the next week at least you can ask yourself if the words you speak or write provoke love or shame. Do we use our words to try and show how others are ridiculous or to build bridges of understanding and love? We, as a world and community of believers, need compassion now more than ever before. Let us choose the example of Jesus Christ and pour out our love onto as many people as possible.
FIND ME ON:
Download my free app: Recenter with Christ
Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
Voicemail - (602) 888-3795
Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com
Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast
Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast
Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
Bible verses for Meditation:
Romans 8:18-25
KJV
18 For I reckon that the sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory which shall be revealed in us.
19 For the earnest expectation of the creature waiteth for the manifestation of the sons of God.
20 For the creature was made subject to vanity, not willingly, but by reason of him who hath subjected the same in hope,
21 Because the creature itself also shall be delivered from the bondage of corruption into the glorious liberty of the children of God.
22 For we know that the whole creation groaneth and travaileth in pain together until now.
23 And not only they, but ourselves also, which have the firstfruits of the Spirit, even we ourselves groan within ourselves, waiting for the adoption, to wit, the redemption of our body.
24 For we are saved by hope: but hope that is seen is not hope: for what a man seeth, why doth he yet hope for?
25 But if we hope for that we see not, then do we with patience wait for it.
Meditation on Scripture:
I do not believe that the collaborative scourges afflicting the world right now are meant to destroy us or even divide us. That may be the case with some people. For us who have placed our trust in God and work to draw near to him, we can actually grow amidst this struggle. This scripture indicates how the sufferings of life will not matter when we see it compared to the Glory of God. I dare say we can even grow and learn things in this life in the midst of the difficulties of life which cause us to embrace the hope of God even more and which we could not have done without the struggle. These glories will be revealed in us through God’s spirit. The aspect of us that is the creature, or the natural fallen nature, gives way to the glorifying spirit of peace which helps us rise up. Although we feel the labor pains of the birth of the new creature, the end result of the redemption of our God is glorious. Take a moment and feel the goodness of God well up in your heart now
We can be free. Free. Free in every way that one can be free. Hope grows within us even when we can’t see this end result. I encourage you to consider ways that you have already grown during this time of struggle. Look for the blessings and strength of God in your life today. If you feel that this time has caused you to slide backwards, rededicate yourself with the knowledge that this earthly suffering does not need to overcome your spiritual progress. If you have noticed spiritual progress, look how you can expand it with God’s help.
FIND ME ON:
Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
App Store App: Recenter with Christ
Voicemail - (602) 888-3795
Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com
Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast
Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast
Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation:
Breathe and direct your thoughts to contacting God. Let your stomach be a balloon inflate, deflate.
Bible verses for Meditation:
Romans 8:18-25
ESV
18 For I consider that the sufferings of this present time are not worth comparing with the glory that is to be revealed to us.
19 For the creation waits with eager longing for the revealing of the sons of God.
20 For the creation was subjected to futility, not willingly, but because of him who subjected it, in hope
21 that the creation itself will be set free from its bondage to corruption and obtain the freedom of the glory of the children of God.
22 For we know that the whole creation has been groaning together in the pains of childbirth until now.
23 And not only the creation, but we ourselves, who have the firstfruits of the Spirit, groan inwardly as we wait eagerly for adoption as sons, the redemption of our bodies.
24 For in this hope we were saved. Now hope that is seen is not hope. For who hopes for what he sees?
25 But if we hope for what we do not see, we wait for it with patience.
KJV
18 For I reckon that the sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory which shall be revealed in us.
19 For the earnest expectation of the creature waiteth for the manifestation of the sons of God.
20 For the creature was made subject to vanity, not willingly, but by reason of him who hath subjected the same in hope,
21 Because the creature itself also shall be delivered from the bondage of corruption into the glorious liberty of the children of God.
22 For we know that the whole creation groaneth and travaileth in pain together until now.
23 And not only they, but ourselves also, which have the firstfruits of the Spirit, even we ourselves groan within ourselves, waiting for the adoption, to wit, the redemption of our body.
24 For we are saved by hope: but hope that is seen is not hope: for what a man seeth, why doth he yet hope for?
25 But if we hope for that we see not, then do we with patience wait for it.
Meditation on Scripture:
I do not believe that the collaborative scourges afflicting the world right now are meant to destroy us or even divide us. That may be the case with some people. For us who have placed our trust in God and work to draw near to him, we can actually grow amidst this struggle. This scripture indicates how the sufferings of life will not matter when we see it compared to the Glory of God. I dare say we can even grow and learn things in this life in the midst of the difficulties of life which cause us to embrace the hope of God even more and which we could not have done without the struggle. These glories will be revealed in us through God’s spirit. The aspect of us that is the creature, or the natural fallen nature, gives way to the glorifying spirit of peace which helps us rise up. Although we feel the labor pains of the birth of the new creature, the end result of the redemption of our God is glorious. Take a moment and feel the goodness of God well up in your heart now
We can be free. Free. Free in every way that one can be free. Hope grows within us even when we can’t see this end result. I encourage you to consider ways that you have already grown during this time of struggle. Look for the blessings and strength of God in your life today. If you feel that this time has caused you to slide backwards, rededicate yourself with the knowledge that this earthly suffering does not need to overcome your spiritual progress. If you have noticed spiritual progress, look how you can expand it with God’s help.
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit.
Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:
I invite you to sit in silence feeling being patient for your own faults and trials.
Summarize what insights you have gained during this meditation and meditate and visualize positive change in your life:
This is a listener funded podcast at patreon.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Updates:
Final Question: How have you responded to the difficulties you have experienced ove the last few months?
Final Thought: Even now, inside us there are pieces of unresolved undeveloped creaturehood. The spirit of God is what roots that out of us and helps us continually reject the less than holy influences that attack us as we await a unified and complete adoption of the father. The simple fact is that these sufferings in our life are not a representation of the lack of God’s love or understanding. They are obstacles that, with God’s help we can learn to climb over and become stronger and close to Him. I know that God loves you and wants the best for you. May you feel that blessing in your life.
FIND ME ON:
Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
App Store App: Recenter with Christ
Voicemail - (602) 888-3795
Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com
Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast
Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast
Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
Bible verses for Meditation:
Acts 2:17-19
NIV
17 “‘In the last days, God says,
I will pour out my Spirit on all people.
Your sons and daughters will prophesy,
your young men will see visions,
your old men will dream dreams.
18 Even on my servants, both men and women,
I will pour out my Spirit in those days,
and they will prophesy.
19 I will show wonders in the heavens above
and signs on the earth below,
blood and fire and billows of smoke.
KJV
17 And it shall come to pass in the last days, saith God, I will pour out of my Spirit upon all flesh: and your sons and your daughters shall prophesy, and your young men shall see visions, and your old men shall dream dreams:
18 And on my servants and on my handmaidens I will pour out in those days of my Spirit; and they shall prophesy:
19 And I will shew wonders in heaven above, and signs in the earth beneath; blood, and fire, and vapour of smoke:
Meditation on Scripture:
Recently many people celebrated Pentacost. The Bible remembers this as a miraculous time of miracles and speaking in tongues as recorded in Acts 2. There were many mighty things done. This was a clearly demonstrated outpouring of God’s Spirit. For us it is written as miraculous history. It is the story many have heard retold for centuries. Yet when it occurred it is likely almost nobody expected it to be as it was. This event represents an amazing transition representing the outpouring of the spirit that Jesus foretold. Yet even still it was a surprise. This time was when we see a great change in Peter. Before this he was a fisherman who struggled to understand.
The two most recent appearances of Peter in the narrative Luke records is Peter denying Jesus and then Peter running to the tomb in surprise. Then in the chapters after Acts 2 Peter proclaims with conviction, heals, and leads. The spirit has a glorious and transformational affect. This is good news and has become an often talked about experience. What I want to focus on is that nobody knew this was going to happen, before it happened.
As we may be down and not very hopeful of change may we remember what God is able to do with people who are willing to strive in His Spirit. Due to things going on in your own life or across the world you may come to believe that things can’t improve. This passage shows that is not the case. Although there were many struggles that followed Pentecost it was handled differently. It was handled with God’s Spirit. Don’t set boundaries for the Lord.
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit.
Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:
I invite you to sit in silence feeling being patient for your own faults and trials.
Summarize what insights you have gained during this meditation and meditate and visualize positive change in your life:
This is a listener funded podcast at patreon.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Updates:
Final Question: Do you hope for a better future through the Spirit of God?
Final Thought: Jesus proclaims hope. He will take care of us with an eternal focus. I was speaking with a person today who was experiencing tough times. For them it seemed like the future had been already doomed by the past. That is not how things are meant to be. When we feel that way I invite you to open your heart to trust in the promise of God. For those who trust in Him, the future is eternally bright. Let your heart be lifted up in the knowledge that your current troubles are not eternal. Nothing that you are now experiencing has the ability to darken your future if you trust in God to help you escape its effects.
FIND ME ON:
Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
App Store App: Recenter with Christ
Voicemail - (602) 888-3795
Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com
Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast
Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast
Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
NABRE
8 Above all, let your love for one another be intense, because love covers a multitude of sins.
9 Be hospitable to one another without complaining.
10 As each one has received a gift, use it to serve one another as good stewards of God’s varied grace.
FIND ME ON:
Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
App Store App: Recenter with Christ
Voicemail - (602) 888-3795
Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com
Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast
Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast
Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
238 Love Each Other Deeply, A Guided Christian Meditation on Peter 4:8-10
I'm Chaplain Jared and I work as a hospice chaplain and an ICU chaplain, my purpose in making this podcast is to help you find more peace in your life and to be more open for your heart to be changed by the Spirit of God. By using centuries old form of Christian Meditation named Lectio Divina:
Outline: Relaxation, Reading, Meditation, Prayer, Contemplation and Visualization.
Get into a place where you can sit comfortably and uninterrupted for about 20 minutes.You should hopefully not be driving or anything tensing or unrelaxing. If you feel comfortable to do so, I invite you to close your eyes.
Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation:
Breathe and direct your thoughts to contacting God. Let your stomach be a balloon inflate, deflate.
Bible verses for Meditation:
Peter 4:8-10
NIV
8 Above all, love each other deeply, because love covers over a multitude of sins.
9 Offer hospitality to one another without grumbling.
10 Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God’s grace in its various forms.
NABRE
8 Above all, let your love for one another be intense, because love covers a multitude of sins.
9 Be hospitable to one another without complaining.
10 As each one has received a gift, use it to serve one another as good stewards of God’s varied grace.
Meditation on Scripture:
Many times we hope to think there is some kind of balance we can do to tip the scales of justice in our favor. For example as we think of our negative qualities we search for a counter balance of positive things as if this will undo the negative. Many times we seek to escape the evil in our own hearts. Perhaps if we love a certain subset of people it will justify us doing other sinful things.
I think this scripture says something more interesting and enlightening. Peter equates sin and love as opposite. This reflects the greatest commandment Jesus gave to love. I don’t think that this reflects any kind of moral calculation that we do where we can love a certain amount to undo any given amount of sin but there is an example of love that does overcome sin. The sacrifice of Jesus Christ is the greatest example of love and that covers all sin. There is no need to weigh your sin on the scales of justice rather it is far more important to love God and love your neighbor and to receive His love through faith which will wipe away all sin.
Our world is full of darkness and hate but it is also full of love. I invite you to search for expressions of Love. When we search for it, we are more likely to find it. We as believers in Jesus Christ should seek to fill the world with God’s love. As the love of God speaks through us perhaps we can help the world find more light.
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit.
Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:
I invite you to sit in silence feeling being patient for your own faults and trials.
Summarize what insights you have gained during this meditation and meditate and visualize positive change in your life:
This is a listener funded podcast at patreon.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Updates:
Final Question: How will your life be improved if you were more slow to anger?
Final Thought: In some ways I am sorry to bring up such a strongly polarizing message in this meditation. I have seen so many of my friends have such wildly different and passionate perspectives about these things that I feel it is on many people’s minds. These meditations are meant to help us make sense of the world of God which has clear messages for our times. The goal is not to help us compartmentalize the rest of our lives into the chaotic outside while the world of God is only discussed in idealized circumstances. Sometimes parts of us get mixed up in heated things which can be at odds with the peace we seek. I don’t think the only way is to be silent and passive. May God give us guidance in how to help improve the world we live in.
Slowing your body’s natural anger response and finding healthy vents for it can be a powerfully helpful skill to learn. I invite you to trust in God’s love to help us overcome the baser parts of our humanity and to rise up to make the change we want to see in the world.
FIND ME ON:
Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
App Store App: Recenter with Christ
Voicemail - (602) 888-3795
Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com
Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast
Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast
Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
James 1:19-21
ESV
19 Know this, my beloved brothers: let every person be quick to hear, slow to speak, slow to anger;
20 for the anger of man does not produce the righteousness of God.
21 Therefore put away all filthiness and rampant wickedness and receive with meekness the implanted word, which is able to save your souls.
FIND ME ON:
Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
App Store App: Recenter with Christ
Voicemail - (602) 888-3795
Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com
Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast
Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast
Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
236 Quick To Listen, Slow to Speak, Slow to Anger, A Guided Christian Meditation on James 1:19-21
I'm Chaplain Jared and I work as a hospice chaplain and an ICU chaplain, my purpose in making this podcast is to help you find more peace in your life and to be more open for your heart to be changed by the Spirit of God. By using centuries old form of Christian Meditation named Lectio Divina:
Outline: Relaxation, Reading, Meditation, Prayer, Contemplation and Visualization.
Get into a place where you can sit comfortably and uninterrupted for about 20 minutes.You should hopefully not be driving or anything tensing or unrelaxing. If you feel comfortable to do so, I invite you to close your eyes.
Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation:
Breathe and direct your thoughts to contacting God. Let your stomach be a balloon inflate, deflate.
Bible verses for Meditation:
James 1:19-21
ESV
19 Know this, my beloved brothers: let every person be quick to hear, slow to speak, slow to anger;
20 for the anger of man does not produce the righteousness of God.
21 Therefore put away all filthiness and rampant wickedness and receive with meekness the implanted word, which is able to save your souls.
KJV
19 Wherefore, my beloved brethren, let every man be swift to hear, slow to speak, slow to wrath:
20 For the wrath of man worketh not the righteousness of God.
21 Wherefore lay apart all filthiness and superfluity of naughtiness, and receive with meekness the engrafted word, which is able to save your souls.
Meditation on Scripture:
The concept of anger is challenging to address. In this moment, be slow to form a judgement and listen to this short message which I believe God has put on my heart to share. Passion and intensity are often associated with making positive change in the world especially against established forms of evil. This scripture says that our anger is not needed to bring to pass the righteousness of God because that is not what produces it. As you remember times when you were angry I want you to think about how well you listened. How well did you consider a wide range of information needed to make complex decisions. Many problems our world faces right now need exactly those solutions to work, which anger will derail.
I find myself personally very angry when I hear of people from the African American community die in direct opposition to justice. I also feel angry when the city I live in has a curfew placed because people are rioting and causing chaotic senseless violence in the streets. I feel frustrated to see people run to one of those two extremes while not listening to the other.
So I stop. And I listen. and I think. I have so much to learn. Are angry snap judgements helpful and healing to this crazy chaotic world? Are our shortsighted impulses the messages that will bring the change we want to see in the world? I invite you to join with me and be prayerful and thoughtful about how to overcome any snap judgements we mahy form and replace them with clarity as we plead with God for guidance. Perhaps with this guidance, we can do our small piece to heal our world. Perhaps God has a way for you to change people’s minds with love. Perhaps there is something that only you can do, it will take your best brain power.
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit.
Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:
I invite you to sit in silence feeling being patient for your own faults and trials.
Summarize what insights you have gained during this meditation and meditate and visualize positive change in your life:
This is a listener funded podcast at patreon.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Updates:
Final Question: How will your life be improved if you were more slow to anger?
Final Thought: In some ways I am sorry to bring up such a strongly polarizing message in this meditation. I have seen so many of my friends have such wildly different and passionate perspectives about these things that I feel it is on many people’s minds. These meditations are meant to help us make sense of the world of God which has clear messages for our times. The goal is not to help us compartmentalize the rest of our lives into the chaotic outside while the world of God is only discussed in idealized circumstances. Sometimes parts of us get mixed up in heated things which can be at odds with the peace we seek. I don’t think the only way is to be silent and passive. May God give us guidance in how to help improve the world we live in.
Slowing your body’s natural anger response and finding healthy vents for it can be a powerfully helpful skill to learn. I invite you to trust in God’s love to help us overcome the baser parts of our humanity and to rise up to make the change we want to see in the world.
FIND ME ON:
Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
App Store App: Recenter with Christ
Voicemail - (602) 888-3795
Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com
Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast
Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast
Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
Bible verses for Meditation:
John 15:9-13
NIV
9 “As the Father has loved me, so have I loved you. Now remain in my love. 10 If you keep my commands, you will remain in my love, just as I have kept my Father’s commands and remain in his love. 11 I have told you this so that my joy may be in you and that your joy may be complete. 12 My command is this: Love each other as I have loved you. 13 Greater love has no one than this: to lay down one’s life for one’s friends.
NABRE
9 As the Father loves me, so I also love you. Remain in my love.
10 If you keep my commandments, you will remain in my love, just as I have kept my Father’s commandments and remain in his love.
11 “I have told you this so that my joy may be in you and your joy may be complete.
12 This is my commandment: love one another as I love you.
13 No one has greater love than this, to lay down one’s life for one’s friends.
FIND ME ON:
Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
App Store App: Recenter with Christ
Voicemail - (602) 888-3795
Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com
Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast
Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast
Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
234 Greater Love Has No One Than This, That He Lay Down His Life for His Friends A Guided Christian Meditation on John 15:9-13
I'm Chaplain Jared and I work as a hospice chaplain and an ICU chaplain, my purpose in making this podcast is to help you find more peace in your life and to be more open for your heart to be changed by the Spirit of God. By using centuries old form of Christian Meditation named Lectio Divina:
Outline: Relaxation, Reading, Meditation, Prayer, Contemplation and Visualization.
Get into a place where you can sit comfortably and uninterrupted for about 20 minutes.You should hopefully not be driving or anything tensing or unrelaxing. If you feel comfortable to do so, I invite you to close your eyes.
Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation:
Breathe and direct your thoughts to contacting God. Let your stomach be a balloon inflate, deflate.
Bible verses for Meditation:
John 15:9-13
NIV
9 “As the Father has loved me, so have I loved you. Now remain in my love. 10 If you keep my commands, you will remain in my love, just as I have kept my Father’s commands and remain in his love. 11 I have told you this so that my joy may be in you and that your joy may be complete. 12 My command is this: Love each other as I have loved you. 13 Greater love has no one than this: to lay down one’s life for one’s friends.
NABRE
9 As the Father loves me, so I also love you. Remain in my love.
10 If you keep my commandments, you will remain in my love, just as I have kept my Father’s commandments and remain in his love.
11 “I have told you this so that my joy may be in you and your joy may be complete.
12 This is my commandment: love one another as I love you.
13 No one has greater love than this, to lay down one’s life for one’s friends.
Meditation on Scripture:
What is a friend?
May 25th is Memorial Day for us. It is a time when we can remember our fallen warriors who gave the last full measure of devotion and died in military service. There is a certain mystery and awe that people speak about those who have died in combat. When done to protect the innocent and prevent further oppression, it is honorable and a high ideal. The cause of peace should be an even higher priority.
The message that was even more important here for Jesus did not actually have to do with soldiers in combat. It was a prophecy about his own pending death. He knew he was intentionally laying down His life for His friends. Jesus is the tip of the spear in taking the fight to the enemy. This is not an enemy that seeks to just kill us, but far worse. Jesus appeals to this concept directly even before his death was known to his disciples. In the Old Testament God was often portrayed as a Lion of Judah and there is a common metaphor there of God as a warrior. As you battle the darkness that creeps into your life to destroy you, know that you have a warrior who is strong enough to rescue you when you most need it. Your God continually protects you against the forces of evil and can continue to do so.
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit.
Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:
I invite you to sit in silence feeling being patient for your own faults and trials.
Summarize what insights you have gained during this meditation and meditate and visualize positive change in your life:
This is a listener funded podcast at patreon.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Updates:
Final Question: What is a friend?
Final Thought: As you ponder that this week I want you to be mindful of how earthly friends can help you overcome hardship. Equally important, consider how the role of God’s friendship is similar and also different from other humans who are your friends. Our friends have influence over us and help shape us into the people we will become. What things would you hope for in a person who would walk with you and help you stay out of danger.
FIND ME ON:
Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
App Store App: Recenter with Christ
Voicemail - (602) 888-3795
Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com
Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast
Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast
Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
Bible verses for Meditation:
NRSV
24 But I do not count my life of any value to myself, if only I may finish my course and the ministry that I received from the Lord Jesus, to testify to the good news of God’s grace.
25 “And now I know that none of you, among whom I have gone about proclaiming the kingdom, will ever see my face again. 26 Therefore I declare to you this day that I am not responsible for the blood of any of you, 27 for I did not shrink from declaring to you the whole purpose of God.
ESV
24 But I do not account my life of any value nor as precious to myself, if only I may finish my course and the ministry that I received from the Lord Jesus, to testify to the gospel of the grace of God. 25 And now, behold, I know that none of you among whom I have gone about proclaiming the kingdom will see my face again. 26 Therefore I testify to you this day that I am innocent of the blood of all, 27 for I did not shrink from declaring to you the whole counsel of God.FIND ME ON:
Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
App Store App: Recenter with Christ
Voicemail - (602) 888-3795
Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com
Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast
Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast
Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
232 Your Life’s Value and God’s Whole Purpose A Guided Christian Meditation on Acts 20:24-27
I'm Chaplain Jared and I work as a hospice chaplain and an ICU chaplain, my purpose in making this podcast is to help you find more peace in your life and to be more open for your heart to be changed by the Spirit of God. By using centuries old form of Christian Meditation named Lectio Divina:
Outline: Relaxation, Reading, Meditation, Prayer, Contemplation and Visualization.
Get into a place where you can sit comfortably and uninterrupted for about 20 minutes.You should hopefully not be driving or anything tensing or unrelaxing. If you feel comfortable to do so, I invite you to close your eyes.
Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation:
Breathe and direct your thoughts to contacting God. Let your stomach be a balloon inflate, deflate.
Bible verses for Meditation:
NRSV
24 But I do not count my life of any value to myself, if only I may finish my course and the ministry that I received from the Lord Jesus, to testify to the good news of God’s grace.
25 “And now I know that none of you, among whom I have gone about proclaiming the kingdom, will ever see my face again. 26 Therefore I declare to you this day that I am not responsible for the blood of any of you, 27 for I did not shrink from declaring to you the whole purpose of God.
ESV
24 But I do not account my life of any value nor as precious to myself, if only I may finish my course and the ministry that I received from the Lord Jesus, to testify to the gospel of the grace of God. 25 And now, behold, I know that none of you among whom I have gone about proclaiming the kingdom will see my face again. 26 Therefore I testify to you this day that I am innocent of the blood of all, 27 for I did not shrink from declaring to you the whole counsel of God.
Meditation on Scripture:
Purpose is something that can bridge the disconnect between human frailty and the love of God. This is perhaps one of the more important truths we need to learn as we navigate life. The way in which we hold the value of our life is profoundly important. If we hold our lives of too high an importance we may miss the purposes God has for us and act selfishly. If we hold our lives of too little importance, without proper focus, we can loose purpose and be vulnerable to abuses in this life. This scripture provides a strong statement that may be misinterpreted to be careless about the sanctity of life. That doesn’t seem to be Paul’s intent.
I have talked with people in the hospital who experienced death and then came back. Although I have many unanswered questions about these experiences, the very often filled people with Godly purpose for years afterward. If we could see into our future reunion with God I am confident we would feel this same purpose. For now we are left to look forward to that reunion in faith. God loves you profoundly and wants you to trust him and then apply the gifts he has given you, to better your life and those around you as much as possible. The Gospel of the Love of God does not require us to feel horrible about ourselves, in fact rightly interpreting our fallen condition can fill us with joy and gratitude that God chooses to love us. You can be fallen and flawed while being lifted up and loved by God at the same time.
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit.
Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:
I invite you to sit in silence feeling being patient for your own faults and trials.
Summarize what insights you have gained during this meditation and meditate and visualize positive change in your life:
This is a listener funded podcast at patreon.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Updates:
Final Question: What is the value of your life?
Final Thought: This week has been an extremely intense emotionally taxing week in my ministry. I have come head to head with the struggles of others regarding the purpose of life in the midst of suffering. I can promise you that God has his perfect purposes which will be fulfilled. He blesses us with the ability to follow the path he has laid out and regardless of our fallen nature and our nearly constant sin, he has decided there is something greater for us. His hope for us that is higher than what we are currently living. The way to do that is by trusting him, and then developing our spiritual strength and maturity. Unfortunately, oftentimes, that comes through suffering and hardship. Despite the temporary nature of life, it has profound eternal purpose. I feel that meditating on the word of God can help reveal that purpose to our hearts.
FIND ME ON:
Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
App Store App: Recenter with Christ
Voicemail - (602) 888-3795
Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com
Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast
Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast
Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
230 Mary the First Witness of Jesus Luke 1:1-4
I'm Chaplain Jared and I work as a hospice chaplain and an ICU chaplain, my purpose in making this podcast is to help you find more peace in your life and to be more open for your heart to be changed by the Spirit of God. By using centuries old form of Christian Meditation named Lectio Divina:
Outline: Relaxation, Reading, Meditation, Prayer, Contemplation and Visualization.
Get into a place where you can sit comfortably and uninterrupted for about 20 minutes.You should hopefully not be driving or anything tensing or unrelaxing. If you feel comfortable to do so, I invite you to close your eyes.
Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation:
Breathe and direct your thoughts to contacting God. Let your stomach be a balloon inflate, deflate.
Bible verses for Meditation:
Luke 1
NIV
1 Many have undertaken to draw up an account of the things that have been fulfilled among us,
2 just as they were handed down to us by those who from the first were eyewitnesses and servants of the word.
3 With this in mind, since I myself have carefully investigated everything from the beginning, I too decided to write an orderly account for you, most excellent Theophilus,
4 so that you may know the certainty of the things you have been taught.
NABRE
1 Since many have undertaken to compile a narrative of the events that have been fulfilled among us,
2 just as those who were eyewitnesses from the beginning and ministers of the word have handed them down to us,
3 I too have decided, after investigating everything accurately anew, to write it down in an orderly sequence for you, most excellent Theophilus,
4 so that you may realize the certainty of the teachings you have received.
Meditation on Scripture:FIND ME ON:
Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
App Store App: Recenter with Christ
Voicemail - (602) 888-3795
Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com
Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast
Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast
Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
230 Mary the First Witness of Jesus Luke 1:1-4
I'm Chaplain Jared and I work as a hospice chaplain and an ICU chaplain, my purpose in making this podcast is to help you find more peace in your life and to be more open for your heart to be changed by the Spirit of God. By using centuries old form of Christian Meditation named Lectio Divina:
Outline: Relaxation, Reading, Meditation, Prayer, Contemplation and Visualization.
Get into a place where you can sit comfortably and uninterrupted for about 20 minutes.You should hopefully not be driving or anything tensing or unrelaxing. If you feel comfortable to do so, I invite you to close your eyes.
Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation:
Breathe and direct your thoughts to contacting God. Let your stomach be a balloon inflate, deflate.
Bible verses for Meditation:
Luke 1
NIV
1 Many have undertaken to draw up an account of the things that have been fulfilled among us,
2 just as they were handed down to us by those who from the first were eyewitnesses and servants of the word.
3 With this in mind, since I myself have carefully investigated everything from the beginning, I too decided to write an orderly account for you, most excellent Theophilus,
4 so that you may know the certainty of the things you have been taught.
NABRE
1 Since many have undertaken to compile a narrative of the events that have been fulfilled among us,
2 just as those who were eyewitnesses from the beginning and ministers of the word have handed them down to us,
3 I too have decided, after investigating everything accurately anew, to write it down in an orderly sequence for you, most excellent Theophilus,
4 so that you may realize the certainty of the teachings you have received.
Meditation on Scripture:
The book of Luke and Acts was written as letter. Luke spoke to eyewitnesses as stated in the scripture. Consider the parts were the account of Mary was given. For example, later when she experiences the angelic visitation. What other eye witness account could have been given other than hers? In this sense, Mary’s experience with the angel and then feeling Jesus in her womb was the first testimony of the living Christ. Although prophecy abounds, her words represent the first physical testimony of the life of Jesus. For most people on earth this trend continues. Your life was likely first discovered by your mother while you were in her womb. Since we live with ourselves all our lives we don’t see what a consistent discovery that is. The discovery of our life was made by the women who bore us.
Today many people celebrate Mother’s day. I want you to understand that I am aware of the complexities of many people’s family relationships. In fact there are so many different possible combinations of how you could have been raised. My hope for you today is that you can experience the miracle that is your life from the perspective of a discovery. At one point there was a person who suddenly discovered that your life was new. In some ways that same being that we were in that moment is what we still are. The full ramifications of our lives are still being discovered. When Jesus revealed himself to the Apostles and to congregations and gatherings he was the same being that was born a baby and laid in a manger. Despite where we have been and what we are now. Our whole life is an opportunity to mature spiritually and fully realize God’s plans for us. God continues to work in us to do amazing things.
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit.
Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:
I invite you to sit in silence feeling being patient for your own faults and trials.
Summarize what insights you have gained during this meditation and meditate and visualize positive change in your life:
This is a listener funded podcast at patreon.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Updates:
Final Question: Who is an eyewitness to your life?
Final Thought: Many people are separated from family today. Perhaps your mother is not with us, perhaps you didn’t know her or she has died. There are so many complex ways our days play out. I want to invite the peace of God into your heart as you work through the gratitude and longing of your feelings about your mother. If you are a struggling mother, know this that God loves you and your efforts are amazing and godly. Your testimony of the life you attempt to rear will last on throughout the eternities, however despite the best efforts, each person is given the freedom to Choose God and follow him or stumble. As we trust in the wisdom and love of God we can trust in the just and merciful plan that He has for the betterment of all, including distant children. May God pour into your heart the balm of joy in the understanding of His great plan for you.
FIND ME ON:
Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
App Store App: Recenter with Christ
Voicemail - (602) 888-3795
Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com
Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast
Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast
Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
229 Free Form Christian Meditation on Genesis 2:4-7
Bible verses for Meditation:
Genesis 2
NIV
4 This is the account of the heavens and the earth when they were created, when the Lord God made the earth and the heavens.
5 Now no shrub had yet appeared on the earth and no plant had yet sprung up, for the Lord God had not sent rain on the earth and there was no one to work the ground,
6 but streams came up from the earth and watered the whole surface of the ground.
7 Then the Lord God formed a man from the dust of the ground and breathed into his nostrils the breath of life, and the man became a living being.
ESV
4 These are the generations
of the heavens and the earth when they were created,
in the day that the Lord God made the earth and the heavens.
5 When no bush of the field was yet in the land and no small plant of the field had yet sprung up—for the Lord God had not caused it to rain on the land, and there was no man to work the ground,
6 and a mist was going up from the land and was watering the whole face of the ground—
7 then the Lord God formed the man of dust from the ground and breathed into his nostrils the breath of life, and the man became a living creature.
FIND ME ON:
Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
App Store App: Recenter with Christ
Voicemail - (602) 888-3795
Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com
Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast
Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast
Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
228 God Put the Breath of Life in Us A Guided Christian Meditation on Genesis 2:4-7
I'm Chaplain Jared and I work as a hospice chaplain and an ICU chaplain, my purpose in making this podcast is to help you find more peace in your life and to be more open for your heart to be changed by the Spirit of God. By using centuries old form of Christian Meditation named Lectio Divina:
Outline: Relaxation, Reading, Meditation, Prayer, Contemplation and Visualization.
Get into a place where you can sit comfortably and uninterrupted for about 20 minutes.You should hopefully not be driving or anything tensing or unrelaxing. If you feel comfortable to do so, I invite you to close your eyes.
Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation:
Breathe and direct your thoughts to contacting God. Let your stomach be a balloon inflate, deflate.
Bible verses for Meditation:
Genesis 2
NIV
4 This is the account of the heavens and the earth when they were created, when the Lord God made the earth and the heavens.
5 Now no shrub had yet appeared on the earth and no plant had yet sprung up, for the Lord God had not sent rain on the earth and there was no one to work the ground,
6 but streams came up from the earth and watered the whole surface of the ground.
7 Then the Lord God formed a man from the dust of the ground and breathed into his nostrils the breath of life, and the man became a living being.
ESV
4 These are the generations
of the heavens and the earth when they were created,
in the day that the Lord God made the earth and the heavens.
5 When no bush of the field was yet in the land and no small plant of the field had yet sprung up—for the Lord God had not caused it to rain on the land, and there was no man to work the ground,
6 and a mist was going up from the land and was watering the whole face of the ground—
7 then the Lord God formed the man of dust from the ground and breathed into his nostrils the breath of life, and the man became a living creature.
Meditation on Scripture:
One thing I love to learn about is God’s creation as illustrated through scientific discovery. I have seen planets, nebulae, and galaxies through my telescope. I have seen a full eclipse with my bare eyes, and recently I have been getting into learning about microscopic life. It is amazing to see the complexity and diversity of life that can exist in a single drop of water. I often wonder how God created life. I often wonder what that looked like. Was it done in a flash of light? Did he use similar methods for ways he is continuing to be involved with creation, by using the laws he set up in the beginning? Based on my understanding, it seems that God created the earth through an immense and elaborate system of causation continually guided by His will. The advance of science can never answer the questions of why the Earth exists, or even why would our earth be able to support life that could be conscious. Only God can fully answer that question.
The ability for us to exist on earth as we are is dependent now, and has always been on an innumerable number of microscopic life forms that God created for this purpose. There is evidence that a certain kind of bacteria called Cyanobacteria was responsible for converting the water on earth to energy and Oxygen many many years ago resulting in a global production of oxygen. God converted the iron based toxic wasteland that was the pre-oxygen earth, into a Garden teeming with life and in that moment, breathed life into us. You are alive because God created this extremely complex earth for you to live on. You live because he created you to live. God provided processes and laws that would govern the earth, making it possible to support your life throughout time. He has been forming this moment for you. The very air you breathe has been prepared for you for a very long time. His life fills you. Breathe in and feel the breath of God in your lungs. He created this world for us because he loves us.
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit.
Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:
I invite you to sit in silence feeling being patient for your own faults and trials.
Summarize what insights you have gained during this meditation and meditate and visualize positive change in your life:
This is a listener funded podcast at patreon.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Updates:
Final Question: Why did God create the Earth?
Final Thought: God molded the confines of our world to give us an opportunity to glorify the name of the Lord even when the world seems to be set up against you. It isn’t. It has been created for your ETERNAL good, even if it is hard right now. The scriptures say very little about many fundamental laws of science because that doesn’t impact our ability to follow him. For example the fundamental forces of physics that God created in the first moments of our Universe are not explained in Scripture. Ultimately we do not need to know everything that God knows in order to love and be loved by him, but the more we learn the more we can learn to Glorify the name of the Lord. When we think of a God who can just as easily wrangle a galaxy as he can a microscopic ameba it makes it even more miraculous that this God cares for me and you. He has created an opportunity for you and I to experience a life, not devoid of trials to learn to trust, and love Him.
FIND ME ON:
Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
App Store App: Recenter with Christ
Voicemail - (602) 888-3795
Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com
Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast
Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast
Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
226 In God I Trust and am not Afraid A Guided Christian Meditation on Psalms 56:10-13
NABRE
10 My foes turn back when I call on you.
This I know: God is on my side.
11 I praise the word of God,
I praise the word of the Lord.
12 In God I trust, I do not fear.
What can man do to me?
13 I have made vows to you, God;
with offerings I will fulfill them,
14 For you have snatched me from death,
kept my feet from stumbling,
That I may walk before God
in the light of the living.
Meditation on Scripture:
FIND ME ON:
Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
App Store App: Recenter with Christ
Voicemail - (602) 888-3795
Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com
Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast
Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast
Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
226 In God I Trust and am not Afraid A Guided Christian Meditation on Psalms 56:10-13
I'm Chaplain Jared and I work as a hospice chaplain and an ICU chaplain, my purpose in making this podcast is to help you find more peace in your life and to be more open for your heart to be changed by the Spirit of God. By using centuries old form of Christian Meditation named Lectio Divina:
Outline: Relaxation, Reading, Meditation, Prayer, Contemplation and Visualization.
Get into a place where you can sit comfortably and uninterrupted for about 20 minutes.You should hopefully not be driving or anything tensing or unrelaxing. If you feel comfortable to do so, I invite you to close your eyes.
Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation:
Breathe and direct your thoughts to contacting God. Let your stomach be a balloon inflate, deflate.
Bible verses for Meditation:
Psalms 56
NIV
10 In God, whose word I praise,
in the Lord, whose word I praise—
11 in God I trust and am not afraid.
What can man do to me?
12 I am under vows to you, my God;
I will present my thank offerings to you.
13 For you have delivered me from death
and my feet from stumbling,
that I may walk before God
in the light of life.
NABRE
10 My foes turn back when I call on you.
This I know: God is on my side.
11 I praise the word of God,
I praise the word of the Lord.
12 In God I trust, I do not fear.
What can man do to me?
13 I have made vows to you, God;
with offerings I will fulfill them,
14 For you have snatched me from death,
kept my feet from stumbling,
That I may walk before God
in the light of the living.
Meditation on Scripture:
This week I have been struggling with stress with a particular thing I was working on. Perhaps you can identify with that at some point in your life. I am not new to stress and I am not new to trusting in God, yet in this case I really struggled working through the worry that things would not turn out. I knew that I should trust in the Lord and I knew that God would watch out for me and love me. I knew that in his eyes things were fine and would turn out alright. Yet despite what I knew in my head and I have experienced the peace of God so often in my life I knew of it as a reality. Yet for some reason I was struggling in this case. Sometimes I have seen people get down on themselves when they struggle with an emotional experience. Especially when I have a long streak of success with stress I forget that it is not the default position. It takes intentionality to let go of human neurotic worries. We can practice this and be gentle with ourselves as we work on coming back to peace.
There despite whatever action I took I continued to feel stress. I did have the distinct impression that God could help me draw near to him through this struggle and I came to believe that. I had prayed and pleaded with the Lord to provide me feelings of peace and guide my actions. At that point I remember not feeling it. Similar to this the Psalmist called out to God in support from real stress. I remember not getting the answer of peace I was seeking, yet I continued to pour my heart out to God. Days past and I continued to struggle. I listened to my own podcast episodes to help me get to sleep at night which helped but when I awoke it continued. Then, at one specific moment that I can still visualize it came. God sent his peace into my heart in one specific moment. The sudden onset of the peace let me know with certainty it came from God. I was grateful. Since then when this worry has tried to creep back into my heart I can remember the peace that God sent and it returns. This peace is a gift from God that we do not get to control. Glory to God for the gift of His peace.
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit.
Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:
I invite you to sit in silence feeling being patient for your own faults and trials.
Summarize what insights you have gained during this meditation and meditate and visualize positive change in your life:
This is a listener funded podcast at patreon.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Updates:
Final Question: When was a time when God sent you his peace?
Final Thought: I hope that as you make gentle yet profound and positive steps toward drawing nearer to God spirit of peace that you don’t feel failure or judgement if you at times struggle to feel that. I have talked to people who struggle to feel that consistently. It would be pure pride to argue that your or my experience with peace are somehow related to superior performance, yet there are things we can do consistently to attempt to invite that spirit of peace into our lives. My hope and prayer is that together we can work on those things as we invite God’s word and spirit into our lives and then pour out gratitude on Him when we experience them.
FIND ME ON:
Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
App Store App: Recenter with Christ
Voicemail - (602) 888-3795
Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com
Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast
Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast
Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
224 Lord is it Time? A Guided Christian Meditation on Acts 1:6-8
I'm Chaplain Jared and I work as a hospice chaplain and an ICU chaplain, my purpose in making this podcast is to help you find more peace in your life and to be more open for your heart to be changed by the Spirit of God. By using centuries old form of Christian Meditation named Lectio Divina:
Outline: Relaxation, Reading, Meditation, Prayer, Contemplation and Visualization.
Get into a place where you can sit comfortably and uninterrupted for about 20 minutes.You should hopefully not be driving or anything tensing or unrelaxing. If you feel comfortable to do so, I invite you to close your eyes.
Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation:
Breathe and direct your thoughts to contacting God. Let your stomach be a balloon inflate, deflate.
Bible verses for Meditation:
Acts 1:6-8
KJV
6 When they therefore were come together, they asked of him, saying, Lord, wilt thou at this time arestore again the kingdom to Israel?
7 And he said unto them, It is not for you to know the times or the seasons, which the Father hath put in his own power.
8 But ye shall receive power, after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you: and ye shall be witnesses unto me both in Jerusalem, and in all Judæa, and in Samaria, and unto the uttermost part of the earth.
NIV
6 Then they gathered around him and asked him, “Lord, are you at this time going to restore the kingdom to Israel?”
7 He said to them: “It is not for you to know the times or dates the Father has set by his own authority.
8 But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.”
Meditation on Scripture:
From the very first moments after Jesus was resurrected the people wondered when the global salvation of the Messiah would be seen. I have heard this as long as I have been alive, that Jesus’ second coming is right around the corner. One thing I can tell you for certain is that we will see the face of Jesus within one generation but perhaps not in the way we think. When everyone living now dies they will go before the judgement bar of God and see his face.
Many times we can be tempted to answer this question that lingers in the hearts of many Christians. Many people spend a lot of emotional and intellectual energy on trying to discover this thing that Jesus said would not be known to us. God intentional has left this question answer and yet has answered a far more important question. As the world wonders how to escape the darkness of soul caused by moral corruption there is a clear answer. Jesus. As we wonder how to overcome overburdened anxiety and conscience there is a clear answer, Jesus. We can learn how to invite the Holy Spirit into our lives then rejoice in gratitude when the gracious presence is felt and we experience God. This is what gives us a profound witness which we can share. This is our mission and goal, to share the most real form of Love in existence, the eternal and all revealing acceptance of the God of Grace.
As we wrestle with the question of purpose, we can be encouraged by the support offered by a God more focused on transforming us into the Holy image of the God. God’s timing will prevail. Instead of heeding the normal curiosity and perhaps even anxious desperation of God’s pending coming, we can focus on the absolute and resolute answer He gives. We have a Savior who lives and will redeem us from whatever is in our way.
As we feel the influence of the Holy Spirit our hearts can be aided in sharing the hope of God.
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit.
Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:
I invite you to sit in silence feeling being patient for your own faults and trials.
Summarize what insights you have gained during this meditation and meditate and visualize positive change in your life:
This is a listener funded podcast at patreon.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Updates:
Final Question: How do we best invite the presence of the Holy Spirit?
Final Thought: I feel a lot of compassion for the anxious energy surrounding the signs of the times. I know many people who have struggled for decades with fear of the evil prophesied about the end times. Regardless of the way you understand the theology of the end times I invite you to perceive all this prophecy in the context of the illuminating Love of God. Fear is not from God. We have nothing to fear as we place our trust in the only one who is mighty to save. If you are still working on feeling God’s answer to this question I invite you to follow him. Leave the things of this world. Leave your favorite worry and anxiety. Leave your pet fear and follow the Master who claimed that he can place our burdens on Him.
FIND ME ON:
Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
App Store App: Recenter with Christ
Voicemail - (602) 888-3795
Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com
Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast
Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast
Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
Luke 24:28-31
NIV
28 As they approached the village to which they were going, Jesus continued on as if he were going farther.
29 But they urged him strongly, “Stay with us, for it is nearly evening; the day is almost over.” So he went in to stay with them.
30 When he was at the table with them, he took bread, gave thanks, broke it and began to give it to them.
31 Then their eyes were opened and they recognized him, and he disappeared from their sight.
FIND ME ON:
Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
App Store App: Recenter with Christ
Voicemail - (602) 888-3795
Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com
Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast
Facebook.com/ChristianMeditationPodcast
Youtube.com/ChristianMeditaitonPodcast
Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
222 Jesus Stay With Us A Guided Christian Meditation on Luke 24:28-31
I'm Chaplain Jared and I work as a hospice chaplain and an ICU chaplain, my purpose in making this podcast is to help you find more peace in your life and to be more open for your heart to be changed by the Spirit of God. By using centuries old form of Christian Meditation named Lectio Divina:
Outline: Relaxation, Reading, Meditation, Prayer, Contemplation and Visualization.
Get into a place where you can sit comfortably and uninterrupted for about 20 minutes.You should hopefully not be driving or anything tensing or unrelaxing. If you feel comfortable to do so, I invite you to close your eyes.
Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation:
Breathe and direct your thoughts to contacting God. Let your stomach be a balloon inflate, deflate.
Bible verses for Meditation:
Luke 24:28-31
NIV
28 As they approached the village to which they were going, Jesus continued on as if he were going farther.
29 But they urged him strongly, “Stay with us, for it is nearly evening; the day is almost over.” So he went in to stay with them.
30 When he was at the table with them, he took bread, gave thanks, broke it and began to give it to them.
31 Then their eyes were opened and they recognized him, and he disappeared from their sight.
NRSV
28 As they came near the village to which they were going, he walked ahead as if he were going on.
29 But they urged him strongly, saying, “Stay with us, because it is almost evening and the day is now nearly over.” So he went in to stay with them.
30 When he was at the table with them, he took bread, blessed and broke it, and gave it to them. 31 Then their eyes were opened, and they recognized him; and he vanished from their sight.
Meditation on Scripture:
This scripture occurs right after the resurrection. As these two people were walking along Jesus sneaks up on them and intentionally talks with them without them knowing it is Jesus. Perhaps this may not seem like the most direct Easter message. I trust that in your thoughts and prayers you have been considering the Passion narrative and the meaning of the resurrection. This reflection is meant to ask the question of why God chose to do it this way. The most glorious and important of events in all the history of the earth occurred in such a way that we only have ancient writings of people who summarized it years after the fact. Why?
Why are you living the life you are living right now? Why do you have the set of trials that you do?
Why does God sneak into our lives and impart just enough hope to continue?
I think this is tied to the very purpose of life in general. Why we were born on earth was not an accident. There is a deep purpose to your life. God knows it. As you spend time walking with him on your own road to Emmaus then you gain glimpses of His love and teachings. Keep walking the path. No matter how many dark days or confusing moments keep walking and searching for the purpose God has put into you. Cocider this purpose now.
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit.
Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:
I invite you to sit in silence feeling being patient for your own faults and trials.
Summarize what insights you have gained during this meditation and meditate and visualize positive change in your life:
This is a listener funded podcast at patreon.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Updates:
Final Question: How can you continue to search out God’s purpose for you?
Final Thought: When we realize the bizarre nature of life and how much suffering it can contain, we can be tempted by being satiated by the true and easy answer that our purpose is what God tells us our purpose is. As we read scripture many people will declare to know what God’s purpose is for you. They may be totally right, but I think part of what this scripture teaches us is that God will walk with us and guide us in extremely unobvious ways. When we find the answer that our lives are meant to glorify Him, we can continue to grow spiritually by searching for how to do that. As we continue to live with integrity in our faith and understanding of God’s commands this can be a deeper purpose. Learning what it means to be challenged and still choosing him is of value. There are thousands of other lessons we learn that are more complex than the answers you would give a child about God’s purposes for you. In this time of chaos realize that God has a purpose for you now. I don’t think the specific nuance of it is meant to be clear from birth to death. It is meant to be a personal road to Emmaus. Keep searching, keep living the faith, keep receiving God’s grace as you work toward the highest ideals that He has for you.
FIND ME ON:
Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
App Store App: Recenter with Christ
Voicemail - (602) 888-3795
Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com
Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast
Facebook.com/ChristianMeditationPodcast
Youtube.com/ChristianMeditaitonPodcast
Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
ESV
29 And as they went out of Jericho, a great crowd followed him. 30 And behold, there were two blind men sitting by the roadside, and when they heard that Jesus was passing by, they cried out, “Lord,[e] have mercy on us, Son of David!” 31 The crowd rebuked them, telling them to be silent, but they cried out all the more, “Lord, have mercy on us, Son of David!” 32 And stopping, Jesus called them and said, “What do you want me to do for you?” 33 They said to him, “Lord, let our eyes be opened.” 34 And Jesus in pity touched their eyes, and immediately they recovered their sight and followed him.
Meditation on Scripture:
FIND ME ON:
Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
App Store App: Recenter with Christ
Voicemail - (602) 888-3795
Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com
Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast
Facebook.com/ChristianMeditationPodcast
Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast
Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
220 Lord Have Mercy on Us, Son of David A Guided Christian Meditation on Matthew 20:29-34
I'm Chaplain Jared and I work as a hospice chaplain and an ICU chaplain, my purpose in making this podcast is to help you find more peace in your life and to be more open for your heart to be changed by the Spirit of God. By using centuries old form of Christian Meditation named Lectio Divina:
Outline: Relaxation, Reading, Meditation, Prayer, Contemplation and Visualization.
Get into a place where you can sit comfortably and uninterrupted for about 20 minutes.You should hopefully not be driving or anything tensing or unrelaxing. If you feel comfortable to do so, I invite you to close your eyes.
Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation:
Breathe and direct your thoughts to contacting God. Let your stomach be a balloon inflate, deflate.
Bible verses for Meditation:
Matthew 20
NRSV
29 As they were leaving Jericho, a large crowd followed him. 30 There were two blind men sitting by the roadside. When they heard that Jesus was passing by, they shouted, “Lord,[h] have mercy on us, Son of David!” 31 The crowd sternly ordered them to be quiet; but they shouted even more loudly, “Have mercy on us, Lord, Son of David!” 32 Jesus stood still and called them, saying, “What do you want me to do for you?” 33 They said to him, “Lord, let our eyes be opened.” 34 Moved with compassion, Jesus touched their eyes. Immediately they regained their sight and followed him.
ESV
29 And as they went out of Jericho, a great crowd followed him. 30 And behold, there were two blind men sitting by the roadside, and when they heard that Jesus was passing by, they cried out, “Lord,[e] have mercy on us, Son of David!” 31 The crowd rebuked them, telling them to be silent, but they cried out all the more, “Lord, have mercy on us, Son of David!” 32 And stopping, Jesus called them and said, “What do you want me to do for you?” 33 They said to him, “Lord, let our eyes be opened.” 34 And Jesus in pity touched their eyes, and immediately they recovered their sight and followed him.
Meditation on Scripture:
This will come out on Palm Sunday. The day in which our Lord was celebrated a few short days before his crucifixion. It must have been a confusing and polarized time. Some people were throwing down their clothes for him and some demanding he be killed. This scripture is found immediately before Jesus’s entrance into Jerusalem. I am not sure if it occurred exactly like this Chronologically but I think it is important in the narrative. I think it is appropriate to speak of God with respect, deference, and reverence. Yet it sounded like these men abandoned all civility as they shouted to Jesus to be heard.
Sometimes we are bothered by the normal sounds of children as we try and focus on important things. On bad days we may be so distracted trying to be good that we miss serving others who are less polished in their petitions. I think there is more personal way of looking at this; perhaps we are the ones that are the blind. Perhaps we are the ones that desperately need to shout a little louder as we approach God. Perhaps we need to abandon our normal docile and overly formal ways of trying to relate with God and bare our souls as we shout out our plea. Not to force him hear us, but to let us know how much we need Him. Like in this story, I believe that Jesus will have compassion on us in our requests.
Perhaps the most difficult times of suffering and difficulty best help to brake away the stale and safe ways we have come to compartmentalize the parts of us that believe from the are ambivalent and sinful. Perhaps we need to smash these fake boundaries in our mind, until we are one unified heart shouting out to God in desperation. May any barriers between our hearts and God be broken down by feverish zeal as we proclaim our need of Him. In this we gain spiritual integrity.
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit.
Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:
I invite you to sit in silence feeling being patient for your own faults and trials.
Summarize what insights you have gained during this meditation and meditate and visualize positive change in your life:
This is a listener funded podcast at patreon.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Updates:
Final Question: What boundaries keep you from spiritual integrity?
Final Thought: I invite you in your prayers to be like these blind men. God does not fear your desire for him. I don’t even think he fears our frustrations or passion. As we become honest and genuine with God He can help us soften our hearts with more reality. Things like this can help us realize that scripture is not the words of old dead guys but the guide to helping us build our faith in God. I know when I am more honest with God, I feel more understood.
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Bible verses for Meditation:
Isaiah 58:6-8
NIV
“Is not this the kind of fasting I have chosen:
to loose the chains of injustice
and untie the cords of the yoke,
to set the oppressed free
and break every yoke?
7 Is it not to share your food with the hungry
and to provide the poor wanderer with shelter—
when you see the naked, to clothe them,
and not to turn away from your own flesh and blood?
8 Then your light will break forth like the dawn,
and your healing will quickly appear;
then your righteousness[a] will go before you,
and the glory of the Lord will be your rear guard.
FIND ME ON:
Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
App Store App: Recenter with Christ
Voicemail - (602) 888-3795
Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com
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Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
218 Join With Me In Fasting For The Our World A Guided Christian Meditation on Isaiah 58:6-8
I'm Chaplain Jared and I work as a hospice chaplain and an ICU chaplain, my purpose in making this podcast is to help you find more peace in your life and to be more open for your heart to be changed by the Spirit of God. By using centuries old form of Christian Meditation named Lectio Divina:
Outline: Relaxation, Reading, Meditation, Prayer, Contemplation and Visualization.
Get into a place where you can sit comfortably and uninterrupted for about 20 minutes.You should hopefully not be driving or anything tensing or unrelaxing. If you feel comfortable to do so, I invite you to close your eyes.
Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation:
Breathe and direct your thoughts to contacting God. Let your stomach be a balloon inflate, deflate.
Bible verses for Meditation:
Isaiah 58:6-8
NIV
“Is not this the kind of fasting I have chosen:
to loose the chains of injustice
and untie the cords of the yoke,
to set the oppressed free
and break every yoke?
7 Is it not to share your food with the hungry
and to provide the poor wanderer with shelter—
when you see the naked, to clothe them,
and not to turn away from your own flesh and blood?
8 Then your light will break forth like the dawn,
and your healing will quickly appear;
then your righteousness[a] will go before you,
and the glory of the Lord will be your rear guard.
NABRE
Is this not, rather, the fast that I choose:
releasing those bound unjustly,
untying the thongs of the yoke;
Setting free the oppressed,
breaking off every yoke?
7 Is it not sharing your bread with the hungry,
bringing the afflicted and the homeless into your house;
Clothing the naked when you see them,
and not turning your back on your own flesh?
8 Then your light shall break forth like the dawn,
and your wound shall quickly be healed;
Your vindication shall go before you,
and the glory of the Lord shall be your rear guard.
Meditation on Scripture:
This scripture points out our role in the world when there is suffering. As we experience the fear and worry associated with a world in panic, we can realize that we may be able to serve in unique ways. We have more options than to choose between ignorance and debilitating fear. If you are searching for something that you could do to help this world, I have an idea. Each of us who are healthy enough to fast can conduct a special fast for the healing of our world. As we do we can be prayerful of the medical providers who need guidance, sustainment, and rest. We can be prayerful for those who are afflicted and suffering physically from disease. And we can pray that the financial consequences of this disease don’t cause additional suffering.
Fasting does not twist God’s arm into listening to us, but it can help us by helping us focus on God and those in need. While fasting we can learn to put down our immediate needs by confronting one of our most consistent urges. As we connect with the discomfort of fasting we become aware of the realities of those who are in want and our hearts can grow to find additional ways to serve.
Eventually this particular bizzare and tragic situation will end and we will see the light of the dawn we as a world will be healed. Never forget that God’s light penetrates the darkness. There is nothing that happens now that will not be shown in the full understanding of God’s light. The effects will be felt as we move on with life, as it always is with tragedy but hopefully we can do it while keeping the desire for service to our fellow human beings.
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit.
Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:
I invite you to sit in silence feeling being patient for your own faults and trials.
Summarize what insights you have gained during this meditation and meditate and visualize positive change in your life:
This is a listener funded podcast at patreon.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Updates:
Final Question: What does the practice of the fast teach you about God?
Final Thought: I invite you to Join me in fasting today, of course exercising good judgement if you are healthy enough to fast. But if you are this may give us something we can do. When I fast, I normally do a dry fast for a day. It is a physical challenge some days but it reminds us of our need before God. As we intensify our prayer during a fast it is a way to focus our intent and try our resolve. It is also a way that we can serve tangibly. If you forgo eating then you ideally have a surplus of food that translates into money. Perhaps find a worthy charitable cause and donate to that cause as a result of the fast. I would recommend looking at charities that need help during this time and giving to one of them. Although our leaders tell us to stay physically distant that doesn't mean there isn't anything we can do to help. Let us help God in helping to spiritually reinvigorate our communities.
FIND ME ON:
Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
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Voicemail - (602) 888-3795
Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com
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217 A Free Form Christian Meditation on James 4:7-10
James 4
NIV
7 Submit yourselves, then, to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you.
8 Come near to God and he will come near to you. Wash your hands, you sinners, and purify your hearts, you double-minded.
9 Grieve, mourn and wail. Change your laughter to mourning and your joy to gloom.
10 Humble yourselves before the Lord, and he will lift you up.
KJV
7 Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you.
8 Draw nigh to God, and he will draw nigh to you. Cleanse your hands, ye sinners; and purify your hearts, ye double minded.
9 Be afflicted, and mourn, and weep: let your laughter be turned to mourning, and your joy to heaviness.
10 Humble yourselves in the sight of the Lord, and he shall lift you up.
FIND ME ON:
Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
App Store App: Recenter with Christ
Voicemail - (602) 888-3795
Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com
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Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
216 Draw Near Unto God and He Will Draw Near Unto You A Guided Christian Meditation on James 4:7-10
I'm Chaplain Jared and I work as a hospice chaplain and an ICU chaplain, my purpose in making this podcast is to help you find more peace in your life and to be more open for your heart to be changed by the Spirit of God. By using centuries old form of Christian Meditation named Lectio Divina:
Outline: Relaxation, Reading, Meditation, Prayer, Contemplation and Visualization.
Get into a place where you can sit comfortably and uninterrupted for about 20 minutes.You should hopefully not be driving or anything tensing or unrelaxing. If you feel comfortable to do so, I invite you to close your eyes.
Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation:
Breathe and direct your thoughts to contacting God. Let your stomach be a balloon inflate, deflate.
Bible verses for Meditation:
James 4
NIV
7 Submit yourselves, then, to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you.
8 Come near to God and he will come near to you. Wash your hands, you sinners, and purify your hearts, you double-minded.
9 Grieve, mourn and wail. Change your laughter to mourning and your joy to gloom.
10 Humble yourselves before the Lord, and he will lift you up.
KJV
7 Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you.
8 Draw nigh to God, and he will draw nigh to you. Cleanse your hands, ye sinners; and purify your hearts, ye double minded.
9 Be afflicted, and mourn, and weep: let your laughter be turned to mourning, and your joy to heaviness.
10 Humble yourselves in the sight of the Lord, and he shall lift you up.
Meditation on Scripture:
Some of my Chaplain friends have been sharing this scripture almost as a joke but then I realized how profound it is. In some ways I am hesitant to share this message but I feel profoundly that this is what we all need right now. For everyone who has access to my voice right now, also has access to communicate with hundreds of people across the globe on the internet. Despite that, the efforts we make for health reasons may leave people feeling more isolated and lonely. This scripture points to an even greater need. As we are feeling the effects of social separation, we can remember that God invites us to draw as close as we want to him. He sets the conditions for what that will look like. It requires us to humble ourselves much of the time. Even as we believe that we are doing pretty good we can receive even greater love from God by submitting ourselves to Him. Peace comes from humbling ourselves before God.
When we feel out of control. When we feel like there is nothing we can do, we can draw near unto him. When health officials ask us to wash our hands, God asks us to purify our actions and our hearts. What an encouraging thought that God invites us to draw near to him and provides a way to do that. I am not saying that somehow we need to believe that our actions make us pure, God makes us pure. God is teaching us how to draw near to him. We draw near to him as we learn that the things that we think are most important are not. As we are kind to others and speak with genuine hearts and help those that mourn, we take on the heart of God. Earlier in this scripture it basically says God is extremely interested, even jealous, to see the spirit in us that He put there.
Each time we wash our hands may we also remember to wash our hearts. What a symbol of love this is. I fervently hope that this message brings joy to you as you realize the way to be exalted is to submit to God. I believe that this scripture is not meant to depress us but to lift us out of the trap of the carnal mind that each and every one of us are constantly wrestling with. As you reflect on this message I hope above all that this stirs in your heart a glimmer of the immense love that God has for you in wanting to lift us to a higher plane where His love will take us.
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit.
Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:
I invite you to sit in silence feeling being patient for your own faults and trials.
Summarize what insights you have gained during this meditation and meditate and visualize positive change in your life:
This is a listener funded podcast at patreon.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Updates:
Final Question: How can you humble yourself before God, purify your heart today and draw near to God?
Final Thought: God loves you so much. Even in the midst of tough times. I live in California and things are being locked down over here, and yet the heavens remain open. As we find ourselves bored we can find so many positive things to do if we spend the time to look. I have found myself to be more easily frustrated than normal. I have felt a need to course correct. A lot of people I have been talking to have been feeling this same mix of calm and chaos. This is a perfect environment for us to draw near to God. The way he recommends doing that is by humbling ourselves before him. He loves us so much even when we struggle, and wants the best for us. Unfortunately, many times the things we most need come at the other end of extremely hard experiences. May these experiences draw us to see and experience the never ending infinite love of God.
FIND ME ON:
Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
App Store App: Recenter with Christ
Voicemail - (602) 888-3795
Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com
Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast
Facebook.com/ChristianMeditationPodcast
Youtube.com/ChristianMeditaitonPodcast
Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
Bible verses for Meditation:
Matthew 10
ESV
16 “Behold, I am sending you out as sheep in the midst of wolves, so be wise as serpents and innocent as doves.
17 Beware of men, for they will deliver you over to courts and flog you in their synagogues,
18 and you will be dragged before governors and kings for my sake, to bear witness before them and the Gentiles.
FIND ME ON:
Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
App Store App: Recenter with Christ
Voicemail - (602) 888-3795
Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com
Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast
Facebook.com/ChristianMeditationPodcast
Youtube.com/ChristianMeditaitonPodcast
Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
214 Be Wise as Serpents and Innocent as Doves A Guided Christian Meditation on Matthew 10:16-18
I'm Chaplain Jared and I work as a hospice chaplain and an ICU chaplain, my purpose in making this podcast is to help you find more peace in your life and to be more open for your heart to be changed by the Spirit of God. By using centuries old form of Christian Meditation named Lectio Divina:
Outline: Relaxation, Reading, Meditation, Prayer, Contemplation and Visualization.
Get into a place where you can sit comfortably and uninterrupted for about 20 minutes.You should hopefully not be driving or anything tensing or unrelaxing. If you feel comfortable to do so, I invite you to close your eyes.
Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation:
Breathe and direct your thoughts to contacting God. Let your stomach be a balloon inflate, deflate.
Bible verses for Meditation:
Matthew 10
ESV
16 “Behold, I am sending you out as sheep in the midst of wolves, so be wise as serpents and innocent as doves.
17 Beware of men, for they will deliver you over to courts and flog you in their synagogues,
18 and you will be dragged before governors and kings for my sake, to bear witness before them and the Gentiles.
NABRE
16 “Behold, I am sending you like sheep in the midst of wolves; so be shrewd as serpents and simple as doves.
17 But beware of people, for they will hand you over to courts and scourge you in their synagogues,
18 and you will be led before governors and kings for my sake as a witness before them and the pagans.
Meditation on Scripture:
Jesus foretold that the would would experience tribulation. This included both persecution of Christians but also physical hardships. In light of the worldwide panic that is occuring right now due to COVID-19 I think this scripture brings insight into this situation. Many people struggle between the two extremes of complacency and terror. In this scripture, Jesus suggests another option. Be wise and thoughtful while also being open to the peace that comes from staying faithful to God. God does not desire us to be fearful. Later in this same chapter Jesus says not to fear people who can only destroy your body because God is in control of our immortal souls. The interesting analogy is that the serpent is used as a metaphor for the enemy because of its cunning, the Dove is a metaphor for the spirit of God. Here Jesus says it is good to be wise as long as we yield to the Spirit of God.
We can be thoughtful and cautious while not being fearful. This can be helped by being mindful of where you get your information. There are many people who profit from making people fearful. God is not in that camp. It says in 2 Tim 1:7 God has not given us the spirit of fear but of power, and love, and a sound mind. We should not embrace a spirit of panic. In fact we can actively choose the peaceful way while taking appropriate precautions.
Take a breath right now and let go of any remaining fear that is in your heart. Open yourself to the peace of God. When you go throughout your week and you notice fear rising inside of you, remember this moment and remember to allow the spirit of the dove to guide your thoughts and actions. When you feel emotional fatigue of taking wise action, remember to accept wisdom.
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit.
Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:
I invite you to sit in silence feeling being patient for your own faults and trials.
Summarize what insights you have gained during this meditation and meditate and visualize positive change in your life:
This is a listener funded podcast at patreon.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Updates:
Final Question: How do you respond when feelings of fear well up inside of you?
Final Thought: There will be many opportunities in the coming days and weeks for exercising this mindset. As you encounter sensationalized news reports remember to trust the spirit of God as a dove. When you are tempted to with apathy about medical wisdom, embrace screwedness and take appropriate action. As others place their entire focus on a microscopic organism, place your focus on the God of the universe. Our fallen world has disease which will affect many good people. Trust that God has our eternal good in mind and He will always care for that as we remain faithful in Him as the source of our salvation.
FIND ME ON:
Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
App Store App: Recenter with Christ
Voicemail - (602) 888-3795
Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com
Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast
Facebook.com/ChristianMeditationPodcast
Youtube.com/ChristianMeditaitonPodcast
Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
Luke 12:13-15
13 Someone in the crowd said to him, “Teacher, tell my brother to divide the family inheritance with me.”
14 But he said to him, “Friend, who set me to be a judge or arbitrator over you?”
15 And he said to them, “Take care! Be on your guard against all kinds of greed; for one’s life does not consist in the abundance of possessions.”
Meditation on Scripture:
FIND ME ON:
Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
App Store App: Recenter with Christ
Voicemail - (602) 888-3795
Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com
Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast
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Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
212 Life Does Not Consist in The Abundance of Possessions A Guided Christian Meditation on Luke 12:13-15
I'm Chaplain Jared and I work as a hospice chaplain and an ICU chaplain, my purpose in making this podcast is to help you find more peace in your life and to be more open for your heart to be changed by the Spirit of God. By using centuries old form of Christian Meditation named Lectio Divina:
Outline: Relaxation, Reading, Meditation, Prayer, Contemplation and Visualization.
Get into a place where you can sit comfortably and uninterrupted for about 20 minutes.You should hopefully not be driving or anything tensing or unrelaxing. If you feel comfortable to do so, I invite you to close your eyes.
Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation:
Breathe and direct your thoughts to contacting God. Let your stomach be a balloon inflate, deflate.
Bible verses for Meditation:
Luke 12
KJV
13 And one of the company said unto him, Master, speak to my brother, that he divide the inheritance with me.
14 And he said unto him, Man, who made me a judge or a divider over you?
15 And he said unto them, Take heed, and beware of covetousness: for a man's life consisteth not in the abundance of the things which he possesseth.
NRSV
13 Someone in the crowd said to him, “Teacher, tell my brother to divide the family inheritance with me.”
14 But he said to him, “Friend, who set me to be a judge or arbitrator over you?”
15 And he said to them, “Take care! Be on your guard against all kinds of greed; for one’s life does not consist in the abundance of possessions.”
Meditation on Scripture:
This scripture is interesting in many ways. Jesus asks who made him a judge, yet in the book of John he clearly states that the Father gave all judgement to the son. Also his focus and context was not on justice. There are times constantly when I parent that I have to decide which of the two children to correct first when they are in a disagreement. There is a value when the law protects the weak and powerless but there is also a need to help correct proud hearts. There are times when Jesus speaks to this. What he seems to be teaching above all is about greed and scarcity. Perhaps it is because he detected pride and greed in his heart and chose to focus on that because it would have more of an impact on his eternal soul than the possessions they were fighting over.
There are times when we clamour for justice. We expect God to resolve things for us and take care of those in the wrong when our hearts are not set on his ways. We seek peace when we place too much importance on the things of this world. We can be tempted to see the world as a fearful place. We seek control. We seek indicators of meaning and value. We seek stability and to remove fear in our hearts. All of these things lead us to seek abundance of possessions.
Jesus’ message to us is extremely timely. As we have too little money or too much God remains in control. Regardless of our earthly possessions God sent his son to die for us. Regardless of our physical need we will end up in an eternal heaven with a loving Father who cherishes us and will pour out his glory upon us as much as we are willing to receive it through faith. Justice is clearly important. It is also important that we act in wisdom regarding our stewardship of financial resources to reduce our suffering and the suffering of others, but it is far more important for us to root out fear and pride out of our own hearts.
Similarly
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit.
Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:
I invite you to sit in silence feeling being patient for your own faults and trials.
Summarize what insights you have gained during this meditation and meditate and visualize positive change in your life:
This is a listener funded podcast at patreon.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Updates:
Final Question: How do you feel you should adjust your relationship to earthly things?
Final Thought: Trust in God. He is eternally faithful. Even if we feel that he does not respond to our earthly need, as he did when interacting with this person. We can learn to put off our faith in money and our faith in possessions and we place greater faith in the eternal goodness of the God of the universe. Bad things do happen to good people. And sometimes those bad things teach us extremely valuable lessons. As we develop our faith in God we can fear and cling less to the things of this world. We can learn to detach from our desires and our things. Spend some time specifically placing the focus of our hearts on feeling the love of God and minimizing the fear and greed we experience in life.
FIND ME ON:
Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
App Store App: Recenter with Christ
Voicemail - (602) 888-3795
Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com
Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast
Facebook.com/ChristianMeditationPodcast
Youtube.com/ChristianMeditaitonPodcast
Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
Hebrews 4
NIV
14 Therefore, since we have a great high priest who has ascended into heaven, Jesus the Son of God, let us hold firmly to the faith we profess. 15 For we do not have a high priest who is unable to empathize with our weaknesses, but we have one who has been tempted in every way, just as we are—yet he did not sin. 16 Let us then approach God’s throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need.
FIND ME ON:
Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
App Store App: Recenter with Christ
Voicemail - (602) 888-3795
Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com
Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast
Facebook.com/ChristianMeditationPodcast
Youtube.com/ChristianMeditaitonPodcast
Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
210 Jesus Understands our Temptation A Guided Christian Meditation on Hebrews 4:14-16
I'm Chaplain Jared and I work as a hospice chaplain and an ICU chaplain, my purpose in making this podcast is to help you find more peace in your life and to be more open for your heart to be changed by the Spirit of God. By using centuries old form of Christian Meditation named Lectio Divina:
Outline: Relaxation, Reading, Meditation, Prayer, Contemplation and Visualization.
Get into a place where you can sit comfortably and uninterrupted for about 20 minutes.You should hopefully not be driving or anything tensing or unrelaxing. If you feel comfortable to do so, I invite you to close your eyes.
Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation:
Breathe and direct your thoughts to contacting God. Let your stomach be a balloon inflate, deflate.
Bible verses for Meditation:
Hebrews 4
NIV
14 Therefore, since we have a great high priest who has ascended into heaven, Jesus the Son of God, let us hold firmly to the faith we profess. 15 For we do not have a high priest who is unable to empathize with our weaknesses, but we have one who has been tempted in every way, just as we are—yet he did not sin. 16 Let us then approach God’s throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need.
NABRE
14 Therefore, since we have a great high priest who has passed through the heavens, Jesus, the Son of God, let us hold fast to our confession. 15 For we do not have a high priest who is unable to sympathize with our weaknesses, but one who has similarly been tested in every way, yet without sin. 16 So let us confidently approach the throne of grace to receive mercy and to find grace for timely help
Meditation on Scripture:
For many Christians this Wed was Ash Wed and this week began a period of 40 days of fasting called lent. In episode 75 I covered the beggining verses of Matthew 4 which is the temptation of Jesus which you may enjoy this week. This week’s scripture is in reference to the experience Jesus has while on earth, living life as a man. Jesus understands what temptation is like. He understands what it is like to give up the necessities of life. Sometimes our greatest sin is when we get consumed with desires that we feel overcome us, but this scripture gives us hope. Our experience with temptation does not need to drive us into the ground in shame, rather our understanding of how Jesus understands this human experience can give us hope in His ability to help us overcome sin.
During the weeks that lead up to Easter we can be mindful of this tension. We can observe our temptation within ourselves and plead with God to help us transform on a trajectory similar to His Son. We can approach the throne of grace confidently and as we attempt to overcome temptation and sin we can receive timely help if we consistently approach God in love and humility. As Jesus said, man will not live by bread alone but by every word that proceeds out of the mouth of God.
In your efforts to reduce your submission to sin and focus on the Sacrifice and Resurrection of Jesus this season, keep the faith. Each time your heart feels discouraged, may it be lifted. Each time you think that you are too far gone or that you have done too much for God to forgive, remember his understanding and his desire for you to keep drawing ever nearer and abandoning sin. Use this time of prayer and fasting as a way to stay connected with Him in the middle of the tumultuous times so when we arrive at the gate he will invite us to enter into his presence because we have spent a life of trying to follow, although in a flawed way.
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit.
Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:
I invite you to sit in silence feeling being patient for your own faults and trials.
Summarize what insights you have gained during this meditation and meditate and visualize positive change in your life:
This is a listener funded podcast at patreon.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Updates:
Final Question: How does knowing that Jesus was tempted as we are help you to relate to God?
Final Thought: God has an overwhelming desire to help us overcome the natural effects of sin while helping us to develop and embrace his spirit of Grace. Fatih in God is also trusting in His process to transform us. Fortunately or unfortunately this includes a lot of trial and error as we attempt to clearly discern the will of the Lord then struggle against our rebellious natures to return each time we go astray. I firmly believe that it is important for us to take accountability for our sin while also not being bowled over by shame. Allow the peace of our understanding God to enter your heart as you attempt to give up sin in your life. That is what the Easter season is all about. Trust in new beginnings. Trust in an all powerful risen God that has power to transform you and I into His image.
FIND ME ON:
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Voicemail - (602) 888-3795
Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com
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Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
NIV
1 This is what the LORD says: "Go and buy a clay jar from a potter. Take along some of the elders of the people and of the priests
2 and go out to the Valley of Ben Hinnom, near the entrance of the Potsherd Gate. There proclaim the words I tell you,
….
10"Then break the jar while those who go with you are watching,
11and say to them, `This is what the LORD Almighty says: I will smash this nation and this city just as this potter's jar is smashed and cannot be repaired. They will bury the dead in Topheth until there is no more room.
FIND ME ON:
Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
App Store App: Recenter with Christ
Voicemail - (602) 888-3795
Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com
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208 Will The Lord Break His Pottery A Guided Christian Meditation on Jeremiah 19:1, 2, 10, 11
I'm Chaplain Jared and I work as a hospice chaplain and an ICU chaplain, my purpose in making this podcast is to help you find more peace in your life and to be more open for your heart to be changed by the Spirit of God. By using centuries old form of Christian Meditation named Lectio Divina:
Outline: Relaxation, Reading, Meditation, Prayer, Contemplation and Visualization.
Get into a place where you can sit comfortably and uninterrupted for about 20 minutes.You should hopefully not be driving or anything tensing or unrelaxing. If you feel comfortable to do so, I invite you to close your eyes.
Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation:
Breathe and direct your thoughts to contacting God. Let your stomach be a balloon inflate, deflate.
Bible verses for Meditation:
Jeremiah 19
NRSV
1 Thus said the Lord: Go and buy a potter’s earthenware jug. Take with you some of the elders of the people and some of the senior priests,
2 and go out to the valley of the son of Hinnom at the entry of the Potsherd Gate, and proclaim there the words that I tell you.
…...
10 Then you shall break the jug in the sight of those who go with you,
11 and shall say to them: Thus says the Lord of hosts: So will I break this people and this city, as one breaks a potter’s vessel, so that it can never be mended. In Topheth they shall bury until there is no more room to bury.
NIV
1 This is what the LORD says: "Go and buy a clay jar from a potter. Take along some of the elders of the people and of the priests
2 and go out to the Valley of Ben Hinnom, near the entrance of the Potsherd Gate. There proclaim the words I tell you,
….
10"Then break the jar while those who go with you are watching,
11and say to them, `This is what the LORD Almighty says: I will smash this nation and this city just as this potter's jar is smashed and cannot be repaired. They will bury the dead in Topheth until there is no more room.
Meditation on Scripture:
This scripture is stern. It represents a fierce threat from God. As we learn and develop our relationship with God it can be tempting to look at Jesus and think that God would never truly bring punishment on anyone. Perhaps we see Him as a permissive and passive parent. This Jesus of Nasareth is the same Jehovah who sternly warned others of pending destruction. Many people struggle with notions of Gof because of how they interpret the Old Testament. Is God love or does God demand obedience? Which view is accurate? what if they are one and the same. I have a fervent conviction that God prefers us not to fear. Scripture teaches that God does not give us the spirit of fear but of power.
Yet he is not permissive of sin. When he healed a lame man at the waters of Bethesda he said to the man "Stop sinning or something worse will happen." Jesus said many times that we need to believe and follow Him. If we make mistakes, we can come back. We can overcome sin with His help.
In this moment I want you to imagine sitting in front of a loving smiling God. As you look into his loving face you begin to ponder on your current sins. What feeling rushed over you? My goal with this excersize is not to help you excuse your sin but to realize that any guilt we feel has one purpose. To draw us to the throne of grace and help us overcome that sin. Imagine now that as you look God in the eyes he strengthens you enough to leave your sin.
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit.
Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:
I invite you to sit in silence feeling being patient for your own faults and trials.
Summarize what insights you have gained during this meditation and meditate and visualize positive change in your life:
This is a listener funded podcast at patreon.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Updates:
Final Question: What sins do you need to release from your heart?
Final Thought: as I said the purpose of guilt is to draw us to God and reconcile with each other and prevent us from sin in the future. It had no useful purpose outside of that. Satan knows that persistent guilt distracts and demotivates us from loving in the love of God. As you strive to love and live as God would have you do, embrace the fact that you can release the guilt required to draw you to repentance and trust God to forgive as He has said. He loves you and wants you to feel his peace. Embrace Hos peace as you accept his help in overcoming sin.
FIND ME ON:
Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
App Store App: Recenter with Christ
Voicemail - (602) 888-3795
Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com
Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast
Facebook.com/ChristianMeditationPodcast
Youtube.com/ChristianMeditaitonPodcast
Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
Jeremiah 18
NASB
1 This word came to Jeremiah from the Lord:
2 Arise and go down to the potter’s house; there you will hear my word.
3 I went down to the potter’s house and there he was, working at the wheel.
4 Whenever the vessel of clay he was making turned out badly in his hand, he tried again, making another vessel of whatever sort he pleased.
5 Then the word of the Lord came to me:
6 Can I not do to you, house of Israel, as this potter has done?—oracle of the Lord. Indeed, like clay in the hand of the potter, so are you in my hand, house of Israel.
FIND ME ON:
Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
App Store App: Recenter with Christ
Voicemail - (602) 888-3795
Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com
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Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
206 Can I Not Treat You As The Potter a Guided Christian Meditation on Jeremiah 18:1-6
I'm Chaplain Jared and I work as a hospice chaplain and an ICU chaplain, my purpose in making this podcast is to help you find more peace in your life and to be more open for your heart to be changed by the Spirit of God. By using centuries old form of Christian Meditation named Lectio Divina:
Outline: Relaxation, Reading, Meditation, Prayer, Contemplation and Visualization.
Get into a place where you can sit comfortably and uninterrupted for about 20 minutes.You should hopefully not be driving or anything tensing or unrelaxing. If you feel comfortable to do so, I invite you to close your eyes.
Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation:
Breathe and direct your thoughts to contacting God. Let your stomach be a balloon inflate, deflate.
Bible verses for Meditation:
Jeremiah 18
NASB
1 This word came to Jeremiah from the Lord:
2 Arise and go down to the potter’s house; there you will hear my word.
3 I went down to the potter’s house and there he was, working at the wheel.
4 Whenever the vessel of clay he was making turned out badly in his hand, he tried again, making another vessel of whatever sort he pleased.
5 Then the word of the Lord came to me:
6 Can I not do to you, house of Israel, as this potter has done?—oracle of the Lord. Indeed, like clay in the hand of the potter, so are you in my hand, house of Israel.
NABRE
1 This word came to Jeremiah from the Lord:
2 Arise and go down to the potter’s house; there you will hear my word.
3 I went down to the potter’s house and there he was, working at the wheel.
4 Whenever the vessel of clay he was making turned out badly in his hand, he tried again, making another vessel of whatever sort he pleased.
5 Then the word of the Lord came to me:
6 Can I not do to you, house of Israel, as this potter has done?—oracle of the Lord. Indeed, like clay in the hand of the potter, so are you in my hand, house of Israel.
Meditation on Scripture:
Much of the time when us humans consider the word of the Lord we ponder what it means to us. We try and figure out what the Lord is doing in our life. We have a tendency to expect that what we think about something is important perhaps because much of God’s focus when he speaks to us is to help move us along to follow in His path. Consider things from God’s perspective. As he shapes the cosmos and has formed this earth at times he has declared that things are not how he wants them. The Old Testament is filled with this kind of language. How often do we consider God’s justice from His perspective? How often do we see the struggle he has with our wickedness and disobedience. In being all powerful God could force each of us to follow the commandments. Yet he doesn’t do this. Instead he lets things develop and at times problems grow, such as in the time of Jeremiah when the whole nation was punished for idol worship.
Consider your life as a delicate glob of clay in the hands of a true master craftsman. As God works to shape you and change you into what he wants of you, He knows what he wants it to look like. At times that may mean that certain areas will be stretched and pushed. Certain areas will be pinched or ground down. Even with all of this at times His goals for us may take more. Perhaps you have experienced a moment in your life that has felt like a clay jar was finally starting to take shape and then everything came crashing down around you. Perhaps it was because God had different expectations for you. Perhaps as you allow him to rework you again, your relationship will him will continue to develop. Perhaps he will be more satisfied with the outcome, even though it has caused a lot of frustration or heart ache.
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit.
Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:
I invite you to sit in silence feeling being patient for your own faults and trials.
Summarize what insights you have gained during this meditation and meditate and visualize positive change in your life:
This is a listener funded podcast at patreon.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Updates:
Final Question: Do you trust God to sculpt your life?
Final Thought: As we give up on holding God to our human standard and expectation we can find peace in knowing that his goal for us, is spiritual growth. He does not care about the things we are able to obtain in this life. He wants to know if we learned to live and love. If not then we may need to be tossed again and sculpted again. If you are in the middle of a smooth period, or plateau give thanks to the God who is forming you and search deep within your heart for what your expectations are about life. Does God owe you this smooth period? I truly feel that as we spend our smooth periods learning to be grateful we can escape some of the snares of pride. Your life’s design may not make sense to you at this current moment but it is my experience that this is extremely common. Most people can’t put it together until years later, if at all in this life. Our best bet is to trust God and then do the best we can while having a heart open to believing and receiving the Grace of God.
FIND ME ON:
Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
App Store App: Recenter with Christ
Voicemail - (602) 888-3795
Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com
Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast
Facebook.com/ChristianMeditationPodcast
Youtube.com/ChristianMeditaitonPodcast
Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
Bible verses for Meditation:
Matthew 25
NRSV
8 The foolish said to the wise, ‘Give us some of your oil, for our lamps are going out.’
9 But the wise replied, ‘No! there will not be enough for you and for us; you had better go to the dealers and buy some for yourselves.
10 And while they went to buy it, the bridegroom came, and those who were ready went with him into the wedding banquet; and the door was shut.
Meditation on Scripture:
FIND ME ON:
Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
App Store App: Recenter with Christ
Voicemail - (602) 888-3795
Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com
Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast
Facebook.com/ChristianMeditationPodcast
Youtube.com/ChristianMeditaitonPodcast
Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
204 Give Us of Your Oil a Guided Christian Meditation on Matthew 25:8-10
I'm Chaplain Jared and I work as a hospice chaplain and an ICU chaplain, my purpose in making this podcast is to help you find more peace in your life and to be more open for your heart to be change d by the Spirit of God. By using centuries old form of Christian Meditation named Lectio Divina:
Outline: Relaxation, Reading, Meditation, Prayer, Contemplation and Visualization.
Get into a place where you can sit comfortably and uninterrupted for about 20 minutes.You should hopefully not be driving or anything tensing or unrelaxing. If you feel comfortable to do so, I invite you to close your eyes.
Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation:
Breathe and direct your thoughts to contacting God. Let your stomach be a balloon inflate, deflate.
Bible verses for Meditation:
Matthew 25
KJV
8 And the foolish said unto the wise, Give us of your oil; for our lamps are gone out.
9 But the wise answered, saying, Not so; lest there be not enough for us and you: but go ye rather to them that sell, and buy for yourselves.
10 And while they went to buy, the bridegroom came; and they that were ready went in with him to the marriage: and the door was shut.
NRSV
8 The foolish said to the wise, ‘Give us some of your oil, for our lamps are going out.’
9 But the wise replied, ‘No! there will not be enough for you and for us; you had better go to the dealers and buy some for yourselves.
10 And while they went to buy it, the bridegroom came, and those who were ready went with him into the wedding banquet; and the door was shut.
Meditation on Scripture:
This is an excerpt from the parable of the 10 virgins in which there are ten young women who are invited to a wedding. The groom comes much later than expected and the oil burning lamps they brought had run out of fuel. The half that brought extra oil didn't have enough to share.
The most clear metaphor is that the oil represents our spiritual development and relationship with God. This cannot be borrowed from anyone else And also cant be given by anyone else. The scripture shows how the women were directed to those people that sell oil. Where is this metaphorical oil obtained?
I can only come from God. Even though I do this podcast that reaches hundreds of thousands, it actually cant do anything to give new oil to anyone. The only way that we can obtain spare oil is to open our hearts to God and to receive it from Him.
only place to get that
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit.
Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:
I invite you to sit in silence feeling being patient for your own faults and trials.
Summarize what insights you have gained during this meditation and meditate and visualize positive change in your life:
This is a listener funded podcast at patreon.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Updates:
Final Question: What are you doing to ensure you have extra oil?
Final Thought: Jesus has stated that He will return. We cannot wait to prepare to meet Him until the end. We cannot wait to draw our hearts near to the Lord. I hope and pray that each of us are more able to so this each day. I deeply supplicate the Lord that these meditations can provide some context for us to be able to do that. Spend the emotional energy required to make sacred space and time in your life. Part of God's initial covenants with Abraham was that He will be our God and we will be His people. Make your heart available to do that.
FIND ME ON:
Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
App Store App: Recenter with Christ
Voicemail - (602) 888-3795
Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com
Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast
Facebook.com/ChristianMeditationPodcast
Youtube.com/ChristianMeditaitonPodcast
Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
Bible verses for Meditation:
1 Peter 3
NRSV
3 Now who will harm you if you are eager to do what is good? 14 But even if you do suffer for doing what is right, you are blessed. Do not fear what they fear, and do not be intimidated, 15 but in your hearts sanctify Christ as Lord. Always be ready to make your defense to anyone who demands from you an accounting for the hope that is in you;
NABRE
13 Now who is going to harm you if you are enthusiastic for what is good? 14 But even if you should suffer because of righteousness, blessed are you. Do not be afraid or terrified with fear of them, 15 but sanctify Christ as Lord in your hearts. Always be ready to give an explanation to anyone who asks you for a reason for your hope,
Meditation on Scripture:
FIND ME ON:
Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
App Store App: Recenter with Christ
Voicemail - (602) 888-3795
Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com
Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast
Facebook.com/ChristianMeditationPodcast
Youtube.com/ChristianMeditaitonPodcast
Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
202 Do Not Fear What They Fear a Guided Christian Meditation on 1 Peter 3:13-15
I'm Chaplain Jared and I work as a hospice chaplain and an ICU chaplain, my purpose in making this podcast is to help you find more peace in your life and to be more open for your heart to be change d by the Spirit of God. By using centuries old form of Christian Meditation named Lectio Divina:
Outline: Relaxation, Reading, Meditation, Prayer, Contemplation and Visualization.
Get into a place where you can sit comfortably and uninterrupted for about 20 minutes.You should hopefully not be driving or anything tensing or unrelaxing. If you feel comfortable to do so, I invite you to close your eyes.
Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation:
Breathe and direct your thoughts to contacting God. Let your stomach be a balloon inflate, deflate.
Bible verses for Meditation:
1 Peter 3
NRSV
3 Now who will harm you if you are eager to do what is good? 14 But even if you do suffer for doing what is right, you are blessed. Do not fear what they fear, and do not be intimidated, 15 but in your hearts sanctify Christ as Lord. Always be ready to make your defense to anyone who demands from you an accounting for the hope that is in you;
NABRE
13 Now who is going to harm you if you are enthusiastic for what is good? 14 But even if you should suffer because of righteousness, blessed are you. Do not be afraid or terrified with fear of them, 15 but sanctify Christ as Lord in your hearts. Always be ready to give an explanation to anyone who asks you for a reason for your hope,
Meditation on Scripture:
Do you fear the world? How much do you stress? Do you fear an evil influence in the world or in your life? What about stress over other things in your life. Do you fear about money or relationships? Chances are if you are listening to this then you spend a lot of time thinking about or combatting against stress. Stress can feel debilitating. As part of my work I follow the research on stress and how it impacts us as humans. I was participating in a multi day training on trauma and PTS this week. Some of the most important and compelling research about stress that I have seen is summarized in in a TED talk called “How to Make Stress Your Friend.” By Kelly McGonigal
Although she does indicate that stress can lead to negative health outcomes however, this effect is entirely stopped for people who think that stress is good for them. Let me say that another way. If you believe stress has a positive roll in your life then it does not have the negative health effects in your life. I feel that this touches the same concept represented here. Wether we are talking about stress or suffering for Christ, the truth is that we can use our brain to change the way we perceive this. We can learn to rejoice that the Faithfulness of Jesus and that our faith in God is strong enough to get us over hardship just as we can trust that our physical stress responses in life can lift our focus and attention to help us rise to the challenges of life. If we do this we can feel the paradoxical peace of courage.
As an example I preached in front of a new church. As I was getting ready to stand up, my heart began to race at the prospect of public speaking I embrace that as a blessing from God to help me hone my focus. We can literally reinterpret suffering and stress in our lives as signs of greater purpose and function. God can help us find more peace by helping our hearts be courageous.
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit.
Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:
I invite you to sit in silence feeling being patient for your own faults and trials.
Summarize what insights you have gained during this meditation and meditate and visualize positive change in your life:
This is a listener funded podcast at patreon.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Updates:
Final Question: What message is written on the tables of your heart?
Final Thought: The irony of our defense of God is that is referenced here is that it does not require a fearful heart. Our response to any challenge can be an opportunity to life as Jesus did. Remember this as you feel stress. Stress is your body’s response to challenge that helps you rise to the ocassion. I have found that as I learn to not fear my stress response that it is oddly less stressful and fear inducing. Our faith in God can help us come to realize God will lift your heart as you embrace and trust in God’s ability to help you overcome the fear in your heart that harms your ability to overcome.
FIND ME ON:
Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
App Store App: Recenter with Christ
Voicemail - (602) 888-3795
Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com
Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast
Facebook.com/ChristianMeditationPodcast
Youtube.com/ChristianMeditaitonPodcast
Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
Bible verses for Meditation:
1 Peter 1
NIV
5 For this very reason, make every effort to add to your faith goodness; and to goodness, knowledge; 6 and to knowledge, self-control; and to self-control, perseverance; and to perseverance, godliness; 7 and to godliness, mutual affection; and to mutual affection, love. 8 For if you possess these qualities in increasing measure, they will keep you from being ineffective and unproductive in your knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ. 9 But whoever does not have them is nearsighted and blind, forgetting that they have been cleansed from their past sins. 10 Therefore, my brothers and sisters,[a] make every effort to confirm your calling and election. For if you do these things, you will never stumble,
ESV
5 For this very reason, make every effort to supplement your faith with virtue,[e] and virtue with knowledge, 6 and knowledge with self-control, and self-control with steadfastness, and steadfastness with godliness, 7 and godliness with brotherly affection, and brotherly affection with love. 8 For if these qualities[f] are yours and are increasing, they keep you from being ineffective or unfruitful in the knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ. 9 For whoever lacks these qualities is so nearsighted that he is blind, having forgotten that he was cleansed from his former sins. 10 Therefore, brothers,[g] be all the more diligent to confirm your calling and election, for if you practice these qualities you will never fall.
FIND ME ON:
Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
App Store App: Recenter with Christ
Voicemail - (602) 888-3795
Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com
Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast
Facebook.com/ChristianMeditationPodcast
Youtube.com/ChristianMeditaitonPodcast
Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
200 Confirm Your Calling a Guided Christian Meditation on 2 Peter 1:5-10
I'm Chaplain Jared and I work as a hospice chaplain and an ICU chaplain, my purpose in making this podcast is to help you find more peace in your life and to be more open for your heart to be change d by the Spirit of God. By using centuries old form of Christian Meditation named Lectio Divina:
Outline: Relaxation, Reading, Meditation, Prayer, Contemplation and Visualization.
Get into a place where you can sit comfortably and uninterrupted for about 20 minutes.You should hopefully not be driving or anything tensing or unrelaxing. If you feel comfortable to do so, I invite you to close your eyes.
Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation:
Breathe and direct your thoughts to contacting God. Let your stomach be a balloon inflate, deflate.
Bible verses for Meditation:
1 Peter 1
NIV
5 For this very reason, make every effort to add to your faith goodness; and to goodness, knowledge; 6 and to knowledge, self-control; and to self-control, perseverance; and to perseverance, godliness; 7 and to godliness, mutual affection; and to mutual affection, love. 8 For if you possess these qualities in increasing measure, they will keep you from being ineffective and unproductive in your knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ. 9 But whoever does not have them is nearsighted and blind, forgetting that they have been cleansed from their past sins. 10 Therefore, my brothers and sisters,[a] make every effort to confirm your calling and election. For if you do these things, you will never stumble,
ESV
5 For this very reason, make every effort to supplement your faith with virtue,[e] and virtue with knowledge, 6 and knowledge with self-control, and self-control with steadfastness, and steadfastness with godliness, 7 and godliness with brotherly affection, and brotherly affection with love. 8 For if these qualities[f] are yours and are increasing, they keep you from being ineffective or unfruitful in the knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ. 9 For whoever lacks these qualities is so nearsighted that he is blind, having forgotten that he was cleansed from his former sins. 10 Therefore, brothers,[g] be all the more diligent to confirm your calling and election, for if you practice these qualities you will never fall.
Meditation on Scripture:
Purpose in life comes from living according to the manner God has asked us.
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit.
Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:
I invite you to sit in silence feeling being patient for your own faults and trials.
Summarize what insights you have gained during this meditation and meditate and visualize positive change in your life:
This is a listener funded podcast at patreon.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Updates:
Final Question: What message is written on the tables of your heart?
Final Thought: I believe profoundly in the redemptive power of God. Not only to consign our souls to eternal reward or punishment but also to change us here, to make our lives a closer approximation of the kingdom of God.
FIND ME ON:
Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
App Store App: Recenter with Christ
Voicemail - (602) 888-3795
Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com
Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast
Facebook.com/ChristianMeditationPodcast
Youtube.com/ChristianMeditaitonPodcast
Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
Bible verses for Meditation:
Genesis 15
NABRE
9 He answered him: Bring me a three-year-old heifer, a three-year-old female goat, a three-year-old ram, a turtledove, and a young pigeon.
10 He brought him all these, split them in two, and placed each half opposite the other; but the birds he did not cut up.
17 When the sun had set and it was dark, there appeared a smoking fire pot and a flaming torch, which passed between those pieces.
NIV
9 So the Lord said to him, “Bring me a heifer, a goat and a ram, each three years old, along with a dove and a young pigeon.”
10 Abram brought all these to him, cut them in two and arranged the halves opposite each other; the birds, however, he did not cut in half.
17 When the sun had set and darkness had fallen, a smoking firepot with a blazing torch appeared and passed between the pieces.
Meditation on Scripture:
How did God determine that there would be a need for the Cross? Are we blessed to have wandered into the most eternally convenient coincidence that Jesus died for us?
This is a very dense section of scripture. I picked it for a unique reason. At first glance this section is confusing. The strangeness of it causes us to gloss right over it sometimes. I have a possible interpretation. In the period of Abraham, roughly 2 thousands years before Jesus, there was a unique practice performed by powerful kings. It was a type of covenant and submission that was performed by a lower king called the assal who were serving under the power of a greater king called Suzerain. They would take animals and cut them in half and take the halves and separate them then the lesser king would walk between them. This was a symbol that if the vassal king did not live up to the covenant than he would be divided in two as the animals were. In this scripture it appears as though Abraham is being set up as the Vassal King yet Abraham is not what passes between the Animals but a smoking fire and a flaming torch. Some have interpreted this to be a representation of Jehovah. In other words, as part of the Covenant of Abraham Jehovah himself placed himself as responsible for the failure of Abraham and his posterity to maintain faithfulness to the Covenant.
My goal with this scripture is to help us ponder on the mystery that is God’s preparation to save us and the inevitability of our need to be saved. Despite our best intentions of positive change, if we do it alone and without God, it will not provide lasting change. As you continue to work toward improvement realize this, without God all change is incomplete at best or worse yet, pointless. Involve God in the goals for positive change that you have. We have evidence thousands of years ago that God has been preparing to bless us.
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit.
Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:
I invite you to sit in silence feeling being patient for your own faults and trials.
Summarize what insights you have gained during this meditation and meditate and visualize positive change in your life:
This is a listener funded podcast at patreon.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Updates:
Final Question: What is involved with your covenant with God?
Final Thought:
Long before Abraham had his son, long before Jacob’s name was changed to Israel, before the Sons of Israel entered egypt, before the Exodus Jehovah was giving signs and prophecy of the need for the Cross. God was not surprised in an eternal sense that we would need a Savior. His plan to send His Son was not a last minute decision. It was because he cared for you and I before we were ever born. When we fall short of our potential at times, and sin, this is not a surprise to Him either. The Good News of the gospel is that despite our failure that God can and will forgive us if we believe in Jesus and follow His path.
FIND ME ON:
Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
App Store App: Recenter with Christ
Voicemail - (602) 888-3795
Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com
Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast
Facebook.com/ChristianMeditationPodcast
Youtube.com/ChristianMeditaitonPodcast
Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
198 The Covenant of The Smoking Fire and Flaming Torch a Guided Christian Meditation on Genesis 15:9,10, 17
I'm Chaplain Jared and I work as a hospice chaplain and an ICU chaplain, my purpose in making this podcast is to help you find more peace in your life and to be more open for your heart to be change d by the Spirit of God. By using centuries old form of Christian Meditation named Lectio Divina:
Outline: Relaxation, Reading, Meditation, Prayer, Contemplation and Visualization.
Get into a place where you can sit comfortably and uninterrupted for about 20 minutes.You should hopefully not be driving or anything tensing or unrelaxing. If you feel comfortable to do so, I invite you to close your eyes.
Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation:
Breathe and direct your thoughts to contacting God. Let your stomach be a balloon inflate, deflate.
Bible verses for Meditation:
Genesis 15
NABRE
9 He answered him: Bring me a three-year-old heifer, a three-year-old female goat, a three-year-old ram, a turtledove, and a young pigeon.
10 He brought him all these, split them in two, and placed each half opposite the other; but the birds he did not cut up.
17 When the sun had set and it was dark, there appeared a smoking fire pot and a flaming torch, which passed between those pieces.
NIV
9 So the Lord said to him, “Bring me a heifer, a goat and a ram, each three years old, along with a dove and a young pigeon.”
10 Abram brought all these to him, cut them in two and arranged the halves opposite each other; the birds, however, he did not cut in half.
17 When the sun had set and darkness had fallen, a smoking firepot with a blazing torch appeared and passed between the pieces.
Meditation on Scripture:
How did God determine that there would be a need for the Cross? Are we blessed to have wandered into the most eternally convenient coincidence that Jesus died for us?
This is a very dense section of scripture. I picked it for a unique reason. At first glance this section is confusing. The strangeness of it causes us to gloss right over it sometimes. I have a possible interpretation. In the period of Abraham, roughly 2 thousands years before Jesus, there was a unique practice performed by powerful kings. It was a type of covenant and submission that was performed by a lower king called the assal who were serving under the power of a greater king called Suzerain. They would take animals and cut them in half and take the halves and separate them then the lesser king would walk between them. This was a symbol that if the vassal king did not live up to the covenant than he would be divided in two as the animals were. In this scripture it appears as though Abraham is being set up as the Vassal King yet Abraham is not what passes between the Animals but a smoking fire and a flaming torch. Some have interpreted this to be a representation of Jehovah. In other words, as part of the Covenant of Abraham Jehovah himself placed himself as responsible for the failure of Abraham and his posterity to maintain faithfulness to the Covenant.
My goal with this scripture is to help us ponder on the mystery that is God’s preparation to save us and the inevitability of our need to be saved. Despite our best intentions of positive change, if we do it alone and without God, it will not provide lasting change. As you continue to work toward improvement realize this, without God all change is incomplete at best or worse yet, pointless. Involve God in the goals for positive change that you have. We have evidence thousands of years ago that God has been preparing to bless us.
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit.
Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:
I invite you to sit in silence feeling being patient for your own faults and trials.
Summarize what insights you have gained during this meditation and meditate and visualize positive change in your life:
This is a listener funded podcast at patreon.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Updates:
Final Question: What is involved with your covenant with God?
Final Thought:
Long before Abraham had his son, long before Jacob’s name was changed to Israel, before the Sons of Israel entered egypt, before the Exodus Jehovah was giving signs and prophecy of the need for the Cross. God was not surprised in an eternal sense that we would need a Savior. His plan to send His Son was not a last minute decision. It was because he cared for you and I before we were ever born. When we fall short of our potential at times, and sin, this is not a surprise to Him either. The Good News of the gospel is that despite our failure that God can and will forgive us if we believe in Jesus and follow His path.
FIND ME ON:
Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
App Store App: Recenter with Christ
Voicemail - (602) 888-3795
Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com
Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast
Facebook.com/ChristianMeditationPodcast
Youtube.com/ChristianMeditaitonPodcast
Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
NRSV
2 You yourselves are our letter, written on our hearts, to be known and read by all;
3 and you show that you are a letter of Christ, prepared by us, written not with ink but with the Spirit of the living God, not on tablets of stone but on tablets of human hearts.
4 Such is the confidence that we have through Christ toward God.
5 Not that we are competent of ourselves to claim anything as coming from us; our competence is from God,
6 who has made us competent to be ministers of a new covenant, not of letter but of spirit; for the letter kills, but the Spirit gives life.
FIND ME ON:
Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
App Store App: Recenter with Christ
Voicemail - (602) 888-3795
Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com
Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast
Facebook.com/ChristianMeditationPodcast
Youtube.com/ChristianMeditaitonPodcast
Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
196 You Are A Letter of Christ Written on The Heart a Guided Christian Meditation on 2 Corinthians 3:3-6
I'm Chaplain Jared and I work as a hospice chaplain and an ICU chaplain, my purpose in making this podcast is to help you find more peace in your life and to be more open for your heart to be change d by the Spirit of God. By using centuries old form of Christian Meditation named Lectio Divina:
Outline: Relaxation, Reading, Meditation, Prayer, Contemplation and Visualization.
Get into a place where you can sit comfortably and uninterrupted for about 20 minutes.You should hopefully not be driving or anything tensing or unrelaxing. If you feel comfortable to do so, I invite you to close your eyes.
Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation:
Breathe and direct your thoughts to contacting God. Let your stomach be a balloon inflate, deflate.
Bible verses for Meditation:
2 Corinthians
KJV
3 Forasmuch as ye are manifestly declared to be the epistle of Christ ministered by us, written not with ink, but with the Spirit of the living God; not in tables of stone, but in fleshy tables of the heart.
4 And such trust have we through Christ to God-ward:
5 Not that we are sufficient of ourselves to think any thing as of ourselves; but our sufficiency is of God;
6 Who also hath made us able ministers of the new testament; not of the letter, but of the spirit: for the letter killeth, but the spirit giveth life.
NRSV
2 You yourselves are our letter, written on our hearts, to be known and read by all;
3 and you show that you are a letter of Christ, prepared by us, written not with ink but with the Spirit of the living God, not on tablets of stone but on tablets of human hearts.
4 Such is the confidence that we have through Christ toward God.
5 Not that we are competent of ourselves to claim anything as coming from us; our competence is from God,
6 who has made us competent to be ministers of a new covenant, not of letter but of spirit; for the letter kills, but the Spirit gives life.
Meditation on Scripture:
One thing that I hope you grasp about the purpose of this podcast is that it is not meant to simply help you feel a little more calm. Although I belive that is a deep and intentional side effect. The goal is to help us connect with the source of peace, truth and love who is Jesus Christ. Feeling peaceful is not what saves us. The state of mind or heart should not be the end goal. If you notice yourself feeling better as you do these meditations I hope you see that as a valuable stepping stone to a more profound relationship with God. A relationship that invariably will change us.
One key difference that is often mentioned in podcasts such as the Being Well Podcast by Dr. Rick Hansen is moving from the focus of state to trait. In other words trying to develop tendencies toward positive emotions within us. Our relationship with God has the ability to do that, but for all eternity. Our goal should be to write the new covenant of Jesus upon our hearts and that our lives will be a living embodiment of the gospel of Jesus Christ. My hope is that as we hear of these aspirations that we don’t feel fear or guilt. It is God who makes us competent enough to do the things He asks us to do.
As you are making righteous desires to live your new commitments and goals I ask you to trust God one step more. Instead of being content to have good habits that produce good feelings, look for the deeper change inside of you. It will often be iterative, happening stronger with successive progress. My hope for you is that these changes take root deep inside of you and write God’s law on the fleshy tables of your hearts
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit.
Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:
I invite you to sit in silence feeling being patient for your own faults and trials.
Summarize what insights you have gained during this meditation and meditate and visualize positive change in your life:
This is a listener funded podcast at patreon.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Updates:
Final Question: What message is written on the tables of your heart?
Final Thought: I believe profoundly in the redemptive power of God. Not only to consign our souls to eternal reward or punishment but also to change us here, to make our lives a closer approximation of the kingdom of God.
FIND ME ON:
Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
App Store App: Recenter with Christ
Voicemail - (602) 888-3795
Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com
Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast
Facebook.com/ChristianMeditationPodcast
Youtube.com/ChristianMeditaitonPodcast
Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
NRSV
13 I gave you a land on which you had not labored, and towns that you had not built, and you live in them; you eat the fruit of vineyards and oliveyards that you did not plant.
14 “Now therefore revere the Lord, and serve him in sincerity and in faithfulness; put away the gods that your ancestors served beyond the River and in Egypt, and serve the Lord.
15 Now if you are unwilling to serve the Lord, choose this day whom you will serve, whether the gods your ancestors served in the region beyond the River or the gods of the Amorites in whose land you are living; but as for me and my household, we will serve the Lord.”
194 As For Me and My House, We Will Serve the Lord A Guided Christian Meditation on Josua 24:13-15
I'm Chaplain Jared and I work as a hospice chaplain and an ICU chaplain, my purpose in making this podcast is to help you find more peace in your life and to be more open for your heart to be changed by the Spirit of God. By using centuries old form of Christian Meditation named Lectio Divina:
Outline: Relaxation, Reading, Meditation, Prayer, Contemplation and Visualization.
Get into a place where you can sit comfortably and uninterrupted for about 20 minutes.You should hopefully not be driving or anything tensing or unrelaxing. If you feel comfortable to do so, I invite you to close your eyes.
Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation:
Breathe and direct your thoughts to contacting God. Let your stomach be a balloon inflate, deflate.
Bible verses for Meditation:
Joshua 24
NIV
13 So I gave you a land on which you did not toil and cities you did not build; and you live in them and eat from vineyards and olive groves that you did not plant.’
14 “Now fear the Lord and serve him with all faithfulness. Throw away the gods your ancestors worshiped beyond the Euphrates River and in Egypt, and serve the Lord.
15 But if serving the Lord seems undesirable to you, then choose for yourselves this day whom you will serve, whether the gods your ancestors served beyond the Euphrates, or the gods of the Amorites, in whose land you are living. But as for me and my household, we will serve the Lord.”
NRSV
13 I gave you a land on which you had not labored, and towns that you had not built, and you live in them; you eat the fruit of vineyards and oliveyards that you did not plant.
14 “Now therefore revere the Lord, and serve him in sincerity and in faithfulness; put away the gods that your ancestors served beyond the River and in Egypt, and serve the Lord.
15 Now if you are unwilling to serve the Lord, choose this day whom you will serve, whether the gods your ancestors served in the region beyond the River or the gods of the Amorites in whose land you are living; but as for me and my household, we will serve the Lord.”
Meditation on Scripture:
Each of us have blessings in our lives and many things which we do not deserve. Things which were prepared for us without our forethought and action. The very resurrection of our Lord is an example of this. This is the situation we find ourselves in. Despite this many of us face challenges. Perhaps even things things can be what is referred to here. Perhaps our fields do have some vicious weeds in them. Regardless, we have a life ideally suited to give us the experiences we need to grow and choose faith in God.
During this time of introspection that follows the new year I hope that we can take this message to heart. It is natural and helpful to look deep inside ourselves for improvement. We can look deep in our hearts as thoughtfully as possible. We can ask ourselves in my home and in my heart, who do I truly serve. When confronted with temptation what do I choose? When confronted with doubt, what do I choose to do and to believe? I think an important concept here is who do we choose this day. You live only today. When tomorrow arrives it will be today then. When we die someday it will feel like a today. When we go to our final spiritual reward that will become our eternal new type of moment.
In this moment we can choose. In this moment we can serve. As we made new goals and objectives may we not experience them with the fear and weight of the future. We can’t carry the weight of all future decisions in this moment. All we have to do is choose God this day, this hour, this moment. Set your goals to be big and then focus on what you need to do today. If one day you find yourself struggling against the weight of continuing your new habit or stopping old habbits bring your focus in and focus on just this moment. Today I can live a pure life. This moment I can choose God. This second I can release all inappropriate desire and urges. We can make goals for the future then live in this moment continually toward their fulfillment.
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit.
Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:
I invite you to sit in silence feeling being patient for your own faults and trials.
Summarize what insights you have gained during this meditation and meditate and visualize positive change in your life:
This is a listener funded podcast at patreon.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Updates:
Final Question: What can you decide to do in this moment?
Final Thought: I have found that something that gets in the way of our positive intentions is the worry of the future. How could we possibly do this forever? That is too much stress and pressure. I have found it immensely helpful to powerfully commit to the new behavior I seek or the new goal but not get burdened by the weight of all the future. In my heart I try and focus on the moment.
FIND ME ON:
Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
App Store App: Recenter with Christ
Voicemail - (602) 888-3795
Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com
Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast
Facebook.com/ChristianMeditationPodcast
Youtube.com/ChristianMeditaitonPodcast
Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
NABRE
20 That is not how you learned Christ, 21 assuming that you have heard of him and were taught in him, as truth is in Jesus, 22 that you should put away the old self of your former way of life, corrupted through deceitful desires, 23 and be renewed in the spirit of your minds, 24 and put on the new self, created in God’s way in righteousness and holiness of truth.
FIND ME ON:
Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
Android App Store: Recenter with Christ
Voicemail - (602) 888-3795
Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com
Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast
Facebook.com/ChristianMeditationPodcast
Youtube.com/ChristianMeditaitonPodcast
Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
192 Be Made New in the Attitude of Your Minds A Guided Christian Meditation on Ephesians 4:20-24
I'm Chaplain Jared and I work as a hospice chaplain and an ICU chaplain, my purpose in making this podcast is to help you find more peace in your life and to be more open for your heart to be changed by the Spirit of God. By using centuries old form of Christian Meditation named Lectio Divina:
Outline: Relaxation, Reading, Meditation, Prayer, Contemplation and Visualization.
Get into a place where you can sit comfortably and uninterrupted for about 20 minutes.You should hopefully not be driving or anything tensing or unrelaxing. If you feel comfortable to do so, I invite you to close your eyes.
Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation:
Breathe and direct your thoughts to contacting God. Let your stomach be a balloon inflate, deflate.
Bible verses for Meditation:
Ephesians 4
NIV
20 That, however, is not the way of life you learned 21 when you heard about Christ and were taught in him in accordance with the truth that is in Jesus. 22 You were taught, with regard to your former way of life, to put off your old self, which is being corrupted by its deceitful desires; 23 to be made new in the attitude of your minds; 24 and to put on the new self, created to be like God in true righteousness and holiness.
NABRE
20 That is not how you learned Christ, 21 assuming that you have heard of him and were taught in him, as truth is in Jesus, 22 that you should put away the old self of your former way of life, corrupted through deceitful desires, 23 and be renewed in the spirit of your minds, 24 and put on the new self, created in God’s way in righteousness and holiness of truth.
Meditation on Scripture:
Rejoice in newness. Not novelty of possessions or situation in life but something more profound. Many times as we continue our walk with Christ we forget some of the passion that drives us when we first feel forgiven and renewed. It can be extremely important that we rejoice in this awareness even years and decades later. We have been created to be like God. God has already extended to us a pardon for our trust in him. Yet why is it important that Paul reminds these people of their conversion? Why does he need to tell them of their original and strong testimony of transformation? Was it not enough? What it not genuine? Was your conversion enough? This question is of course meant to be rhetorical.
The answer to this question is much less important than what we experience by asking it. The answer is of course no and of course yes. If it was enough we could keel over and die the moment we profess faith in Jesus Christ. Yet we don’t. We could also have perfect visions of the outline of the rest of our lives, but interestingly very few people could claim such a gift. We are left in our faith, in other words we are left to spend the rest of our lives attempting to walk in God’s spirit and continually receive this transformation.
As we begin the new year and you ponder what aspects of your life you could improve upon consider this, Christ can continue to transform you. Your change is not reliant solely upon your own willpower. Trust that God can help you make progress toward your worthwhile goals. Give up your corrupted desires. Refresh in your mind the truth of Jesus you have learned and trust and allow that this truth can guide your life toward continual improvement. This improvement does not need to be through force of white knuckled will but it can be the calm assurance that a loving God will continue to work in those who believe and trust him and continually try to follow.
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit.
Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:
I invite you to sit in silence feeling being patient for your own faults and trials.
Summarize what insights you have gained during this meditation and meditate and visualize positive change in your life:
This is a listener funded podcast at patreon.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Updates:
Final Question: Do you live your life purposefully with Jesus as your King?
Final Thought: I deeply hope that during this season that you will find deeper devotion to the relationships that are most important. My greatest hope for you is that you draw nearer to God both in good times and in bad. Both in busy times and lonely ones. In times of mourning and times of celebration. In times of light and while walking through the dark. Remember that Jesus is your king. He understands your needs better than you do. As the passage of time washes away the confusion and absolutist assumptions that we wrongly hold at times I truly believe that this life will be the greatest school house for Grace that we could have imagined. As we attempt to walk with God we may not feel Him by our side the whole time, but when it is all done and we are kneeling before Him we will finally come to understand what Grace truly means as we see how His plan has saved us and purified us.
FIND ME ON:
Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
Android App Store: Recenter with Christ
Voicemail - (602) 888-3795
Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com
Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast
Facebook.com/ChristianMeditationPodcast
Youtube.com/ChristianMeditaitonPodcast
Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
Bible verses for Meditation:
KJV
37 Pilate therefore said unto him, Art thou a king then? Jesus answered, Thou sayest that I am a king. To this end was I born, and for this cause came I into the world, that I should bear witness unto the truth. Every one that is of the truth heareth my voice.
38 Pilate saith unto him, What is truth? And when he had said this, he went out again unto the Jews, and saith unto them, I find in him no fault at all.
39 But ye have a custom, that I should release unto you one at the passover: will ye therefore that I release unto you the King of the Jews?
FIND ME ON:
Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
Android App Store: Recenter with Christ
Voicemail - (602) 888-3795
Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com
Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast
Facebook.com/ChristianMeditationPodcast
Youtube.com/ChristianMeditaitonPodcast
Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
190 For This Was I Born A Guided Christian Meditation on John 18:37-39
I'm Chaplain Jared and I work as a hospice chaplain and an ICU chaplain, my purpose in making this podcast is to help you find more peace in your life and to be more open for your heart to be changed by the Spirit of God. By using centuries old form of Christian Meditation named Lectio Divina:
Outline: Relaxation, Reading, Meditation, Prayer, Contemplation and Visualization.
Get into a place where you can sit comfortably and uninterrupted for about 20 minutes.You should hopefully not be driving or anything tensing or unrelaxing. If you feel comfortable to do so, I invite you to close your eyes.
Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation:
Breathe and direct your thoughts to contacting God. Let your stomach be a balloon inflate, deflate.
Bible verses for Meditation:
KJV
37 Pilate therefore said unto him, Art thou a king then? Jesus answered, Thou sayest that I am a king. To this end was I born, and for this cause came I into the world, that I should bear witness unto the truth. Every one that is of the truth heareth my voice.
38 Pilate saith unto him, What is truth? And when he had said this, he went out again unto the Jews, and saith unto them, I find in him no fault at all.
39 But ye have a custom, that I should release unto you one at the passover: will ye therefore that I release unto you the King of the Jews?
NIV
37 “You are a king, then!” said Pilate.
Jesus answered, “You say that I am a king. In fact, the reason I was born and came into the world is to testify to the truth. Everyone on the side of truth listens to me.”
38 “What is truth?” retorted Pilate. With this he went out again to the Jews gathered there and said, “I find no basis for a charge against him.
39 But it is your custom for me to release to you one prisoner at the time of the Passover. Do you want me to release ‘the king of the Jews’?”
Meditation on Scripture:
I have loved this passage of scripture for a long time. As we remember and celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ this scripture puts it into focus. His birth had a purpose. The light came into the world and the world did not receive it. Something that we can ask ourselves this season is an amended version of what Pilate asked. Instead of trying to figure out if Jesus is a king. We should try and figure out if he is THE king, more specifically, is he YOUR king. This can be a heavy yet deeply meaningful question. Do we live in such a way that shows that Jesus is our king? If we claim to trust and believe Him but then don’t follow him he isn't much of a king. Regardless of how we interpret the role of the spirit in our purification one thing is clear from scripture, Jesus wants us to follow him. It is not enough to philosophically be comfortable with God’s truth. We need to embody it. You can almost here the futility in Pilates words when he questions what is truth. He tries to free Jesus in some vague way but when it comes down to it, he does not accept Jesus as HIS king.
Another thing that strikes me about this scripture is the certainty that Jesus had about his own purpose. As he was being falsely accused he firmly understood that that current hardship was part of his purpose. This passage inspires me to seek resolution of purpose. I have a deep desire to know what God would want for my life. In the meantime we take the best action we can or the best action we are motivated to. During this time of celebration I ask that you spend some time with God in prayer and meditation. Wrestle with the question, is Jesus your King, and if so how could you show that? It is my belief that as we make the best efforts we are capable of in our fallen state, that God’s grace moves in us and can fill us with purpose to carry us through. I encourage you to seek from God to know how to more purposefully live your life. In the absence of any hard answer take the 2 great commandments as your guide. Love God, and love your neighbor. By love we dedicate ourselves to service to God and our fellow humans.
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit.
Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:
I invite you to sit in silence feeling being patient for your own faults and trials.
Summarize what insights you have gained during this meditation and meditate and visualize positive change in your life:
This is a listener funded podcast at patreon.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Updates:
Final Question: Do you live your life purposefully with Jesus as your King?
Final Thought: I deeply hope that during this season that you will find deeper devotion to the relationships that are most important. My greatest hope for you is that you draw nearer to God both in good times and in bad. Both in busy times and lonely ones. In times of mourning and times of celebration. In times of light and while walking through the dark. Remember that Jesus is your king. He understands your needs better than you do. As the passage of time washes away the confusion and absolutist assumptions that we wrongly hold at times I truly believe that this life will be the greatest school house for Grace that we could have imagined. As we attempt to walk with God we may not feel Him by our side the whole time, but when it is all done and we are kneeling before Him we will finally come to understand what Grace truly means as we see how His plan has saved us and purified us.
FIND ME ON:
Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
Android App Store: Recenter with Christ
Voicemail - (602) 888-3795
Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com
Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast
Facebook.com/ChristianMeditationPodcast
Youtube.com/ChristianMeditaitonPodcast
Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
NABRE
5 So I thought it necessary to encourage the brothers to go on ahead to you and arrange in advance for your promised gift, so that in this way it might be ready as a bountiful gift and not as an exaction.
6 Consider this: whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and whoever sows bountifully will also reap bountifully.
7 Each must do as already determined, without sadness or compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver.
8 Moreover, God is able to make every grace abundant for you, so that in all things, always having all you need, you may have an abundance for every good work.
FIND ME ON:
Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
Android App Store: Recenter with Christ
Voicemail - (602) 888-3795
Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com
Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast
Facebook.com/ChristianMeditationPodcast
Youtube.com/ChristianMeditaitonPodcast
Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
188 God Loves a Cheerful Giver A Guided Christian Meditation on 2 Corinthians 9:5-8
I'm Chaplain Jared and I work as a hospice chaplain and an ICU chaplain, my purpose in making this podcast is to help you find more peace in your life and to be more open for your heart to be changed by the Spirit of God. By using centuries old form of Christian Meditation named Lectio Divina:
Outline: Relaxation, Reading, Meditation, Prayer, Contemplation and Visualization.
Get into a place where you can sit comfortably and uninterrupted for about 20 minutes.You should hopefully not be driving or anything tensing or unrelaxing. If you feel comfortable to do so, I invite you to close your eyes.
Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation:
Breathe and direct your thoughts to contacting God. Let your stomach be a balloon inflate, deflate.
Bible verses for Meditation:
NABRE
5 So I thought it necessary to encourage the brothers to go on ahead to you and arrange in advance for your promised gift, so that in this way it might be ready as a bountiful gift and not as an exaction.
6 Consider this: whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and whoever sows bountifully will also reap bountifully.
7 Each must do as already determined, without sadness or compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver.
8 Moreover, God is able to make every grace abundant for you, so that in all things, always having all you need, you may have an abundance for every good work.
ESV
5 So I thought it necessary to urge the brothers to go on ahead to you and arrange in advance for the gift you have promised, so that it may be ready as a willing gift, not as an exaction.
6 The point is this: whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and whoever sows bountifully will also reap bountifully.
7 Each one must give as he has decided in his heart, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver.
8 And God is able to make all grace abound to you, so that having all sufficiency in all things at all times, you may abound in every good work.
Meditation on Scripture:
As our lives become increasingly complex we can feel worn and defensive. I have heard numerous commercials about the need for people to get themselves Christmas presents. By no means do I want to suggest that buying things we need is misguided, I think the increasingly prevalent mindset of thinking of ourselves as the most deserving recipients of our own gifts is. In my experience the more we think about how we gain from a situation, the less effective we are at doing what is most important, to give our love and help to those who need it.
I will use a recent example. As many of you know I was at the Navy Chaplain school recently. I was there for a little less than 2 months. During that time I was stretched physically and organizationally. It was hard work but I made a decision early on to make every effort to make meaningful friendships with everyone I could and to treat them with the Love of God above all else. I gave up all goals of advancing my personal reputation in their eyes but instead focused on being supportive and caring.
At the end of the class I was voted by my classmates for the student leadership award because of this. I dont share this as a humble brag but because I have spent many hours trying to wrestle with this. It was a complete surprise to me. I removed recognition from my goals. I attempted to give others what they most need, love. During this Christmas season I want you to consider how you can give of what is most meaningful in your heart.
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit.
Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:
I invite you to sit in silence feeling being patient for your own faults and trials.
Summarize what insights you have gained during this meditation and meditate and visualize positive change in your life:
This is a listener funded podcast at patreon.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Updates:
Final Question: How can you give more openly?
Final Thought: As we reflect on the purpose of Christmas we are reminded that we are truly celebrating light coming into the world. We celebrate the example of love offered by Jesus. Resist getting emotionally caught up in the expectations of this time of year and just enjoy those around you, even as you encounter their flaws up close nad personal. When this life is over and we are dead, none of the things we buy, give, and receive will make any difference. The thing that will make a difference is how we learned to relate to each other in love. As you take these deep breaths, let go of the fear of loving others. Let go of the apathy that holds you back from caring for others. Think in your mind how you can bless the lives of the humans who happen to be sharing the earth with you this day. Let us all join together in a spirit of loving companionship as we bless the poor with physical blessings, and bless everyone with the blessing of your warm affection.FIND ME ON:
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Voicemail - (602) 888-3795
Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com
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Christian Meditation on John 11:22-26
ESV
22 But even now I know that whatever you ask from God, God will give you.”
23 Jesus said to her, “Your brother will rise again.”
24 Martha said to him, “I know that he will rise again in the resurrection on the last day.”
25 Jesus said to her, “I am the resurrection and the life. Whoever believes in me, though he die, yet shall he live,
26 and everyone who lives and believes in me shall never die. Do you believe this?”
FIND ME ON:
Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
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Voicemail - (602) 888-3795
Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com
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186 I Am The Resurrection and The Life A Guided Christian Meditation on John 11:22-26
I'm Chaplain Jared and I work as a hospice chaplain and an ICU chaplain, my purpose in making this podcast is to help you find more peace in your life and to be more open for your heart to be changed by the Spirit of God. By using centuries old form of Christian Meditation named Lectio Divina:
Outline: Relaxation, Reading, Meditation, Prayer, Contemplation and Visualization.
Get into a place where you can sit comfortably and uninterrupted for about 20 minutes.You should hopefully not be driving or anything tensing or unrelaxing. If you feel comfortable to do so, I invite you to close your eyes.
Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation:
Breathe and direct your thoughts to contacting God. Let your stomach be a balloon inflate, deflate.
Bible verses for Meditation:
John 11:22-26
KJV
22 But I know, that even now, whatsoever thou wilt ask of God, God will give it thee.
23 Jesus saith unto her, Thy brother shall rise again.
24 Martha saith unto him, I know that he shall rise again in the resurrection at the last day.
25 Jesus said unto her, I am the resurrection, and the life: he that believeth in me, though he were dead, yet shall he live:
26 And whosoever liveth and believeth in me shall never die. Believest thou this?
ESV
22 But even now I know that whatever you ask from God, God will give you.”
23 Jesus said to her, “Your brother will rise again.”
24 Martha said to him, “I know that he will rise again in the resurrection on the last day.”
25 Jesus said to her, “I am the resurrection and the life. Whoever believes in me, though he die, yet shall he live,
26 and everyone who lives and believes in me shall never die. Do you believe this?”
Meditation on Scripture:
With such a great season of rejoicing and celebration our memories are created with great strength. Many times these memories are good, other times they are not. Between the months of November and December people connect tragic events to this season for the better part of 20 percent of the year. This may be from death or any other type of separation. As Christians our goal should be to remember the Christmas season as an opportunity to celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ. The tender scene at the manger is so meaningful because of who that baby was and what he would do. Many people I have met have lost people around the holidays. Their loss is felt more intently at this time of year. As an example, when I worked in the ICU in the hospital I attended to the families of 4 patients who were removed from life support. I am keenly aware that Thanksgiving will be forever changed for those families. My heart goes out to people who have lost someone during the Christmas season, including some who have written me messages.
In this same moment we reflect on the words of Jesus. He is the resurrection and the life. We can trust and rely on the word of God. We shall live again with Him. Any loss we currently experience will not be forever. According to the sovereignty and mercy of God we can trust that our common faith will reunite us. We can trust in the mercy of God. Despite this I don’t feel that our normal human feelings should be anything to fear. Earlier in this same passage, Jesus himself wept over the death of Lazarus even though he knew he was going to raise him. All things combine for the good of those who love God. As we follow the example of Jesus Christ we can emulate the way He loved and trusted in the Father. May we continually prepare our hearts this Christmas season to rejoice in the glory of God while dealing with our human feelings. God loves us and loves every person we have known. Even death cannot separate us from His love.
.
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit.
Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:
I invite you to sit in silence feeling being patient for your own faults and trials.
Summarize what insights you have gained during this meditation and meditate and visualize positive change in your life:
This is a listener funded podcast at patreon.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Updates:
Final Question: How has suffering built endurance and character in you?
Final Thought: This week I was out in the field. I was in the northern US in Massachusetts and it was very cold. I was sleeping in a tent and performing a lot of very challenging physical events such as hiking with fully loaded packs of gear, obstacle courses, and a wide variety of strength tests. When it was over I arrived back at my lodging here at the schoolhouse the day before Thanksgiving. I was sore and bruised all over. I was missing my wife and kids who are across the country. It was an antithetical way of realizing my blessings. My life is so overwhelmingly blesse d. Suffering and blessing are integrally connected. It is because of our challenges that we realize our blessings. Our blessings help support us through our challenges. The greatest blessing of all is the love and grace of God. God loves you.
FIND ME ON:
Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
Android App Store: Recenter with Christ
Voicemail - (602) 888-3795
Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com
Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast
Facebook.com/ChristianMeditationPodcast
Youtube.com/ChristianMeditaitonPodcast
Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
NRSV
1 Therefore, since we are justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ, 2 through whom we have obtained access to this grace in which we stand; and we boast in our hope of sharing the glory of God. 3 And not only that, but we also boast in our sufferings, knowing that suffering produces endurance, 4 and endurance produces character, and character produces hope, 5 and hope does not disappoint us, because God’s love has been poured into our hearts through the Holy Spirit that has been given to us.
FIND ME ON:
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Android App Store: Recenter with Christ
Voicemail - (602) 888-3795
Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com
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Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
184 Suffering Produces Endurance, Character, Hope A Guided Christian Meditation on Romans 5:1-5
I'm Chaplain Jared and I work as a hospice chaplain and an ICU chaplain, my purpose in making this podcast is to help you find more peace in your life and to be more open for your heart to be changed by the Spirit of God. By using centuries old form of Christian Meditation named Lectio Divina:
Outline: Relaxation, Reading, Meditation, Prayer, Contemplation and Visualization.
Get into a place where you can sit comfortably and uninterrupted for about 20 minutes.You should hopefully not be driving or anything tensing or unrelaxing. If you feel comfortable to do so, I invite you to close your eyes.
Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation:
Breathe and direct your thoughts to contacting God. Let your stomach be a balloon inflate, deflate.
Bible verses for Meditation:
KJV
Romans 5
1 Therefore being justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ:
2 By whom also we have access by faith into this grace wherein we stand, and rejoice in hope of the glory of God.
3 And not only so, but we glory in tribulations also: knowing that tribulation worketh patience;
4 And patience, experience; and experience, hope:
5 And hope maketh not ashamed; because the love of God is shed abroad in our hearts by the Holy Ghost which is given unto us.
NRSV
1 Therefore, since we are justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ, 2 through whom we have obtained access to this grace in which we stand; and we boast in our hope of sharing the glory of God. 3 And not only that, but we also boast in our sufferings, knowing that suffering produces endurance, 4 and endurance produces character, and character produces hope, 5 and hope does not disappoint us, because God’s love has been poured into our hearts through the Holy Spirit that has been given to us.
Meditation on Scripture:
As humans we feel like we need to understand the world. We feel out of control if we dont understand things. This feeling has challenged many people to the point were they question wether God is all knowing or all powerful. Although I think this is a natural place to move through in our development of faith, I have seen people get stuck on this question. This scripture is so meaningful because it talks about justification connected to but not identical to the development of our character. I think this gives insight into the questions of purpose of suffering.
I was listening to an interview with Dr. James Gordon on the Being well Podcast. He spoke about how he works with people who grow through their trauma. One girl, who witnessed her family killed in a war learned a deep lesson of compassion for her own suffering. As we learn to endure our character become stronger and enhances our hope in redemption through Jesus Christ if we remain open to God’s spirit as our character grows.
Each of us have our own challenges. There are seasons of life filled with challenges and other seasons less so. But the fact that remains is that we are challenged. I invite you to let go of your demand that suffering must make sense in the immediate future. Allow it to be an enigmatic question that God is working to enhance and change eternal character. God is good and full of love. For this reason he offers us the ability to grow in hope this way.
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit.
Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:
I invite you to sit in silence feeling being patient for your own faults and trials.
Summarize what insights you have gained during this meditation and meditate and visualize positive change in your life:
This is a listener funded podcast at patreon.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Updates:
Final Question: How has suffering built endurance and character in you?
Final Thought: This week I was out in the field. I was in the northern US in Massachusetts and it was very cold. I was sleeping in a tent and performing a lot of very challenging physical events such as hiking with fully loaded packs of gear, obstacle courses, and a wide variety of strength tests. When it was over I arrived back at my lodging here at the schoolhouse the day before Thanksgiving. I was sore and bruised all over. I was missing my wife and kids who are across the country. It was an antithetical way of realizing my blessings. My life is so overwhelmingly blesse d. Suffering and blessing are integrally connected. It is because of our challenges that we realize our blessings. Our blessings help support us through our challenges. The greatest blessing of all is the love and grace of God. God loves you.
FIND ME ON:
Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
Android App Store: Recenter with Christ
Voicemail - (602) 888-3795
Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com
Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast
Facebook.com/ChristianMeditationPodcast
Youtube.com/ChristianMeditaitonPodcast
Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
182 I Stand All Amazed A Guided Christian Meditation on Hebrews Hebrews 13:15-16
I'm Chaplain Jared and I work as a hospice chaplain and an ICU chaplain, my purpose in making this podcast is to help you find more peace in your life and to be more open for your heart to be changed by the Spirit of God. By using centuries old form of Christian Meditation named Lectio Divina:
NIV
15 Through Jesus, therefore, let us continually offer to God a sacrifice of praise—the fruit of lips that openly profess his name.
16 And do not forget to do good and to share with others, for with such sacrifices God is pleased.
FIND ME ON:
Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
Android App Store: Recenter with Christ
Voicemail - (602) 888-3795
Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com
Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast
Facebook.com/ChristianMeditationPodcast
Youtube.com/ChristianMeditaitonPodcast
Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
182 I Stand All Amazed A Guided Christian Meditation on Hebrews Hebrews 13:15-16
I'm Chaplain Jared and I work as a hospice chaplain and an ICU chaplain, my purpose in making this podcast is to help you find more peace in your life and to be more open for your heart to be changed by the Spirit of God. By using centuries old form of Christian Meditation named Lectio Divina:
Outline: Relaxation, Reading, Meditation, Prayer, Contemplation and Visualization.
Get into a place where you can sit comfortably and uninterrupted for about 20 minutes.You should hopefully not be driving or anything tensing or unrelaxing. If you feel comfortable to do so, I invite you to close your eyes.
Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation:
Breathe and direct your thoughts to contacting God. Let your stomach be a balloon inflate, deflate.
Bible verses for Meditation:
NIV
15 Through Jesus, therefore, let us continually offer to God a sacrifice of praise—the fruit of lips that openly profess his name.
16 And do not forget to do good and to share with others, for with such sacrifices God is pleased.
ESV
15 Through him then let us continually offer up a sacrifice of praise to God, that is, the fruit of lips that acknowledge his name.
16 Do not neglect to do good and to share what you have, for such sacrifices are pleasing to God.
Meditation on Scripture:
The message of Thanksgiving I feel today is represented in a quote from “I stand all amazed” by Charles Gabriel
I stand all amazed at the love Jesus offers me,
Confused at the grace that so fully he proffers me.
I tremble to know that for me he was crucified,
That for me, a sinner, he suffered, he bled and died.
I marvel that he would descend from his throne divine
To rescue a soul so rebellious and proud as mine,
That he should extend his great love unto such as I,
Sufficient to own, to redeem, and to justify.
I think of his hands pierced and bleeding to pay the debt!
Such mercy, such love and devotion can I forget?
No, no, I will praise and adore at the mercy seat,
Until at the glorified throne I kneel at his feet.
The above verses of Hebrews teach how Jesus was the replacement for the temple sacrifice. He is also a replacement for the sacrifice of our souls also. Let us continually offer up a sacrifice of praise to God for His marvelous mercy and grace. Take this moment and give thanks to God.
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit.
Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:
I invite you to sit in silence feeling being patient for your own faults and trials.
Summarize what insights you have gained during this meditation and meditate and visualize positive change in your life:
This is a listener funded podcast at patreon.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Updates:
Final Question: How can you more actively praise God with praise and thanks in your life?
Final Thought: Thanksgiving season is a wonderful time to give thanks for all the things we have. If we are not careful we can fall into the trap of looking around at surface level blessings. Perhaps we can even be more thoughtful and be grateful for those loved ones that surround us. None of this compares to the greatest blessing of all that we have receive. That is the grace of God. In the greatest of eternal ironies God loves us fallen creatures. He loves you. Thanks be to God for that love. Let us spend this week receiving his grace and love, giving thanks for it, and passing it on to all the people we come in contact with.
FIND ME ON:
Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
Android App Store: Recenter with Christ
Voicemail - (602) 888-3795
Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com
Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast
Facebook.com/ChristianMeditationPodcast
Youtube.com/ChristianMeditaitonPodcast
Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
I'm Chaplain Jared and I work as a hospice chaplain and an ICU chaplain, my purpose in making this podcast is to help you find more peace in your life and to be more open for your heart to be changed by the Spirit of God.
NIV
18 Now John’s disciples and the Pharisees were fasting. Some people came and asked Jesus, “How is it that John’s disciples and the disciples of the Pharisees are fasting, but yours are not?”
19 Jesus answered, “How can the guests of the bridegroom fast while he is with them? They cannot, so long as they have him with them.
20 But the time will come when the bridegroom will be taken from them, and on that day they will fast.
FIND ME ON:
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Android App Store: Recenter with Christ
Voicemail - (602) 888-3795
Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com
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180 On That Day They Will Fast A Guided Christian Meditation on Mark 2:18-20
I'm Chaplain Jared and I work as a hospice chaplain and an ICU chaplain, my purpose in making this podcast is to help you find more peace in your life and to be more open for your heart to be changed by the Spirit of God. By using centuries old form of Christian Meditation named Lectio Divina:
Outline: Relaxation, Reading, Meditation, Prayer, Contemplation and Visualization.
Get into a place where you can sit comfortably and uninterrupted for about 20 minutes.You should hopefully not be driving or anything tensing or unrelaxing. If you feel comfortable to do so, I invite you to close your eyes.
Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation:
Breathe and direct your thoughts to contacting God. Let your stomach be a balloon inflate, deflate.
Bible verses for Meditation:
NIV
18 Now John’s disciples and the Pharisees were fasting. Some people came and asked Jesus, “How is it that John’s disciples and the disciples of the Pharisees are fasting, but yours are not?”
19 Jesus answered, “How can the guests of the bridegroom fast while he is with them? They cannot, so long as they have him with them.
20 But the time will come when the bridegroom will be taken from them, and on that day they will fast.
NABRE
18 The disciples of John and of the Pharisees were accustomed to fast. People came to him and objected, “Why do the disciples of John and the disciples of the Pharisees fast, but your disciples do not fast?”
19 Jesus answered them, “Can the wedding guests fast while the bridegroom is with them? As long as they have the bridegroom with them they cannot fast.
20 But the days will come when the bridegroom is taken away from them, and then they will fast on that day
Meditation on Scripture:
Fasting is an ancient tradition. It is used the world over and has a deep tradition in Christianity. When Jesus was baptized he engaged in 40 day fast afterward. This is known as the temptation of Jesus. He suffered hunger and was tempted by Satan to give in to his body of flesh. He knew the appetites of the flesh. Many of the sins that we fall into in our lives are motivated by our human physical appetites. I think this is why fasting can be such a powerful spiritual tool. It helps us set aside even legitimate cravings for food as we learn to trust in the strength of the Lord.
If done with moderation, fasting can be a powerful way of brining our creature desires into perspective. I think God has asked people to fast for spiritual benefits. There are also health benefits to fasting that modern science is still catching up to understand but these are side effects not the main motivation. One thing that is clear from scripture is that fasting is very often coupled together in scripture with prayer. When we fast it should be as an act of religious devotion, not as a diet strategy. We can begin with prayer, pray throughout, and end with prayer.
In the great cosmos of God’s creations the clump of atoms that we put into our mouths does not change much. God is not impacted by us not eating, but we are. Our devotion can be focused inside ourselves as we become willing to give up our human desires. This month we celebrate Thanksgiving in the United States and we are preparing to celebrate Christmas next month. As we eat from abundance may we also recognize that our human physical desires do not have to dictate what we eat. We can learn to discipline ourselves as we rejoice in the goodness of God to us.
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit.
Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:
I invite you to sit in silence feeling being patient for your own faults and trials.
Summarize what insights you have gained during this meditation and meditate and visualize positive change in your life:
This is a listener funded podcast at patreon.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Updates:
Final Question: Could fasting be a periodic part of your worship?
Final Thought: As you begin to celebrate abundance may you also consider those who do not experience such abundance. One practice we can get into is to use fasting as a way to increase our offerings. As we fast we can symbolically dedicate that food to the poor as well. In other words we can provide an offering of cash equal to what we would have eaten in the meals we skip during our fast. In this way we can bless others while also engaging in a powerful spiritual discipline. I suggest you engage wisdom and prudence as you consider your fasting practice also. Exerting our extreme will in either extreme of indulgence or deprivation can distract us from our goals of submitting our will to God.
FIND ME ON:
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Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com
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Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
NIV
33 “My children, I will be with you only a little longer. You will look for me, and just as I told the Jews, so I tell you now: Where I am going, you cannot come.
34 “A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another.
35 By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another.”
FIND ME ON:
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Android App Store: Recenter with Christ
Voicemail - (602) 888-3795
Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com
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178 Love One Another as I have Loved You A Guided Christian Meditation on John 13:33-35
I'm Chaplain Jared and I work as a hospice chaplain and an ICU chaplain, my purpose in making this podcast is to help you find more peace in your life and to be more open for your heart to be changed by the Spirit of God. By using centuries old form of Christian Meditation named Lectio Divina:
Outline: Relaxation, Reading, Meditation, Prayer, Contemplation and Visualization.
Get into a place where you can sit comfortably and uninterrupted for about 20 minutes.You should hopefully not be driving or anything tensing or unrelaxing. If you feel comfortable to do so, I invite you to close your eyes.
Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation:
Breathe and direct your thoughts to contacting God. Let your stomach be a balloon inflate, deflate.
Bible verses for Meditation:
KJV
33 Little children, yet a little while I am with you. Ye shall seek me: and as I said unto the Jews, Whither I go, ye cannot come; so now I say to you.
34 A new commandment I give unto you, That ye love one another; as I have loved you, that ye also love one another.
35 By this shall all men know that ye are my disciples, if ye have love one to another
NIV
33 “My children, I will be with you only a little longer. You will look for me, and just as I told the Jews, so I tell you now: Where I am going, you cannot come.
34 “A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another.
35 By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another.”
Meditation on Scripture:
How do you do at loving others? This is the greatest question we can ask. I ask myself this question often. I fail. I try really hard to bot be angry at others when I am treated badly. I dont always succeed. When others are kind it makes it much easier. The reason why this is so important is because this is the greatest mandate we have. Of all the commands Jesus gave the greatest of all was love.
It seems like this is a great thought when we hear it church. When we go into our lives we sometimes don't apply that message. We get some idealized version of a person in out mind but tjay annoying person from school isn't included. The person we don't get along with at the office somehow doesn't count.
Once we identify this tendency in ourself the question is how do we deal with this? For cases that are more intense such as abuse it is important to involve trusted helpers such as a pastor or counselor. When we fall short of what Jesus asks of us we can pile on the shame or we can realize that what God truly wants is that make things right and learn to love. In this moment focus on releasing anger from your heart. Let hate go from your heart. Let the love of God into your heart. As you ponder those you struggle to love breathe slowly and deeply. Ponder on how to bring the love of God into their life. Breath in calm and peace. Breath out anger and hate.
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit.
Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:
I invite you to sit in silence feeling being patient for your own faults and trials.
Summarize what insights you have gained during this meditation and meditate and visualize positive change in your life:
This is a listener funded podcast at patreon.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Updates:
Final Question: Can you let go of hate?
Final Thought: the mandate of God to learn to love is central to life. If you struggle with this it means you are human. The more we can learn to love the more we are learning from Jesus. The more we are learning to be like Jesus. As you go through your day make note of who bothers you the most. When you have an opportunity to pour your heart out to God, ask Him to help you learn how to love that person. Practice some meditation and release the tension of anger and hate. As we learn to overcome that we will be closer to the image of Christ which we seek. If you have been harmed or abused by someone this guidance is not meant to diminish the very real and understandable struggle you suffer with. Find someone to walk with you on this process. Love helps our hearts which is why Jesus asks is to do it.
FIND ME ON:
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Android App Store: Recenter with Christ
Voicemail - (602) 888-3795
Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com
Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast
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Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
23 Jesus did not answer a word. So his disciples came to him and urged him, “Send her away, for she keeps crying out after us.”
24 He answered, “I was sent only to the lost sheep of Israel.”
25 The woman came and knelt before him. “Lord, help me!” she said.
26 He replied, “It is not right to take the children’s bread and toss it to the dogs.”
27 “Yes it is, Lord,” she said. “Even the dogs eat the crumbs that fall from their master’s table.”
28 Then Jesus said to her, “Woman, you have great faith! Your request is granted.” And her daughter was healed at that moment.
FIND ME ON:
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Android App Store: Recenter with Christ
Voicemail - (602) 888-3795
Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com
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Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
176 Even the Dogs Eat the Crumbs A Guided Christian Meditation on Matthew 15:23-28
I'm Chaplain Jared and I work as a hospice chaplain and an ICU chaplain, my purpose in making this podcast is to help you find more peace in your life and to be more open for your heart to be changed by the Spirit of God. By using centuries old form of Christian Meditation named Lectio Divina:
Outline: Relaxation, Reading, Meditation, Prayer, Contemplation and Visualization.
Get into a place where you can sit comfortably and uninterrupted for about 20 minutes.You should hopefully not be driving or anything tensing or unrelaxing. If you feel comfortable to do so, I invite you to close your eyes.
Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation:
Breathe and direct your thoughts to contacting God. Let your stomach be a balloon inflate, deflate.
Bible verses for Meditation:
NIV
23 Jesus did not answer a word. So his disciples came to him and urged him, “Send her away, for she keeps crying out after us.”
24 He answered, “I was sent only to the lost sheep of Israel.”
25 The woman came and knelt before him. “Lord, help me!” she said.
26 He replied, “It is not right to take the children’s bread and toss it to the dogs.”
27 “Yes it is, Lord,” she said. “Even the dogs eat the crumbs that fall from their master’s table.”
28 Then Jesus said to her, “Woman, you have great faith! Your request is granted.” And her daughter was healed at that moment.
NRSV
23 But he did not answer her at all. And his disciples came and urged him, saying, “Send her away, for she keeps shouting after us.”
24 He answered, “I was sent only to the lost sheep of the house of Israel.”
25 But she came and knelt before him, saying, “Lord, help me.”
26 He answered, “It is not fair to take the children’s food and throw it to the dogs.”
27 She said, “Yes, Lord, yet even the dogs eat the crumbs that fall from their masters’ table.”
28 Then Jesus answered her, “Woman, great is your faith! Let it be done for you as you wish.” And her daughter was healed instantly.
Meditation on Scripture:
Few things are as delicate, yet resilient, as human pride. In this passage there is an interesting and somewhat confusing exchange that goes on between Jesus and this Canaanite woman. She was an outsider, someone who was not of the people chosen by God. In the account of this story that remains with us we do not understand everything about the situation. Many people spend a lot of effort and time trying to explain away Jesus’ response in these verses, yet as they remain, people interpret them differently.
Anyone who has written enough emails, or text messages knows the danger of miscommunication. Many times what is received is much different than what is intended. Sometimes we interpret malice where none was meant. Yet when this happens we rarely see ourselves in the wrong. Yet here this woman is begging Jesus for help and he provides her with a response that could have easily been interpreted as scorn or hate. She chose to look past that for the saving power she was duplicating.
How many of us have been harmed by someone at church? How many have heard some word from a pastor or fellow believer and had our church participation affected based on offended pride. In an age when there is so much offense given and taken we can seek to know God’s desire for us. We can overcome our human feelings that drive us away from God and from each other in church. When we are called dogs or the equivalent we can keep our focus on what is truly important, the saving power of Jesus to help us overcome sin and death.
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit.
Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:
I invite you to sit in silence feeling being patient for your own faults and trials.
Summarize what insights you have gained during this meditation and meditate and visualize positive change in your life:
This is a listener funded podcast at patreon.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Updates:
Final Question: Why do you take offense?
Final Thought: Earlier today I was with a chaplain friend of mine and we encountered someone who was wearing a clothing item with a particularly provocative and inappropriate message on it. Somehow in the small talk it came us and the person was somewhat apologetic about it. His response was “Its OK I happen to be a sinner.” When others try and give offense, or do it on accident we can take the mindset that this all works together for our good and helps us appreciate the saving power of Jesus.
FIND ME ON:
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Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com
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174 We Were Ready to Share Our Soul A Guided Christian Meditation on 1 Thessalonians 2:6-8
ESV
6 Nor did we seek glory from people, whether from you or from others, though we could have made demands as apostles of Christ.
7 But we were gentle among you, like a nursing mother taking care of her own children.
8 So, being affectionately desirous of you, we were ready to share with you not only the gospel of God but also our own selves, because you had become very dear to us.
FIND ME ON:
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Android App Store: Recenter with Christ
Voicemail - (602) 888-3795
Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com
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Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
174 We Were Ready to Share Our Soul A Guided Christian Meditation on 1 Thessalonians 2:6-8
I'm Chaplain Jared and I work as a hospice chaplain and an ICU chaplain, my purpose in making this podcast is to help you find more peace in your life and to be more open for your heart to be changed by the Spirit of God. By using centuries old form of Christian Meditation named Lectio Divina:
Outline: Relaxation, Reading, Meditation, Prayer, Contemplation and Visualization.
Get into a place where you can sit comfortably and uninterrupted for about 20 minutes.You should hopefully not be driving or anything tensing or unrelaxing. If you feel comfortable to do so, I invite you to close your eyes.
Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation:
Breathe and direct your thoughts to contacting God. Let your stomach be a balloon inflate, deflate.
Bible verses for Meditation:
KJV
6 Nor of men sought we glory, neither of you, nor yet of others, when we might have been burdensome, as the apostles of Christ.
7 But we were gentle among you, even as a nurse cherisheth her children:
8 So being affectionately desirous of you, we were willing to have imparted unto you, not the gospel of God only, but also our own souls, because ye were dear unto us.
ESV
6 Nor did we seek glory from people, whether from you or from others, though we could have made demands as apostles of Christ.
7 But we were gentle among you, like a nursing mother taking care of her own children.
8 So, being affectionately desirous of you, we were ready to share with you not only the gospel of God but also our own selves, because you had become very dear to us.
Meditation on Scripture:
Jesus’ command to love is deep. It should rock our core continually. If you love me keep my commandments. The two most important included loving God and loving each other. Many times in the work that I do I see people in their worst moment in the hospital or similar context. Often I feel a deep and emotional connection, yet at the end of the day I drive home to my loving family. As I have struggled with some troubling cases I have to let them go to the care of God. The context does not allow for continued support. The problem is that this can become our default position. If there is someone sick we wish them well, pray for them, and maybe even drop food off to them if we are ambitious. But do we really share our souls? I have found the most success in helping relationships when I give up all pretense of expertise and expert status. When I drop the search for the “right” answer and just make my soul bare in the middle of their struggle. Our goal should not be to feel good about ourselves or to seek praise for serving others but to connect at our core.
As we share the gospel of Jesus Christ do we share ourselves or do we share a version of the story we have created for ourselves or that someone else gave us? As we attempt to be in communion with God and others do we share ourselves or do we curate the image we present them? Do we hide behind the perfection we aspire to? The reality is that among all churches, work environments, schools, homes, there are profoundly broken people. You and I are not above that either. We all desperately need each other’s help. If you are not connected with a community of people where you can truly share yourself along with the gospel, keep searching. As Paul says, love blossoms into a desire to be real about who we are, while at the same time, trying to be a better version of ourselves. I trust that God’s desire for us is to learn how to use His help and His spirit to do this.
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit.
Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:
I invite you to sit in silence feeling being patient for your own faults and trials.
Summarize what insights you have gained during this meditation and meditate and visualize positive change in your life:
This is a listener funded podcast at patreon.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Updates:
Final Question: Who do you truly share your soul with? Can you increase that circle?
Final Thought: When I read this scripture I was both inspired and convicted. You may have heard in the past that I experience the world from an introverted lens. I have always been a very private person. I feel a tension between being comfortable in my shell and putting my deepest thoughts out into the internet. Over the last couple years of doing this podcast I have seen very directly how this message has blessed people. While I am humbled by this, I also feel it is time to rise to greater transparency. Paul’s comments here show me that my love has been inspiring me, in wisdom, to share more about myself. This is my intention with the podcast going forward. May God bless me with the courage to do this more.
FIND ME ON:
Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
Android App Store: Recenter with Christ
Voicemail - (602) 888-3795
Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com
Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast
Facebook.com/ChristianMeditationPodcast
Youtube.com/ChristianMeditaitonPodcast
Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
Bible verses for Meditation:
Mark 8:34-37
NIV
34 Then he called the crowd to him along with his disciples and said: “Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross and follow me.
35 For whoever wants to save their life will lose it, but whoever loses their life for me and for the gospel will save it.
36 What good is it for someone to gain the whole world, yet forfeit their soul?
37 Or what can anyone give in exchange for their soul?
FIND ME ON:
Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
Android App Store: Recenter with Christ
Voicemail - (602) 888-3795
Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com
Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast
Facebook.com/ChristianMeditationPodcast
Youtube.com/ChristianMeditaitonPodcast
Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
172 Take Up Your Cross and Follow A Guided Christian Meditation on Mark 8:34-37
I'm Chaplain Jared and I work as a hospice chaplain and an ICU chaplain, my purpose in making this podcast is to help you find more peace in your life and to be more open for your heart to be changed by the Spirit of God. By using centuries old form of Christian Meditation named Lectio Divina:
Outline: Relaxation, Reading, Meditation, Prayer, Contemplation and Visualization. Get into a place where you can sit comfortably and uninterrupted for about 20 minutes.You should hopefully not be driving or anything tensing or unrelaxing. If you feel comfortable to do so, I invite you to close your eyes. Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation: Breathe and direct your thoughts to contacting God. Let your stomach be a balloon inflate, deflate.
Bible verses for Meditation:
Mark 8:34-37
NIV
34 Then he called the crowd to him along with his disciples and said: “Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross and follow me. 35 For whoever wants to save their life will lose it, but whoever loses their life for me and for the gospel will save it. 36 What good is it for someone to gain the whole world, yet forfeit their soul? 37 Or what can anyone give in exchange for their soul?
NRSV
34 He called the crowd with his disciples, and said to them, “If any want to become my followers, let them deny themselves and take up their cross and follow me. 35 For those who want to save their life will lose it, and those who lose their life for my sake, and for the sake of the gospel, will save it. 36 For what will it profit them to gain the whole world and forfeit their life? 37 Indeed, what can they give in return for their life?
Meditation on Scripture: At the risk of being too inwardly focused I am pondering today this scripture in my own context. The day this comes out I will be on an airplane going to the Chaplaincy School for the Navy. I have spent many years in preparation for this opportunity and I feel is is something God has been calling me to. I am in the process of getting all my uniforms altered for my new designator as a chaplain. I am quite literally taking on the cross on my uniforms. I have been thinking about this in a more practical way that I have in the past yet there is little difference from the cross of Jesus that I have been asked to take up for decades in the past. Many times when I talk to people who are not in the ministry they speak of this work with a tone of mystery. In a way are we not all called to serve God and be His ministers in the various capacities in our own lives? When I was teaching physics was God expecting less of me? When I was working in other fields did God not expect me to love Him and others? What about you? Do you see your role in life as a minister of the Lord Jesus Christ? Perhaps not as a preacher, or pastor of a congregation, but the path God has you on is no less important. You can bring peace and joy into people’s lives around you and your own. There are many members in the body of Christ and they all have different functions, yet they are all important. If we think we get to operate at a lower standard because we are in industry then we misinterpret what Jesus is calling us to do. God loves us just how we are and he wants the best for us. For this reason he will always help us improve and overcome the sins that we fall into. On top of that he will help to mold us closer to His image as we draw near to Him.
Meditation of Prayer: Pray as directed by the Spirit. Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm: I invite you to sit in silence feeling being patient for your own faults and trials.
Summarize what insights you have gained during this meditation and meditate and visualize positive change in your life: This is a listener funded podcast at patreon.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Updates:
Final Question: What is the ministry you can dedicate your life to?
Final Thought: Taking on the cross of Jesus is not without problems. Those who were closest to the Savior found there to be real challenges to this. It will not always be easy to learn to Love as He did. There are times when those who we most want to help will respond in ways that make it hard, yet this is the life we are called to. God’s strength accompanies His commands. When he asks us to follow Him, we can do it because we will be strengthened by Him.
FIND ME ON: Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com Android App Store: Recenter with Christ Voicemail - (602) 888-3795 Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast Facebook.com/ChristianMeditationPodcast Youtube.com/ChristianMeditaitonPodcast Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
170 Beware of False Prophets A Guided Christian Meditation on Matthew 7:15-17
Matthew 7:15-20
NIV
15 “Watch out for false prophets. They come to you in sheep’s clothing, but inwardly they are ferocious wolves.
16 By their fruit you will recognize them. Do people pick grapes from thorn bushes, or figs from thistles?
17 Likewise, every good tree bears good fruit, but a bad tree bears bad fruit.
18 A good tree cannot bear bad fruit, and a bad tree cannot bear good fruit.
ESV
15 “Beware of false prophets, who come to you in sheep's clothing but inwardly are ravenous wolves.
16 You will recognize them by their fruits. Are grapes gathered from thornbushes, or figs from thistles?
17 So, every healthy tree bears good fruit, but the diseased tree bears bad fruit. 18 A healthy tree cannot bear bad fruit, nor can a diseased tree bear good fruit.
FIND ME ON:
Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com Android App Store: Recenter with Christ Voicemail - (602) 888-3795 Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast Facebook.com/ChristianMeditationPodcast Youtube.com/ChristianMeditaitonPodcast Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
170 Beware of False Prophets A Guided Christian Meditation on Matthew 7:15-17
I'm Chaplain Jared and I work as a hospice chaplain and an ICU chaplain, my purpose in making this podcast is to help you find more peace in your life and to be more open for your heart to be changed by the Spirit of God. By using centuries old form of Christian Meditation named Lectio Divina:
Outline: Relaxation, Reading, Meditation, Prayer, Contemplation and Visualization.
Get into a place where you can sit comfortably and uninterrupted for about 20 minutes.You should hopefully not be driving or anything tensing or unrelaxing. If you feel comfortable to do so, I invite you to close your eyes.
Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation:
Breathe and direct your thoughts to contacting God. Let your stomach be a balloon inflate, deflate.
Bible verses for Meditation:
Matthew 7:15-20
NIV
15 “Watch out for false prophets. They come to you in sheep’s clothing, but inwardly they are ferocious wolves.
16 By their fruit you will recognize them. Do people pick grapes from thornbushes, or figs from thistles?
17 Likewise, every good tree bears good fruit, but a bad tree bears bad fruit.
18 A good tree cannot bear bad fruit, and a bad tree cannot bear good fruit.
ESV
15 “Beware of false prophets, who come to you in sheep's clothing but inwardly are ravenous wolves.
16 You will recognize them by their fruits. Are grapes gathered from thornbushes, or figs from thistles?
17 So, every healthy tree bears good fruit, but the diseased tree bears bad fruit.
18 A healthy tree cannot bear bad fruit, nor can a diseased tree bear good fruit.
Meditation on Scripture:
The word here translated as false prophets is psuedopropheton. Pseudo is an imitation or deceptive version of something and propheton is for prophet, “a person gifted at expositing divine truth.”
Rightly so, I think most discussions of this scripture deals with guarding against false leaders; however, when I think back the bad theology I am exposed to, it is much more likely to come from conversation with someone not a formal church leader of any organization. I have been thinking a lot about this because I think it is a delicate subject. Perhaps it is not accidental that Chapter 7 of Mathew also includes a warning that we will be judged as we judge. For this reason, my main goal is to help us be thoughtful about how we receive truths of God not to disparage people who share things that may not be consistent with what I believe, even if their intentions are not the best. In statements like this Jesus is clearly asking us to be mindful of what we receive from others to help us stay spiritual safe. We can learn to be critical of ideas we let into our hearts and evaluate them based on their effect. Do they yield good fruit? Do they draw us nearer to Jesus?
On the flip side, people can have a great effect without having true theology. I can directly tie the creation of this podcast to someone from a non Christian religion. If it wasn’t for him I never would have discovered the rich tradition of Christian Meditation. I have had countless people reach out to me to tell me how they feel much closer to Jesus when they listen to this podcast. People have literally told me they have become Christians and accepted the way of Jesus, or returned to it, due to this podcast. This was all based on a seed that was planted by someone who does not recognize Jesus as the only way back to the Father. I consider the friendship of this man to be dear to me and, although we differ on how to understand God, I feel I have come to have a better relationship with Jesus because of him. By your fruits you will know them. I am a better Christain for having known Him, which I consider a good fruit.
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit.
Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:
I invite you to sit in silence feeling being patient for your own faults and trials.
Summarize what insights you have gained during this meditation and meditate and visualize positive change in your life:
This is a listener funded podcast at patreon.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Updates:
Final Question: What do you consider to be good fruit?
Final Thought: Perhaps this is the best paradigm we can. Does the idea in question bring me closer to my Savior Jesus Christ? That may not mean it makes us more comfortable but does it reconcile us more to Him? Are we closer to Jesus as a result?
FIND ME ON:
Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
Android App Store: Recenter with Christ
Voicemail - (602) 888-3795
Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com
Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast
Facebook.com/ChristianMeditationPodcast
Youtube.com/ChristianMeditaitonPodcast
Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
1 Samuel 3:7-11
NABRE
7 Samuel did not yet recognize the Lord, since the word of the Lord had not yet been revealed to him.
8 The Lord called Samuel again, for the third time. Getting up and going to Eli, he said, “Here I am. You called me.” Then Eli understood that the Lord was calling the youth.
9 So he said to Samuel, “Go to sleep, and if you are called, reply, ‘Speak, Lord, for your servant is listening.’” When Samuel went to sleep in his place,
10 the Lord came and stood there, calling out as before: Samuel, Samuel! Samuel answered, “Speak, for your servant is listening.”
11 The Lord said to Samuel: I am about to do something in Israel that will make the ears of everyone who hears it ring.
FIND ME ON:
Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
Android App Store: Recenter with Christ
Voicemail - (602) 888-3795
Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com
Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast
Facebook.com/ChristianMeditationPodcast
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Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
168 Speak Lord, Your Servant is Listening A Guided Christian Meditation on 1 Samuel 3:7-11
I'm Chaplain Jared and I work as a hospice chaplain and an ICU chaplain, my purpose in making this podcast is to help you find more peace in your life and to be more open for your heart to be changed by the Spirit of God. By using centuries old form of Christian Meditation named Lectio Divina:
Outline: Relaxation, Reading, Meditation, Prayer, Contemplation and Visualization.
Get into a place where you can sit comfortably and uninterrupted for about 20 minutes.You should hopefully not be driving or anything tensing or unrelaxing. If you feel comfortable to do so, I invite you to close your eyes.
Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation:
Breathe and direct your thoughts to contacting God. Let your stomach be a balloon inflate, deflate.
Bible verses for Meditation:
1 Samuel 3:7-11
NABRE
7 Samuel did not yet recognize the Lord, since the word of the Lord had not yet been revealed to him.
8 The Lord called Samuel again, for the third time. Getting up and going to Eli, he said, “Here I am. You called me.” Then Eli understood that the Lord was calling the youth.
9 So he said to Samuel, “Go to sleep, and if you are called, reply, ‘Speak, Lord, for your servant is listening.’” When Samuel went to sleep in his place,
10 the Lord came and stood there, calling out as before: Samuel, Samuel! Samuel answered, “Speak, for your servant is listening.”
11 The Lord said to Samuel: I am about to do something in Israel that will make the ears of everyone who hears it ring.
ESV
7 Now Samuel did not yet know the Lord, and the word of the Lord had not yet been revealed to him.
8 And the Lord called Samuel again the third time. And he arose and went to Eli and said, “Here I am, for you called me.” Then Eli perceived that the Lord was calling the boy.
9 Therefore Eli said to Samuel, “Go, lie down, and if he calls you, you shall say, ‘Speak, Lord, for your servant hears.’” So Samuel went and lay down in his place.
10 And the Lord came and stood, calling as at other times, “Samuel! Samuel!” And Samuel said, “Speak, for your servant hears.”
11 Then the Lord said to Samuel, “Behold, I am about to do a thing in Israel at which the two ears of everyone who hears it will tingle.
Meditation on Scripture:
The context of this scripture is helpful. Eli was a man of God and devoted to his service. Samuel had been entrusted to his care as a young boy, as an offering to God. While Samuel was young one night and the voice of the Lord came to him in the night. He thought it was Eli and so he woke him up and Eli said to go back to bed. On the third time Eli finally realized that the Lord was speaking to Samuel. Samuel responded with the refrain: “Speak Lord for your servant is listening.” Interestingly enough the message that Samuel received was about the pending consequences for Eli for not living up to what he should have. This
Many times I deal with people who struggle to accept the current reality they face. When they talk to their nurse and doctor they hear only what they want to and miss what the true message is. I feel that we do this with God too. Sometimes we ask him questions about life. We seek direction. We seek to know the will of God. Then we listen really hard for what we want to hear or we listen for God to answer in the way that we want instead of trying to discern his will. He communicates His will differently to each of us.
Even the prophets of old received messages from God differently. Ezekiel would make dramatic metaphorical demonstrations to show Gods will. Isaiah proclaimed it as the will of God. Revelations is full of deep symbolism that modern believers and scholars continue to wrestle with. Our Savior spoke in parables. God can speak to us through the scriptures and also through life circumstances. God has a message for you. We can listen patiently for the will of God and then obey as best we can. Be patient with yourself and God as you attempt to discern His will for you.
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit.
Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:
I invite you to sit in silence feeling being patient for your own faults and trials.
Summarize what insights you have gained during this meditation and meditate and visualize positive change in your life:
This is a listener funded podcast at patreon.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Updates:
Final Question: How good are you at showing genuine loving pity?
Final Thought: I think one of the most valuable things I do which prepares people for pastoral counseling is genuine pity. What I mean by that is that I show people that I deeply desire to hear of how bad they feel and that I will not be damaged by their feelings. I try and make people feel understood without trivializing their suffering. Above all I gently let them teach me how bad it is to be them for a little while. The surprising thing is that when people feel that you are genuine and validate their sadness people find great comfort in this and it opens their hearts to change and hope. It is something that still surprises me how effective it is. The other day I was sitting with a dying woman and her friends were trying to cheer her up by rebutting each complaint she felt. I could see their compassion but ultimately it did not reach their friend. I briefly stepped in to acknowledge the hardships she was explaining. I shared pity with her and after a few very brief moments she was ready to look for positive steps to change things. We so desperately want to be understood. With this same intensity we should desire to understand others and yet remain curious enough that we never feel that we truly understand 100%
FIND ME ON:
Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
Android App Store: Recenter with Christ
Voicemail - (602) 888-3795
Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com
Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast
Facebook.com/ChristianMeditationPodcast
Youtube.com/ChristianMeditaitonPodcast
Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
166 I Found No Pity A Guided Christian Meditation on Psalm 69:18-20
I'm Chaplain Jared and I work as a hospice chaplain and an ICU chaplain, my purpose in making this podcast is to help you find more peace in your life and to be more open for your heart to be changed by the Spirit of God. By using centuries old form of Christian Meditation named Lectio Divina:
Outline: Relaxation, Reading, Meditation, Prayer, Contemplation and Visualization.
Get into a place where you can sit comfortably and uninterrupted for about 20 minutes.You should hopefully not be driving or anything tensing or unrelaxing. If you feel comfortable to do so, I invite you to close your eyes.
Bible verses for Meditation:
Luke 17
KJV
17 And hide not thy face from thy servant; for I am in trouble: hear me speedily.
18 Draw nigh unto my soul, and redeem it: deliver me because of mine enemies.
19 Thou hast known my reproach, and my shame, and my dishonour: mine adversaries are all before thee.
20 Reproach hath broken my heart; and I am full of heaviness: and I looked for some to take pity, but there was none; and for comforters, but I found none.
NRSV
17
Do not hide your face from your servant,
for I am in distress, make haste to answer me.
18
Draw near to me, redeem me,
set me free because of my enemies.
19
You know the insults I receive,
and my shame and dishonor;
my foes are all known to you.
20
Insults have broken my heart,
so that I am in despair.
I looked for pity, but there was none;
and for comforters, but I found none.
FIND ME ON:
Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
Android App Store: Recenter with Christ
Voicemail - (602) 888-3795
Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com
Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast
Facebook.com/ChristianMeditationPodcast
Youtube.com/ChristianMeditaitonPodcast
Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
166 I Found No Pity A Guided Christian Meditation on Psalm 69:18-20
I'm Chaplain Jared and I work as a hospice chaplain and an ICU chaplain, my purpose in making this podcast is to help you find more peace in your life and to be more open for your heart to be changed by the Spirit of God. By using centuries old form of Christian Meditation named Lectio Divina:
Outline: Relaxation, Reading, Meditation, Prayer, Contemplation and Visualization.
Get into a place where you can sit comfortably and uninterrupted for about 20 minutes.You should hopefully not be driving or anything tensing or unrelaxing. If you feel comfortable to do so, I invite you to close your eyes.
Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation:
Breathe and direct your thoughts to contacting God. Let your stomach be a balloon inflate, deflate.
Bible verses for Meditation:
Luke 17
KJV
17 And hide not thy face from thy servant; for I am in trouble: hear me speedily.
18 Draw nigh unto my soul, and redeem it: deliver me because of mine enemies.
19 Thou hast known my reproach, and my shame, and my dishonour: mine adversaries are all before thee.
20 Reproach hath broken my heart; and I am full of heaviness: and I looked for some to take pity, but there was none; and for comforters, but I found none.
NRSV
17
Do not hide your face from your servant,
for I am in distress, make haste to answer me.
18
Draw near to me, redeem me,
set me free because of my enemies.
19
You know the insults I receive,
and my shame and dishonor;
my foes are all known to you.
20
Insults have broken my heart,
so that I am in despair.
I looked for pity, but there was none;
and for comforters, but I found none.
Meditation on Scripture:
Do you like to have other people pity you? In my experience most people would answer no to this question. The idea of someone gloating over your sadness is too hard to deal with; however, this demonstrates a cheap form of pity. The actual definition of the world pity has to do with a feeling of compassion. Yet somehow in our language pity has taken on negative baggage and unintended meaning. I imagine two different situations. You are experiencing something challenging and someone responds with pity. They feel sorry for you but you have no feeling that they understand you or even that they are listening or care and it frustrates you. Now in a second situation you are going through something difficult and someone responds to your hurt with genuine kindness and compassion. They let you tell them about it or not, depending on what you may need in that moment. After ten minutes in either of these two situations it is likely that the pity without compassion would make things worse, and the compassion would likely make you feel better.
The truth is, all of us would like to feel understood and accepted. Psalm 69 is considered a Messianic Psalm in Christianity. In other words it is foretelling aspects of the ministry and life of Jesus, the Messiah. This scripture was quoted in multiple places in the New Testament. Early Christians saw this whole Psalm in the context of Jesus. Here the Psalmist, who also refers to Jesus, shares their sadness that there is nobody to give them pity and comfort them. Jesus would have welcomed pity at the cross.
So perhaps what we really want is compassion, love, and acceptance, and what we don 't want is judgement, selfishness, and condescension. Im my work with those who suffer, pity, in the true sense of the meaning, is actually something that most people desperately crave. It is the thing that I have spent the most time refining and correcting in my own tendency. Avoiding patronizing or minimizing language as I share suffering with people through pity, or compassion if you prefer. So as we look to follow the example of the cross here as Jesus was mocked and offered vinegar. When Jesus perceived that the face of the Father was turned from him, he just wanted pity. He wanted someone to show him compassion.
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit.
Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:
I invite you to sit in silence feeling being patient for your own faults and trials.
Summarize what insights you have gained during this meditation and meditate and visualize positive change in your life:
This is a listener funded podcast at patreon.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Updates:
Final Question: How good are you at showing genuine loving pity?
Final Thought: I think one of the most valuable things I do which prepares people for pastoral counseling is genuine pity. What I mean by that is that I show people that I deeply desire to hear of how bad they feel and that I will not be damaged by their feelings. I try and make people feel understood without trivializing their suffering. Above all I gently let them teach me how bad it is to be them for a little while. The surprising thing is that when people feel that you are genuine and validate their sadness people find great comfort in this and it opens their hearts to change and hope. It is something that still surprises me how effective it is. The other day I was sitting with a dying woman and her friends were trying to cheer her up by rebutting each complaint she felt. I could see their compassion but ultimately it did not reach their friend. I briefly stepped in to acknowledge the hardships she was explaining. I shared pity with her and after a few very brief moments she was ready to look for positive steps to change things. We so desperately want to be understood. With this same intensity we should desire to understand others and yet remain curious enough that we never feel that we truly understand 100%
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164 We Have Only Done Our Duty A Guided Christian Meditation on Luke 17:7-10
Bible verses for Meditation: Luke 17 NIV
7 “Suppose one of you has a servant plowing or looking after the sheep. Will he say to the servant when he comes in from the field, ‘Come along now and sit down to eat’?
8 Won’t he rather say, ‘Prepare my supper, get yourself ready and wait on me while I eat and drink; after that you may eat and drink’?
9 Will he thank the servant because he did what he was told to do?
10 So you also, when you have done everything you were told to do, should say, ‘We are unworthy servants; we have only done our duty.’” FIND ME ON:
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164 We Have Only Done Our Duty A Guided Christian Meditation on Luke 17:7-10 I’m Chaplain Jared and I work as a hospice chaplain and an ICU chaplain, my purpose in making this podcast is to help you find more peace in your life and to be more open for your heart to be changed by the Spirit of God. By using centuries old form of Christian Meditation named Lectio Divina: Outline: Relaxation, Reading, Meditation, Prayer, Contemplation and Visualization. Get into a place where you can sit comfortably and uninterrupted for about 20 minutes.You should hopefully not be driving or anything tensing or unrelaxing. If you feel comfortable to do so, I invite you to close your eyes. Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation: Breathe and direct your thoughts to contacting God. Let your stomach be a balloon inflate, deflate.
Bible verses for Meditation: Luke 17 NIV
7 “Suppose one of you has a servant plowing or looking after the sheep. Will he say to the servant when he comes in from the field, ‘Come along now and sit down to eat’?
8 Won’t he rather say, ‘Prepare my supper, get yourself ready and wait on me while I eat and drink; after that you may eat and drink’?
9 Will he thank the servant because he did what he was told to do?
10 So you also, when you have done everything you were told to do, should say, ‘We are unworthy servants; we have only done our duty.’” ESV
7 “Will any one of you who has a servant plowing or keeping sheep say to him when he has come in from the field, ‘Come at once and recline at table’?
8 Will he not rather say to him, ‘Prepare supper for me, and dress properly, and serve me while I eat and drink, and afterward you will eat and drink’?
9 Does he thank the servant because he did what was commanded?
10 So you also, when you have done all that you were commanded, say, ‘We are unworthy servants; we have only done what was our duty.’”
Meditation on Scripture: Many times in this podcast I have talked about the amazing love that God has for us. For you. At times many people struggle with accepting that love and feeling it deeply. For that reason it is valuable to reflect on that. It is important that we are able to believe God when he tells us that. Equally valuable is that we realize that our position is one of grace. The love God extends to us is due to His decision to love us. His decision to do what is not required or necessary. We find ourselves in the middle. We realize that God’s forgiveness and the offer to allow us to live with Him comes from His heart while at the same time that in His eyes we are worth it. It can be tempting when we hear outpourings of His love so often that we may lose the feeling of newness with it. At times the wonder that fills our hearts when we first hear of it may fade or worse we may think that it is a nice thing for others but not for us. In the deepest way this scripture speaks to those people who struggle with this idea. If God loves us because we are really so perfectly lovable then God’s grace doesn’t amount to much. If God only loves perfect people or people who are good enough, why is the central message of Jesus that of forgiveness and grace. Why does Paul teach over and over of the need for forgiveness? God’s grace can allow us to make peace with our inner nature. We are worse than servants in the grand cosmos. These physical bodies were created from the dust of the earth and will go back to it as it says in Genesis. This doesn’t mean that we don’t ever do anything that God asks. Jesus uses this metaphor because the servant is asked to do many things and is expected to do them. In this way we are God’s servants. Yet when we follow, he blesses us. The things we do never truly earn the payment we receive from God. As we reflect on this I pray that your heart is filled with gratitude instead of shame or guilt. The point of scriptures like this is not to make us feel bad but to help us recognize the love of God. Meditation of Prayer: Pray as directed by the Spirit.
Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him. Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm: I invite you to sit in silence feeling being patient for your own faults and trials.
Summarize what insights you have gained during this meditation and meditate and visualize positive change in your life:
This is a listener funded podcast at patreon.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Updates: Final Question: In what ways are you a servant of God. Final Thought: In an indirect way God’s statement that we are His servants represents a commission from God to serve. It is our duty. We can own that identity. We are servants of God yet we struggle to do what he asks us to do and we are unworthy if we expect to earn what we have not earned. The marvel is that God’s love, grace, and forgiveness are extended to us who trust Jesus and follow Him. You are a child of God and if you follow the path Jesus has laid out for us then we will truly be blessed in spirit. God is good and faithful even when we aren’t. Trust in His goodness and in the end we will have perfect awareness and understanding. Perhaps it won’t be until we are back at His side in heaven but I like to think that God will bless us with an understanding. FIND ME ON:
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NIV 8 Judah, your brothers will praise you;
your hand will be on the neck of your enemies;
your father’s sons will bow down to you.
9
You are a lion’s cub, Judah;
you return from the prey, my son.
Like a lion he crouches and lies down,
like a lioness—who dares to rouse him?
10
The scepter will not depart from Judah,
nor the ruler’s staff from between his feet,
until he to whom it belongs[d] shall come
and the obedience of the nations shall be his.
ESV 8 “Judah, your brothers shall praise you;
your hand shall be on the neck of your enemies;
your father's sons shall bow down before you.
9
Judah is a lion's cub;
from the prey, my son, you have gone up.
He stooped down; he crouched as a lion
and as a lioness; who dares rouse him?
10
The scepter shall not depart from Judah,
nor the ruler's staff from between his feet,
until tribute comes to him;
and to him shall be the obedience of the peoples.
Meditation on Scripture:
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162 The Lion of Judah A Guided Christian Meditation on Genesis 49:8-10
I'm Chaplain Jared and I work as a hospice chaplain and an ICU chaplain, my purpose in making this podcast is to help you find more peace in your life and to be more open for your heart to be changed by the Spirit of God. By using centuries old form of Christian Meditation named Lectio Divina:
Outline: Relaxation, Reading, Meditation, Prayer, Contemplation and Visualization.
Get into a place where you can sit comfortably and uninterrupted for about 20 minutes.You should hopefully not be driving or anything tensing or unrelaxing. If you feel comfortable to do so, I invite you to close your eyes.
Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation:
Breathe and direct your thoughts to contacting God. Let your stomach be a balloon inflate, deflate.
Bible verses for Meditation:
NIV
8 Judah, your brothers will praise you;
your hand will be on the neck of your enemies;
your father's sons will bow down to you.
9 You are a lion's cub, Judah;
you return from the prey, my son.
Like a lion he crouches and lies down,
like a lioness’ who dares to rouse him?
10 The scepter will not depart from Judah,
nor the ruler's staff from between his feet,
until he to whom it belongs[d] shall come
and the obedience of the nations shall be his.
ESV
8 "Judah, your brothers shall praise you;
your hand shall be on the neck of your enemies;
your father's sons shall bow down before you.
9 Judah is a lion's cub;
from the prey, my son, you have gone up.
He stooped down; he crouched as a lion
and as a lioness; who dares rouse him?
10 The scepter shall not depart from Judah,
nor the ruler's staff from between his feet,
until tribute comes to him;
and to him shall be the obedience of the peoples.
Meditation on Scripture:
How do you respond to challenges? When you feel failure staring in you in the face what do you do? As you think about the things you have to do or the things you fear many times we want to burry our head in the sand until God fixes it. Or even better we want to sit in blissful silence until then. The challenge of this mindset is that it is not the only manifestation of God. In this scripture Jehovah is referred to as a lion. He is known as the lion of Judah. Many other scriptures show God as a mighty warrior who will destroy our enemies and be our literal savior. Jesus rebuked the evil spirits that he encountered. There was incredibly violence and force in the creation of the earth. God's work is not devoid of ferocity.
I propose there is a different option to trying to relax away our stress and fear. We can embrace the strength of the Lion of Judah. In your heart at this very moment God resides. The same God who is referred to as a lion is in your heart. Yet he is not advocating for us to do violence to each other but to overcome fear.
In May I had reached the end of an 8 year journey where I was actively working to become a US military chaplain. I had poured myself into this goal. I had dedicated thousands of hours in training and preparation and it all came down to a face to face interview with a room full of senior officers and chaplains. I flew to Washington DC and was sitting inside the pentagon which was just as intimidating as its sounds. As I sat in the hallway I realized that I could not force myself to be calm in that moment. So I decided to retell myself the story that I was not fearful but excited. In this moment my relationship to the anticipation changed. I was not calm but I was also not afraid. I felt the twinge of anticipatory excitement and that made a huge difference for me and I felt completely different about it.
The next time you feel fear, recognize that the God of heaven is not afraid to stand mightily in your heart. Part of our walk with God is learning how to live with the Lion. When God comes again the greatest joy is how we will experience the Lamb of God laying down with the Lion of Judah and we will realize that there is no contradiction in this.
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit.
Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:
I invite you to sit in silence feeling being patient for your own faults and trials.
Summarize what insights you have gained during this meditation and meditate and visualize positive change in your life:
This is a listener funded podcast at patreon.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Updates:
Final Question:
In what way are you a warrior of God.
Final Thought: You are a warrior of God. Not against other people on earth, but against the worst part of yourself, against your fear, against sin, against those things that would cause you to violate the two most important commandments of loving God and loving our neighbor. Take strength in knowing that the same God who created the universe in an explosive miracle can lead you to overcome fear. Jesus said that if we have faith then we can move mountains. However, when mountains move they don’t gently slide. The power of God in your heart can overcome any darkness and uncertainty and you can rest in the knowledge that we will win. We, united with the Lion will overcome.
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Bible verses for Meditation:
1 Kings 19:11-13
NIV
11 The Lord said, “Go out and stand on the mountain in the presence of the Lord, for the Lord is about to pass by.”
Then a great and powerful wind tore the mountains apart and shattered the rocks before the Lord, but the Lord was not in the wind. After the wind there was an earthquake, but the Lord was not in the earthquake. 1
12 After the earthquake came a fire, but the Lord was not in the fire. And after the fire came a gentle whisper.
13 When Elijah heard it, he pulled his cloak over his face and went out and stood at the mouth of the cave.
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158 The Still Small Voice of God A Christian Meditation on 1 Kings 19:11-13
I’m Chaplain Jared and I work as a hospice chaplain and an ICU chaplain, my purpose in making this podcast is to help you find more peace in your life and to be more open for your heart to be changed by the Spirit of God. By using centuries old form of Christian Meditation named Lectio Divina:
Outline: Relaxation, Reading, Meditation, Prayer, Contemplation and Visualization.
Get into a place where you can sit comfortably and uninterrupted for about 20 minutes.You should hopefully not be driving or anything tensing or unrelaxing. If you feel comfortable to do so, I invite you to close your eyes.
Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation:
Breathe and direct your thoughts to contacting God. Let your stomach be a balloon inflate, deflate.
Bible verses for Meditation:
1 Kings 19:11-13
NIV
11 The Lord said, “Go out and stand on the mountain in the presence of the Lord, for the Lord is about to pass by.”
Then a great and powerful wind tore the mountains apart and shattered the rocks before the Lord, but the Lord was not in the wind. After the wind there was an earthquake, but the Lord was not in the earthquake. 1
12 After the earthquake came a fire, but the Lord was not in the fire. And after the fire came a gentle whisper.
13 When Elijah heard it, he pulled his cloak over his face and went out and stood at the mouth of the cave.
KJV
11 And he said, Go forth, and stand upon the mount before the Lord. And, behold, the Lord passed by, and a great and strong wind rent the mountains, and brake in pieces the rocks before the Lord; but the Lord was not in the wind: and after the wind an earthquake; but the Lord was not in the earthquake:
12 And after the earthquake a fire; but the Lord was not in the fire: and after the fire a still small voice.
13 And it was so, when Elijah heard it, that he wrapped his face in his mantle, and went out, and stood in the entering in of the cave. And, behold, there came a voice unto him, and said, What doest thou here, Elijah?
Meditation on Scripture:
When we turn to God it is often in desperation. Something happens to remind us of our need of Him. Sometimes we realize a distance between Him and us and we may with to bridge it. As we find ourselves in this state of deep spiritual need we often reach out to God for guidance and comfort. We may even approach Him with faith asking for him to do some grand gesture for us to make sure we know when He answers us.
Elijah was a prophet of God in the Old Testament, long before the birth of Jesus. He was serving the Lord faithfully and had commanded incredible miracles to be done. One of which involved the fire of heaven coming down to consume the enemies of the prophet. This did not go over well with the earthly government and they were trying to kill Him. He escaped into a cave in the mountains as he prayed. He was seeking the guidance and blessing of God. He wanted an answer regarding what he was to do. As someone who had seen the fire from heaven, he knew God could be mighty and command the elements. Finally he received an answer “Go out and stand on the mountain in the presence of the Lord, for the Lord is about to pass by”
There was a catastrophic set of things that happened, yet this was not God’s answer. What his answer was came in the form of a gentle whispering. I think this is an important thing that we can encourage and foster inside of ourselves. I anticipate that this is the most frequent way in which we receive guidance from God. A gentle prick of our conscience, a gentle warmth of having our faith corroborated. As you seek God and His answers for your life remember this lesson. You don’t have to wait until you receive some profound sign or test of your faith. You can allow it to steadily and constantly grow by increased intimacy. We need to practice listening to this small whisper of the Spirit for there are the beginnings of the mysteries of God.
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit.
Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:
I invite you to sit in silence feeling being patient for your own faults and trials.
Summarize what insights you have gained during this meditation and meditate and visualize positive change in your life:
This is a listener funded podcast at patreon.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Updates:
Final Question:
Do you need to understand your hardship?
Final Thought:
FIND ME ON:
Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
Android App Store: Recenter with Christ
Voicemail - (602) 888-3795
Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com
Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast
Facebook.com/ChristianMeditationPodcast
Youtube.com/ChristianMeditaitonPodcast
Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
I’m Chaplain Jared and I work as a hospice chaplain and an ICU chaplain, my purpose in making this podcast is to help you find more peace in your life and to be more open for your heart to be changed by the Spirit of God. By using centuries old form of Christian Meditation named Lectio Divina:
Outline: Relaxation, Reading, Meditation, Prayer, Contemplation and Visualization.
Scripture for meditation
NRSV
53 Who has believed what we have heard?
And to whom has the arm of the Lord been revealed?
2 For he grew up before him like a young plant,
and like a root out of dry ground;
he had no form or majesty that we should look at him,
nothing in his appearance that we should desire him.
3 He was despised and rejected by others;
a man of suffering and acquainted with infirmity;
and as one from whom others hide their faces
he was despised, and we held him of no account.
Meditation on Scripture:
In preparing for this week’s message I am absolutely certain that this is the message I need to cover today. Because this is what you need. God has been very clear about this one. I think you understand.
This is a listener funded podcast at patreon.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Updates:
Final Question:
Do you need to understand your hardship?
Final Thought:
FIND ME ON:
Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
Android App Store: Recenter with Christ
Voicemail - (602) 888-3795
Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com
Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast
Facebook.com/ChristianMeditationPodcast
Youtube.com/ChristianMeditaitonPodcast
Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
158 A Man of Sorrows, and Acquainted with Grief A Guided Christian Meditation on Isaiah 53:1-3
I’m Chaplain Jared and I work as a hospice chaplain and an ICU chaplain, my purpose in making this podcast is to help you find more peace in your life and to be more open for your heart to be changed by the Spirit of God. By using centuries old form of Christian Meditation named Lectio Divina:
Outline: Relaxation, Reading, Meditation, Prayer, Contemplation and Visualization.
Get into a place where you can sit comfortably and uninterrupted for about 20 minutes.You should hopefully not be driving or anything tensing or unrelaxing. If you feel comfortable to do so, I invite you to close your eyes.
Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation:
Breathe and direct your thoughts to contacting God. Let your stomach be a balloon inflate, deflate.
Bible verses for Meditation:
KJV
53 Who hath believed our report? and to whom is the arm of the Lord revealed?
2 For he shall grow up before him as a tender plant, and as a root out of a dry ground: he hath no form nor comeliness; and when we shall see him, there is no beauty that we should desire him.
3 He is despised and rejected of men; a man of sorrows, and acquainted with grief: and we hid as it were our faces from him; he was despised, and we esteemed him not.
NRSV
53 Who has believed what we have heard?
And to whom has the arm of the Lord been revealed?
2 For he grew up before him like a young plant,
and like a root out of dry ground;
he had no form or majesty that we should look at him,
nothing in his appearance that we should desire him.
3 He was despised and rejected by others;
a man of suffering and acquainted with infirmity;
and as one from whom others hide their faces
he was despised, and we held him of no account.
Meditation on Scripture:
In preparing for this week’s message I am absolutely certain that this is the message I need to cover today. Because this is what you need. God has been very clear about this one. I think you understand.
Elisabeth Kübler-Ross
“The most beautiful people we have known are those who have known defeat, known suffering, known struggle, known loss, and have found their way out of those depths.”
Each one of us sees ourselves as somewhat of an expert on our own suffering. Not how to get out of it, or how to fully understand it, or even exactly what we feel at any given time. Yet somehow we feel we understand how bad our suffering is. The truth is all we possibly understand is one perspective at one given time. That is all we can ever have. This is even more clear as we look at the whole world. Of the other 7 billion people on earth at this moment we understand what they are going through even less. We don’t understand our own feelings most of the time, much less the feelings of others. We don’t understand why we perceive things so bad. The thing that I am reflecting on today is how we could possibly be useful to each other during suffering.
If we don’t fully understand our own emotions, how could we possibly be helpful to others? The reason is because suffering does conform to reason. Our perception of suffering does not have anything to do with objective facts. What we really want is for life to make sense. We want unending goodness for ourselves and those we care about, our whole lives long. Yet God has a different plan. It’s not like He is being hypocritical about it either. When Jesus came he did not come to live as a detached royal in a large palace. He came to life as one of the people and to suffer and die. He was betrayed, he was hated, he was tortured, and the only thing He ever did to deserve it was to do miracles and to speak truth to those who needed repentance. Even his Apostles did not understand the purpose of His suffering until it was hindsight.
Our life contains suffering, not because a life without suffering could not have been manufactured by God, but because this is the plan he laid out. Just as Jesus’ disciples, most of the time we won’t understand the purpose of our suffering until it is over and then some. I promise you this. No hardship will be wasted if it draws us nearer to God and helps us develop.
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit.
Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:
I invite you to sit in silence feeling being patient for your own faults and trials.
Summarize what insights you have gained during this meditation and meditate and visualize positive change in your life:
This is a listener funded podcast at patreon.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Updates:
Final Question:
Do you need to understand your hardship?
Final Thought:
FIND ME ON:
Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
Android App Store: Recenter with Christ
Voicemail - (602) 888-3795
Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com
Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast
Facebook.com/ChristianMeditationPodcast
Youtube.com/ChristianMeditaitonPodcast
Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
ESV
2 Therefore you have no excuse, O man, every one of you who judges. For in passing judgment on another you condemn yourself, because you, the judge, practice the very same things.
2 We know that the judgment of God rightly falls on those who practice such things.
3 Do you suppose, O man—you who judge those who practice such things and yet do them yourself—that you will escape the judgment of God?
4 Or do you presume on the riches of his kindness and forbearance and patience, not knowing that God's kindness is meant to lead you to repentance?
FIND ME ON:
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Android App Store: Recenter with Christ
Voicemail - (602) 888-3795
Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com
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156 The Kindness of God Leads to Repentance A Guided Christian Meditation on Romans 2:1-4
I’m Chaplain Jared and I work as a hospice chaplain and an ICU chaplain, my purpose in making this podcast is to help you find more peace in your life and to be more open for your heart to be changed by the Spirit of God. By using centuries old form of Christian Meditation named Lectio Divina:
Outline: Relaxation, Reading, Meditation, Prayer, Contemplation and Visualization.
Get into a place where you can sit comfortably and uninterrupted for about 20 minutes.You should hopefully not be driving or anything tensing or unrelaxing. If you feel comfortable to do so, I invite you to close your eyes.
Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation:
Breathe and direct your thoughts to contacting God. Let your stomach be a balloon inflate, deflate.
Bible verses for Meditation:
Romans 2:1-4
ESV
2 Therefore you have no excuse, O man, every one of you who judges. For in passing judgment on another you condemn yourself, because you, the judge, practice the very same things.
2 We know that the judgment of God rightly falls on those who practice such things.
3 Do you suppose, O man—you who judge those who practice such things and yet do them yourself—that you will escape the judgment of God?
4 Or do you presume on the riches of his kindness and forbearance and patience, not knowing that God's kindness is meant to lead you to repentance?
KJV
2 Therefore thou art inexcusable, O man, whosoever thou art that judgest: for wherein thou judgest another, thou condemnest thyself; for thou that judgest doest the same things.
2 But we are sure that the judgment of God is according to truth against them which commit such things.
3 And thinkest thou this, O man, that judgest them which do such things, and doest the same, that thou shalt escape the judgment of God?
4 Or despisest thou the riches of his goodness and forbearance and longsuffering; not knowing that the goodness of God leadeth thee to repentance?
Meditation on Scripture:
When the scriptures talk of Grace it is active. The grace of God causes us to act and to return to Him. Sometimes we hope that we can passively sit and watch God do the miracle in our lives. We are so interested to destroy the pride of the law that we can become too passive to realize the commands he gives us to love and to follow. What do we do when we make an error? Do we sit and wait for God to fix it?
What do you feel when you hear God tell you to not judge?
We need to learn to love the truth and virtue of God and embrace it with every heartbeat while also loving those who fail to live it with ridiculous abandon.
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit.
Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:
I invite you to sit in silence feeling being patient for your own faults and trials.
Summarize what insights you have gained during this meditation and meditate and visualize positive change in your life:
This is a listener funded podcast at patreon.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Updates:
Final Question:
What stories and identities do you cling to perhaps too tight?
Final Thought:
FIND ME ON:
Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
Android App Store: Recenter with Christ
Voicemail - (602) 888-3795
Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com
Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast
Facebook.com/ChristianMeditationPodcast
Youtube.com/ChristianMeditaitonPodcast
Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
Bible verses for Meditation:
John 8:9-11
KJV
9 And they which heard it, being convicted by their own conscience, went out one by one, beginning at the eldest, even unto the last: and Jesus was left alone, and the woman standing in the midst.
10 When Jesus had lifted up himself, and saw none but the woman, he said unto her, Woman, where are those thine accusers? hath no man condemned thee?
11 She said, No man, Lord. And Jesus said unto her, Neither do I condemn thee: go, and sin no more.
FIND ME ON:
Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
Android App Store: Recenter with Christ
Voicemail - (602) 888-3795
Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com
Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast
Facebook.com/ChristianMeditationPodcast
Youtube.com/ChristianMeditaitonPodcast
Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
154 Go and Sin No More - A Guided Christian Meditation on John 8:9-11
I’m Chaplain Jared and I work as a hospice chaplain and an ICU chaplain, my purpose in making this podcast is to help you find more peace in your life and to be more open for your heart to be changed by the Spirit of God. By using centuries old form of Christian Meditation named Lectio Divina:
Outline: Relaxation, Reading, Meditation, Prayer, Contemplation and Visualization.
Get into a place where you can sit comfortably and uninterrupted for about 20 minutes.You should hopefully not be driving or anything tensing or unrelaxing. If you feel comfortable to do so, I invite you to close your eyes.
Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation:
Breathe and direct your thoughts to contacting God. Let your stomach be a balloon inflate, deflate.
Bible verses for Meditation:
John 8:9-11
KJV
9 And they which heard it, being convicted by their own conscience, went out one by one, beginning at the eldest, even unto the last: and Jesus was left alone, and the woman standing in the midst.
10 When Jesus had lifted up himself, and saw none but the woman, he said unto her, Woman, where are those thine accusers? hath no man condemned thee?
11 She said, No man, Lord. And Jesus said unto her, Neither do I condemn thee: go, and sin no more.
NABRE
9 And in response, they went away one by one, beginning with the elders. So he was left alone with the woman before him.
10 Then Jesus straightened up and said to her, “Woman, where are they? Has no one condemned you?”
11 She replied, “No one, sir.” Then Jesus said, “Neither do I condemn you. Go, [and] from now on do not sin any more.”
Meditation on Scripture:
How do you do at following what God has asked you to do? How do you treat those who you see failing to live as you think is right? How do you treat those who are successful at hiding their sins from you?
This scripture is so powerful to me. The Law of Moses was given by God. It is the same Jehovah who gave Moses the law is the same one standing in Judgement of the woman. The woman who was brought before Jesus had been caught performing a sexually impure act. The law had a stated punishment for this offense. It was death by stoning. These people brought a trap for Jesus. If he excused the woman he would be speaking against the law. If he consented to her death he would miss a most valuable teaching opportunity and this woman could not learn from her sin.
He told them that whoever is without sin should cast the first stone. The people perceived their own guilt and retreated without having cast stones at her. She must have been terrified and traumatized by some a horrible prospect to die in such a painful and gruesome way. What is worse is that she knew she had sinned. Jesus’ command reflects the essence of His love. He didn’t say it was OK. He didn’t say “Oh don’t worry about it.” He found a middle way. He stressed the importance of purity while also teaching mercy.
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit.
Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:
I invite you to sit in silence feeling being patient for your own faults and trials.
Summarize what insights you have gained during this meditation and meditate and visualize positive change in your life:
This is a listener funded podcast at patreon.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Updates:
Final Question:
What is a sin that you need to give up in your life?
Final Thought:
There are times when we need to give this kind of Mercy and probably more likely that we need to receive this kind of mercy from the hand of God. He does not tell us to go on our merry way. He tells us to sin no more as we receive his forgiveness. When he healed a lame man by the waters he told him to stop sinning or something worse than paralysis would happen.
Jesus forgives us while he also fortifies us to reject sin in the future. Jesus’ love in your life changes you. It changes me. It makes us better than we were before. It purifies us. It changes our heart and our decisions. This is the essence of his Grace.
FIND ME ON:
Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
Android App Store: Recenter with Christ
Voicemail - (602) 888-3795
Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com
Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast
Facebook.com/ChristianMeditationPodcast
Youtube.com/ChristianMeditaitonPodcast
Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
NRSV
39 Those who find their life will lose it, and those who lose their life for my sake will find it.
40 “Whoever welcomes you welcomes me, and whoever welcomes me welcomes the one who sent me.
41 Whoever welcomes a prophet in the name of a prophet will receive a prophet’s reward; and whoever welcomes a righteous person in the name of a righteous person will receive the reward of the righteous;
FIND ME ON:
Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
Android App Store: Recenter with Christ
Voicemail - (602) 888-3795
Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com
Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast
Facebook.com/ChristianMeditationPodcast
Youtube.com/ChristianMeditaitonPodcast
Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
152 Lose Yourself for Christ’s Sake A Guided Christian Meditation on Matthew 10:39-41
I’m Chaplain Jared and I work as a hospice chaplain and an ICU chaplain, my purpose in making this podcast is to help you find more peace in your life and to be more open for your heart to be changed by the Spirit of God. By using centuries old form of Christian Meditation named Lectio Divina:
Outline: Relaxation, Reading, Meditation, Prayer, Contemplation and Visualization.
Get into a place where you can sit comfortably and uninterrupted for about 20 minutes.You should hopefully not be driving or anything tensing or unrelaxing. If you feel comfortable to do so, I invite you to close your eyes.
Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation:
Breathe and direct your thoughts to contacting God. Let your stomach be a balloon inflate, deflate.
Bible verses for Meditation:
Matthew 10:38-40
NRSV
39 Those who find their life will lose it, and those who lose their life for my sake will find it.
40 “Whoever welcomes you welcomes me, and whoever welcomes me welcomes the one who sent me.
41 Whoever welcomes a prophet in the name of a prophet will receive a prophet’s reward; and whoever welcomes a righteous person in the name of a righteous person will receive the reward of the righteous;
NIV
39 Whoever finds their life will lose it, and whoever loses their life for my sake will find it.
40 “Anyone who welcomes you welcomes me, and anyone who welcomes me welcomes the one who sent me.
41 Whoever welcomes a prophet as a prophet will receive a prophet’s reward, and whoever welcomes a righteous person as a righteous person will receive a righteous person’s reward.
Meditation on Scripture:
Tonight on a run I was listening to a book about consciousness. The book talked about some physical markers of different mental states. There is a region of the brain of the brain called the default mode network. This is the area of the brain that is active when the mind wanders. It is inactive when we place our focus on mentally rigorous tasks. Although brain science is far from complete, more information is available now than ever. This area of the brain processes information about ourselves and our identity. It is where we make sense of the separations and differences between ourselves and others. It is active when we ruminate and rehash old problems in our lives also. This region correlates to OCD, Depression, PTSD and other problems that involve worry and rumination. This region of our brain is connected to how we process and understand who we are and what our place is in the world. Some have called this the ego. This is part of our mind that creates narratives and simplifies our experience into an understandable whole.
It is interesting to note that this is not necessarily a good or bad thing. For example this area show decreased functioning in people with Alzheimers and other types of dementia where people’s concept self begins to slowly dissolve. If we had no activity in our default mode network our consciousness would be a meaningless. Children h We could not exert faith and it would be difficult to serve others if we had no concept of how others were different beings from ourselves. With that said if we have an overactive default mode network we can become obsessed about details in our lives, traumas, problems, negative self evaluations. All of this can lead to increased suffering. Also our maturation process is characterized by development of this area of our brain also. In other words Children have lower functioning of this default mode network.
It is interesting to note that Meditation connects different parts of our brain. Just as the default mode network lessens in activity other areas of the brain connect. God’s design of our brain leads us to respond to the calming effects of slowing down and letting go of our desire. This scripture says we should be willing to lose our life. Not just in the sense of faith in God but in a real way we should balance our own self concept. If we find our story telling brain to be hyper active we can calm it with meditation so we can experience the real unity we have with God and with each other. It is interested that in the very next verse Jesus correlates our acceptance in the world with His. He shows in a tangible way how our being is connected to Him. Also just as children have under developed default mode networks, Jesus tells us to be like little Children. It is important to make time in our lives for meditation where we let the racing, judging, controlling parts of our mind spin down and we sit with the quiet and calm parts. I pray that in this meditation that you feel that peace loosen how rigidly you attach yourself to the stories you tell yourself about yourself. That you become willing to let that version of yourself die and you accept the new creature God has made from you. One guided by love and by union with Him.
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit.
Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:
I invite you to sit in silence feeling being patient for your own faults and trials.
Summarize what insights you have gained during this meditation and meditate and visualize positive change in your life:
This is a listener funded podcast at patreon.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Updates:
Final Question:
What stories and identities do you cling to perhaps too tight?
Final Thought:
FIND ME ON:
Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
Android App Store: Recenter with Christ
Voicemail - (602) 888-3795
Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com
Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast
Facebook.com/ChristianMeditationPodcast
Youtube.com/ChristianMeditaitonPodcast
Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
ESV
15 And let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, to which indeed you were called in one body. And be thankful.
16 Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly, teaching and admonishing one another in all wisdom, singing psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, with thankfulness in your hearts to God.
17 And whatever you do, in word or deed, do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him
FIND ME ON:
Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
Android App Store: Recenter with Christ
Voicemail - (602) 888-3795
Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com
Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast
Facebook.com/ChristianMeditationPodcast
Youtube.com/ChristianMeditaitonPodcast
Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
150 Let the Peace of God Rule Your Heart A Guided Christian Meditation on Colossians 3:15-17
I’m Chaplain Jared and I work as a hospice chaplain and an ICU chaplain, my purpose in making this podcast is to help you find more peace in your life and to be more open for your heart to be changed by the Spirit of God. By using centuries old form of Christian Meditation named Lectio Divina:
Outline: Relaxation, Reading, Meditation, Prayer, Contemplation and Visualization.
Get into a place where you can sit comfortably and uninterrupted for about 20 minutes.You should hopefully not be driving or anything tensing or unrelaxing. If you feel comfortable to do so, I invite you to close your eyes.
Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation:
Breathe and direct your thoughts to contacting God. Let your stomach be a balloon inflate, deflate.
Bible verses for Meditation:
Collosians 3:15-17
KJV
15 And let the peace of God rule in your hearts, to the which also ye are called in one body; and be ye thankful.
16 Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly in all wisdom; teaching and admonishing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing with grace in your hearts to the Lord.
17 And whatsoever ye do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God and the Father by him.
ESV
15 And let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, to which indeed you were called in one body. And be thankful.
16 Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly, teaching and admonishing one another in all wisdom, singing psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, with thankfulness in your hearts to God.
17 And whatever you do, in word or deed, do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him
Meditation on Scripture:
What rules in your heart right now? How does that change throughout the day? Throughout the weeks, months and years?
This scripture directly continues from the previous verses about forgiveness and about having compassion guild our lives. As we forgive, as we grow compassion in us, we lean let the peace of God rule our hearts. But it is more than this. I think there is a reason why we are asked to let this happen. The word choice certainly indicates choice and decision which is the greek root translated as “let”. Here Paul is inviting the people to let God rule their hearts. Paul is trying to teach the people something that God wants for us. It seems God wants to transform us into a being that chooses what He would choose. The multiple times when he told his Apostles, and us by proxy, to follow Him was an invitation for us to change.
Are you willing to change? Will you let him rule your heart right now?
Through this meditation and all the others my goal has been to allow God’s word to speak directly to you through an experience of peace, allowing us all to be more sensitive to God’s word. Here we are being asked to allow this word to dwell in us. As we learn to live more with God’s word dwelling in our heart, we will act and speak more like Jesus. We have our very nature transformed. God’s decision to give us this ability to chose him as ruler is not a sign of strength but of supreme power and confidence that we could and would chose him, with the help of the Holy Spirit.
As we live this way then we will truly do what we do in his name. It is hard to imagine how we can make intentionally bad choices in His name. It seems wrong to consider that we cut someone off in traffic in the name of Jesus or are envious of someone in His name. Although redemption those also can point to His name.
This scripture includes gratitude as a guiding principle. I believe it is because gratitude is intimately connected to Christ ruling in our heart.
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit.
Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:
I invite you to sit in silence feeling being patient for your own faults and trials.
Summarize what insights you have gained during this meditation and meditate and visualize positive change in your life:
This is a listener funded podcast at patreon.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Updates:
Final Question:
Who can you forgive to experience more purely the love of God?
Final Thought:
I pray that you have found encouragement not chastisement in this message. If you have been deeply hurt by someone then I hope you do not feel guilt for bearing that in your heart. The message that I am hoping and praying that you walk away with is this. Because you are chosen and forgiven of God beyond what you deserve, you can forgive and love beyond your ability. Our lives will expand and be more full of peace as we learn to truly live this way. We all struggle with it. The more we are able to reject the unholy desires of our heart and we learn to forgive, the more we will understand God.
FIND ME ON:
Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
Android App Store: Recenter with Christ
Voicemail - (602) 888-3795
Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com
Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast
Facebook.com/ChristianMeditationPodcast
Youtube.com/ChristianMeditaitonPodcast
Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
148 Forgive as The Lord Has Forgiven You A Guided Christian Meditation on Colossians 3:12-14
12 Put on then, as God's chosen ones, holy and beloved, compassionate hearts, kindness, humility, meekness, and patience,
13 bearing with one another and, if one has a complaint against another, forgiving each other; as the Lord has forgiven you, so you also must forgive.
14 And above all these put on love, which binds everything together in perfect harmony.
Meditation on Scripture:
FIND ME ON:
Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
Android App Store: Recenter with Christ
Voicemail - (602) 888-3795
Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com
Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast
Facebook.com/ChristianMeditationPodcast
Youtube.com/ChristianMeditaitonPodcast
Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
148 Forgive as The Lord Has Forgiven You A Guided Christian Meditation on Colossians 3:12-14
I’m Chaplain Jared and I work as a hospice chaplain and an ICU chaplain, my purpose in making this podcast is to help you find more peace in your life and to be more open for your heart to be changed by the Spirit of God. By using centuries old form of Christian Meditation named Lectio Divina:
Outline: Relaxation, Reading, Meditation, Prayer, Contemplation and Visualization.
Get into a place where you can sit comfortably and uninterrupted for about 20 minutes.You should hopefully not be driving or anything tensing or unrelaxing. If you feel comfortable to do so, I invite you to close your eyes.
Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation:
Breathe and direct your thoughts to contacting God. Let your stomach be a balloon inflate, deflate.
Bible verses for Meditation:
Collosians 3:12-14
KJV
12 Put on therefore, as the elect of God, holy and beloved, bowels of mercies, kindness, humbleness of mind, meekness, longsuffering;
13 Forbearing one another, and forgiving one another, if any man have a quarrel against any: even as Christ forgave you, so also do ye.
14 And above all these things put on charity, which is the bond of perfectness
ESV
12 Put on then, as God's chosen ones, holy and beloved, compassionate hearts, kindness, humility, meekness, and patience,
13 bearing with one another and, if one has a complaint against another, forgiving each other; as the Lord has forgiven you, so you also must forgive.
14 And above all these put on love, which binds everything together in perfect harmony.
Meditation on Scripture:
In the circles I work in I hear discussion of compassion as being the cutting edge of cognitive research. Compassion has an amazing outcomes in better health and peace for those who practice it. I find this highly ironic since compassion has been a central aspect of so many ancient religions. Implicit in the discovery of compassion is that it is new or that it has not been vital for thousands of years. As though, now that it is discovered by the intellect of modern science it is valid.
Compassion is and has always been the core of Christianity. If we cannot practice and understand compassion, what do we truly understand about God? Our aim should be to live compassionately as Jesus did and as He taught.
How humbling it is to be called the chosen or elect of God. What have we done to be chosen? We were touched by the favor of a loving God who created a plan whereby we could overcome the effects and natural consequences of our sins. Our propensity for sin is not what impressed God to elect us but His goodness and knowledge that we can become far more with His help.
On the positive side now, Compassion is the core of the greatest commandments that Jesus taught. Loving Him and Loving each other. Love binds everything together. Love binds the universe and binds our hearts to God’s. Spend a moment to embrace his love.
Now spend a moment to consider the phrase forgive as he forgave.
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit.
Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:
I invite you to sit in silence feeling being patient for your own faults and trials.
Summarize what insights you have gained during this meditation and meditate and visualize positive change in your life:
This is a listener funded podcast at patreon.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Updates:
Final Question:
Who can you forgive to experience more purely the love of God?
Final Thought:
I pray that you have found encouragement not chastisement in this message. If you have been deeply hurt by someone then I hope you do not feel guilt for bearing that in your heart. The message that I am hoping and praying that you walk away with is this. Because you are chosen and forgiven of God beyond what you deserve, you can forgive and love beyond your ability. Our lives will expand and be more full of peace as we learn to truly live this way. We all struggle with it. The more we are able to reject the unholy desires of our heart and we learn to forgive, the more we will understand God.
FIND ME ON:
Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
Android App Store: Recenter with Christ
Voicemail - (602) 888-3795
Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com
Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast
Facebook.com/ChristianMeditationPodcast
Youtube.com/ChristianMeditaitonPodcast
Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
Bible verses for Meditation:
1 Thessalonians 5:1-5
NABRE
1 Concerning times and seasons, brothers, you have no need for anything to be written to you.
2 For you yourselves know very well that the day of the Lord will come like a thief at night.
3 When people are saying, “Peace and security,” then sudden disaster comes upon them, like labor pains upon a pregnant woman, and they will not escape.
4 But you, brothers, are not in darkness, for that day to overtake you like a thief.
5 For all of you are children of the light and children of the day. We are not of the night or of darkness.
NRSV
Now concerning the times and the seasons, brothers and sisters, you do not need to have anything written to you.
2 For you yourselves know very well that the day of the Lord will come like a thief in the night.
3 When they say, “There is peace and security,” then sudden destruction will come upon them, as labor pains come upon a pregnant woman, and there will be no escape!
4 But you, beloved, are not in darkness, for that day to surprise you like a thief;
5 for you are all children of light and children of the day; we are not of the night or of darkness.
FIND ME ON:
Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
Android App Store: Recenter with Christ
Voicemail - (602) 888-3795
Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com
Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast
Facebook.com/ChristianMeditationPodcast
Youtube.com/ChristianMeditaitonPodcast
Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
146 For You Are Children of Light A Guided Christian Meditation on 1 Thessalonians 5:1-5
I’m Chaplain Jared and I work as a hospice chaplain and an ICU chaplain, my purpose in making this podcast is to help you find more peace in your life and to be more open for your heart to be changed by the Spirit of God. By using centuries old form of Christian Meditation named Lectio Divina:
Outline: Relaxation, Reading, Meditation, Prayer, Contemplation and Visualization.
Get into a place where you can sit comfortably and uninterrupted for about 20 minutes.You should hopefully not be driving or anything tensing or unrelaxing. If you feel comfortable to do so, I invite you to close your eyes.
Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation:
Breathe and direct your thoughts to contacting God. Let your stomach be a balloon inflate, deflate.
Bible verses for Meditation:
1 Thessalonians 5:1-5
NABRE
1 Concerning times and seasons, brothers, you have no need for anything to be written to you. 2 For you yourselves know very well that the day of the Lord will come like a thief at night.
3 When people are saying, “Peace and security,” then sudden disaster comes upon them, like labor pains upon a pregnant woman, and they will not escape.
4 But you, brothers, are not in darkness, for that day to overtake you like a thief.
5 For all of you are children of the light and children of the day. We are not of the night or of darkness.
NRSV
Now concerning the times and the seasons, brothers and sisters, you do not need to have anything written to you.
2 For you yourselves know very well that the day of the Lord will come like a thief in the night.
3 When they say, “There is peace and security,” then sudden destruction will come upon them, as labor pains come upon a pregnant woman, and there will be no escape!
4 But you, beloved, are not in darkness, for that day to surprise you like a thief;
5 for you are all children of light and children of the day; we are not of the night or of darkness.
Meditation on Scripture:
This weekend I had a chance to go on a camping trip with my Son’s scout troop. He is special needs and he the best son in the world. On the drive up we talked about life. He told me about some of his worries about the future. This was my favorite part of the whole trip. I love that he trusted me enough to tell me how he felt. Many people I have talked to over the years have had similar worries about the future. In fact, fear is a huge part of anxiety which plagues so many people. I find this scripture to be interesting and special because it does two things at once. It pronounces words which could cause fear but then directly defuses them.
It says that destruction will come upon those who are not prepared. Many people fear this kind of fire and brimstone idea but Paul immediately comforts us against that fear. If you are listening to this and you accept and follow Jesus, then you are a child of God, a child of light. Your struggle is not against the full weight of your lack of preparation to enter into the presence of God. You struggle is to trust God and receive the change he is willing to put into your life. You are children of Light, not children of darkness. When you are looking back on this life and this moment in a million years from now during the infinity of eternity you will see yourself enveloped by the love of Jesus going through the same struggles you have now but you will see how it ends up.
Many times when I counsel with people and they arrive at a place of peace, I ask them what they would say to themselves as a child. Inside of yourself you have the same child you once were. What you would you say to yourself if you could go back? My hope is that you can get to a place where you could say something along the lines of “Everything is going to be OK in the end.” When the infinite future arrives, I suspect that this is the message that we would want to send back to ourselves now. It is the message that God has been whispering to you for a long time now. He wrote it in many forms in the scriptures for us. You are a child of God. Jesus loves you and me that he would lay down his life for us because he KNEW, that in the end everything would be OK. He also knows you well enough that you can trust Him by telling him exactly how you feel today.
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit.
Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:
I invite you to sit in silence feeling being patient for your own faults and trials.
Summarize what insights you have gained during this meditation and meditate and visualize positive change in your life:
This is a listener funded podcast at patreon.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Updates:
Final Question:
What are things, if any, that we should be unwilling to receive from God.
Final Thought:
FIND ME ON:
Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
Android App Store: Recenter with Christ
Voicemail - (602) 888-3795
Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com
Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast
Facebook.com/ChristianMeditationPodcast
Youtube.com/ChristianMeditaitonPodcast
Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
NRSV
7 So Satan went out from the presence of the Lord, and inflicted loathsome sores on Job from the sole of his foot to the crown of his head.
8 Job took a potsherd with which to scrape himself, and sat among the ashes.
9 Then his wife said to him, “Do you still persist in your integrity? Curse God, and die.”
10 But he said to her, “You speak as any foolish woman would speak. Shall we receive the good at the hand of God, and not receive the bad?” In all this Job did not sin with his lips.
FIND ME ON:
Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
Android App Store: Recenter with Christ
Voicemail - (602) 888-3795
Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com
Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast
Facebook.com/ChristianMeditationPodcast
Youtube.com/ChristianMeditaitonPodcast
Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
144 Will We Receive Only Good A Guided Christian Meditation on Job 2:7-10
I’m Chaplain Jared and I work as a hospice chaplain and an ICU chaplain, my purpose in making this podcast is to help you find more peace in your life and to be more open for your heart to be changed by the Spirit of God. By using centuries old form of Christian Meditation named Lectio Divina:
Outline: Relaxation, Reading, Meditation, Prayer, Contemplation and Visualization.
Get into a place where you can sit comfortably and uninterrupted for about 20 minutes.You should hopefully not be driving or anything tensing or unrelaxing. If you feel comfortable to do so, I invite you to close your eyes.
Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation:
Breathe and direct your thoughts to contacting God. Let your stomach be a balloon inflate, deflate.
Bible verses for Meditation:
Job 2:7-10
ESV
7 So Satan went out from the presence of the Lord and struck Job with loathsome sores from the sole of his foot to the crown of his head.
8 And he took a piece of broken pottery with which to scrape himself while he sat in the ashes.
9 Then his wife said to him, “Do you still hold fast your integrity? Curse God and die.”
10 But he said to her, “You speak as one of the foolish women would speak. Shall we receive good from God, and shall we not receive evil?” In all this Job did not sin with his lips.
NRSV
7 So Satan went out from the presence of the Lord, and inflicted loathsome sores on Job from the sole of his foot to the crown of his head.
8 Job took a potsherd with which to scrape himself, and sat among the ashes.
9 Then his wife said to him, “Do you still persist in your integrity? Curse God, and die.”
10 But he said to her, “You speak as any foolish woman would speak. Shall we receive the good at the hand of God, and not receive the bad?” In all this Job did not sin with his lips.
Meditation on Scripture:
In last weeks scripture it stated that God does not tempt people. Here Job argues that we should be willing to receive both good and evil from God. I enjoy the nuance in understanding that this contrast provides. Many people speak of the patients of Job as though he did not complain or question what God allowed. I believe that these verses represent the true purpose of Job’s story. When everyone he knew questioned his life and choices he maintained his integrity.
Each one of us go through our own challenges in life which are a struggle for us. At times we may even feel as though we have failed against them. I have something to tell you. You have survived everything you have gone through. Regardless of our success or failure against our challenges we live on. We have been assured that through Jesus Christ we will overcome this world. All our struggles will be turned to victory. When you feel the weight of the pressure of the world heaped upon you, remember this. We can receive both the good times and the bad with the understanding that we can overcome with His help.
There is nothing in heaven or hell that can stop us when Christ is with us. No matter what you fears tell you, you will survive. You will overcome. You will be able to develop more internal skills and resources also. God’s goal does not appear to drag us into heaven as though we were being dragged by our hair. It seems more likely that he gives us goals, choices, and even commandments so that we can get up after we have been dragged for a while and learn to walk by His side. When we enter heaven with His grace it will be because he has created a new being in us with this work. God is doing this to you even today. You will survive and overcome.
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit.
Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:
I invite you to sit in silence feeling being patient for your own faults and trials.
Summarize what insights you have gained during this meditation and meditate and visualize positive change in your life:
This is a listener funded podcast at patreon.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Updates:
Final Question:
What are things, if any, that we should be unwilling to receive from God.
Final Thought:
When people write in to me through the podcast so many of them tell me about their struggles with fear, anxiety, and depression. Regardless of your own struggles you are not alone. You are not the only person who struggles, even while hearing messages of God’s grace. I want you to know something. You were created by the most glorious being in the universe. You are His child and He calls you His friend. You are worth Him dying for you. My greatest prayer for you is that you, not only find a moment of calm in these moments of meditation but that you also come to more fully understand God’s love for you and how that love can move in us to change us. His love motivates us to love others and to follow the words He gave us in the scriptures. We don’t need to worry about law versus grace if we follow Him in love.
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NABRE
13 No one experiencing temptation should say, “I am being tempted by God”; for God is not subject to temptation to evil, and he himself tempts no one.
14 Rather, each person is tempted when he is lured and enticed by his own desire.
15 Then desire conceives and brings forth sin, and when sin reaches maturity it gives birth to death.
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142 We Are Tempted By Our Own Desire A Guided Christian Meditation on James 1:13-15
I’m Chaplain Jared and I work as a hospice chaplain and an ICU chaplain, my purpose in making this podcast is to help you find more peace in your life and to be more open for your heart to be changed by the Spirit of God. By using centuries old form of Christian Meditation named Lectio Divina:
Outline: Relaxation, Reading, Meditation, Prayer, Contemplation and Visualization.
Get into a place where you can sit comfortably and uninterrupted for about 20 minutes.You should hopefully not be driving or anything tensing or unrelaxing. If you feel comfortable to do so, I invite you to close your eyes.
Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation:
Breathe and direct your thoughts to contacting God. Let your stomach be a balloon inflate, deflate.
Bible verses for Meditation:
James 1:13-15
NRSV
13 No one, when tempted, should s
ay, “I am being tempted by God”; for God cannot be tempted by evil and he himself tempts no one.
14 But one is tempted by one’s own desire, being lured and enticed by it;
15 then, when that desire has conceived, it gives birth to sin, and that sin, when it is fully grown, gives birth to death.
NABRE
13 No one experiencing temptation should say, “I am being tempted by God”; for God is not subject to temptation to evil, and he himself tempts no one.
14 Rather, each person is tempted when he is lured and enticed by his own desire.
15 Then desire conceives and brings forth sin, and when sin reaches maturity it gives birth to death.
Our thoughts are the basis of action. Though they often begin very small they grow into worldviews as well as actions and habits. A few years ago I was in the Navy. I had a chance to go aboard the USS Theodore Roosevelt (which is an enormous 95,000 ton displacement air craft carrier. as an educational ride along. I landed on the flight deck while it was out to sea and had roughly 5 thousand people aboard. I was able to go all over and so I visited the bridge. I was allowed to take the helm (with the conning officer and helmsman standing over my shoulder) I held the relatively small steering wheel. The helmsman showed me the screen of the course we were on and the margin that I was allowed to stay within along that course. I thought it would be easy to stay within the allowable margin of the course of the ship at the time. It was not. With wind and underwater currents the wheel had to be constantly turned back and forth. Several times the ship rushed out of the acceptable margin. I have reflected on the irony of this many times. This floating city was controlled by a steering wheel that was about the size of my car steering wheel. When I finally gave the wheel back over to the helmsman I was physically tired from the focus and nerves of trying to maintain the course of that enormous ship. I came to appreciate the automated systems and the helmsman who normally were engaged to keep the ship on course.
This is an analogy for us. Our thoughts and our desires are such small things, yet these things can drive us to violate the word of God and sin. Our self-discipline is the small steering wheel upon which our eternal course is managed. The most powerful being in the universe has given us control of the helm of our lives. He does not tempt us but he allows us to work against it. He allows us to struggle against our desire. He knows that we will not be able to do this. His mercy and grace allow us to overcome when we fall outside of the margins of His word.
How do you manage your desire? When you feel desire, even for good things, how do you respond to it? I believe that God gives us this right and ability to help us develop and grow. As we learn to trust him and have faith in Him our relationship with Him grows stronger as we realize how much we need him.
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit.
Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:
I invite you to sit in silence feeling being patient for your own faults and trials.
Summarize what insights you have gained during this meditation and meditate and visualize positive change in your life:
This is a listener funded podcast at patreon.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Updates:
Final Question:
How do you currently work to not give in to your fallen desire?
Final Thought:
In Christian history many people have gone to extremes regarding desire. In many situations our human desire causes untold amounts of hardship for us. When we learn to yield our desire and realize that it is part of our fallen nature, we don’t need to suffer so much. We can let the yearning of our desire pass by as we do not give in to it. As we humble our will before God, we will avoid the natural consequences of yielding to human desire. Similarly, when we fail to overcome temptation and we submit to our desires, we can recover with God’s mercy. There is nothing we can do in our lives which is beyond the grace of God. We can be encouraged to approach the Lord and do what is needed to get back on track and direct ourselves back along the heading he taught.
FIND ME ON:
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Bible verses for Meditation:
Mark 5:25-29
NIV
25 And a woman was there who had been subject to bleeding for twelve years.
26 She had suffered a great deal under the care of many doctors and had spent all she had, yet instead of getting better she grew worse.
27 When she heard about Jesus, she came up behind him in the crowd and touched his cloak,
28 because she thought, “If I just touch his clothes, I will be healed.”
29 Immediately her bleeding stopped and she felt in her body that she was freed from her suffering.
FIND ME ON:
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Android App Store: Recenter with Christ
Voicemail - (602) 888-3795
Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com
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Facebook.com/ChristianMeditationPodcast
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Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
Bible verses for Meditation:
Mark 5:25-29
NIV
25 And a woman was there who had been subject to bleeding for twelve years.
26 She had suffered a great deal under the care of many doctors and had spent all she had, yet instead of getting better she grew worse.
27 When she heard about Jesus, she came up behind him in the crowd and touched his cloak,
28 because she thought, “If I just touch his clothes, I will be healed.”
29 Immediately her bleeding stopped and she felt in her body that she was freed from her suffering.
KJV
25 And a certain woman, which had an issue of blood twelve years,
26 And had suffered many things of many physicians, and had spent all that she had, and was nothing bettered, but rather grew worse,
27 When she had heard of Jesus, came in the press behind, and touched his garment.
28 For she said, If I may touch but his clothes, I shall be whole.
29 And straightway the fountain of her blood was dried up; and she felt in her body that she was healed of that plague.
Meditation:
What does it take to receive a blessing from God? When did Jesus ever teach anyone that his robe would heal? This one seems to catch him by surprise. As we read it we wonder how much Jesus’ mind remained in eternity and how much in mortality. It makes it seem as thought this miracle was stolen from Him. When she responds to His question it is almost as though she is afraid as a thief would be. Did she trick Jesus? I find this scripture interesting because it seems to be so different than the way that most of Jesus’ healings take place. The people come and ask Jesus for a miracle and he tells them what he expects from them and then does the miracle, or not. Jesus did not proclaim his power to descend on this woman, yet it is also clear that this woman had amazing faith.
I find the placement of this scripture to be very interesting also. It is right in the middle of another story. The story where a powerful religious leader begs Jesus to come and heal his daughter. He sent servants to bring Jesus to his house to heal her with His words or actions. This woman does it the other way around. This scripture shows us that there is no one way to approach the Throne of Power. There is no one way that we need to pray or ask for his blessings. Some days we will run out of options and pray for him to come and rescue us.
Other days we may think of an amazing thing to do or to try and it is blessed with His favor and everything works out. We may find ourselves wondering how to get that to come out the same every time. Imagine how this woman would have responded if she needed something else from Jesus. Would she sneak up behind him and touch his clothes again? Perhaps but she may find that this way didnt work this time. Just as when Moses used multiple ways t o make water to spring from the rock. God’s power is not limited to a manual.
If there is something that you need from God. Perhaps flip your style on its head and try it the other way.
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit.
Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:
I invite you to sit in silence feeling being patient for your own faults and trials.
Summarize what insights you have gained during this meditation and meditate and visualize positive change in your life:
This is a listener funded podcast at patreon.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Updates:
Final Question:
What do you plan to change in your life as a result of God’s discipline?
Final Thought:
God cannot be approached like a robot or a slot machine. He forms relationships with us and then pushes us as we need in that moment. He makes us uncomfortable and even when we receive his blessing sometimes we feel afraid that we did it the wrong way. The truth is, he knows this. He knows that we want an easy and predictable way to approach him for what we want. He knows we want to be spiritually lazy in pursuit of Him. He doesn’t make it that easy or boring. It is always an adventure to discover how He is going to do it this time. How will things be the same and different from next time. I hope this message helps you challenge your rigid assumptions on what God will and wont do.
FIND ME ON:
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Hebrews 12:10-13
NABRE
10 They disciplined us for a short time as seemed right to them, but he does so for our benefit, in order that we may share his holiness.
11 At the time, all discipline seems a cause not for joy but for pain, yet later it brings the peaceful fruit of righteousness to those who are trained by it.
12 So strengthen your drooping hands and your weak knees.
13 Make straight paths for your feet, that what is lame may not be dislocated but healed.
ESV
10 For they disciplined us for a short time as it seemed best to them, but he disciplines us for our good, that we may share his holiness.
11 For the moment all discipline seems painful rather than pleasant, but later it yields the peaceful fruit of righteousness to those who have been trained by it.
12 Therefore lift your drooping hands and strengthen your weak knees,
13 and make straight paths for your feet, so that what is lame may not be put out of joint but rather be healed.
FIND ME ON:
Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
Android App Store: Recenter with Christ
Voicemail - (602) 888-3795
Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com
Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast
Facebook.com/ChristianMeditationPodcast
Youtube.com/ChristianMeditaitonPodcast
Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
I’m Chaplain Jared and I work as a hospice chaplain and an ICU chaplain, my purpose in making this podcast is to help you find more peace in your life and to be more open for your heart to be changed by the Spirit of God. By using centuries old form of Christian Meditation named Lectio Divina:
Outline: Relaxation, Reading, Meditation, Prayer, Contemplation and Visualization.
Get into a place where you can sit comfortably and uninterrupted for about 20 minutes.You should hopefully not be driving or anything tensing or unrelaxing. If you feel comfortable to do so, I invite you to close your eyes.
Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation:
Breathe and direct your thoughts to contacting God. Let your stomach be a balloon inflate, deflate.
Bible verses for Meditation:
Hebrews 12:10-13
NABRE
10 They disciplined us for a short time as seemed right to them, but he does so for our benefit, in order that we may share his holiness.
11 At the time, all discipline seems a cause not for joy but for pain, yet later it brings the peaceful fruit of righteousness to those who are trained by it.
12 So strengthen your drooping hands and your weak knees.
13 Make straight paths for your feet, that what is lame may not be dislocated but healed.
ESV
10 For they disciplined us for a short time as it seemed best to them, but he disciplines us for our good, that we may share his holiness.
11 For the moment all discipline seems painful rather than pleasant, but later it yields the peaceful fruit of righteousness to those who have been trained by it.
12 Therefore lift your drooping hands and strengthen your weak knees,
13 and make straight paths for your feet, so that what is lame may not be put out of joint but rather be healed.
Meditation:
Discipline.
What is your response to hearing that word? Is it fear? Anger? Rebellion? Shame? Self Control? Motivation?
Take what your initial response was and set that aside and explore what else it could mean.
In what ways do you wish you could be more disciplined. Discipline has the same root as disciple. If we want to be Jesus’ disciples then we are really asking for his discipline. At the midway point of this year I want you to think back on the things that you aspired to at the start of the year. Can you look at your goals for improvement with accountability but without negative judgement?
God is our father and as such tries to correct us. The choice is left to us to gain by it or to wither from it. The truth is that everything meaningful is challenging at least at times. Even a meditation practice can be a challenge at different times. As we learn to stay to the path that God has shown then we truly find the blessings he has promised. If we avoid it then we may never find it. Instead of walking a rocky and jagged path and then asking for healing when we hurt ourselves against the rocks. Like samuel says “to obey is better than to sacrifice”. Take a moment now and ponder what you can give up to more fully walk the path of Jesus.
Accept the discipline of God with a grateful heart.
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit.
Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:
I invite you to sit in silence feeling being patient for your own faults and trials.
Summarize what insights you have gained during this meditation and meditate and visualize positive change in your life:
This is a listener funded podcast at patreon.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Updates:
Final Question:
What do you plan to change in your life as a result of God’s discipline?
Final Thought:
God is your loving father, more wise and knowledgeable than anybody else. He knows what we need before we do. At times God’s word can pierce us while it heals us. As we regain our dedication to walk His way we become more able to receive His healing. This healing is more than just correcting major grievous sins. It can correct our natures. After a disagreement with someone dear to me I found myself grateful for the chastening that I received (after the fact of course). It knocked me down a peg or two and helped me realize areas of growth for me. Humility before God is the most certain way we can prepare ourselves for His glory. When we are humble before God, we are willing to be corrected by Him.
FIND ME ON:
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Android App Store: Recenter with Christ
Voicemail - (602) 888-3795
Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com
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NIV
2 “Honor your father and mother” which is the first commandment with a promise
3 “so that it may go well with you and that you may enjoy long life on the earth.”
4 Fathers, do not exasperate your children; instead, bring them up in the training and instruction of the Lord.
FIND ME ON:
Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
Voicemail - (602) 888-3795
Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com
Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast
Facebook.com/ChristianMeditationPodcast
Youtube.com/ChristianMeditaitonPodcast
Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
I’m Chaplain Jared and I work as a hospice chaplain and an ICU chaplain, my purpose in making this podcast is to help you find more peace in your life and to be more open for your heart to be changed by the Spirit of God. By using centuries old form of Christian Meditation named Lectio Divina:
Outline: Relaxation, Reading, Meditation, Prayer, Contemplation and Visualization.
Get into a place where you can sit comfortably and uninterrupted for about 20 minutes.You should hopefully not be driving or anything tensing or unrelaxing. If you feel comfortable to do so, I invite you to close your eyes.
Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation:
Breathe and direct your thoughts to contacting God. Let your stomach be a balloon inflate, deflate.
Bible verses for Meditation:
Ephesians 6
NIV
2 “Honor your father and mother” which is the first commandment with a promise
3 “so that it may go well with you and that you may enjoy long life on the earth.”
4 Fathers, do not exasperate your children; instead, bring them up in the training and instruction of the Lord.
KJV
2 Honour thy father and mother; which is the first commandment with promise;
3 That it may be well with thee, and thou mayest live long on the earth.
4 And, ye fathers, provoke not your children to wrath: but bring them up in the nurture and admonition of the Lord.
Meditation:
In the US we celebrate Father’s day today. This can be challenging because not everyone has a good relationship with their father. This can spill over into our adult relationships also. Even more important than this the way we view our own fathers has an impact on how we view God’s role as father. In my case I grew up without a father in the home and I know this has made it more challenging to fully understand the relationship between father and son. The good news is that, as humans, we can change. We can learn to let go of the challenges of the past to develop in new and important ways. For example, with concerted effort I have come to feel the presence of a loving father in heaven.
The reason I chose this scripture, which is basically a reinterpretation of the 5th commandment, is to give you perhaps a new way to interpret it. When the scripture says we should honor our parents we can be mindful about how to do this. Honoring parents doesnt have to mean degrading our relationship with God or demeaning ourselves. We can follow this commandment by living in a way that God would want. Honor in God’s eyes is the only honor that truly matters anyway. So when you hear reference to this
The scripture connects the role of parents to the need to be honored. When the scripture says not to provoke our children to wrath, I feel that statement keenly. I realize that my actions greatly influence the way my children respond to me. I feel accountable for my role in helping my children honor me. When I provoke them to anger, I should have no expectation that they will listen to me and obey me implicitly without question. The greatest appeal we can make to obedience that we can make is by being subject to the will of God, provided we can discern it correctly. May we ever seek to understand his will more clearly and may it be shown to us.
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit.
Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:
I invite you to sit in silence feeling being patient for your own faults and trials.
Summarize what insights you have gained during this meditation and meditate and visualize positive change in your life:
This is a listener funded podcast at patreon.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Updates:
Final Question:
How can your connection to God as your father improve?
Final Thought:
The meta lesson of this meditation for me has been that I have no claim on the honor of anyone. The only honor we can hope to receive is from grace. In other words if we are moved to do God’s will and are able to gain holy honor from anyone including children, is it not really us that’s being honored, it is God through us. Our goal then should be to submit our will to God’s become open to receive his guidance, and then help spread his glory and honor to others.
FIND ME ON:
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Voicemail - (602) 888-3795
Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com
Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast
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ESV
1 So I exhort the elders among you, as a fellow elder and a witness of the sufferings of Christ, as well as a partaker in the glory that is going to be revealed:
2 shepherd the flock of God that is among you, exercising oversight, not under compulsion, but willingly, as God would have you; not for shameful gain, but eagerly; 3 not domineering over those in your charge, but being examples to the flock.
4 And when the chief Shepherd appears, you will receive the unfading crown of glory.
FIND ME ON:
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Voicemail - (602) 888-3795
Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com
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134 Shepherd the Flock of God A Guided Christian Meditaiton on 1 Peter 5:1-4
I’m Chaplain Jared and I work as a hospice chaplain and an ICU chaplain, my purpose in making this podcast is to help you find more peace in your life and to be more open for your heart to be changed by the Spirit of God. By using centuries old form of Christian Meditation named Lectio Divina:
Outline: Relaxation, Reading, Meditation, Prayer, Contemplation and Visualization.
Get into a place where you can sit comfortably and uninterrupted for about 20 minutes.You should hopefully not be driving or anything tensing or unrelaxing. If you feel comfortable to do so, I invite you to close your eyes.
Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation:
Breathe and direct your thoughts to contacting God. Let your stomach be a balloon inflate, deflate.
Bible verses for Meditation:
1 Peter 5:
ESV
1 So I exhort the elders among you, as a fellow elder and a witness of the sufferings of Christ, as well as a partaker in the glory that is going to be revealed:
2 shepherd the flock of God that is among you, exercising oversight, not under compulsion, but willingly, as God would have you; not for shameful gain, but eagerly; 3 not domineering over those in your charge, but being examples to the flock.
4 And when the chief Shepherd appears, you will receive the unfading crown of glory.
KJV
1 The elders which are among you I exhort, who am also an elder, and a witness of the sufferings of Christ, and also a partaker of the glory that shall be revealed:
2 Feed the flock of God which is among you, taking the oversight thereof, not by constraint, but willingly; not for filthy lucre, but of a ready mind;
3 Neither as being lords over God's heritage, but being examples to the flock.
4 And when the chief Shepherd shall appear, ye shall receive a crown of glory that fadeth not away.
Meditation:
In scripture the church is referred to as a flock very often. There is reason for this. Sheep need to be led or they fall into danger. As Isaiah said, all we like sheep have gone astray, every one to his own way. Contemporary language uses terms like “live in your truth.” Sadly this misses the greater nuance that the Truth of God is not subjective. Our flawed understanding of eternal truth does not create a new form of truth. In isolation our ideas and morals can become based more on convenience than on eternal truth.
Similarly and equally important, us humans are social creatures. Even people with introverted tendencies like myself are designed to live in communion with others. If we isolate ourselves from the flock of God we may soon find ourselves lost in diverse theology or depressed without meaningful spiritual connections to help us overcome. A coal separated from the fire soon cools.
Another aspect of being part of the flock of God is that we may end up being an example and help shepherd others. We should not have the expectation that Christianity can be a vague preference or an exclusively internal experience. That is not how Jesus taught the Kingdom of God. He meant it to be a life transforming dedication. We partake of the Glory of God as we strengthen others in their walk with Christ.
The truth is, we all need all the help we can get. Others need your help and you need help from others.
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit.
Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire f rom Him.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:
I invite you to sit in silence feeling being patient for your own faults and trials.
Summarize what insights you have gained during this meditation and meditate and visualize positive change in your life:
This is a listener funded podcast at patreon.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Updates:
Final Question:
How can you seek help as both a sheep and a shepherd?
Final Thought:
There is a spiritual importance with genuine human connection and we should engage in the church as much as humanly possible. If you find yourself without a solid connection to a local church you can start a search. Let God’s spirit guide you. There is profound benefits in finding wise, compassionate, and spirit filled leadership and community. Attendance at church is not the criteria that will determine entrance into heaven but there is a reason why the New Testament focuses so much on church and community building. We have so much to gain from each other, and from the wisdom of others.
FIND ME ON:
Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
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Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com
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Free Form Christian Meditation on 2 Chronicles 7:14-16
NRSV
14 if my people who are called by my name humble themselves, pray, seek my face, and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin and heal their land.
15 Now my eyes will be open and my ears attentive to the prayer that is made in this place.
16 For now I have chosen and consecrated this house so that my name may be there forever; my eyes and my heart will be there for all time.
FIND ME ON:
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Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com
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Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
Bible verses for Meditation:
NRSV
14 if my people who are called by my name humble themselves, pray, seek my face, and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin and heal their land.
15 Now my eyes will be open and my ears attentive to the prayer that is made in this place.
16 For now I have chosen and consecrated this house so that my name may be there forever; my eyes and my heart will be there for all time.
KJV
14 If my people, which are called by my name, shall humble themselves, and pray, and seek my face, and turn from their wicked ways; then will I hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin, and will heal their land.
15 Now mine eyes shall be open, and mine ears attent unto the prayer that is made in this place.
16 For now have I chosen and sanctified this house, that my name may be there for ever: and mine eyes and mine heart shall be there perpetually.
Meditation:
There are 3 aspects of this scripture that I was thinking about as I reflected on it.
Many people feel that these calls for repentance in the Old Testament reflect a past time. In other words, God’s grace makes the demands of the law void. This is a complex issue because it was Jehovah who placed these demands on the people. Yet it is very clear from scripture that the law is not what saves us. I feel that despite the salvation of Jesus, he still wants the best for us. Ridding our lives of sinful behavior remains an important thing in our lives. We can hold the two ideas in our hearts that God’s mercy provides salvation AND he wants us to improve according to what he has asked us for. Humility before God can be a blissful way of learning from Him.
This scripture focuses on the house of God. The temple in Jerusalem was destroyed but that does not lessen the value of making places holy and dedicated to God. If we allow God into every aspect our lives then our homes can become holy places to the Lord. Is your home a temple to God? What things could you change to make your home dedicated as a temple to God?
In recent times there has been a lessening of the importance of church attendance. As we realize that our relationship with God is the most important thing, we may feel a lessened need for church attendance. Much of the New Testament refers to churches and church based communities. I feel that one main reason for that is because God knew the strength that community can provide us. Social isolation is a scourge that often comes along with a highly technologically advanced society. Christians are not spared from that if we isolate ourselves from our communities. Perhaps one way we can live this scripture is by congregating in churches that are dedicated to living the will of God.
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit.
Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire f rom Him.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:
I invite you to sit in silence feeling being patient for your own faults and trials.
Summarize what insights you have gained during this meditation and meditate and visualize positive change in your life:
This is a listener funded podcast at patreon.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Updates:
Final Question:
What things can you change in your life to live before God in humility?
Final Thought:
I was visiting with a woman recently who I see on hospice. Because she grew up in a different time, this scripture spoke to her heart in a different way than it did mine. Despite that, the meaning has not changed. I rejoice that Christian theology has focused less on guilt and shame before God. One thing that I think we should be cautious about is that we dont minimize the benefits from living according to the way God has asked us to. I believe that as we reject sinful behavior we will experience more long term joy.
FIND ME ON:
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Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
Bible verses for Meditation:
NIV
8 “For my thoughts are not your thoughts,
neither are your ways my ways,”
declares the Lord.
9 “As the heavens are higher than the earth,
so are my ways higher than your ways
and my thoughts than your thoughts.
10 As the rain and the snow
come down from heaven,
and do not return to it
without watering the earth
and making it bud and flourish,
so that it yields seed for the sower and bread for the eater,
11 so is my word that goes out from my mouth:
It will not return to me empty,
but will accomplish what I desire
and achieve the purpose for which I sent it.
FIND ME ON:
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Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com
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130 God’s Ways are Higher Than Our Ways, A Guided Christian Meditation on Isaiah 55:8-11
I’m Chaplain Jared and I work as a hospice chaplain and an ICU chaplain, my purpose in making this podcast is to help you find more peace in your life and to be more open for your heart to be changed by the Spirit of God. By using centuries old form of Christian Meditation named Lectio Divina:
Outline: Relaxation, Reading, Meditation, Prayer, Contemplation and Visualization.
Get into a place where you can sit comfortably and uninterrupted for about 20 minutes.You should hopefully not be driving or anything tensing or unrelaxing. If you feel comfortable to do so, I invite you to close your eyes.
Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation:
Breathe and direct your thoughts to contacting God. Let your stomach be a balloon inflate, deflate.
Bible verses for Meditation:
NIV
8 “For my thoughts are not your thoughts,
neither are your ways my ways,”
declares the Lord.
9 “As the heavens are higher than the earth,
so are my ways higher than your ways
and my thoughts than your thoughts.
10 As the rain and the snow
come down from heaven,
and do not return to it
without watering the earth
and making it bud and flourish,
so that it yields seed for the sower and bread for the eater,
11 so is my word that goes out from my mouth:
It will not return to me empty,
but will accomplish what I desire
and achieve the purpose for which I sent it.
ESV
For my thoughts are not your thoughts,
neither are your ways my ways, declares the Lord.
9 For as the heavens are higher than the earth,
so are my ways higher than your ways
and my thoughts than your thoughts.
10 “For as the rain and the snow come down from heaven
and do not return there but water the earth,
making it bring forth and sprout,
giving seed to the sower and bread to the eater,
11 so shall my word be that goes out from my mouth;
it shall not return to me empty,
but it shall accomplish that which I purpose,
and shall succeed in the thing for which I sent it.
Meditation:
In our search for meaning and purpose in life we often come up with possible answers and perhaps partial solutions. We make goals and plans to create purpose around our lives without knowing the future. Even when we are prayerful and very thoughtful about our plans sometimes things dont go according to plan. Sometimes there are delays of things that we perceive as good for us, or others. We make necessities of things that are often preferences.
Many times i have found that my desires have not been met in life. At times this has lead me to feel discouraged and disappointed, only to learn later than things would develop in a different way. On my road to my chaplain ministry I did a lot of different things from sales, to tech, and even multiple warehouse jobs. The failures I experienced as a result of these things led me to reimagine who I was and to break the mold of who I thought I was. As I was humbled God spoke to my heart and showed me more about myself I never would have seen without earlier setbacks.
In my professional work as a chaplain I have seen immense suffering bring personal healing or more profound understanding. I have seen people walk to the edge of death and then in the last moments lose their fear. I have seen people find forgiveness from or for others as they were dying. Nothing is written in stone, except the word of God. If we stay humble as this scripture teaches we can learn from God what is most important in our lives and we can pursue those paths.
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit.
Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire f rom Him.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:
I invite you to sit in silence feeling being patient for your own faults and trials.
Summarize what insights you have gained during this meditation and meditate and visualize positive change in your life:
This is a listener funded podcast at patreon.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Updates:
Final Question:
How has your life been blessed by service?
Final Thought:
As we listen to the word of God and learn to draw near to him and follow in his ways we will find the healing that he promised. Many times our growth comes from our attempts in the face of difficulties and failures. Our goal though should be to seek to know the will of God and to do it wholeheartedly. As the rains begin to fall in many places, think about this scripture. The purposes of God, like rain, don’t fall without getting things wet. Then they return to the heavens after they ahve accomplished their goal. No hardship is wasted if it draws us nearer to God and to each other.
FIND ME ON:
Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
Voicemail - (602) 888-3795
Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com
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Facebook.com/ChristianMeditationPodcast
Youtube.com/ChristianMeditaitonPodcast
Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
Bible verses for Meditation:
NRSV
45 Philip found Nathanael and said to him, “We have found him about whom Moses in the law and also the prophets wrote, Jesus son of Joseph from Nazareth.”
46 Nathanael said to him, “Can anything good come out of Nazareth?” Philip said to him, “Come and see.”
47 When Jesus saw Nathanael coming toward him, he said of him, “Here is truly an Israelite in whom there is no deceit!”
FIND ME ON:
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Voicemail - (602) 888-3795
Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com
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Facebook.com/ChristianMeditationPodcast
Youtube.com/ChristianMeditaitonPodcast
Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
Bible verses for Meditation:
NRSV
45 Philip found Nathanael and said to him, “We have found him about whom Moses in the law and also the prophets wrote, Jesus son of Joseph from Nazareth.”
46 Nathanael said to him, “Can anything good come out of Nazareth?” Philip said to him, “Come and see.”
47 When Jesus saw Nathanael coming toward him, he said of him, “Here is truly an Israelite in whom there is no deceit!”
NABRE
45 Philip found Nathanael and told him, “We have found the one about whom Moses wrote in the law, and also the prophets, Jesus son of Joseph, from Nazareth.”
46 But Nathanael said to him, “Can anything good come from Nazareth?” Philip said to him, “Come and see.”
47 Jesus saw Nathanael coming toward him and said of him, “Here is a true Israelite. There is no duplicity in him.”
Meditation:
Is there deceit in your heart?
I find it very interesting that the thing that Jesus uses to praise Nathaniel is this question. Is he honest in his own heart? If there is no duplicity or deception inside of us then we don’t tell ourself false stories about our actions or the true desires of our hearts. We can be honest about our temptations, not justify our sin but be honest with God and ourselves about what our challenges are. Honesty does not require us to proclaim every secret we have to every person we meet but it does me we aren’t two faced.
Most people strugle with some form of duplicity. Are you the same person at church as you are at work, or out with your friends? Like he did with Nathanial, God is calling you to something greater. He has more for us than the small and fragmented lives we make for ourselves. As we allow the love of God into our heart we don’t need to fear being totally brutally honest with God and then relying on His power to heal us and help us overcome the darkness we are fighting against.
God values our honesty so much that he does not force us to do it. He values the faith it requires for us to dump out all the darkness in our hearts before His feet with openness and trust that he will not reject us for it. We can be prepared to understand that he will want us not to hold on to the darkness anymore. Something that I think our culture is getting wrong is that we should not be seeking to do what feels good. Sometimes being honest with our own failings can be scary and it doesn't feel good. As we place our focus on aligning our hearts with God instead of what feels good, we clean the wound and allow our hearts to draw ever nearer to the love and peace of God which surpass all understanding.
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit.
Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire f rom Him.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:
I invite you to sit in silence feeling being patient for your own faults and trials.
Summarize what insights you have gained during this meditation and meditate and visualize positive change in your life:
This is a listener funded podcast at patreon.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Updates:
Final Question:
How has your life been blessed by service?
Final Thought:
Decide today that you will cease all duplicity. No more will you fragment your identity. Remove the walls in your mind and allow yourself to be the same person but don’t stay that person. Allow God’s grace to change you. Allow it to heal you. There is no fear greater than the joy of being loved by the most powerful God. He loves you even as you learn to turn your back on the demons that may surround you. When you feel fear instead feel his love. When you feel discouraged focus on his love and grace. He accepts us with our current struggles, all the while asking us to follow him to something better. He leads us to sill waters and by greener pastures. May our faith in Him grow as we receive His grace moment by moment.
FIND ME ON:
Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
Voicemail - (602) 888-3795
Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com
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Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
Luke 8
NIV
1After this, Jesus traveled about from one town and village to another, proclaiming the good news of the kingdom of God. The Twelve were with him,
2 and also some women who had been cured of evil spirits and diseases: Mary (called Magdalene) from whom seven demons had come out;
3 Joanna the wife of Chuza, the manager of Herod’s household; Susanna; and many others. These women were helping to support them out of their own means.
FIND ME ON:
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126The Mighty Service of Women, A Guided Christian Meditation on Luke 8:1-3
I’m Chaplain Jared and I work as a hospice chaplain and an ICU chaplain, my purpose in making this podcast is to help you find more peace in your life and to be more open for your heart to be changed by the Spirit of God. By using centuries old form of Christian Meditation named Lectio Divina:
Outline: Relaxation, Reading, Meditation, Prayer, Contemplation and Visualization.
We have our guest back today! We have been working hard this week to make a meaningful podcast episode together so I hope you enjoy.
Get into a place where you can sit comfortably and uninterrupted for about 20 minutes.You should hopefully not be driving or anything tensing or unrelaxing. If you feel comfortable to do so, I invite you to close your eyes.
Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation:
Breathe and direct your thoughts to contacting God. Let your stomach be a balloon inflate, deflate.
Bible verses for Meditation:
Luke 8
NIV
1After this, Jesus traveled about from one town and village to another, proclaiming the good news of the kingdom of God. The Twelve were with him,
2 and also some women who had been cured of evil spirits and diseases: Mary (called Magdalene) from whom seven demons had come out;
3 Joanna the wife of Chuza, the manager of Herod’s household; Susanna; and many others. These women were helping to support them out of their own means.
KJV
1 And it came to pass afterward, that he went throughout every city and village, preaching and shewing the glad tidings of the kingdom of God: and the twelve were with him,
2 And certain women, which had been healed of evil spirits and infirmities, Mary called Magdalene, out of whom went seven devils,
3 And Joanna the wife of Chuza Herod's steward, and Susanna, and many others, which ministered unto him of their substance.
Meditation:
In the united states we celebrate Mothers day the sunday this episode comes out. This is a time when people reflect on their experience with their mothers or their own role as a mother. For many this is a rewarding and fulfilling reflection but sometimes it can cause anxiety and pain either as our experiences with our own mothers or personal experiences as a mother.
I have experienced
As we reflect on the women in this scripture. Each had unique challenges and shortcomings. Despite these faults God used them to do His work and support his ministry. They were possessed of demons like Mary, or being the husband to a man who ran the house of Harrod, a man who would eventually be party to the death of Jesus. The important thing is they didn’t let those things define them or prevent from giving what they could offer, which was exactly what Jesus needed.
Sometimes we feel that we need to be doing something more amazing. Like them, We bring all that we have, flawed as we are, we have something to offer to God. Perhaps we are not the ones to work the miracles but we can work to make that work happen. Something I realize as I prepare these messages is that our own efforts fall painfully short form the true impact we have in this life.
The reward is not immediate
Support Him
Meditation on scripture / bible verse meditation:
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit.
Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:
I invite you to sit in silence feeling being patient for your own faults and trials.
Summarize what insights you have gained during this meditation and meditate and visualize positive change in your life:
This is a listener funded podcast at patreon.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Updates:
Final Question:
How has your life been blessed by service?
Final Thought:
FIND ME ON:
Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
Voicemail - (602) 888-3795
Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com
Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast
Facebook.com/ChristianMeditationPodcast
Youtube.com/ChristianMeditaitonPodcast
Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
NRSV
John 15:
12 “This is my commandment, that you love one another as I have loved you.
13 No one has greater love than this, to lay down one’s life for one’s friends.
14 You are my friends if you do what I command you.
15 I do not call you servants any longer, because the servant does not know what the master is doing; but I have called you friends, because I have made known to you everything that I have heard from my Father.
FIND ME ON:
Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
Voicemail - (602) 888-3795
Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com
Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast
Facebook.com/ChristianMeditationPodcast
Youtube.com/ChristianMeditaitonPodcast
Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation:
Breathe and direct your thoughts to contacting God. Let your stomach be a balloon inflate, deflate.
Bible verses for Meditation:
NRSV
John 15:
12 “This is my commandment, that you love one another as I have loved you.
13 No one has greater love than this, to lay down one’s life for one’s friends.
14 You are my friends if you do what I command you.
15 I do not call you servants any longer, because the servant does not know what the master is doing; but I have called you friends, because I have made known to you everything that I have heard from my Father.
ESV
John 15:
12 “This is my commandment, that you love one another as I have loved you.
13 Greater love has no one than this, that someone lay down his life for his friends.
14 You are my friends if you do what I command you.
15 No longer do I call you servants for the servant does not know what his master is doing; but I have called you friends, for all that I have heard from my Father I have made known to you.
Meditation on scripture / bible verse meditation:
It is good and right to talk of love. To talk of loving others. The reality is that we don’t always do this. If this was an easy thing to do we wouldn’t need so much guidance and help to do it. If it was really as easy as wanting to love we wouldn’t need God’s continual grace to help us overcome these dark beating of our hearts. There are times when we hate. Times when we fail at our goals. When we rejoice in the feelings of rage in our hearts. We nurse our injuries and grudges.
At this time consider these words. Consider the words of Jesus who said that we are his friends if we do what he commands. If we know what our master is doing and we follow it, Jesus says we will no longer be his servants. Imagine this imagery for a moment. What would it be to be Jesus’ friend?
Now imagine Jesus stretching out his hand to you, to invite you to open your heart and letting all the hate out.
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit.
Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:
I invite you to sit in silence feeling being patient for your own faults and trials.
Summarize what insights you have gained during this meditation and meditate and visualize positive change in your life:
This is a listener funded podcast at patreon.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Updates:
Final Question:
Who is someone you can do a better job of loving?
Final Thought:
As God loves you, love one another. As you go through your week and you experience resistance to love remember this message. Think of your experience with opening your heart to God during this time. As we make continual effort to reject hate from our heart and embrace God’s love we will feel our joy be full as we truly abide in his love. This is the Gospel of Jesus Christ. His love will bring the Kingdom of God to our lives. This Kingdom will go on for all time and more specifically will begin in this life to the degree we live in his love.
FIND ME ON:
Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
Voicemail - (602) 888-3795
Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com
Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast
Facebook.com/ChristianMeditationPodcast
Youtube.com/ChristianMeditaitonPodcast
Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
FIND ME ON:
Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
Voicemail - (602) 888-3795
Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com
Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast
Facebook.com/ChristianMeditationPodcast
Youtube.com/ChristianMeditaitonPodcast
Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
Bible verses for Meditation:
ESV
9 As the Father has loved me, so have I loved you. Abide in my love.
10 If you keep my commandments, you will abide in my love, just as I have kept my Father's commandments and abide in his love.
11 These things I have spoken to you, that my joy may be in you, and that your joy may be full.
122 Abide in My Love, A Guided Christian Meditation on John 15:9-11
I’m Chaplain Jared and I work as a hospice chaplain and an ICU chaplain, my purpose in making this podcast is to help you find more peace in your life and to be more open for your heart to be changed by the Spirit of God. By using centuries old form of Christian Meditation named Lectio Divina:
Outline: Relaxation, Reading, Meditation, Prayer, Contemplation and Visualization.
We have our guest back today! We have been working hard this week to make a meaningful podcast episode together so I hope you enjoy.
Get into a place where you can sit comfortably and uninterrupted for about 20 minutes.You should hopefully not be driving or anything tensing or unrelaxing. If you feel comfortable to do so, I invite you to close your eyes.
Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation:
Breathe and direct your thoughts to contacting God. Let your stomach be a balloon inflate, deflate.
Bible verses for Meditation:
ESV
9 As the Father has loved me, so have I loved you. Abide in my love.
10 If you keep my commandments, you will abide in my love, just as I have kept my Father's commandments and abide in his love.
11 These things I have spoken to you, that my joy may be in you, and that your joy may be full.
NABRE
9 As the Father loves me, so I also love you. Remain in my love.
10 If you keep my commandments, you will remain in my love, just as I have kept my Father’s commandments and remain in his love.
11 “I have told you this so that my joy may be in you and your joy may be complete.
Meditation on scripture / bible verse meditation:
What a powerful statement. As the Father loves Jesus, so He loves us. I don’t know if we can fully understand how profound that is. We struggle to grasp even the depths of human love. Can anyone truly explain or understand the love of a mother for her children? Yet how much more the Father loves the Son. And with that same intensity he loves you. Abide now in this love.
One of the things that I often counsel with people about is how to balance acceptance and determination. In other words, when something bad happens should we fight with all that we have and never stay down, or do we accept the will of God? Both choices seem like they are worthwhile at times. This scripture hints at another option. Abide in the love of God.
It seems cliche to say that love is the answer but it is. Knowing this intellectually is not enough. We need to abide in it. Keep his two greatest commandments, which are love. Then will our joy be complete. As we learn to embrace the love of God and truly let it fill our hearts we will feel this joy of God. This can displace the need to fight while also moving us forward on His path for us. We don’t need to choose a false dichotomy of faith and works. The only work is love. Every good work is love. Without love we miss the whole point.
If you feel fearful, anxious, tempted, angry. Love. Don’t lust for the love of others or the love of the world. Abide in God’s love.
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit.
Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:
I invite you to sit in silence feeling being patient for your own faults and trials.
Summarize what insights you have gained during this meditation and meditate and visualize positive change in your life:
This is a listener funded podcast at patreon.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Updates:
Final Question:
How can you more fully embrace the Love of God?
Final Thought:
With this understanding our whole lives should be tied up in inviting love into our hearts. Not as an infrequent guest but as the host of our soul. The good news is that we dont do this alone. God himself has loved us first. He loves us as he loves his only begotten Son. In a way you will never fully understand, he loves you. He loves you forward. He loves you toward improvement. Embrace this love. Find time to sit in stillness with him and just feel this love. Embrace it. Dont grasp at it with clenched fists but with an open heart letting it come and go as God sees fit. Feed love and He will come.
FIND ME ON:
Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
Voicemail - (602) 888-3795
Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com
Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast
Facebook.com/ChristianMeditationPodcast
Youtube.com/ChristianMeditaitonPodcast
Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
FIND ME ON:
Patreon.com/ChristianMeditationPodcast
Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
Voicemail - (602) 888-3795
Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com
Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast
Facebook.com/ChristianMeditationPodcast
Youtube.com/ChristianMeditaitonPodcast
Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
NIV
Matthew 28:5-7
5 The angel said to the women, “Do not be afraid, for I know that you are looking for Jesus, who was crucified.
6 He is not here; he has risen, just as he said. Come and see the place where he lay.
7 Then go quickly and tell his disciples: ‘He has risen from the dead and is going ahead of you into Galilee. There you will see him.’ Now I have told you.
FIND ME ON:
Patreon.com/ChristianMeditationPodcast
Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
Voicemail - (602) 888-3795
Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com
Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast
Facebook.com/ChristianMeditationPodcast
Youtube.com/ChristianMeditaitonPodcast
Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
Bible verses for Meditation:
NIV
Matthew 28:5-7
5 The angel said to the women, “Do not be afraid, for I know that you are looking for Jesus, who was crucified.
6 He is not here; he has risen, just as he said. Come and see the place where he lay.
7 Then go quickly and tell his disciples: ‘He has risen from the dead and is going ahead of you into Galilee. There you will see him.’ Now I have told you.
KJV
5 And the angel answered and said unto the women, Fear not ye: for I know that ye seek Jesus, which was crucified.
6 He is not here: for he is risen, as he said. Come, see the place where the Lord lay.
7 And go quickly, and tell his disciples that he is risen from the dead; and, behold, he goeth before you into Galilee; there shall ye see him: lo, I have told you.
Meditation on scripture / bible verse meditation:
This is one of the most important declaration in all of scripture. “He is not hear, for he has risen.” Of all the holidays that we celebrate, Easter is the most important. Christmas is valuable because we remember the birth of the baby Jesus, but Jesus did not save us as a baby. He grew and taught. He healed and performed miracles. Of all of these things the whole point of his ministry is to help his family return to him by overcoming sin and death. This scripture hints at the echoes caused by the deep valley separating the way God is and the way we are but also shows the first evidence of eternal victory over what assails us. Despite this God uses our human weakness and our failings to His purposes.
I find it interesting that the most important news the world had been given was to two women. Jesus could have appeared to his apostles. He could have appeared to the many other people who would later see him in his resurrected form. He chose Mary a women from whom he had cast out an evil spirit. Unfortunately in that time, women could not even testify in court. Yet God chose these women to be the first to declare the message of the resurrection. The inclusion of this story is not an accident. It was this story that kicked off the telling of the resurrection story. It is the first. This story shows something of the way in which God values each person. Just like Mary, You have a special role that only you can fulfill because God or angles decree it so.
God is aware of you. He has no favorites. Regardless of where you have been or where you are, you are redeemable. God’s power is greater than our weakness. God can and will use you for his mighty purposes. We can participate in his work on earth. If you have felt like an outsider in the church, or anywhere else. May this Easter Day be your formal invitation to join God’s team. We are part of a mighty community of people who attempt, although imperfectly, to love as He does. May God bless our efforts.
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit.
Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:
I invite you to sit in silence feeling being patient for your own faults and trials.
Summarize what insights you have gained during this meditation and meditate and visualize positive change in your life:
This is a listener funded podcast at patreon.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Updates:
Final Question:
How can you more fully join God’s team this Easter.
Final Thought:
Nothing that you are or have done make you unlovable or unuseful to God because is already planning something better for you. Make a firm and irrevocable decision that you will no longer simply hang out at the edge of God’s community but that you will dive head first and play whatever role He has in mind for you. You have the same right as any other human to receive His grace. More than metaphorically he died to give you that chance. Throw off your past hurt or hesitation and join in the fullness of fellowship of God. May this Easter provide you an opportunity to find peace, love, and joy in Christ.
Voicemail (602) 888-3795
Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com
Website: christianmeditationpodcast.com
NIV
James 4
6 But he gives us more grace. That is why Scripture says:
“God opposes the proud
but shows favor to the humble.”
7 Submit yourselves, then, to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you.
8 Come near to God and he will come near to you. Wash your hands, you sinners, and purify your hearts, you double-minded.
118 Draw Near To God and He Will Draw Near to You, A Guided Christian Meditation on James 4:6-8
I’m Chaplain Jared and I work as a hospice chaplain and an ICU chaplain, my purpose in making this podcast is to help you find more peace in your life and to be more open for your heart to be changed by the Spirit of God. By using centuries old form of Christian Meditation named Lectio Divina:
Outline: Relaxation, Reading, Meditation, Prayer, Contemplation and Visualization.
We have our guest back today! We have been working hard this week to make a meaningful podcast episode together so I hope you enjoy.
Get into a place where you can sit comfortably and uninterrupted for about 20 minutes.You should hopefully not be driving or anything tensing or unrelaxing. If you feel comfortable to do so, I invite you to close your eyes.
Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation:
Breathe and direct your thoughts to contacting God. Let your stomach be a balloon inflate, deflate.
Bible verses for Meditation:
NIV
James 4
6 But he gives us more grace. That is why Scripture says:
“God opposes the proud
but shows favor to the humble.”
7 Submit yourselves, then, to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you. 8 Come near to God and he will come near to you. Wash your hands, you sinners, and purify your hearts, you double-minded.
NABRE
James 4
6 But he bestows a greater grace; therefore, it says:
“God resists the proud,
but gives grace to the humble.”
7 So submit yourselves to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you.
8 Draw near to God, and he will draw near to you. Cleanse your hands, you sinners, and purify your hearts, you of two minds.
Meditation on scripture / bible verse meditation:
Something that I work on both professionally and personally perhaps more than any other thing is forming and improving a personal relationship with God. I talked with a woman this week who told me of her son who is always praying but never receiving an answer from God. I would never supposed to declare that all people who experience this have the same problem that causes it all, but if you find yourself in a place where you feel you don’t feel God’s presence in your life then it is natural to wonder why.
Ultimately we cannot expect God to do the magic of salvation to us passively. He does it “with” us. James knows the value of Grace. He clearly states it here. I don’t think James and Paul would disagree about grace when talking together. Perhaps in presentation but not in the concept that we are saved by God. Here James says that grace is poured out on the humble.
For a moment consider this question. What is the difference or similarities between humility and faith? The way that humility is portrayed in scripture seems to be very close to faith. We trust God. We believe what He says. We trust His desires for us more than our own will. To draw near to him we cleanse our hands. We leave behind our double mind and join with the mind of God.
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit.
Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:
I invite you to sit in silence feeling being patient for your own faults and trials.
Summarize what insights you have gained during this meditation and meditate and visualize positive change in your life:
This is a listener funded podcast at patreon.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Updates:
Final Question:
Are you truly humble before God.
Final Thought:
When we don’t get the response from God that we want our natural human response is often laced with rebellion. The more we can let that part of our nature go and truly draw near to God, the greater we will feel his presence in our life. If we want him near we need to be willing to repent of our sinful nature and humble ourselves before God. Not because He wants to make us feel inferior, but because the process of his grace is learning to trust him, to have faith in Him. We cannot separate these two things. Faith and a humble heart are the process by which we receive God’s grace. We trust to follow God and God does the amazing work in us that we cannot.
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Free Form Christian Meditation on Luke 12:1-3
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Website christianmeditationpodcast.com
NABRE
Genesis 1
26 Then God said: Let us make human beings in our image, after our likeness. Let them have dominion over the fish of the sea, the birds of the air, the tame animals, all the wild animals, and all the creatures that crawl on the earth.
27 God created mankind in his image;
in the image of God he created them;
male and female he created them.
116 We Are Created In The Image of God, A Guided Christian Meditation on Genesis 1:26-27
I’m Chaplain Jared and I work as a hospice chaplain and an ICU chaplain, my purpose in making this podcast is to help you find more peace in your life and to be more open for your heart to be changed by the Spirit of God. By using centuries old form of Christian Meditation named Lectio Divina:
Outline: Relaxation, Reading, Meditation, Prayer, Contemplation and Visualization.
We have our guest back today! We have been working hard this week to make a meaningful podcast episode together so I hope you enjoy.
Get into a place where you can sit comfortably and uninterrupted for about 20 minutes.You should hopefully not be driving or anything tensing or unrelaxing. If you feel comfortable to do so, I invite you to close your eyes.
Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation:
Breathe and direct your thoughts to contacting God. Let your stomach be a balloon inflate, deflate.
Bible verses for Meditation:
NABRE
Genesis 1
26 Then God said: Let us make human beings in our image, after our likeness. Let them have dominion over the fish of the sea, the birds of the air, the tame animals, all the wild animals, and all the creatures that crawl on the earth.
27 God created mankind in his image;
in the image of God he created them;
male and female he created them.
KJV
Genesis 1
26 And God said, Let us make man in our image, after our likeness: and let them have dominion over the fish of the sea, and over the fowl of the air, and over the cattle, and over all the earth, and over every creeping thing that creepeth upon the earth.
27 So God created man in his own image, in the image of God created he him; male and female created he them.
Meditation on scripture / bible verse meditation:
Our guest chose this scripture and is going to tell us why.
I chose this scripture because, I felt Some people might have needed the feel of being made like our Heavenly Father. We are all made of God.
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit.
Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:
I invite you to sit in silence feeling being patient for your own faults and trials.
Summarize what insights you have gained during this meditation and meditate and visualize positive change in your life:
This is a listener funded podcast at patreon.com/christianmeditationpodcast
Updates:
Final Question: What does it mean to be created in the image of God?
Final Thought: We are all made of God. We are all God's creations.
FIND ME ON:
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Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com
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Twitter - @ChristianMedPod
Free Form Christian Meditation on Luke 12:1-3
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Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com
Website christianmeditationpodcast.com
Luke 12:1-3 NIV
1 Meanwhile, when a crowd of many thousands had gathered, so that they were trampling on one another, Jesus began to speak first to his disciples, saying: “Be on your guard against the yeast of the Pharisees, which is hypocrisy.
2 There is nothing concealed that will not be disclosed, or hidden that will not be made known.
3 What you have said in the dark will be heard in the daylight, and what you have whispered in the ear in the inner rooms will be proclaimed from the roofs.
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Meditation on scripture / bible verse meditation:
Leaven is yeast. Various places in the scriptures Jesus uses this analogy. Here he tells us to beware of the hypocrisy of others. Despite the fact that this is phrased as a caution against the actions of others it also speaks directly to each listener. Yeast was preserved and passed around so that it would spread through a community. Similarly can bad behaviors. This scripture is just as much of a caution to those who believe.
There is a common struggle in the church called imposter syndrome. Many people worry that if they took of their perfect Christian mask, that who they are underneath would be abhorrent and unlovable. This is a pure deception, and accompanies a life lived in shame. God wants your heart. He doesn't want your shame. In fact as we are honest with Him the role guilt has in our heart significantly decreases. The truth is that each of us have things we have done that we are embarrassed of. If you don’t feel that at least occasionally perhaps you need to think about it a little harder. Take off your mask before God and bear your heart to Him.
I am not sure how things work in God’s presence but based on scriptures like this, I suspect that our regular notions of full privacy of thought will not remain. As we think of the nasty things we may have written on social media, or the times when we lose our temper, or struggle with virtuous thoughts we can realize that the veil of secrecy is running out the closer we get to the end. There is no benefit to hiding ourselves from God. The beauty of God’s plans is that he forgives us of our wrongs. He asks us to be honest with him and bear or whole hearts to him and He will forgive us and just as important, His grace will change us.
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit.
Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:
I invite you to sit in silence feeling being patient for your own faults and trials.
Summarize what insights you have gained during this meditation and meditate and visualize positive change in your life:
Details:
Final Question: What do you most fear others learning about you?
Final Thought:
As I reflect on how I share this message. I have been thinking about how I share who I am with the internet. This brings me some anxiety but I have been thinking recently that I can’t let this slow the message I am putting out. My fear of being known will not stop me from doing what I need to do. I am fully committed to living what God has in mind for me. Each of us can reevaluate our lives to see if we are living according to our God-given conscience.
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1 Corinthians 3:10-13
NABRE
10 According to the grace of God given to me, like a wise master builder I laid a foundation, and another is building upon it. But each one must be careful how he builds upon it,
11 for no one can lay a foundation other than the one that is there, namely, Jesus Christ.
12 If anyone builds on this foundation with gold, silver, precious stones, wood, hay, or straw,
13 the work of each will come to light, for the Day will disclose it. It will be revealed with fire, and the fire [itself] will test the quality of each one’s work
Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation:
Breathe and direct your thoughts to contacting God.
NIV
10 By the grace God has given me, I laid a foundation as a wise builder, and someone else is building on it. But each one should build with care.
11 For no one can lay any foundation other than the one already laid, which is Jesus Christ.
12 If anyone builds on this foundation using gold, silver, costly stones, wood, hay or straw,
13 their work will be shown for what it is, because the Day will bring it to light. It will be revealed with fire, and the fire will test the quality of each person’s work.
NABRE
10 According to the grace of God given to me, like a wise master builder I laid a foundation, and another is building upon it. But each one must be careful how he builds upon it,
11 for no one can lay a foundation other than the one that is there, namely, Jesus Christ.
12 If anyone builds on this foundation with gold, silver, precious stones, wood, hay, or straw,
13 the work of each will come to light, for the Day will disclose it. It will be revealed with fire, and the fire [itself] will test the quality of each one’s work
What does this scripture mean to you?
Has it had a different effect this reading as compared to times past?
How does this scripture make you feel?
Continue breathing deeply as you ponder this meaning.
Meditation on scripture / bible verse meditation:
As I have been listening to other traditional sources of Christian Meditation I have been realizing that there is a huge value in learning to let go of controlling thoughts. This is not in a effort to dilute moral principles. This is not meant to explain that that all thoughts have equal merit and value. It is a greater teaching that we can learn to let the constant chatter of our mind be viewed as something other that who we truly are.
Each one of us is a spiritual creation of God. As such we have an inestimable worth. We are lovable by the greatest being in the universe. A being we cannot comprehend in this life. When we sit in quiet contemplation it is to train us to realize that the chatter of our minds is something that is happening inside of us. We have an ability in all moments to trust God. His grace blesses us with spiritual gifts. Peace during meditative time can be one of those gifts.
Our efforts to control our internal chatter will be put to the test of the fire of our experience. The contemplative silence will reveal the uselessness of this effort. If we could just stop our thoughts we would be far less troubled. It is by the fire of our daily practice that we realize that we are something much deeper than our continual inner chatter.
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit.
Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:
I invite you to sit in silence feeling being patient for your own faults and trials.
Summarize what insights you have gained during this meditation and meditate and visualize positive change in your life:
Details:
Final Question: What on your life would be destroyed by fire? Re Zaza
Final Thought:
In a moment of personal reflection I have realized that God has used my spiritual gifts to bless people. It is a humbling feeling and strange in a way. Our gifts are given by his grace. As we enhance them through concerted effort, strengthened by the spirit and grace of God, we improve. Similarly as we learn to sit in silence separate from our internal chatter we learn a little more about the mystery and miracle that God is working in us.
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Breathe and direct your thoughts to contacting God.
NRSV
21 When my soul was embittered,
when I was pricked in heart,
22 I was stupid and ignorant;
I was like a brute beast toward you.
23 Nevertheless I am continually with you;
you hold my right hand.
24 You guide me with your counsel,
and afterward you will receive me with honor.[e]
25 Whom have I in heaven but you?
And there is nothing on earth that I desire other than you.
26 My flesh and my heart may fail,
but God is the strength[f] of my heart and my portion forever.
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I now have an email newsletter you can join by clicking here.
Donate at Patreon by clicking here.
My podcast page has been revamped
christianmeditationpodcast.com
christianmeditationpodcast.com/about
christianmeditationpodcast.com/contact
Facebook.com/ChristianMeditationPodcast
jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com
(602) 888-3795
5235 E. Southern Ave. Ste D106-125
Mesa, AZ 85206
ChristianMeditationPodcast.com/contact
Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation:
Breathe and direct your thoughts to contacting God.
NRSV
21 When my soul was embittered,
when I was pricked in heart,
22 I was stupid and ignorant;
I was like a brute beast toward you.
23 Nevertheless I am continually with you;
you hold my right hand.
24 You guide me with your counsel,
and afterward you will receive me with honor.[e]
25 Whom have I in heaven but you?
And there is nothing on earth that I desire other than you.
26 My flesh and my heart may fail,
but God is the strength[f] of my heart and my portion forever.
NIV
21 When my heart was grieved
and my spirit embittered,
22 I was senseless and ignorant;
I was a brute beast before you.
23 Yet I am always with you;
you hold me by my right hand.
24 You guide me with your counsel,
and afterward you will take me into glory.
25 Whom have I in heaven but you?
And earth has nothing I desire besides you.
26 My flesh and my heart may fail,
but God is the strength of my heart
and my portion forever.
What does this scripture mean to you?
Has it had a different effect this reading as compared to times past?
How does this scripture make you feel?
Continue breathing deeply as you ponder this meaning.
Meditation on scripture / bible verse meditation:
Like many of you I have been struggling recently. I have been working toward specific goals. Health outcomes that I want. I have felt guided to a specific course of action. I have prayed and have felt God guiding me toward something that I feel inspired to do. The problem is that I don’t see any real way for this thing to change. I feel in some ways that I dont know any way forward to do the thing God has directed me to do. I find myself asking if my faith is enough or if it just God’s will that I struggle.
Many times we alternate between illusions of grandeur and feelings of low worth. Either we imagine the God of heaven loving us so deeply or we think that we are unlovable and irrevocably flawed. I am trying to find the middle way. I am trying to hold my flaws and failings while still embracing the radical love that God has for me, a sinner.
This is not a veiled attempt to confess any particular sin, just a reference to a struggle that I am having. We all have them. The important thing isnt to avoid being honest with this fact or to minimize them when it does happen. THe important thing is that we learn to humble ourselves before the Lord. Who is there in Heaven but him or without him?
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit.
Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:
I invite you to sit in silence feeling being patient for your own faults and trials.
Summarize what insights you have gained during this meditation and meditate and visualize positive change in your life:
Details:
Final Question: What is a time that you have felt down? How did you reconcile that?
Final Thought:
Nobody is invincible to feeling down. Jesus himself feared the task before him. He wanted spiritual support from his Apostles outside the garden as he prayed. He cared and cried for Lazarus. He desired to be accepted and loved like us all. Even he experienced absolute rejection and isolation. As we overcome the things we stumble on in our life, we can be stronger and more spiritually mature.
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Bible Verse For Meditation
NASB
43 “You have heard that it was said, ‘You shall love your neighbor and hate your enemy.’
44 But I say to you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you,
45 so that you may be sons of your Father who is in heaven; for He causes His sun to rise on the evil and the good, and sends rain on the righteous and the unrighteous.
46 For if you love those who love you, what reward do you have? Do not even the tax collectors do the same?
47 If you greet only your brothers, what more are you doing than others? Do not even the Gentiles do the same?
48 Therefore you are to be perfect, as your heavenly Father is perfect.
Breathe and direct your thoughts to contacting God.
KJV
44 But I say unto you, Love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate you, and pray for them which despitefully use you, and persecute you;
45 That ye may be the children of your Father which is in heaven: for he maketh his sun to rise on the evil and on the good, and sendeth rain on the just and on the unjust.
46 For if ye love them which love you, what reward have ye? do not even the publicans the same?
47 And if ye salute your brethren only, what do ye more than others? do not even the publicans so?
48 Be ye therefore perfect, even as your Father which is in heaven is perfect.
NASB
43 “You have heard that it was said, ‘You shall love your neighbor and hate your enemy.’
44 But I say to you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you,
45 so that you may be sons of your Father who is in heaven; for He causes His sun to rise on the evil and the good, and sends rain on the righteous and the unrighteous.
46 For if you love those who love you, what reward do you have? Do not even the tax collectors do the same?
47 If you greet only your brothers, what more are you doing than others? Do not even the Gentiles do the same?
48 Therefore you are to be perfect, as your heavenly Father is perfect.
What does this scripture mean to you?
Has it had a different effect this reading as compared to times past?
How does this scripture make you feel?
Continue breathing deeply as you ponder this meaning.
Meditation on scripture / bible verse meditation:
This scripture was recommended by my wife. It also lined up with a conversation I had with a friend. She told me of a story where her brother didn’t speak to her anymore because she didn’t hold the same denominational beliefs. She expressed her sadness that someone who professed Christian faith could hold such harmful views about her and her eternal prospects.
Unfortunately as humans we have a long successful history of excluding others. People selectively separate themselves into tribes, groups, nations, or ideologies. People make arguments that religion has caused so much conflict such as religious extremism, I disagree profoundly. I think human power struggles and conflict are at the root of all of these conflicts and they are inherent in the way we, as fallen humans, deal with each other. This is evident in current political discourse. There is nothing inherently wrong with humans wanting to come together to set policy but it is at the root of human control and power and therefore causes deep dischord.
I went to hear an orthodox priest from Jordan speak. He said something about extremism that has stuck with me. The extremism you have the most control over is your own. You have the freedom even right now, to jettison hate from your heart right now. You have the ability to become radically loving.
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit.
Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:
I invite you to sit in silence feeling being patient for your own faults and trials.
Summarize what insights you have gained during this meditation and meditate and visualize positive change in your life:
Details:
Final Question: How can being honest with God about your failings help.?
Final Thought:
Despite all the conflict that we perceive, you can choose to love. You can choose to let go of human differences and power struggles at allow God to be the judge for others. Our goal as Christians should be to follow the greatest two commandments, Love God and Love each other. May we embrace this mindset and allow others to be different from us. We can become more self aware of how we view people who hold different beliefs. If the situation requires it, we can correct each other with love. Christ’s greatest legacy is love. May we follow this example and place our fellow neighbors.
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ESV
35 While he was still speaking, there came from the ruler's house some who said, “Your daughter is dead. Why trouble the Teacher any further?”
36 But overhearing what they said, Jesus said to the ruler of the synagogue, “Do not fear, only believe.”
37 And he allowed no one to follow him except Peter and James and John the brother of James.
ESV
35 While he was still speaking, there came from the ruler's house some who said, “Your daughter is dead. Why trouble the Teacher any further?”
36 But overhearing what they said, Jesus said to the ruler of the synagogue, “Do not fear, only believe.”
37 And he allowed no one to follow him except Peter and James and John the brother of James.
NABRE
35 While he was still speaking, people from the synagogue official’s house arrived and said, “Your daughter has died; why trouble the teacher any longer?”
36 Disregarding the message that was reported, Jesus said to the synagogue official, “Do not be afraid; just have faith.”
37 He did not allow anyone to accompany him inside except Peter, James, and John, the brother of James.
What does this scripture mean to you?
Has it had a different effect this reading as compared to times past?
How does this scripture make you feel?
Continue breathing deeply as you ponder this meaning.
Meditation on scripture / bible verse meditation:
Here a Jewish leader named Jairus had requested Jesus heal his daughter. In this scripture the man is asked to overcome the bad news of hearing of his daughters death. Jesus ignored this news and talked directly to Jairus. Jesus knew he felt fear and doubt, not knowing what would happen now. Jesus proclaims something that is so applicable to each one of us. “Do not fear, Just Believe.” This can be a powerful message for each of us.
This week I was talking to 2 different people who were struggling with what they see as unanswered prayers. They wanted to be able to walk and were very unsettled that God had not answered their prayers to do this. It presents a difficult question. How can we keep faith, knowing that God can answer questions in whatever way he chooses? Ultimately His will is done. If we ask things of God that are not in accord with His will, we may feel disappointed.
A powerful purpose we can seek then is to find a way to reconcile our normal human feelings with what actually happens. Regardless of any other response we can see that fear is not a helpful feeling. Many people died when Jesus was alive who did not get healed. God’s plan for you may lead you to places you never thought you would be and you never thought you would get out of but in any case we need not fear.
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit.
Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:
I invite you to sit in silence feeling being patient for your own faults and trials.
Summarize what insights you have gained during this meditation and meditate and visualize positive change in your life:
Details:
Final Question: How can being honest with God about your failings help.?
Final Thought:
Despite whatever our expectations are or what our desires are we can embrace this message. We need not fear. We can let go of our fear and have faith that God’s will for us will provide the best option for our eternal benefit. We can trust our loving God to do what we most need. This may be exactly what we ask for or it may present new challenges. If we respond correctly, it will cause us to draw closer to God in the long run. Our goal then should be to align our will with God’s and then accept what his plan is for us.
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This is a free form Meditation on Mark 9:26-27
NRSV
26 Shouting and throwing the boy into convulsions, it came out. He became like a corpse, which caused many to say, “He is dead!”
27 But Jesus took him by the hand, raised him, and he stood up.
28 When he entered the house, his disciples asked him in private, “Why could we not drive it out?”
29 He said to them, “This kind can only come out through prayer.”
Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation:
Breathe and direct your thoughts to contacting God.
NRSV
26 Shouting and throwing the boy into convulsions, it came out. He became like a corpse, which caused many to say, “He is dead!”
27 But Jesus took him by the hand, raised him, and he stood up.
28 When he entered the house, his disciples asked him in private, “Why could we not drive it out?”
29 He said to them, “This kind can only come out through prayer.”
KJV
26 And the spirit cried, and rent him sore, and came out of him: and he was as one dead; insomuch that many said, He is dead.
27 But Jesus took him by the hand, and lifted him up; and he arose.
28 And when he was come into the house, his disciples asked him privately, Why could not we cast him out?
29 And he said unto them, This kind can come forth by nothing, but by prayer and fasting.
What does this scripture mean to you?
Has it had a different effect this reading as compared to times past?
How does this scripture make you feel?
Continue breathing deeply as you ponder this meaning.
Meditation on scripture / bible verse meditation:
Continuing immediately from our massage last week. We can reach out to God in our moments of weakness and doubt. That message is continued in these following verses. Here Jesus performs this miracle in the face of bare honesty about the man’s reliance on God. Jesus had the ability to purify what is inside this young man. He has similar power to purify you and I. This power is squarely in the hands of Jesus.
What’s more, this scripture also demonstrates that we do not form a passive role in this process. Jesus was asking more of the disciples than just to wait for him to solve otheir problems. On the flip side, he did not expect them to do it on their own. He wants to establish a relationships. He wants to establish trust. He wants to teach us how to fully know God and have unending faith in our all powerful creator.
This kind comes not out but by prayer. The solution was further reliance on God, not on what power or importance they thought they had. Not in passively waiting for God to do his will. How does this message relate to you?
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit.
Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:
I invite you to sit in silence feeling being patient for your own faults and trials.
Summarize what insights you have gained during this meditation and meditate and visualize positive change in your life:
Details:
Final Question: How can being honest with God about your failings help.?
Final Thought:
Applying this message in our life. There are problems that we can solve only by reliance on God. God can show us how to overcome. We can overcome any obstacle that is part of God’s plan as we learn to trust. It may not be in the way we want. It may not be what we expect. It may take time for us to fully understand God’s purposes, but the important part is that regardless of what we think God should do, that we trust that things will get better. John Lennon said wise words when he said: It will all be OK in the end, and if its not OK, then its not the end.
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NRSV
22 It has often cast him into the fire and into the water, to destroy him; but if you are able to do anything, have pity on us and help us.”
23 Jesus said to him, “If you are able!—All things can be done for the one who believes.”
24 Immediately the father of the child cried out, “I believe; help my unbelief!”
Mark 9:22-24
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NRSV
22 It has often cast him into the fire and into the water, to destroy him; but if you are able to do anything, have pity on us and help us.”
23 Jesus said to him, “If you are able!—All things can be done for the one who believes.”
24 Immediately the father of the child cried out, “I believe; help my unbelief!”
KJV
22 And ofttimes it hath cast him into the fire, and into the waters, to destroy him: but if thou canst do any thing, have compassion on us, and help us.
23 Jesus said unto him, If thou canst believe, all things are possible to him that believeth.
24 And straightway the father of the child cried out, and said with tears, Lord, I believe; help thou mine unbelief.
What does this scripture mean to you?
Has it had a different effect this reading as compared to times past?
How does this scripture make you feel?
Continue breathing deeply as you ponder this meaning.
Meditation on scripture / bible verse meditation:
Each and every person must face doubt in their life. This can take many forms or occur at distinct times in our lives but none of us escape it. The question is how we should respond. This is made easier when we realize that each and every thought that we have is by its very nature transitory. We are not thoughts. We are therefore not what we think about ourselves.
Nevertheless there is a deeper message here. Jesus is teaching us that perfect faith is not a prerequisite to receive his blessings. He does not expect that our minds will forever remain free of doubt, rather that we are willing to work it out and approach him with those doubts.
Jesus tells the father of this boy possessed of a devil that God can do all thing for those that have faith. The man’s response is that his faith is true but not perfect. Jesus performs the miracle. As we continue to request blessings from God in each prayer may we have the same qualifier in our hearts regarding the response. Lord I believe, bless my unbelief.
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit.
Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:
I invite you to sit in silence feeling being patient for your own faults and trials.
Summarize what insights you have gained during this meditation and meditate and visualize positive change in your life:
Details:
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Final Question: How can being honest with God about your failings help.?
Final Thought:
We are not limited by temporary thoughts. When those thoughts become recurrent and frequent visitors they become more likely to affect our actions. With God’s help we can overcome even troubling thoughts. We do not need to feel like we have secrets from God. When he asks for faith we don’t have to pretend that we have more than we actually do. He knows anyway. I think he is please when we approach him in honest humility and ask for his help. Our efforts alone will yield failure compared to the potential available to all those who are strengthened from asking for what we truly need from God. This honestly is the core of repentance which we need in our lives.
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My wife and I have an unscripted conversation about prayer followed by a short meditation on prayer.
Bible verse for meditation:1 Corinthians 13:4-7
NIV
4 Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud.
5 It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs.
6 Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth.
7 It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres.
KJV
4 Charity suffereth long, and is kind; charity envieth not; charity vaunteth not itself, is not puffed up,
5 Doth not behave itself unseemly, seeketh not her own, is not easily provoked, thinketh no evil;
6 Rejoiceth not in iniquity, but rejoiceth in the truth;
7 Beareth all things, believeth all things, hopeth all things, endureth all things.
What does this scripture mean to you?
Has it had a different effect this reading as compared to times past?
How does this scripture make you feel?
Continue breathing deeply as you ponder this meaning.
Meditation on scripture / bible verse meditation:
Love is so much more than the single dimensional portrait we get around Valentine’s Day. The greatest love of all is the Love of God, also called Charity. The New Testament was written in Greek. For those familiar with the original texts there are 4 different words which translate into the English word Love. Philos - The love shared by brothers and sisters and the basis for the city of Philadelphia. Eros - Love between intimate romantic partners. Which is the basis for the word Erotic. Storge - the love of adults for their children. Agape - which is The greatest love is the Love of God. It is interesting that each of us experience such a wide range of love throughout our lives.
As we celebrate love we can remain dedicated to living up to the model shown by Paul here in this scripture. As we work to improve in all the areas he has outlined such as patience, kindness and in overcoming anger. We can work to become more forgiving to free our hearts and open us to love in the future. We can work on improving the quality of every form of love that we feel. As we work to improve our experience with love, we will be more able to receive the Love of God.
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit.
Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:
I invite you to sit in silence feeling being patient for your own faults and trials.
Summarize what insights you have gained during this meditation and meditate and visualize positive change in your life:
Details:
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Final Question: What type of Love can you work to improve?
Final Thought:
During this week consider all the forms of Love that are active in your life. Consider how you can improve these relationships and apply God’s wisdom in every relationships that you have. Something I admire about my wife is that she involves non-romantic loving relationships in her celebration of Valentine’s day. We should not allow romantic love to override other equally important aspects of love. Many times we can have one relationships fill many roles of love. For example my wife and I share friendship and romance. My hope is that for each one of us we can continually work with God to bring more love into our lives. May we remember the greatest expression of Love imaginable: Greater love hath no man than this, than Jesus who laid down his life for us, his friends. May we ever feel greater gratitude for this pure example of love, and may that inspire us to live a life more full of Love.
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The Glory of God is Evident Through All Creation.
Psalms 19:1-6
ESV
1 The heavens declare the glory of God,
and the sky above proclaims his handiwork.
2 Day to day pours out speech,
and night to night reveals knowledge.
3 There is no speech, nor are there words,
whose voice is not heard.
4 Their voice goes out through all the earth,
and their words to the end of the world.
In them he has set a tent for the sun,
5 which comes out like a bridegroom leaving his chamber,
and, like a strong man, runs its course with joy.
6 Its rising is from the end of the heavens,
and its circuit to the end of them,
and there is nothing hidden from its heat.
Have a blessed day.
097 The Heavens Declare the Glory of God - A Christian Meditation on Psalms 19:1-6
I work as a hospice chaplain and an ICU chaplain, my purpose in making this podcast is to help you find more peace in your life and to be more open to be changed by the Spirit of God. by using a centuries old form of Christian Meditation called Lectio Divina. It consists of:
Outline: Relaxation, Reading, Meditation, Prayer, Contemplation, Visualization
Get into a place where you can sit comfortably and uninterrupted for about 20 minutes.You should not be driving or anything tensing or unrelaxing. If you feel comfortable to do so, I invite you to close your eyes.
Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation:
Breathe and direct your thoughts to contacting God.
Bible verse for meditation:
1 John 3:1-3
NABRE
2 The heavens declare the glory of God;
the firmament proclaims the works of his hands.
3 Day unto day pours forth speech;
night unto night whispers knowledge.
4 [b]There is no speech, no words;
their voice is not heard;
5 A report goes forth through all the earth,
their messages, to the ends of the world.
He has pitched in them a tent for the sun;[c]
6 it comes forth like a bridegroom from his canopy,
and like a hero joyfully runs its course.
7 From one end of the heavens it comes forth;
its course runs through to the other;
nothing escapes its heat.
ESV
1 The heavens declare the glory of God,
and the sky above[a] proclaims his handiwork.
2 Day to day pours out speech,
and night to night reveals knowledge.
3 There is no speech, nor are there words,
whose voice is not heard.
4 Their voice[b] goes out through all the earth,
and their words to the end of the world.
In them he has set a tent for the sun,
5 which comes out like a bridegroom leaving his chamber,
and, like a strong man, runs its course with joy.
6 Its rising is from the end of the heavens,
and its circuit to the end of them,
and there is nothing hidden from its heat.
What does this scripture mean to you?
Has it had a different effect this reading as compared to times past?
How does this scripture make you feel?
Continue breathing deeply as you ponder this meaning.
Meditation on scripture / bible verse meditation:
I have spent many hours looking through telescopes with my brothers. Winter is an amazing time for me. The constellation Orion is out all night and I have memories of my father showing me Orion. I have never lost a sense of wonder about the stars. The closer I look, the more amazed I am with them. There is an amazing Nebula on Orion’s sword. It amazes me that light has traveled over a thousand light years from that nebula to be focused by some glass to be pointed into my eye. For example I have seen M31, the Andromeda galaxy, through a telescope.
It amazes me to think that Andromeda is estimated to have over a trillion stars. It is 110,000 light years across. It is over a million light years away. Meaning the photons of light that have hit my eye left Andromeda over a million years ago. Yet God could scoop those trillions stars up in one swoop if he wanted. He could also wisk the earth off and plop it down in the middle of Andromeda if he chose to. Yet he lets the laws he has created into the universe declare the might of creation. We are not sitting on some crusty rock next to nothingness. We are surrounded as far as light can travel by creation.
If our ears are open to hear the wisdom of God in all creation it can fill us with wonder and amazement at the glory of God. I trust that God’s hand has crafted our universe. As believers in the God of the Bible we can solidly reject the idea that change and creation occurs by randomness. The entirety of space is full of the witness of God.
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit.
Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:
I invite you to sit in silence feeling being patient for your own faults and trials.
Summarize what insights you have gained during this meditation and meditate and visualize positive change in your life:
Details:
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Final Question: What in creation and nature fills you will awe?
Final Thought:
Try looking at the night sky intently. Be careful my friends in Canada and the Northern States. If you can do it safely see if you can find a pair of binoculars and look at the constellation of Orion. From the northern hemisphere it is visible to the south. If you find the three stars of his belt then you are halfway there. Look down from his belt and you will see a small line of stars forming his sword. The bottom one of these is surrounded by a cloudy haze. That is a Nebula. Even at very low power it whispers the wisdom of God. Enjoy creation around you and God’s handiwork. If we learn to relish these moments of sublime wonder they will grow in our heart and we will feel an increase of gratitude for God.
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1 See what great love the Father has lavished on us, that we should be called children of God! And that is what we are! The reason the world does not know us is that it did not know him.
2 Dear friends, now we are children of God, and what we will be has not yet been made known. But we know that when Christ appears, we shall be like him, for we shall see him as he is.
3 All who have this hope in him purify themselves, just as he is pure
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Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation:
Breathe and direct your thoughts to contacting God.
Bible verse for meditation:
1 John 3:1-3
NIV
1 See what great love the Father has lavished on us, that we should be called children of God! And that is what we are! The reason the world does not know us is that it did not know him.
2 Dear friends, now we are children of God, and what we will be has not yet been made known. But we know that when Christ appears,[a] we shall be like him, for we shall see him as he is.
3 All who have this hope in him purify themselves, just as he is pure.
KJV
1 Behold, what manner of love the Father hath bestowed upon us, that we should be called the sons of God: therefore the world knoweth us not, because it knew him not.
2 Beloved, now are we the sons of God, and it doth not yet appear what we shall be: but we know that, when he shall appear, we shall be like him; for we shall see him as he is.
3 And every man that hath this hope in him purifieth himself, even as he is pure.
What does this scripture mean to you?
Has it had a different effect this reading as compared to times past?
How does this scripture make you feel?
Continue breathing deeply as you ponder this meaning.
Meditation on scripture / bible verse meditation:
Who are you?
What title or description would you give yourself?
How many other titles can you think of for yourself?
This scripture points out an important identity of who we are. We are children of God. This is perhaps the most profound paradigm with which we can view ourselves but even this falls short to help us fully understand. Even with the knowledge that we are joint heirs with Christ and we were created in the image of God is limited by our ability to understand intellectually and experientially what this means. I am not certain that we as mortals can fully appreciate and understand what this means.
Ask yourself the question again. Who are you? The longer we ponder this question we realize that a human brain is doing the pondering and will not be able to fully know the will of God in our fallen state. There is some deeper aspect of who you are that you can’t fully observe. It is the thing that made the God of the universe willing to come and die for you on a cross. This mysterious inner ellusive part of ourselves is always inside us and this is the perspective from which we listen to what our mind tells us. Let us be mindful when we listen to our mind and not believe the first thing that it tells us about our limited value to God.
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit.
Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:
I invite you to sit in silence feeling being patient for your own faults and trials.
Summarize what insights you have gained during this meditation and meditate and visualize positive change in your life:
Details:
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Final Question: Who are you?
Final Thought:
Perhaps the most complete answer that we can understand with our limited human understanding is that as Children of God we are the being that can ponder this question. You are the being that can hear these words and think these thoughts. God can guide our hearts to have a deeper sense of who we truly are and what value we have. Our mind may try and trick us that we are not fully loved by God. When he appears we will be like him. He roots out what is wrong inside of use all the while loving us completely and wholly.
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Bible verse for meditation:
NABRE
12 “I have much more to tell you, but you cannot bear it now.
13 But when he comes, the Spirit of truth, he will guide you to all truth. He will not speak on his own, but he will speak what he hears, and will declare to you the things that are coming.
14 He will glorify me, because he will take from what is mine and declare it to you.
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Bible verse for meditation:
John 16:12-14
NABRE
12 “I have much more to tell you, but you cannot bear it now.
13 But when he comes, the Spirit of truth, he will guide you to all truth. He will not speak on his own, but he will speak what he hears, and will declare to you the things that are coming.
14 He will glorify me, because he will take from what is mine and declare it to you.
ESV
12 “I still have many things to say to you, but you cannot bear them now.
13 When the Spirit of truth comes, he will guide you into all the truth, for he will not speak on his own authority, but whatever he hears he will speak, and he will declare to you the things that are to come.
14 He will glorify me, for he will take what is mine and declare it to you.
What does this scripture mean to you?
Has it had a different effect this reading as compared to times past?
How does this scripture make you feel?
Continue breathing deeply as you ponder this meaning.
Meditation on scripture / bible verse meditation:
Many times we realize how limited is our understanding of eternal things. We sense the great gulf between what we understand and what we wish we could. Sometimes we assume that the role of the spirit is to teach us all of those things. Their are times when we are short of understanding and we reach out to God and he resolves it for us. There are also times when we think what we need is more facts and that is not what we need at all. I want to share an example
Last week my daughter was experiencing fear right before going to bed. She was crying. She was worrying about the future and bad things happening to her and people she cared about. My son came to tell me this. When I came to her room, I didnt say a word. I just gave her a hug and held her for a few minutes. She stopped crying really quickly and the assurance of my hug calmed her heart. She stopped worrying about the future. After she felt better we started talking. She thought she needed more facts, but in reality she most needed a peaceful feeling.
So it is with God and us. We may think that we need to understand his mysteries. These questions can really get us thinking. Perhaps we wonder about some detail in scripture that is not fully explained or we wonder about what eternity will be like. We think that knowing these things will fill us with peace. But the inverse is actually true. We are more able to deal with incomplete human understanding when we are filled with God’s peace.
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit.
Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:
I invite you to sit in silence feeling being patient for your own faults and trials.
Summarize what insights you have gained during this meditation:
Meditate and Visualize Positive Change in Your Life:
Details:
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Final Question: How can God Spirit speak peace to out hearts?
Final Thought:
I have spent a lot of time thinking about what happens in a black hole. I have also thought about what makes mass have gravity. These fundamental things are actually fairly easy in comparison to deeper questions like infinite and universal love or what is the purpose of life. All of these are God’s truths. The Holy Spirit can teach us of them and more importantly be guided to live in the Truth of God. This is the thing that speaks peace to our hearts when we feel inexplicable beauty in the word of God. I pray that God’s spirit can abide with us.
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Meditate with me on the lyrics of the Song "Be Still My Soul" which forms the backing track to my podcast each week.
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Bible verse for meditation:
KJV
1 The preparations of the heart in man, and the answer of the tongue, is from the Lord.
2 All the ways of a man are clean in his own eyes; but the Lord weigheth the spirits.
3 Commit thy works unto the Lord, and thy thoughts shall be established.
NIV
1 To humans belong the plans of the heart,
but from the Lord comes the proper answer of the tongue.
2 All a person’s ways seem pure to them,
but motives are weighed by the Lord.
3 Commit to the Lord whatever you do,
and he will establish your plans.
What does this scripture mean to you?
Has it had a different effect this reading as compared to times past?
How does this scripture make you feel?
Continue breathing deeply as you ponder this meaning.
Meditation on scripture / bible verse meditation:
I was listening to a podcast today and I heard something summarized that I have heard today but he said it so clearly. Goals can come and go but establishing consistent habits is what leads to lasting change. For those who follow the way of Jesus, we are on a path of improvement with peaks and valleys. As we feel inspired to follow him, at times we get discouraged, we get distracted, we lose focus. The good news is that regardless of where our hearts wander, our faith shows us we are still on the path. We can continue to trust that he will not only save us from the worst version of ourselves but that he will transform us over the course of our lives.
There is a tricky balance between perfectionism and complacence. When we fail to live up to what God expects us we can take an honest look at ourselves and feel the gentle twinge to allow us to take accountability while at the same time accepting God’s grace. He weighs the motives of our hearts. He will establish our plans as we trust in him and fully commit. This commitment need not be full of fear and anxiety but a calm assurance that as we remain committed to improvement that we will improve and some day, perhaps in a few million years, we will reach some of the goals he has for us. Drop the fear and continue to commit to him with faith in His power and mercy.
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit.
Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:
I invite you to sit in silence feeling being patient for your own faults and trials.
Summarize what insights you have gained during this meditation:
Meditate and Visualize Positive Change in Your Life:
Details:
Greatest number of downloads.
Final Question: How can you recommit to God?
Final Thought:
The statistical chance that you have messed up on some of the righteous desires you have for yourself is extremely high. I know I have already. The Good News of Jesus is that we are transformed through our faith in Him. The work he does through us can be mighty. Although you and I both have a long way to go we can rejoice in the goodness of our God. Our mighty God has the power to cast galaxies into supermassive black holes. He has the power to transform ashe into life. He is not limited even by time or our concepts of weakness and strength. This same being is the one who has declared to us that He loves us enough to show us the way and that he is patient with us as we make our best efforts to follow. Keep committed to the Lord and improving in him.
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Edit: This scripture is in John chapter 15. It was originally listed as the wrong chapter.
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Bible verse for meditation:
NIV
4 Remain in me, as I also remain in you. No branch can bear fruit by itself; it must remain in the vine. Neither can you bear fruit unless you remain in me.
5 “I am the vine; you are the branches. If you remain in me and I in you, you will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing.
6 If you do not remain in me, you are like a branch that is thrown away and withers; such branches are picked up, thrown into the fire and burned.
7 If you remain in me and my words remain in you, ask whatever you wish, and it will be done for you.
8 This is to my Father’s glory, that you bear much fruit, showing yourselves to be my disciples.
ESV
4 Abide in me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit by itself, unless it abides in the vine, neither can you, unless you abide in me.
5 I am the vine; you are the branches. Whoever abides in me and I in him, he it is that bears much fruit, for apart from me you can do nothing.
6 If anyone does not abide in me he is thrown away like a branch and withers; and the branches are gathered, thrown into the fire, and burned.
7 If you abide in me, and my words abide in you, ask whatever you wish, and it will be done for you.
8 By this my Father is glorified, that you bear much fruit and so prove to be my disciples.
What does this scripture mean to you?
Has it had a different effect this reading as compared to times past?
How does this scripture make you feel?
Continue breathing deeply as you ponder this meaning.
Meditation on scripture / bible verse meditation:
Jesus is the vine we grow on. We are the branches on that vine and the things we do is the fruit. A few verses before this the Father was introduced into the metaphor as the gardener that prunes branches that produce some fruit to get them to produce more. If you have faith in God that is some fruit. Even when we don’t live up to our potential, we know that God can prune us to help us improve. As he prunes us and cuts back the parts that are not helpful to us, we can provide more fruit.
The repeated command here is to abide in him and he abides in us. Abiding in him is a simple thing but challenging. We can immerse ourselves in his word. We can dedicate ourselves in prayer. Above all we can trim those thoughts inside of us that are in contrast to our faith. We can silence the lusts, desires, and weakness as we yield to God. Our goals of being more healthy, and improving our spiritual life can help move us closer to him.
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit.
Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:
I invite you to sit in silence feeling being patient for your own faults and trials.
Summarize what insights you have gained during this meditation:
Meditate and Visualize Positive Change in Your Life:
Details:
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Final Question: Which of your personal goals most overlap with the Glory of God?
Final Thought:
God’s Glory is to bring fruit through us, those who believe in him. With him abiding in us we truly can bear much fruit as this scripture says. There is great overlap with the righteous goals we set for ourselves and the fruit we can bring. As we spend time in opening our hearts to him through meditations like this one, we can more fully abide with him and have more fruits. May we stay humble as we feel him pruning us and trust that with His careful hand we can bear more fruit than ever before
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I hope this meditation inspires you to reach your new years resolutions.
Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation:
Breathe and direct your thoughts to contacting God.
Bible verse for meditation:
KJV
28 Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.
29 Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls.
30 For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.
NRSV
28 “Come to me, all you that are weary and are carrying heavy burdens, and I will give you rest. 29 Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me; for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls.
30 For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.”
What does this scripture mean to you?
Has it had a different effect this reading as compared to times past?
How does this scripture make you feel?
Continue breathing deeply as you ponder this meaning.
Meditation on scripture / bible verse meditation:
What a powerful message. Many people at this time of a year feel exhausted. Engaged with work, activity, and even charitable acts we may feel overwhelmed by all that we have committed to. When Jesus speaks of the heavy laden or those carrying heavy burdens he is addressing each one of us in a way. It may be burdens of sin and guilt, or anxiety and depression, or physical work, or a combination of many of these.
I find it interesting that Jesus’ recommendation to those who carry heavy burdens is to take HIS yoke upon us. A Yoke is a type of harness that links together multiple animals to carry some heavy weight so that they weight is shared between them. What this means is that we share the weight and don’t carry it along. In other places in scripture Paul recommends that we equally yolk ourselves with other believers. We can rely on each other and help each other. Most importantly though of all is the role that Jesus plays in this. In the struggles of our lives, Jesus is the one that carries the heaviest weights. He is not a task master with a whip sitting behind us or guiding us with a rope from in front, but he walks beside us and pulls our weights when we are weak.
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit.
Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:
I invite you to sit in silence feeling being patient for your own faults and trials.
Summarize what insights you have gained during this meditation:
Meditate and Visualize Positive Change in Your Life:
Details:
MERRY CHRISTMAS!
Final Question: What burden can you give to the Lord?
Final Thought:
With the Christmas season behind us, the new year is upon us. As we prepare to refresh our efforts and goals for improvement, may we feel guided by peace and hope instead of obligation and guilt. As we take on the yolk of Jesus our burdens are eased, because he helps us focus on his path and what he wants for us and he carries us. In this way, his burden is truly light. As you commit to working toward goals of self improvement may you be comforted and guided along the way of the Lord for you.
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Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation:
Breathe and direct your thoughts to contacting God.
Bible verse for meditation:
KJV
8 And there were in the same country shepherds abiding in the field, keeping watch over their flock by night.
9 And, lo, the angel of the Lord came upon them, and the glory of the Lord shone round about them: and they were sore afraid.
10 And the angel said unto them, Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people.
11 For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord.
12 And this shall be a sign unto you; Ye shall find the babe wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in a manger.
13 And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God, and saying,
14 Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men.
What does this scripture mean to you?
Has it had a different effect this reading as compared to times past?
How does this scripture make you feel?
Continue breathing deeply as you ponder this meaning.
Meditation on scripture / bible verse meditation:
When I worked in the hospital, one of the areas I was assigned was in the labor and delivery floor. I was there to pray with new mothers and comfort families when things didn’t go well. It still causes me to pause and reflect that average people today have such high tech support when the Savior of the world, the very Son of God, was born in so humble circumstances. It is hard for me to imagine these shepherds coming to this common place. Not a hospital but a place where livestock lived. Jesus was not born in a sterile room. Despite the humble circumstances of his birth, angels declared to the shepherds of his saving role. I can only imagine these shepherds seeing a whole sky full of angels singing praises to Jesus.
That the angels appeared to shepherds was interesting. Shepherds are a constant metaphor in scripture. Jesus himself said that he is the good shepherd. He said that his sheep hear his voice and follow and obey him. Those of us who have heard the word of Jesus become shepherds and stewards of that word. The Magi or wise men also were shown the way to God but it doesn't say anything about angels guiding them. They read of prophecies and the new star. God can and does use our own strengths and weaknesses in guiding us along the path He has in mind for us.
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit.
Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:
I invite you to sit in silence feeling being patient for your own faults and trials.
Summarize what insights you have gained during this meditation:
Meditate and Visualize Positive Change in Your Life:
Details:
MERRY CHRISTMAS!
Final Question: What will you do on Christmas day to hark to the message of these angels and honor the birth of Jesus?
Final Thought:
God can guide each of us in the way that we need. The common factor is a willingness to be guided by God. Each of us may receive his guidance differently. It may be through study, meditation, prayer, bearing witness and testimony of what we know. Most likely it will be many of these things. One thing is certain though, it will come as a result of faith. May this Christmas be full of faith and God’s spirit of peace and love. May whatever unpleasant or dark memories of this season be replaced with the true joy of His birth. May our reflections on the whole nativity scene remind us that God can guide any humble heart to Him if we have faith and trust in Him.
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Find peace and comfort this Christmas season by meditating on God's word.
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Bible verse for meditation:
KJV
41 And it came to pass, that, when Elisabeth heard the salutation of Mary, the babe leaped in her womb; and Elisabeth was filled with the Holy Ghost:
42 And she spake out with a loud voice, and said, Blessed art thou among women, and blessed is the fruit of thy womb.
43 And whence is this to me, that the mother of my Lord should come to me?
44 For, lo, as soon as the voice of thy salutation sounded in mine ears, the babe leaped in my womb for joy.
NABRE
41 When Elizabeth heard Mary’s greeting, the infant leaped in her womb, and Elizabeth, filled with the holy Spirit,
42 cried out in a loud voice and said, “Most blessed are you among women, and blessed is the fruit of your womb.
43 And how does this happen to me, that the mother of my Lord should come to me?
44 For at the moment the sound of your greeting reached my ears, the infant in my womb leaped for joy.
What does this scripture mean to you?
Has it had a different effect this reading as compared to times past?
How does this scripture make you feel?
Continue breathing deeply as you ponder this meaning.
Meditation on scripture / bible verse meditation:
The Book of John represents a higher representation of Jesus. The birth of Jesus represents the coming of the light. The Word, being Jesus Christ, was from the beginning. The birth of Jesus is the coming of the Word into this world which chased out the darkness. It was this action
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit.
Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:
I invite you to sit in silence feeling being patient for your own faults and trials.
Summarize what insights you have gained during this meditation:
Meditate and Visualize Positive Change in Your Life:
Details:
During the time when Mary was pregnant with Jesus she went to visit Elisabeth. Luke doesn’t say exactly why Mary visited Elisabeth but it was when Elisabeth was 6 months pregnant with John the Baptist. Mary was not as far along her pregnancy and it seems possible that she was doing it to avoid others discovering her pregnancy further demonstrating the shame Mary had to endure for carrying the Son of God.
I really love this scripture because it speaks of spiritual conviction which comes through the Spirit. Not only this but John the Baptist, who was a baby in Elisabeth’s belly, recognized it. This is one of the first witnesses of the Divinity of Jesus. Both women and children were not considered to be viable witnesses in Jewish courts and yet here they were testifying of the divinity of Jesus. This testimony Elisabeth received through testimony of the Holy Ghost.
There were many people who could not recognize the divinity of the Adult Christ, yet Elisabeth was able to feel the conviction of Jesus’ divinity. Not through Angels or Visions of Glory but the spirit speaking to her heart. Similarly you and I can receive a testimony of the Divinity of Jesus and any other truth of God, through the Holy Spirit. My hope is that this same conviction that burned in Elisabeth’s heart will be revived in ours as we reflect on Jesus this Christmas Season.
Final Question:
Final Thought:
As we navigate through this life we often seek guidance. Many times there are questions we have in our lives that we ask to God. It is important to note that God is the one who determines when the answer comes but I believe that it is equally important that we put spiritual oil in our own lamps so that when we most need the answers, that we are ready to receive the answers he would provide. May we continue to humble ourselves and approach God seeking His wisdom and witness.
39 During those days Mary set out and traveled to the hill country in haste to a town of Judah, 40 where she entered the house of Zechariah and greeted Elizabeth. 41 When Elizabeth heard Mary’s greeting, the infant leaped in her womb, and Elizabeth, filled with the holy Spirit, 42 cried out in a loud voice and said, “Most blessed are you among women, and blessed is the fruit of your womb. 43 And how does this happen to me, that the mother of my Lord[n] should come to me? 44 For at the moment the sound of your greeting reached my ears, the infant in my womb leaped for joy. 45 Blessed are you who believed[o] that what was spoken to you by the Lord would be fulfilled.”
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Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation:
Breathe and direct your thoughts to contacting God.
Bible verse for meditation:
NIV
4 At the sound of their voices the doorposts and thresholds shook and the temple was filled with smoke.
5 “Woe to me!” I cried. “I am ruined! For I am a man of unclean lips, and I live among a people of unclean lips, and my eyes have seen the King, the Lord Almighty.”
6 Then one of the seraphim flew to me with a live coal in his hand, which he had taken with tongs from the altar.
7 With it he touched my mouth and said, “See, this has touched your lips; your guilt is taken away and your sin atoned for.”
8 Then I heard the voice of the Lord saying, “Whom shall I send? And who will go for us?”
And I said, “Here am I. Send me!
NABRE
4 At the sound of that cry, the frame of the door shook and the house was filled with smoke.
5 Then I said, “Woe is me, I am doomed! For I am a man of unclean lips, living among a people of unclean lips, and my eyes have seen the King, the Lord of hosts!”
6 Then one of the seraphim flew to me, holding an ember which he had taken with tongs from the altar.
7 He touched my mouth with it. “See,” he said, “now that this has touched your lips, your wickedness is removed, your sin purged.”
8 Then I heard the voice of the Lord saying, “Whom shall I send? Who will go for us?” “Here I am,” I said; “send me!”
What does this scripture mean to you?
Has it had a different effect this reading as compared to times past?
How does this scripture make you feel?
Continue breathing deeply as you ponder this meaning.
Meditation on scripture / bible verse meditation:
Sometimes I find myself wishing I could understand God’s will for me better and clearer. According to the writings of many prophets God can speak clearly through messengers or any way he chooses. Sometimes we overlook the duty and responsibility that rests on these prophets. Most of them had very difficult lives where the people were not receptive to God’s will. Despite this, God asked the prophets to share the message. Many of them were persecuted and killed for fulfilling their duty to God. Each of us have a role to fill in our own lives. I am not Isaiah. Nor am I Moses. I am just me, but that is still something.
I can imagine these prophets wondering why God would pick them. Isaiah is very disturbed to find what the Lord is asking of him. He feels unworthy. In Moses’ account he also states his inadequacies. Both of these accounts have an underlying theme of why me. As we go through our own rough periods, this question can easily come to the surface. The simple answer is, why not me. God does not seem to intend on saving us from hardship. Jesus didn’t choose someone else to save us all despite how much he feared drinking from the bitter cup of his duty.
So it can be with each one of us. Our goal then of course is to navigate the challenges of life well. There is no problem to have a desire to avoid hardship and pain for ourselves and others. It is not reasonable to expect complete success in this goal though. What God does tell us though, is that he will walk with us in the most trying times and he will never stop loving us and he never wants us to give up trying to do his will.
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit.
Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:
I invite you to sit in silence feeling being patient for your own faults and trials.
Summarize what insights you have gained during this meditation:
Meditate and Visualize Positive Change in Your Life:
Details:
Final Question: What is a way that you can respond to the call of God?
When challenges come our way, when we feel overwhelmed we can realize that with God’s help, we can do hard things. Instead of wondering why these things happen to us, we can ask ourselves what the next step forward is realizing that it won't defeat us. I pray that we can have the clarity and help Isaiah received and stand up and say. “Here am I. Send me.”
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Bible verse for meditation:
KJV
2 The people that walked in darkness have seen a great light: they that dwell in the land of the shadow of death, upon them hath the light shined.
6 For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given: and the government shall be upon his shoulder: and his name shall be called Wonderful, Counsellor, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace.
7 Of the increase of his government and peace there shall be no end, upon the throne of David, and upon his kingdom, to order it, and to establish it with judgment and with justice from henceforth even for ever. The zeal of the Lord of hosts will perform this.
NRSV
2 The people who walked in darkness
have seen a great light;
those who lived in a land of deep darkness—
on them light has shined.
6 For a child has been born for us,
a son given to us;
authority rests upon his shoulders;
and he is named
Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God,
Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.
7 His authority shall grow continually,
and there shall be endless peace
for the throne of David and his kingdom.
He will establish and uphold it
with justice and with righteousness
from this time onward and forevermore.
The zeal of the Lord of hosts will do this.
What does this scripture mean to you?
Has it had a different effect this reading as compared to times past?
How does this scripture make you feel?
Continue breathing deeply as you ponder this meaning.
Meditation on scripture / bible verse meditation:
Throughout Christian history the first Sunday in December has marked the beginning of Advent which is a Latin word which means “Coming.” Not only does it represent the Birth of Jesus and his coming into the world but we also can celebrate his coming into our hearts. Many people focus on hope during the first week of advent. It is appropriate that the Christmas season follows Thanksgiving. This feeling of gratitude can carry through our whole Christmas season and help us feel the hope and joy of the Gospel.
If God has been good to us as we realize our blessings we learn to trust that he always has and always will be good to us. For unto us a Child is born unto us a Son is given. His name is wonderful. Gratitude is the purest form of Hope. It is a hope free of expectations. I think many people realize that we could be more grateful
Instead of looking at gratitude as one more thing we know we should do and feel guilty that we don’t do it well enough let me rephrase it. Gratitude can be more deeply felt as we learn to enhance passing feelings of enjoyment of the world around us. The Book “Hardwiring Happiness” By Dr. Rick Hansen shows a tangible way to do that. Throughout the day whenever you notice even the smallest thing that brings you joy. Spend 15-30 seconds really living that happy feeling. As you do this it creates a habit of finding joy and you can stay in that feeling for longer. This can form the basis for genuine gratitude.
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit.
Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:
I invite you to sit in silence feeling being patient for your own faults and trials.
Summarize what insights you have gained during this meditation:
Meditate and Visualize Positive Change in Your Life:
Details:
“Hardwiring Happiness” By Dr. Rick Hansen
Final Question: What is a way you can increase your gratitude?
As you continue to find ways to experience genuine and lasting gratitude it becomes a habit. You can experience the hope and faith in God’s blessings in your life, and feel more happy. God doesn’t ask us to shower him with gratitude because he needs that. He knows that this is yet another way to bless us. As we learn to rejoice in what He has given us, we can feel lasting peace and happiness in His creation.
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Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation:
Breathe and direct your thoughts to contacting God.
Bible verse for meditation:
ESV
9 And so, from the day we heard, we have not ceased to pray for you, asking that you may be filled with the knowledge of his will in all spiritual wisdom and understanding,
10 so as to walk in a manner worthy of the Lord, fully pleasing to him: bearing fruit in every good work and increasing in the knowledge of God;
11 being strengthened with all power, according to his glorious might, for all endurance and patience with joy;
12 giving thanks to the Father, who has qualified you to share in the inheritance of the saints in light.
KVJ
9 For this cause we also, since the day we heard it, do not cease to pray for you, and to desire that ye might be filled with the knowledge of his will in all wisdom and spiritual understanding;
10 That ye might walk worthy of the Lord unto all pleasing, being fruitful in every good work, and increasing in the knowledge of God;
11 Strengthened with all might, according to his glorious power, unto all patience and longsuffering with joyfulness;
12 Giving thanks unto the Father, which hath made us meet to be partakers of the inheritance of the saints in light:
What does this scripture mean to you?
Has it had a different effect this reading as compared to times past?
How does this scripture make you feel?
Continue breathing deeply as you ponder this meaning.
Meditation on scripture / bible verse meditation:
As I have walked many sad paths with those people I visit, I have found gratitude to be the most meaningful way of finding joy. Gratitude for all things helps This scripture was recommended to me by someone who emailed me through my website ChristianMeditationPodcast.com/contact. I really love it. It summarizes a very powerful message. Regardless of our own failings, weakness and desire to sin, God can inspire our minds with clarity so that we can take action. As we take action consistent with His spirit we can be worthy.
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit.
Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:
I invite you to sit in silence feeling being patient for your own faults and trials.
Summarize what insights you have gained during this meditation:
Meditate and Visualize Positive Change in Your Life:
Final Question: When is a time where you have most felt the Love of God?
Very few people are given a glimpse into heaven. Perhaps this is a blessing because then our hearts would constantly yearn to feel more of that love in this life. Fortunately or unfortunately, most of us rely on faith. As we learn to live with God and open our hearts in faith to Him, we can feel touches of this in this life until we can proclaim as this scripture does that we would willingly serve as the most lowly servant in heaven just to be able to spend time with him. As we ponder how wonderful this will be we better understand the love of God. He invites us to have all that He has. I know from so many different interactions, that when we die we will finally understand how much he loves us. We will see those we love and we will see God and be caught forever in His love.
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Bible verse for meditation:
Luke 17:12-16
KJV
12 And as he entered into a certain village, there met him ten men that were lepers, which stood afar off:
13 And they lifted up their voices, and said, Jesus, Master, have mercy on us.
14 And when he saw them, he said unto them, Go shew yourselves unto the priests. And it came to pass, that, as they went, they were cleansed.
15 And one of them, when he saw that he was healed, turned back, and with a loud voice glorified God,
16 And fell down on his face at his feet, giving him thanks: and he was a Samaritan.
NABRE
12 As he was entering a village, ten lepers met [him]. They stood at a distance from him
13 and raised their voice, saying, “Jesus, Master! Have pity on us!”
14 And when he saw them, he said, “Go show yourselves to the priests.” As they were going they were cleansed.
15 And one of them, realizing he had been healed, returned, glorifying God in a loud voice;
16 and he fell at the feet of Jesus and thanked him. He was a Samaritan.
What does this scripture mean to you?
Has it had a different effect this reading as compared to times past?
How does this scripture make you feel?
Continue breathing deeply as you ponder this meaning.
Meditation on scripture / bible verse meditation:
In the United States we celebrate Thanksgiving this week. I find it so meaningful to have a day dedicated to giving thanks. The man in this scripture was grateful for being cleansed of a horribly disfiguring disease. Although horrible leprosy only has reach on people during this life. What each of us have been offered by God is far greater. We have been offered redemption from all that is wrong inside of us. Each fault, flaw, and sin we have can be redeemed and corrected. God’s great plan for us is to heal us as he healed this leper.
Gratitude is a huge missing link the counseling work that I do. As we let go of our own need to control outcomes, as we learn that we can be happy even when our own expectations are not met, we can find ourselves asking: How can we keep hope for happiness alive? The most profound answer to this question is Gratitude. Spend more time in gratitude and your life will become more joyful almost without exception.
So as you reflect on what you are grateful for this week, in addition to all the amazing physical blessings, like his words in scripture, more meaningful still is the mercy he offers us.
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit.
Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:
I invite you to sit in silence feeling being patient for your own faults and trials.
Summarize what insights you have gained during this meditation:
Meditate and Visualize Positive Change in Your Life:
Final Question: What Is something you can do to focus more on gratitude?
Sometimes when we read this story we think how the other lepers were ingrates. They didn’t show Jesus enough gratitude. It seems that Jesus was teaching in this scripture is the natural inclination of people to not show gratitude, and that includes us. Try and catch yourself as many times as possible in an attitude of gratitude to God for his infinite gifts to you and me and may we be able to employ them to help us take part in his great work.
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Bible verse for meditation:
NIV
10 Better is one day in your courts
than a thousand elsewhere;
I would rather be a doorkeeper in the house of my God
than dwell in the tents of the wicked.
11 For the Lord God is a sun and shield;
the Lord bestows favor and honor;
no good thing does he withhold
from those whose walk is blameless.
12 Lord Almighty,
blessed is the one who trusts in you.
KJV
10 For a day in thy courts is better than a thousand. I had rather be a doorkeeper in the house of my God, than to dwell in the tents of wickedness.
11 For the Lord God is a sun and shield: the Lord will give grace and glory: no good thing will he withhold from them that walk uprightly.
12 O Lord of hosts, blessed is the man that trusteth in thee.
What does this scripture mean to you?
Has it had a different effect this reading as compared to times past?
How does this scripture make you feel?
Continue breathing deeply as you ponder this meaning.
Meditation on scripture / bible verse meditation:
A perplexing fact of spending so much time near the veil between life and death is that people catch glimpses to the other side. When I worked in the hospital people would tell me of what they experienced when their body was temporarily dead. I head things that had never been told to another living person. Now in my work in hospice I see people reaching out to people who can’t be seen. Just this week I watched as a man who is preparing to transition to the next life through death spoke to beings that I couldn’t see.
This has spurred my interest in learning more of the near death experiences of others. One thing that I have head is that as the spirit leaves the body that the person is filled with peace. As the approach the light, that is God, they experience a profound and inexplicable love. Many people are changed by this experience with such pure and incomprehensible love. When I read things like this scripture I reflect on this experience of love.
Even moments with God are better than a lifetime on this earth without him. The most glorious thing of all is that we don’t have to choose. God has offered us a seat in His kingdom. Because of the the Love of God we have been made joint heirs with Christ. He will not withhold any good thing from those on whom His Spirit dwells.
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit.
Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:
I invite you to sit in silence feeling being patient for your own faults and trials.
Summarize what insights you have gained during this meditation:
Meditate and Visualize Positive Change in Your Life:
Final Question: When is a time where you have most felt the Love of God?
Very few people are given a glimpse into heaven. Perhaps this is a blessing because then our hearts would constantly yearn to feel more of that love in this life. Fortunately or unfortunately, most of us rely on faith. As we learn to live with God and open our hearts in faith to Him, we can feel touches of this in this life until we can proclaim as this scripture does that we would willingly serve as the most lowly servant in heaven just to be able to spend time with him. As we ponder how wonderful this will be we better understand the love of God. He invites us to have all that He has. I know from so many different interactions, that when we die we will finally understand how much he loves us. We will see those we love and we will see God and be caught forever in His love.
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Bible verse for meditation:
NRSV
2 While they were worshiping the Lord and fasting, the Holy Spirit said, “Set apart for me Barnabas and Saul for the work to which I have called them.”
3 Then after fasting and praying they laid their hands on them and sent them off.
4 So, being sent out by the Holy Spirit, they went down to Seleucia; and from there they sailed to Cyprus.
ESV
2 While they were worshiping the Lord and fasting, the Holy Spirit said, “Set apart for me Barnabas and Saul for the work to which I have called them.” 3 Then after fasting and praying they laid their hands on them and sent them off.
4 So, being sent out by the Holy Spirit, they went down to Seleucia, and from there they sailed to Cyprus.
What does this scripture mean to you?
Has it had a different effect this reading as compared to times past?
How does this scripture make you feel?
Continue breathing deeply as you ponder this meaning.
Meditation on scripture / bible verse meditation:
Fasting is something that is used in some faith communities and not in others. In these moments consider how fasting is represented in the scriptures. How is it represented in your life?
The Scriptures show the effects of fasting. The Apostles were guided at times by fasting like in this scripture. They received guidance for their missionary efforts. That is something we can do as well as we attempt to share the word of God and bring people to Christ. At other times Jesus recommended fasting as a means of strengthening the power of the Apostles like when the failed to cast out the devil he stated “this kind cometh not out but by prayer and fasting.” It appears that Jesus was teaching them that they would be more able to draw on the power of God by fasting. In episode 75 we talked about how the temptation of Jesus occurred during his fast. Fasting in and of itself introduces physical challenges. It is hard to overcome our appetites. In fact this kind of control over our desires can be applied to many areas of our lives. When we feel strong urges we can learn that we can control them. Fasting gives us a laboratory for learning to overcome our physical urges.
Fasting can train us to rely on God and draw near him to overcome the things of this world.
Spend some moments in reflection on this.
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit.
Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:
I invite you to sit in silence feeling being patient for your own faults and trials.
Summarize what insights you have gained during this meditation:
Meditate and Visualize Positive Change in Your Life:
Final Question: Have you applied fasting in your spiritual routine?
Since each person has unique physical needs and challenges I would suggest asking your doctor before you fast since it can be very harmful for some people for example people with diabetes.
However if you are healthy enough for fasting there are various ways to perform a fast. I would recommend that you start with with short fasts. Perhaps a meal or two. At the beginning of your fast you can have a deep and personal prayer with God explaining what you hope to experience with this fast and your dedicated purpose. When you feel your body’s strong urge to eat and at other times. When you break you fast offer a prayer and talk to God about how it went again dedicating the fast to a specific goal and consider if you have been blessed by the fast. If you are healthy enough for fasting it can be a powerful way to connect with God.
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Bible verse for meditation:
NIV
Psalms 46:9-11
9 He makes wars cease
to the ends of the earth.
He breaks the bow and shatters the spear;
he burns the shields with fire.
10 He says, “Be still, and know that I am God;
I will be exalted among the nations,
I will be exalted in the earth.”
11 The Lord Almighty is with us;
the God of Jacob is our fortress.
KJV
9 He maketh wars to cease unto the end of the earth; he breaketh the bow, and cutteth the spear in sunder; he burneth the chariot in the fire.
10 Be still, and know that I am God: I will be exalted among the heathen, I will be exalted in the earth.
11 The Lord of hosts is with us; the God of Jacob is our refuge. Selah.
What does this scripture mean to you?
Has it had a different effect this reading as compared to times past?
How does this scripture make you feel?
Continue breathing deeply as you ponder this meaning.
Meditation on scripture / bible verse meditation:
I love this scripture. Be still and know that I am God. It’s message is so profound. I was talking with Carter this week and he brought up this scripture in our conversation. I thought I had covered it previously because of how much I love it. When I found that I hadn’t covered it I was touched deeply in my heart in that unmistakable way that I have come to recognize as the spirit of God moving in my heart. What I believe that means is that we need this scripture right now. Many times we feel great exhaustion when we spend so much mental and spiritual energy fighting the good fight. We weary ourselves in this effort. We find ourselves stressed fearful and downright exhausted.
He will end all wars, this includes the war in our hearts. He breaks the weapons we use in war. When we have done all we can and it is not enough to overcome, we can Be still and know that He is God. He existed before the formation of our universe, he existed before our galaxy, before humans lived on earth. He will be exalted for all time and beyond. And what is even more miraculous than that is that he has stated that he wants to be with us. The Lord of Hosts is with us. Be still. Know that He is God. Open your heart to Him so that you can feel that the Lord of Hosts is with you, right now.
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit.
Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:
I invite you to sit in silence feeling being patient for your own faults and trials.
Summarize what insights you have gained during this meditation:
Meditate and Visualize Positive Change in Your Life:
Final Question: How can you be blessed by being still?
Our lives are not meant to be universally easy. Above that, we are not meant to be still our whole lives waiting for God to do His work. In the scriptures he lovingly invites us to participate in his great work. I am humbled by this because I know so many of my weaknesses. Despite this, we go to work in his vineyard as best as we can. When we get stuck we can trust that he is the one who carries us. We can rely on him in faith.
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Bible verse for meditation:
Matthew 4:1-4
KJV
1 Then was Jesus led up of the Spirit into the wilderness to be tempted of the devil.
2 And when he had fasted forty days and forty nights, he was afterward an hungred.
3 And when the tempter came to him, he said, If thou be the Son of God, command that these stones be made bread.
4 But he answered and said, It is written, Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that proceedeth out of the mouth of God.
NRSV
4 Then Jesus was led up by the Spirit into the wilderness to be tempted by the devil. 2 He fasted forty days and forty nights, and afterwards he was famished. 3 The tempter came and said to him, “If you are the Son of God, command these stones to become loaves of bread.” 4 But he answered, “It is written,
‘One does not live by bread alone,
but by every word that comes from the mouth of God.’”
What does this scripture mean to you?
Has it had a different effect this reading as compared to times past?
How does this scripture make you feel?
Continue breathing deeply as you ponder this meaning.
Meditation on scripture / bible verse meditation:
My New Testament professor pointed out to me the important placement of the temptation of Jesus. She lamented the chapter selection that separated the preceding verses. Matthew chapter 3 talks of the Baptism of Jesus. Interestingly the last verse right before these ones here says
17 And a voice from heaven said, “This is my Son, whom I love; with him I am well pleased.”
The time of great temptation in the life of our Savior was not due to his weakness but rather due to his preparation and ability to progress beyond it. Later in chapter 4 Jesus calls his Apostles. How interesting that he is baptised, then tempted, then he overtly kicks off the organization of the church.
What I have noticed is that when I make attempts in my own life to make spiritual progress, that is when I am most severely assaulted with temptation. Our common enemy can sense future progress. For this reason he assails us even harder before times of great growth. Ironically it is this very temptation that gives us a context for observing the mercy of God and learning how to trust in him and overcome it.
I love how Jesus is quoting his own words to Satan.
Deut 8:3 He humbled you, causing you to hunger and then feeding you with manna, which neither you nor your ancestors had known, to teach you that man does not live on bread alone but on every word that comes from the mouth of the Lord.
This scripture similarly shows that it is our great need that both tempts us and prepares our hearts to learn from the hand of God. Temptation is not punishment but an opportunity to grow. When we are tempted we can reach out to God and feel a deep gratitude for his mercy and willingness to help us.
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit.
Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:
I invite you to sit in silence feeling being patient for your own faults and trials.
Meditate and Visualize Positive Change in Your Life:
Final Question: How can you change the way you perceive temptation?
When we are tempted, we can reject the ideas in our minds that this demonstrates weakness and place or faith squarely on God’s word. He has caused our great hunger so he can feed us mana and teach us to trust in him. Jesus Christ himself showed us that to be tempted is to learn to overcome. We can follow his example by truly absorbing the scriptures in our hearts so that they can be a defense. I have a humble hope that this podcast can do just that for you.
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Bible verse for meditation:
Luke 1:11-13
KJV
11 And there appeared unto him an angel of the Lord standing on the right side of the altar of incense.
12 And when Zacharias saw him, he was troubled, and fear fell upon him.
13 But the angel said unto him, Fear not, Zacharias: for thy prayer is heard; and thy wife Elisabeth shall bear thee a son, and thou shalt call his name John.
NIV
11 Then an angel of the Lord appeared to him, standing at the right side of the altar of incense.
12 When Zechariah saw him, he was startled and was gripped with fear.
13 But the angel said to him: “Do not be afraid, Zechariah; your prayer has been heard. Your wife Elizabeth will bear you a son, and you are to call him John
What does this scripture mean to you?
Has it had a different effect this reading as compared to times past?
How does this scripture make you feel?
Continue breathing deeply as you ponder this meaning.
Meditation on scripture / bible verse meditation:
John the baptist was considered a great prophet. He became very influential in preparing the hearts of many people to receive the message of Jesus as the lamb of God. Jesus himself showed spoke of how important John was. He was so important that his birth and naming were declared by the voice of an angelic visitation to his father Zacharias. He doubted the proclamation of the angel and was made to not be able to speak until he wrote out that his Son’s name would be John, as stated by the angel.
Despite the great plans that God had for Zacharias in the form of his son, this didn’t mean that he was ready to live the plan God had for him. Also it didn’t mean that John’s life would be easy or that the life of His parents would be great. It did however mean that God had a plan for them, as he does for us. Zacharias was doubtful about the declaration from the spirit. Despite having a prominent religious position, he was not ready to receive God’s will. This unwillingness was accompanied by a shortage of faith.
It is quite interesting that God shows us in this scripture that despite what role we have in His church, or despite what we know or can do, if we are not trusting in God then we can miss the blessings that he has lined up for us. Humility and faith can work together to help us overcome. God certainly has a blessed path for each one of us.
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit.
Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:
I invite you to sit in silence feeling being patient for your own faults and trials.
Meditate and Visualize Positive Change in Your Life:
Sue donated on Patreon and selected the scripture. Thanks Sue!
Final Question: Has there been a time when you missed Gods plan for you?
Each and every one of us have a life that allows us to learn and grow. The blessings and challenges we face can benefit for us if they draw our hearts to God and help our faith develop. As you have felt peace in your life during this meditation you have felt God’s spirit. As we let God’s spirit reign in our life we can experience joy regardless of what happens in our lives. Life is always improved as we trust God and trust his word for us. I encourage you to trust in God and as we do this we will be more aware of the blessings of God.
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Bible verse for meditation:
1 John 4:4-6
NIV
4 You, dear children, are from God and have overcome them, because the one who is in you is greater than the one who is in the world.
5 They are from the world and therefore speak from the viewpoint of the world, and the world listens to them.
6 We are from God, and whoever knows God listens to us; but whoever is not from God does not listen to us. This is how we recognize the Spirit of truth and the spirit of falsehood.
NRSV
4 Little children, you are from God, and have conquered them; for the one who is in you is greater than the one who is in the world.
5 They are from the world; therefore what they say is from the world, and the world listens to them.
6 We are from God. Whoever knows God listens to us, and whoever is not from God does not listen to us. From this we know the spirit of truth and the spirit of error.
What does this scripture mean to you?
Has it had a different effect this reading as compared to times past?
How does this scripture make you feel?
Continue breathing deeply as you ponder this meaning.
Meditation on scripture / bible verse meditation:
This scripture is in the context of an Epistle of John teaching his audience how to identify good spirits. The guiding influence in that determination is based on faith in Jesus Christ. Spirits aligned with God, acknowledge that Jesus was and is the Messiah. In this sense faith in Jesus as the savior is permanent. With that said now comes this scripture which states that God has overcome the world. This includes spirits. The way in which this scripture meets where we are at is shown in the scripture. As we take the name of Jesus upon us through faith, repentance, baptism, and by receiving his spirit, he is with us. His spirit resides in us. As this is true, how can we fear anything in this world? If God is with us, who can be against us.
Despite this understanding there are times when we feel fear. There are times when we let our human emotions run wild and we become afraid. There are so many things we can grow to fear. Everything from death, to social rejection, to financial matters. Fear is a normal human emotion. I don’t think that it is helpful for us, when we feel fear to pile on guilt for not having faith, but I do think it can be instructive and even faith promoting to recognize that fear is a human emotion and a normal weakness common to all of us.
This scripture teaches not only how to be more discerning and wise regarding the truth of God but also how to overcome fear. If we recognize that God is with us while also recognizing that fear is a human emotion we can learn to not let its distracting effects overcome us.
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit.
Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:
I invite you to sit in silence feeling being patient for your own faults and trials.
Meditate and Visualize Positive Change in Your Life:
Sue donated on Patreon and selected the scripture. Thanks Sue!
Final Question: How does the knowledge that God is in you help?
Final thought - Many people who have reached out to me talk about stress. What is stress if not a pervasive form of fear. In this moment know this, God is greater than any struggle you are dealing with. He is more powerful than any spirit on earth. He is more powerful than any hardship. He is great. If we learn to continually be sensitive to His spirit within us then we can receive power to overcome fear and have it be replaced with faith.
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This is a continuation of episode 38. Feel free to listen to that one first then this one if you want continuity.
Bible verse for meditation:
1 Corinthians 13:3-7
NIV
4 Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud.
5 It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs.
6 Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth.
7 It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres.
KJV
4 Charity suffereth long, and is kind; charity envieth not; charity vaunteth not itself, is not puffed up,
5 Doth not behave itself unseemly, seeketh not her own, is not easily provoked, thinketh no evil;
6 Rejoiceth not in iniquity, but rejoiceth in the truth;
7 Beareth all things, believeth all things, hopeth all things, endureth all things.
What does this scripture mean to you?
Has it had a different effect this reading as compared to times past?
How does this scripture make you feel?
Continue breathing deeply as you ponder this meaning.
Meditation on scripture / bible verse meditation:
1 Corinthians 13 is one of the most profound scriptures on love. In Episode 38 I covered the first three verses. We can’t be what we truly are meant to be if we don’t have love in our hearts. Love is the center of the two greatest commandments: loving God and loving each other.
This scripture points out some important aspects of how to love and things that get in the of our love.
It is easy to see the the connection between kindness and love. If we can learn to be kind with a heart open to love this is an important step in learning to love more deeply.
As we love and attempt to love we inevitably experience difficulties and challenges. If we express patience we can overcome ourselves to draw near to each other and God.
Pride and envy can turn our hearts away from even the desire to love. As we let go of these feelings we are more able to love.
A concept that is falling out of fashion in today’s world is honor. With a Godly focus honor is a powerful aspect of a Christian walk. We can honor each other and those we love by being loyal and faithful to them. A Christian life is an honorable one. We can honor each other as children of God. Even as we feel wronged, we feel anger at real and perceived disrespect. And we don’t keep track of the faults of others.
Above all our hearts rejoice in truth and reject evil.
Rejoices in truth
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit.
Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:
I invite you to sit in silence feeling being patient for your own faults and trials.
Meditate and Visualize Positive Change in Your Life:
Sue donated on Patreon and selected the scripture. Thanks Sue!
Final Question: What principles do you hold to on the sabbath?
Final thought - As we spend time with God’s spirit we feel his calm and peace. This is even more possible when we spend time to reflect on His word and dedicate time to Him. In this framework we can see the sabbath as the greatest gift of God. If we dedicate this day to worship and peace, it can help us draw nearer to him. Over the next couple days perhaps you can consider how you can better harness the sabbath in your worship to help you draw nearer to God. Consider things like avoiding unnecessary work, or causing others to work unnecessarily. Ultimately though, God loves us. He created the sabbath for us and not the other way around. We can be thoughtful on how best to benefit from this gift, by drawing nearer to Him. I know that as we do this we can be more sensitive to His spirit.
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Bible verse for meditation:
Mark 2:23-28.
NRSV
23 One sabbath he was going through the grainfields; and as they made their way his disciples began to pluck heads of grain.
24 The Pharisees said to him, “Look, why are they doing what is not lawful on the sabbath?”
25 And he said to them, “Have you never read what David did when he and his companions were hungry and in need of food?
26 He entered the house of God, when Abiathar was high priest, and ate the bread of the Presence, which it is not lawful for any but the priests to eat, and he gave some to his companions.”
27 Then he said to them, “The sabbath was made for humankind, and not humankind for the sabbath;
28 so the Son of Man is lord even of the sabbath.”
KJV
23 And it came to pass, that he went through the corn fields on the sabbath day; and his disciples began, as they went, to pluck the ears of corn.
24 And the Pharisees said unto him, Behold, why do they on the sabbath day that which is not lawful?
25 And he said unto them, Have ye never read what David did, when he had need, and was an hungred, he, and they that were with him?
26 How he went into the house of God in the days of Abiathar the high priest, and did eat the shewbread, which is not lawful to eat but for the priests, and gave also to them which were with him?
27 And he said unto them, The sabbath was made for man, and not man for the sabbath:
28 Therefore the Son of man is Lord also of the sabbath.
What does this scripture mean to you?
Has it had a different effect this reading as compared to times past?
How does this scripture make you feel?
Continue breathing deeply as you ponder this meaning.
Meditation on scripture / bible verse meditation:
In the Old Testament, God placed serious focus on establishing the sabbath day. From the creation of the Earth, God established the sabbath. Exodus 20 shows that one of the ten commandments is even to keep the Sabbath day holy. Not only that but this command extended to servants and evern animals. In the law of moses the consequence for not honoring the sabbath was death. In Numbers 15 a man was put to death for collecting sticks on the sabbath. In Isaiah 56 the keeping of the sabbath was a sign of the covenant which was also correlated to the temple. Even the blessing of manna from Heaven, which was from God, conform to the sabbath during the 40 years the Israelites stayed in the desert after the exodus. Suffice it to say that the sabbath was not made light of by God. It is understandable then, that the Jews would want to honor the Sabbath. They attempted to take the scriptures and determine very specifically what it means to honor the sabbath.
When Jesus came healing with the Power of God on the sabbath, this appeared to violate God’s law. This example is yet another example of it when his disciples picked and ate the food on the sabbath. Jesus taught that he was fulfilling the law of Moses. We should not take this to mean that the sabbath is no longer important to him. Some people have suggested that the translation of the above scripture states that the sabbath was created ‘on account of’ us. In other words, God knew what we needed and established his holy day of rest for our benefit not as another punishment. As Christians we can experience deeper knowledge of God and greater connection with Him by honoring His holy day. He longs to be closer to us in our lives, and the sabbath is an amazing opportunity to do just that.
How do you weekly activities align with God’s concept of the sabbath?
Take a few moments to reflect on this message and how it applies to your own life.
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit.
Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:
I invite you to sit in silence feeling being patient for your own faults and trials.
Meditate and Visualize Positive Change in Your Life:
Sue donated on Patreon and selected the scripture. Thanks Sue!
Final Question: What principles do you hold to on the sabbath?
Final thought - As we spend time with God’s spirit we feel his calm and peace. This is even more possible when we spend time to reflect on His word and dedicate time to Him. In this framework we can see the sabbath as the greatest gift of God. If we dedicate this day to worship and peace, it can help us draw nearer to him. Over the next couple days perhaps you can consider how you can better harness the sabbath in your worship to help you draw nearer to God. Consider things like avoiding unnecessary work, or causing others to work unnecessarily. Ultimately though, God loves us. He created the sabbath for us and not the other way around. We can be thoughtful on how best to benefit from this gift, by drawing nearer to Him. I know that as we do this we can be more sensitive to His spirit.
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Pintrist
Bible verse for meditation:
Revelations 21:4-6
NIV
4 ‘He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death’ or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of things has passed away.”
5 He who was seated on the throne said, “I am making everything new!”Then he said, “Write this down, for these words are trustworthy and true.”
6 He said to me: “It is done. I am the Alpha and the Omega, the Beginning and the End. To the thirsty I will give water without cost from the spring of the water of life.
ESV
4 He will wipe away every tear from their eyes, and death shall be no more, neither shall there be mourning, nor crying, nor pain anymore, for the former things have passed away.”
5 And he who was seated on the throne said, “Behold, I am making all things new.” Also he said, “Write this down, for these words are trustworthy and true.” 6 And he said to me, “It is done! I am the Alpha and the Omega, the beginning and the end. To the thirsty I will give from the spring of the water of life without payment.
What does this scripture mean to you?
Has it had a different effect this reading as compared to times past?
How does this scripture make you feel?
Continue breathing deeply as you ponder this meaning.
Meditation on scripture / bible verse meditation:
A fact that is common to all of us is loss. Sooner or later each of us will be touched by massive loss and death. Unfortunately many people I talk to are so uncomfortable with dealing with loss that they put off thinking and talking about it until it becomes disruptive in life. Our faith in God is not intended to be a long string of perfecting sprinkled with rare occurrences of loss. Our life is meant to be full of loss. In fact it is impossible to love and not experience loss eventually. The scriptures do not shy away from this idea and even more more important than just telling us we will suffer, God tells us how to overcome the loss of this world. It is through learning how to have hope through Him. He is the source of comforting our suffering. By developing a relationship with him we realize that happiness comes by the ability to acknowledge our pain and to move through it and beyond it.
My young family has experienced a recent loss. This week we had to put down my dog. He suffered a massive stroke. He was 15 years old. My wife and I have had this little dog in our lives since before our children were born. We have moved more than a dozen times and he is one of the few constants in our lives. He was always there. My children grew up with him always in the home. I helped walk my children through opening the floodgates of their emotion and they cried harder than I have ever seen them cry. We also talked about how to receive comfort from God. We talked about His plan and heaven. The strange thing is that in the days that have passed since those first two days their sadness has been much more moderated. We continue to talk about him and the loss but the bitter sting has been eased by their willingness to walk through challenging emotion while not intentionally wallowing in it, but letting it surface and be what it is without catastrophizing it and then letting God heal their hearts. In subsequent waves of grief we focused on the gratitude that we have for having so many years with this dear sweet pet. I hope my example is not insensitive. By no means do I compare the value of a human life to that of a dog so please take these words as an allegory or metaphor.
Because God is the beginning and the end he is able to make all our loss right. Eventually death will be no more in our eyes as it is already no more in his. He has an eternal solution filled with love.
Take a few moments to reflect on this message and how it applies to your own life.
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit.
Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:
I invite you to sit in silence feeling being patient for your own faults and trials.
Meditate and Visualize Positive Change in Your Life:
Sue donated on Patreon and selected the scripture. Thanks Sue!
Final Question: what is the light of God.
Final thought - What causes you the most tears, and how can God help heal that in your life?
In this podcast I talked only of one kind of loss, which is death. In truth we suffer from many types of loss including divorce, betrayal of friendship, job loss, even empty nesting. God’s power is not only reserved for death but every tear we ever let loose. Although overcoming such deep sadness is not simple I think great benefit can be gained by plainly acknowledging the pain, then realizing that it is temporary, then trusting in God to help. After this when we are struck with further evidences of it we can repeat the cycle and replace our sadness with gratitude for the good times we have had. God will dry every tear and all loss will be understood and I truly believe that we can learn and grow from every hardship.
Bible verse for meditation:
KJV
18 He that believeth on him is not condemned: but he that believeth not is condemned already, because he hath not believed in the name of the only begotten Son of God.
19 And this is the condemnation, that light is come into the world, and men loved darkness rather than light, because their deeds were evil.
20 For every one that doeth evil hateth the light, neither cometh to the light, lest his deeds should be reproved.
21 But he that doeth truth cometh to the light, that his deeds may be made manifest, that they are wrought in God.
NABRE
18 Whoever believes in him will not be condemned, but whoever does not believe has already been condemned, because he has not believed in the name of the only Son of God.
19 And this is the verdict, that the light came into the world, but people preferred darkness to light, because their works were evil.
20 For everyone who does wicked things hates the light and does not come toward the light, so that his works might not be exposed.
21 But whoever lives the truth comes to the light, so that his works may be clearly seen as done in God.
What does this scripture mean to you?
Has it had a different effect this reading as compared to times past?
How does this scripture make you feel?
Continue breathing deeply as you ponder this meaning.
Meditation on scripture / bible verse meditation:
In the last few days I was watching a science program that attempted to explain why moths fly toward light. One hypothesis for how this happens is that bugs use light as a reference to fly straight. Bugs are used to using a consistent light source such as the moon, to fly. So in reality they attempt to fly past the light but since it is so short a distance compared to the moon, it causes them to fly in a spiral toward the light. Another hypothesis is that the moths fly toward the light. The simple fact is that nobody knows exactly why bugs fly toward the light. This is surprising because humans have observed this since humans first controlled fire and we still don’t have an answer.
The human struggle to draw near to the light are probably just as old as this. This scripture teaches us the reason for this. Our drawing close to the light of Jesus is related to our love of the Light, or Loving God. Those who hate God’s light will do evil. John chapter 1 states that the Truth, that is Jesus, gives light to everyone. But not everyone responds to that. This scripture states why. Those who hate the light are not those than benefit from it. God has created in us the ability to love the light and to follow it. This is why he taught that the first and greatest commandment is to love God with all our hearts mind might and strength, including in our mind and with our actions.
Evaluate your life. Do you love the light? Are you living in such a way that shows that you love the light?
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit.
Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:
I invite you to sit in silence feeling being patient for your own faults and trials.
Meditate and Visualize Positive Change in Your Life:
Sue donated on Patreon and selected the scripture. Thanks Sue!
Final Question: what is the light of God.
Final thought -
We can find many reasons to follow God. The lowest level of spiritual maturity is to do God’s will in an attempt to avoid going to hell. This is how ancient Israel operated. The next level up is because we want some reward, perhaps because we want a gift, like an eternal heaven, then we follow from trust. The highest level of Spiritual maturity is that we do what God wants because of a deep love for him and a desire to be like him. May our lives be guided by this desire. May you and I have success in loving him with all that we are.
Bible verse for meditation:
KJV
28 But what think ye? A certain man had two sons; and he came to the first, and said, Son, go work to day in my vineyard.
29 He answered and said, I will not: but afterward he repented, and went.
30 And he came to the second, and said likewise. And he answered and said, I go, sir: and went not.
31 Whether of them twain did the will of his father? They say unto him, The first. Jesus saith unto them, Verily I say unto you, That the publicans and the harlots go into the kingdom of God before you.
NIV
28 “What do you think? There was a man who had two sons. He went to the first and said, ‘Son, go and work today in the vineyard.’
29 “‘I will not,’ he answered, but later he changed his mind and went.
30 “Then the father went to the other son and said the same thing. He answered, ‘I will, sir,’ but he did not go.
31 “Which of the two did what his father wanted?”
“The first,” they answered.
Jesus said to them, “Truly I tell you, the tax collectors and the prostitutes are entering the kingdom of God ahead of you.
What does this scripture mean to you?
Has it had a different effect this reading as compared to times past?
How does this scripture make you feel?
Continue breathing deeply as you ponder this meaning.
Meditation on scripture / bible verse meditation:
This scripture speaks to us. Often times we deny ourselves of the full blessings of hearing God’s word. Here he teaches that we can return to His work regardless of how long we have stopped listening. No matter how much we rebel and struggle. God is not asking us for perfection and he certainly is not reserving heaven only for those who follow immediately without struggle. He wants us, rebellious nature and all. He will take our faith and create a new being in us as we remain dedicated to turning back to him. He will use us to do His work.
For over a year I have been doing these meditations focusing on bringing peace through God’s word. I want to be careful that I am not suggesting that we should expect a life of unending tranquility. We have no shortage of opportunity for suffering and stress in daily life. For this reason taking time to slow down and focus on God’s will can be such a blessing, however, we cannot hope to have a life devoid of energy and work. It is moments of tranquility that invigorate us again to take up the yoke of Jesus and draw nearer to Him.
One way this work may show up is in the form of harnessing our faith to bring about tangible changes in our lives. As we work in faith on our shortcomings we can be filled with energy of spirit to experience lasting changes. Wherever you are in your life at this moment. May we consider how we are like the first son and determine to return to work with God in one of the most challenging endeavors we can experience, that of improving upon our fallen nature.
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit.
Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:
I invite you to sit in silence feeling being patient for your own faults and trials.
Meditate and Visualize Positive Change in Your Life:
Sue donated on Patreon and selected the scripture. Thanks Sue!
Final Question: What work can you return to?
Final thought -
My hope and prayer is that, just as in this scripture, that we can continually exert our faith in God. So in moments like this, when we experience the slowness and peace of God we can be recharged to continue on in life invigorated by loving and Godly work. When we go to work with Him, we can do so with increased focus with more faith, hope, and charity. Let our times of tranquility be mingled with times of concerted effort.
067 Do Not Let Me to Be Put to Shame - A Guided Christian Meditation on Psalms 25:1-5
I work as a hospice chaplain and an ICU chaplain, my purpose in making this podcast is to help you find more peace in your life and to be more open to be changed by the Spirit of God. by using a centuries old form of Christian Meditation called Lectio Divina. It consists of:
Outline: Relaxation, Reading, Meditation, Prayer, Contemplation, Visualization
Get into a place where you can sit comfortably and uninterrupted for about 20 minutes.You should not be driving or anything tensing or unrelaxing. If you feel comfortable to do so, I invite you to close your eyes.
Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation:
Breathe and direct your thoughts to contacting God.
Bible verse for meditation:
Matthew 6:19-21
NIV
1 In you, Lord my God,
I put my trust.
2 I trust in you;
do not let me be put to shame,
nor let my enemies triumph over me.
3 No one who hopes in you
will ever be put to shame,
but shame will come on those
who are treacherous without cause.
4 Show me your ways, Lord,
teach me your paths.
5 Guide me in your truth and teach me,
for you are God my Savior,
and my hope is in you all day long.
KJV
1 Unto thee, O Lord, do I lift up my soul.
2 O my God, I trust in thee: let me not be ashamed, let not mine enemies triumph over me.
3 Yea, let none that wait on thee be ashamed: let them be ashamed which transgress without cause.
4 Shew me thy ways, O Lord; teach me thy paths.
5 Lead me in thy truth, and teach me: for thou art the God of my salvation; on thee do I wait all the day.
What does this scripture mean to you?
Has it had a different effect this reading as compared to times past?
How does this scripture make you feel?
Continue breathing deeply as you ponder this meaning.
Meditation on scripture / bible verse meditation:
This scripture makes an interesting connection between shame and trust.
This scripture mentions shame 3 different times. Shame can mean different things but it often can hound us for things. When we violate our conscience we feel the twinges of guilt. Many times I have heard people talk about guilt as wrong. The truth is that if we do something horrible and harmful to others we may feel our conscience disturbed. It is right for us to be directed to correct things based on our conscience. This can help us be good to each other and treat each other like neighbors. We should not seek to avoid any response to our conscience but we should seek to learn from it as much as we can. We can search our hearts honestly knowing that God wants us to improve and will help us become new creatures in him.
The flip side of this is when we are overcome and constantly barraged by feelings of shame. When we feel constantly burdened by overwhelming feelings of shame this can be disruptive to personal growth. I have a couple different friends who have OCD and they feel shame for things that might happen. For example they worry that they could have done something harmful to someone else (but didn’t). These feelings are not the result of actual violations of their virtue.
The challenge can be to determine the difference. The guiding principle can be, growing in the Lord. Our goal is not to make ourselves feel good or bad but to conform ourselves to the image of Christ in us. When we feel the light of Christ speak in our hearts we can listen and make course corrections that are needed, repent and then trust that God will help us make it right in so far as we can. We can overcome shame by focusing on trusting in God who will save those who believe him and follow his path.
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit.
Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:
I invite you to sit in silence feeling being patient for your own faults and trials.
Meditate and Visualize Positive Change in Your Life:
Sue donated on Patreon and selected the scripture. Thanks Sue!
Final Question: What is some specific thing that you want to place more focus on in your life?
Final thought -
I have heard people make a difference between shame and guilt. Perhaps this is a false splitting of words but there are two separate concepts. One is a feeling that can lead us to change and improve. Another feeling degrades us and discourages us from growing. We should allow guilt to work its benevolent course without resistance and with full trust in God, our savior while at the same time not being overburdened by Shame. As we trust more fully in God we can overcome shame.
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The scripture is a continuation of the scripture from Episode 37
Bible verse for meditation:
Matthew 6:19-21
NIV
19 “Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moths and vermin destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. 20 But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moths and vermin do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal. 21 For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.
ESV
19 “Do not lay up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy and where thieves break in and steal, 20 but lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust destroys and where thieves do not break in and steal. 21 For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also. What does this scripture mean to you?Has it had a different effect this reading as compared to times past?How does this scripture make you feel?
Continue breathing deeply as you ponder this meaning.
Meditation on scripture / bible verse meditation:
What is treasure? What is important to you right now?For faithful followers of Christ, heaven is the greatest treasure that we seek. It can be very instructive as we ponder what we spend our time doing. Where are our hearts. The scriptures teach that the love of money is the root of all evil. When we place our hearts anywhere but on the Love of God we waste our focus and our lives. As we learn to let go of ambition and the things of this world, we prepare our hearts to be open to God and the things of heaven. By having this kind of Godly focus we also end up serving and loving each other while forming meaningful bonds.
This week I am going to be at a funeral of a man who was on hospice as well as a US Navy veteran. In hearing of his love for family I was moved. He and his wife had a tradition of giving each other the same candies each year for their birthdays ang going out to diner. As he was not able to leave the house he had others buy the candies for him and people from our hospice company helped them share a dinner date. This man had spent a life of dedication to others. This is a fulfilment of Jesus’ second great commandment.
We can’t wait until the end of our life to start placing our focus on what is important. We must begin now. We can exert and develop our faith in God. We can learn to trust him and then, with his help, do everything in our power to live his Gospel. With this focus he can mold us in his image.
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit.Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:I invite you to sit in silence feeling being patient for your own faults and trials.
Meditate and Visualize Positive Change in Your Life:Implement the kind of change you want to see in your life. Length, Intensity, Modality, Freshness, Conclusion:2 People who have dedicated artistic talent to help move the podcast along. Schedule Christianmeditationpodcast.com/contact
Patreon.com/Christianmeditationpodcast
Final Question: What is some specific thing that you want to place more focus on in your life?
Final thought -Faith in God is not a single act but a principle of power. It is lived in a life of trust in Him and concerted focus. As we have faith in God, we can then put Him first in our lives. In the coming days, keep this thought in your mind. Allow it to guide you. Accept His guidance of your focus. God can heal us of sin and all suffering and guide our path to lay up in store treasure in heaven. Where are hearts are, there is our treasure. May our treasure always be God and His glory.
Bible verse for meditation:KJV 30 And Jesus answering said, A certain man went down from Jerusalem to Jericho, and fell among thieves, which stripped him of his raiment, and wounded him, and departed, leaving him half dead.31 And by chance there came down a certain priest that way: and when he saw him, he passed by on the other side.32 And likewise a Levite, when he was at the place, came and looked on him, and passed by on the other side.33 But a certain Samaritan, as he journeyed, came where he was: and when he saw him, he had compassion on him,34 And went to him, and bound up his wounds, pouring in oil and wine, and set him on his own beast, and brought him to an inn, and took care of him.35 And on the morrow when he departed, he took out two pence, and gave them to the host, and said unto him, Take care of him; and whatsoever thou spendest more, when I come again, I will repay thee.36 Which now of these three, thinkest thou, was neighbour unto him that fell among the thieves?37 And he said, He that shewed mercy on him. Then said Jesus unto him, Go, and do thou likewise.
What does this scripture mean to you?Has it had a different effect this reading as compared to times past?How does this scripture make you feel?
Continue breathing deeply as you ponder this meaning.
Meditation on scripture / bible verse meditation:
This scripture is known as the story of the good Sameritain. In the verses that are right before it. There is a lawyer tempting Jesus asking what he has to do to inherit the earth. He states to Jesus the same that he had heart Jesus tell others were the two greatest commandments: “Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy strength, and with all thy mind; and thy neighbour as thyself.” Jesus answers saying, this do, and thou shalt live. To justify himself the man continues by asking who his neighbor is. Jesus’ response was even more meaningful because of the long-standing relationships between the Samaritans and the Jews that we talked to in episode 63.
When I read this scripture I think about how amazing this level of care and love is. It both reassures me of how we can care for each other but I also realize how profoundly I don’t live up to what Jesus is really asking. It is hard to truly devote ourselves so fully to every person who could be considered our neighbor. On the flip side, it is amazing to be so well cared for. I imagine that this is what heaven would feel like. Often when we think of Heaven we consider that it will be filled with people who will be willing to serve each other so purely. Jesus taught that the The Kingdom of Heaven is brought to earth by heavenly actions inspired by the Love of God. As we love God and each other we bring. When we place self righteousness, fear, or anything else above Love, we truly are not living the way of the kingdom of heaven.
May this story inspire us to recommit to each other that we will serve and love each other as well as to love and serve God.
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit.Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:I invite you to sit in silence feeling being patient for your own faults and trials.
Meditate and Visualize Positive Change in Your Life:Implement the kind of change you want to see in your life. Length, Intensity, Modality, Freshness,
Conclusion:Thanks to Patrons I got a craft cutter to be able to make T-shirts, bookmarks, and sticker etc. for Patrons in the future. Patrons: Alana, Cristina, Drew, Katherine, Kay, Lindsay, M, Michelle, Paula, Rebecca, Ron, Sandy, Thomas, Tommy, Yvette, and Zack. Your donations help pay for hosting and for fun projects that will help spread the message of peace that comes from God’s word.
Dani - Designing the logo.Alana - Lettering
Patreon.com/ChristianmeditationpodcastT-Shirt, stickers, interests you.
Final Question: Who is your neighbor? Try to put deep thought into it. Who is your neighbor?
Final thought -I hope that God blesses you. I was thinking about the hours I spend on this podcast. My former economics mind got curious and I added up the opportunity cost. I spend several hours each episode for over a year which adds up to nearly 10 thousand dollars. I then divide that by the number of downloads it means that for each listener It costs me less than a dolar to reach you. Compared to the good samaritan story that return on investment is pretty amazing. It warmed my heart to know that I could be a small blessing in your life. Just as the traveling man who has fallen by the road each of us have struggles at times. I pray that the healing balm of God’s love and His word will heal your heart. It is the hard times that allow the greatest blessings in service and will yield the greatest improvements in us. May we be thankful to God for them.
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Bible verse for meditation:
1 Corinthians 15:9-11
KJV9 For I am the least of the apostles, that am not meet to be called an apostle, because I persecuted the church of God.10 But by the grace of God I am what I am: and his grace which was bestowed upon me was not in vain; but I laboured more abundantly than they all: yet not I, but the grace of God which was with me.11 Therefore whether it were I or they, so we preach, and so ye believed. NABRE9 For I am the least of the apostles, not fit to be called an apostle, because I persecuted the church of God. 10 But by the grace of God I am what I am, and his grace to me has not been ineffective. Indeed, I have toiled harder than all of them; not I, however, but the grace of God [that is] with me. 11 Therefore, whether it be I or they, so we preach and so you believed.
What does this scripture mean to you?Has it had a different effect this reading as compared to times past?How does this scripture make you feel?
Continue breathing deeply as you ponder this meaning.
Meditation on scripture / bible verse meditation:
This scripture is made more interested considering that the most prolific human writer for the New Testament was Paul, yet here he called himself the least of the apostles and not even fit to be called apostles. This is not because he doesn’t believe in his own call. When Paul contends with other people who claim to be apostles without having been called, he declares his call and defends it. The sentiment he expresses here is something I think we all feel at times. He is expressing his awareness of his own human failings while also recognizing the power of God.
As I have mentioned before I am a hospital chaplain. Part of my work involves visiting people in the hospital during the last moments of life. This week I visited a woman who was dying and had no visible consciousness. Her large catholic family was silently gathered around the bed. Their grieving was complicated by the fact that this woman was relatively young but she was dying because of complications from a life of drug abuse. I stood by her bedside gently stroking her arm and consoling the family regarding God’s sovereignty and that we can never know the hearts of others regarding their faith.
As I looked down on her to pray. I saw her shaved head from where they had attempted life saving surgery that did not work and saw her face shrouded in the veil of death. This common thought returned: that could easily have been me in that bed. I haven’t used drugs but none of us are impenetrable from the effects of sin. I could have made other choices in my life. By the grace of God I am what I am. And now I hope that her life blesses you with this insight and by the grace of God she is what she is.
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit.Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:I invite you to sit in silence feeling being patient for your own faults and trials.
Meditate and Visualize Positive Change in Your Life:Implement the kind of change you want to see in your life. Length, Intensity, Modality, Freshness, Conclusion:2 People who have dedicated artistic talent to help move the podcast along. Schedule Christianmeditationpodcast.com/contact
Patreon.com/Christianmeditationpodcast
Final Question: What could you do in your life to search for God with all your heart.
Final thought -The doors of life swing on small hinges. Not only have choices in your life brought you to where you are, more importantly the choices you make today tomorrow and the next day will greatly influence your tomorrow. As we yield to God through faith He can make far more of our lives than we can. This day resolve to allow God to change your life. It may require large decisions or many small ones but I know that if we follow him and allow him to Guide us we will see him work miracles in our lives.
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Jeremiah 29:11-13Jeremiah 29:11-13
NRSV11 For surely I know the plans I have for you, says the Lord, plans for your welfare and not for harm, to give you a future with hope. 12 Then when you call upon me and come and pray to me, I will hear you. 13 When you search for me, you will find me; if you seek me with all your heart, ESV11 For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans for welfare[b] and not for evil, to give you a future and a hope. 12 Then you will call upon me and come and pray to me, and I will hear you. 13 You will seek me and find me, when you seek me with all your heart.
What does this scripture mean to you?Has it had a different effect this reading as compared to times past?How does this scripture make you feel?
Continue breathing deeply as you ponder this meaning.
Meditation on scripture / bible verse meditation:
Normally I don’t get too heavy into heavy into history in this podcast but I feel that this is really important for a metaphor for our time. During the time of the Old Testament God warned the people to repent or they would be overthrown. The didn’t listen and paid the consequences. At that time the people of Israel were divided into the northern and the southern Kingdom. The northern Kingdom retained the name of Israel and the Southern Kingdom retained the name of its principle tribe of Judah. Jeremiah was a prophet to the Southern Kingdom. Both the North and the South Kingdoms had prophets foretelling their demise. For the northern Kingdom this happened around 721 BC. They never regained their status as the people of God. Because their religious practice and culture had been mixed with other nations they were regarded very lowly by the Jews at the time of Jesus. One name used to represent a subset of these people during the time of Jesus was Samaritans who Jesus taught and spoke of.
In the time of Jeremiah the Southern Kingdom had been overthrown also. They had been brought into Babylon but here God lays out a way for them to return. A way for them to remain the people of God. That way is to search for him with all their heart. Jeremiah tells them that in 70 years the Lord will deliver them back out of Babylon. Other parts of the Old Testament show how the people were able to return after a time. For you and I in our time God has continued to tell us how to be saved by him. He has taught us how to overcome death and sin. The answer is the same. Search for Him will all our heart. When Jehovah told this to Jeremiah to tell to the people, he knew that he would come and die for us all. He knew that we stood no chance to be redeemed through the Law. Our only hope is to search for Him. May we humble our hearts and search for God will all our hearts.
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit.Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:I invite you to sit in silence feeling being patient for your own faults and trials.
Meditate and Visualize Positive Change in Your Life:Implement the kind of change you want to see in your life. Length, Intensity, Modality, Freshness, Conclusion:2 People who have dedicated artistic talent to help move the podcast along. Schedule Christianmeditationpodcast.com/contact
Patreon.com/Christianmeditationpodcast
Final Question: What could you do in your life to search for God with all your heart.
Final thought -We can be delivered only by seeking God. One powerful way to do that is to engage in meaningful prayer. I make this podcast to assist you and me in maintaining a prayerful and God centered mindset but it is not enough to listen and feel calm. We need to search for Him through deep and meaningful prayer. My greatest desire with this podcast is that it inspires each of us to do just that. And to develop a relationship with God that drives us ever closer to him, a relationships that constantly strengthens our faith and guides our actions to abide by what He has taught.
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Bible verse for meditation:
Psalms 34:3-9
KJV3 O magnify the Lord with me, and let us exalt his name together.4 I sought the Lord, and he heard me, and delivered me from all my fears.5 They looked unto him, and were lightened: and their faces were not ashamed.6 This poor man cried, and the Lord heard him, and saved him out of all his troubles.7 The angel of the Lord encampeth round about them that fear him, and delivereth them.8 O taste and see that the Lord is good: blessed is the man that trusteth in him.9 O fear the Lord, ye his saints: for there is no want to them that fear him. ESV3 Oh, magnify the Lord with me,and let us exalt his name together!4 I sought the Lord, and he answered meand delivered me from all my fears.5 Those who look to him are radiant, and their faces shall never be ashamed.6 This poor man cried, and the Lord heard him and saved him out of all his troubles.7 The angel of the Lord encampsaround those who fear him, and delivers them.8 Oh, taste and see that the Lord is good!Blessed is the man who takes refuge in him!9 Oh, fear the Lord, you his saints,for those who fear him have no lack!
What does this scripture mean to you?Has it had a different effect this reading as compared to times past?How does this scripture make you feel?
Continue breathing deeply as you ponder this meaning.
Meditation on scripture / bible verse meditation:
The language of this scripture is interesting. The thing that magnifies is the psalmist and us by extension. This theology is interesting. If we consider that God is the source of light and we also consider what a magnifying glass does with regards to light. When I was a kid I was always interested in the the effects that a magnifying glass has when used to focus the light of the sun. I would burn leaves and be surprised how intense the focused beam of sun can be. Although sunlight surrounded me the small lens focused that light to perform an amazing thing. The magnifying glass doesn't make the light nor does it carry the energy of the light. With that said it must be pointed in the right direction. The lens must be directed with conscious effort.
In a way our seeking the Lord can be compared to us seeking sunlight. The light of God fill all things. As we seek the Lord then we are not really discovering the light but learning how to recognize it and focus it. We are like sunflowers that turn their faces toward the sun. We can magnify the power of God’s light to bless our lives and the lives of others.
The unique difference between the sun and God’s light is that God’s light seeks us and represents the will of God. In other words, as it says here, when we seek the Lord, he brings his light to find us. As we learn to turn ourselves and our actions to face His light, we feel His answers to our prayers. He will always supply what we truly need.
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit.Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:I invite you to sit in silence feeling being patient for your own faults and trials.
Meditate and Visualize Positive Change in Your Life:Implement the kind of change you want to see in your life. Length, Intensity, Modality, Freshness, Conclusion:2 People who have dedicated artistic talent to help move the podcast along. Schedule Christianmeditationpodcast.com/contact
Patreon.com/Christianmeditationpodcast
Final Question: What is an action you can take in your life to focus the light of God?
Final thought -During our efforts to find and be directed by the light of God, we are blessed. This scripture compares these blessings to a good taste. God certainly can and will bless our efforts to magnify His light. In addition to this is says that the Angel of the Lord will encamp around us to assist in these efforts. May God continue to guide us as we live in his light.
Bible verse for meditation:
John 8:33-36
NABRE
33 They answered him, “We are Abraham’s descendants and have never been slaves of anyone. How can you say that we shall be set free?”
34 Jesus replied, “Very truly I tell you, everyone who sins is a slave to sin.
35 Now a slave has no permanent place in the family, but a son belongs to it forever.
36 So if the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed.
NIV
33 They answered him, “We are Abraham’s descendants and have never been slaves of anyone. How can you say that we shall be set free?”
34 Jesus replied, “Very truly I tell you, everyone who sins is a slave to sin.
35 Now a slave has no permanent place in the family, but a son belongs to it forever.
36 So if the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed.
What does this scripture mean to you?
Has it had a different effect this reading as compared to times past?
How does this scripture make you feel?
Continue breathing deeply as you ponder this meaning.
Meditation on scripture / bible verse meditation:
For the first time I feel inspired to make this episode a continuation of last weeks discussion. As a short refresher, Jesus was talking to the covenant people of israel. As he was talking with them he told them that being his true0 disciple and following him will give them truth which will set them free.
It is interesting to note that their first response was that they had never been slaves and they needed no freedom more than they had. Here I think is another similarity to our lives. I have noticed that we as human beings, alternate between catastrophe and complacence. We either feel we are having the worst day ever or we blow it off and don’t think much of it. Sometimes we are shown our weakness and we are compelled to receive God’s help and at others we feel that we are doing pretty good all by ourselves, thank you very much.
These people seem to be feeling the second way. When we fail to see our servitude of sin, we fail to see the miracle of God. As we preach, read, learn, and praise God for his grace we can be tempted to feel that we have always been free or that sin was never much of a difficult thing to overcome to begin with. We may find ourselves metaphorically thinking that we have never really been slave to sin. Jesus teaches us that this is not true. We cannot become what He wants of us unless we are willing to completely abandon our own complacence and feel his love fill us and change us.
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit.
Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:
I invite you to sit in silence feeling being patient for your own faults and trials.
Meditate and Visualize Positive Change in Your Life:
Implement the kind of change you want to see in your life.
Length, Intensity, Modality, Freshness,
Conclusion:
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Final Question: What can you do in your life to live as a child of God this week?
Final thought -
How is it that sin causes us to be in servitude.
We may feel that it is enough to serve God and try to be good but that won’t do. He wants all of us. He wants us fully committed as a son or daughter. We can become joint heirs with Christ only if we are willing to take up the role of Children of God’s covenant. We cannot hope to keep one foot in Babalon and work a part-time servant for Jesus we must give ourselves up and truly become children of God.
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Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation:
Set this moment apart in your mind for preparing to receive God’s word. As you prepare you become aware of all your body. To become aware of your body allows you to become aware of any distractions in your body that prevent you from opening up to connect to God and receiving his answer. As you feel your body allow any distraction and tention to release. As you do this, you can feel the tension leaving your body and calmness replaces it. What a great blessing from God that this moment allows you the freedom to take slow and calming breaths.
Bible verse for meditation:
John 8:28-32
ESV28 So Jesus said to them, “When you have lifted up the Son of Man, then you will know that I am he, and that I do nothing on my own authority, but speak just as the Father taught me. 29 And he who sent me is with me. He has not left me alone, for I always do the things that are pleasing to him.” 30 As he was saying these things, many believed in him.31 So Jesus said to the Jews who had believed him, “If you abide in my word, you are truly my disciples, 32 and you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.”
KJV28 Then said Jesus unto them, When ye have lifted up the Son of man, then shall ye know that I am he, and that I do nothing of myself; but as my Father hath taught me, I speak these things.29 And he that sent me is with me: the Father hath not left me alone; for I do always those things that please him.30 As he spake these words, many believed on him.31 Then said Jesus to those Jews which believed on him, If ye continue in my word, then are ye my disciples indeed;32 And ye shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free.
the similarities and differences in the translations presented.
What does this scripture mean to you?Has it had a different effect this reading as compared to times past?How does this scripture make you feel?
Continue breathing deeply as you ponder this meaning.
Meditation on scripture / bible verse meditation:
During this week we in the US celebrated Independence Day. As many other countries, we celebrate independence and freedom. As humans we have various ideologies and regional interests but one need that we all share is the need for truth. This scripture points out the greatest truth of all. Our need for God. In the previous verses of this scripture Jesus was testifying of his actions and how he was following the Father. Not only this but he prophesied his death on the Cross. When the people heard his witness, they began to believe Him. Jesus teaches them that those who believe should follow, and those that follow are disciples. These disciples who believe and follow what Jesus says are those who will know the truth, which is that his sacrifice overcame death and hell. He teaches what frees us. It is faith that leads to following Him. This is by far the greatest need we have to be freed.
In this world many millions of people have had their freedoms taken. Many people suffer and have suffered. Many people receive severe punishments for following their conscience. As tragic as this is, Jesus teaches that the far greater tragedy is when we fail to be freed by Jesus, from sin. In Matthew 10:28 Jesus teaches that we don’t need to fear other people who do not stand as our Judge in this life, but to recognize this role pertains to God. It is His will that carries eternal judgement and reward beyond our deserving. Ours is to to the best we can with what we have.
Perhaps then an argument could be made that the greatest Independence Day we could possibly celebrate would be Easter Sunday where Jesus provided all of us the opportunity to be eternally free. As we celebrate freedoms (or perhaps contemplate how they are restricted for us) we can draw connections to the greatest freedom we enjoy as a result of Jesus: Freedom to live with Him in heaven.
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit.Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:I invite you to sit in silence feeling being patient for your own faults and trials.
Meditate and Visualize Positive Change in Your Life:Implement the kind of change you want to see in your life. Length, Intensity, Modality, Freshness, Conclusion:Each week. Christianmeditationpodcast.com/contact
Website ChristianMeditationPodcast.com contact. Patreon.com/Christianmeditationpodcast
Final Question: What is a way that you can increase your faith in God?
Final thought -I want to present my cautions on the way I cover individual scriptures. I hope it is clear that my goal is not to perform deep analysis on the scripture and provide the only lesson from it. My goal is to provide insights which I believe are true and are represented in the scripture. Equally important lessons could be taught from this scripture about honesty, faith, humility, absolute truth, and various other doctrinal points. For example, the concept of freedom here is parallel to other concepts that we recognize in other spheres of life. In this way I hope that God can use this message to draw us ever closer to his loving Spirit. As we humbly submit to Him, he shows us that which is greatest importance and has the most power over us eternally. Ultimately, His grace is sufficient for us. Let us all celebrate in Christ together. He overcame death and hell so that we, through faith, can receive His greatest blessings.
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Bible verse for meditation:
Matthew 23:25-27
NIV25 “Woe to you, teachers of the law and Pharisees, you hypocrites! You clean the outside of the cup and dish, but inside they are full of greed and self-indulgence. 26 Blind Pharisee! First clean the inside of the cup and dish, and then the outside also will be clean.27 “Woe to you, teachers of the law and Pharisees, you hypocrites! You are like whitewashed tombs, which look beautiful on the outside but on the inside are full of the bones of the dead and everything unclean. 28 In the same way, on the outside you appear to people as righteous but on the inside you are full of hypocrisy and wickedness.
Kjv25 Woe unto you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! for ye make clean the outside of the cup and of the platter, but within they are full of extortion and excess.26 Thou blind Pharisee, cleanse first that which is within the cup and platter, that the outside of them may be clean also.27 Woe unto you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! for ye are like unto whited sepulchres, which indeed appear beautiful outward, but are within full of dead men's bones, and of all uncleanness.
the similarities and differences in the translations presented.
What does this scripture mean to you?Has it had a different effect this reading as compared to times past?How does this scripture make you feel?
Continue breathing deeply as you ponder this meaning.
Meditation on scripture / bible verse meditation:
This scripture was chosen by my daughter. Why did this scripture stick out to you?
When we read about those who persecuted Jesus it becomes painfully obvious how they missed the mark. They didn't believe him. Even those Pharisees who did believe often didn’t truly trust in him. The reason that these verses were included in the Scripture is not just to show us how in error these people were so many years ago, but for us to examine our hearts. We have much more in common with these people that we would care to admit most of the time. Do we truly trust God? Do we allow him to cleanse us by believing in his gracious goodness and approaching him as the way. Early Christians, before they were called Christians, would refer to the community of Christians as “the way” in reference to what Jesus asks from us.
We can only have our inner cup cleaned by Jesus. If we spend our whole lives only focusing on how to make ourselves look clean, but never truly invite God into our hearts to clean the inside of our cup then we will always have a contaminated cup that results in sickness and disease.
This is not to say that we should attempt to be the same as the world. We should remember what God has asked of those who follow him. As we accept our need for God to help clean our hearts and minds, then we are ready to continually work and improve. Ultimately a Gospel of Jesus Christ without a realization of sin and the forgiveness of that sin will leave our hearts full of dirt.
The time we spend in God can be in gratitude for his blessings and grace, and also in repentance for the errors that we acknowledge before him and determine to improve with His help. This scripture teaches that as we clean this inner cup, the outer cup gets cleaned in the process.
Meditation of Prayer:Pray as directed by the Spirit.Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:I invite you to sit in silence feeling being patient for your own faults and trials.
Meditate and Visualize Positive Change in Your Life:Implement the kind of change you want to see in your life. Length, Intensity, Modality, Freshness, Conclusion:Each week. Christianmeditationpodcast.com/contact
Website ChristianMeditationPodcast.com contact. Patreon.com/Christianmeditationpodcast
Final Question: What is a way that you can increase your faith in God?
Final thought -Even these people who put such trust in God and maintained that hope throughout life, did not receive the payout in this life. Think about that for a moment. These prophets were so close to receiving God’s word and many heard his voice directly and saw visions. Yet even they went to their graves without perfect understanding but they had full trust, and hope that God would be faithful. And he was for them and he will be for you and me if we have faith in Him. We can have hope that he will guide us, redeem us, and justify us, allowing us into the Kingdom of Heaven.
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KJV1 Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen.2 For by it the elders obtained a good report.3 Through faith we understand that the worlds were framed by the word of God, so that things which are seen were not made of things which do appear.13 These all died in faith, not having received the promises, but having seen them afar off, and were persuaded of them, and embraced them, and confessed that they were strangers and pilgrims on the earth.14 For they that say such things declare plainly that they seek a country.15 And truly, if they had been mindful of that country from whence they came out, they might have had opportunity to have returned.16 But now they desire a better country, that is, an heavenly: wherefore God is not ashamed to be called their God: for he hath prepared for them a city.
NRSV1 Now faith is the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen. 2 Indeed, by faith our ancestors received approval. 3 By faith we understand that the worlds were prepared by the word of God, so that what is seen was made from things that are not visible.13 All of these died in faith without having received the promises, but from a distance they saw and greeted them. They confessed that they were strangers and foreigners on the earth, 14 for people who speak in this way make it clear that they are seeking a homeland. 15 If they had been thinking of the land that they had left behind, they would have had opportunity to return. 16 But as it is, they desire a better country, that is, a heavenly one. Therefore God is not ashamed to be called their God; indeed, he has prepared a city for them.
Notice the similarities and differences in the translations presented.
What does this scripture mean to you?Has it had a different effect this reading as compared to times past?How does this scripture make you feel?
Continue breathing deeply as you ponder this meaning.
Meditation on scripture / bible verse meditation:
I think at times we confuse the power of faith with faith itself. I love this scripture because it demonstrates faith to be what it is. It is not a perfect knowledge of something. It is not getting what we want. It is not redemption and salvation. Those things are the power that God has given to faith, but faith itself is just the hope that we as believers hold in the God, his power and word. If we become uncomfortable with faith and instead desire only sure knowledge, we will never be able to hang on to faith.
Think for a moment. How important is perfect understanding in your relationship with God?
If we become overly obsessed with assurances and not concerned enough with hope then we will miss what Paul teaches us here. He lays out stories from the prophets and shows how they moved forward, not understanding the end. It is easy for us to look back on their stories as bedrock, but most of the time the prophets walked by faith, many times they had no idea what would come text. They had one step to take and they trusted God and had hope in His guidance.
Take the next few moments and take stock of the state of your faith. As your faith grows and matures you will gain hope in all the different aspects of what He teaches us in scripture but if you are finding yourself in doubt of what you truly have faith in. I suggest that you ask God to strengthen your faith and hope in his role as your savior. Once we trust that he will care for us, we are prepared to become what he wants us to become. We become ready to change through his spirit, which is part of the power of God through faith. If we find ourselves in need of deeper fulfillment, it comes through trusting God to help us become more than we are today. If we don’t want to always be only what we have been, we must be willing to become something more.
Meditation of Prayer:Pray as directed by the Spirit.Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:I invite you to sit in silence feeling being patient for your own faults and trials.
Meditate and Visualize Positive Change in Your Life:Implement the kind of change you want to see in your life. Length, Intensity, Modality, Freshness, Conclusion:Each week. Christianmeditationpodcast.com/contact
Website ChristianMeditationPodcast.com contact. Patreon.com/Christianmeditationpodcast
Final Question: What is a way that you can increase your faith in God?
Final thought -Even these people who put such trust in God and maintained that hope throughout life, did not receive the payout in this life. Think about that for a moment. These prophets were so close to receiving God’s word and many heard his voice directly and saw visions. Yet even they went to their graves without perfect understanding but they had full trust, and hope that God would be faithful. And he was for them and he will be for you and me if we have faith in Him. We can have hope that he will guide us, redeem us, and justify us, allowing us into the Kingdom of Heaven.
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NRSV
12 When your days are fulfilled and you lie down with your ancestors, I will raise up your offspring after you, who shall come forth from your body, and I will establish his kingdom. 13 He shall build a house for my name, and I will establish the throne of his kingdom forever. 14 I will be a father to him, and he shall be a son to me. When he commits iniquity, I will punish him with a rod such as mortals use, with blows inflicted by human beings. 15 But I will not take my steadfast love from him, as I took it from Saul, whom I put away from before you. 16 Your house and your kingdom shall be made sure forever before me; your throne shall be established forever.
NIV
12 When your days are over and you rest with your ancestors, I will raise up your offspring to succeed you, your own flesh and blood, and I will establish his kingdom. 13 He is the one who will build a house for my Name, and I will establish the throne of his kingdom forever. 14 I will be his father, and he will be my son. When he does wrong, I will punish him with a rod wielded by men, with floggings inflicted by human hands. 5 But my love will never be taken away from him, as I took it away from Saul, whom I removed from before you. 16 Your house and your kingdom will endure forever before me; your throne will be established forever.’”
Notice the similarities and differences in the translations presented.
What does this scripture mean to you?Has it had a different effect this reading as compared to times past?How does this scripture make you feel?
Continue breathing deeply as you ponder this meaning.
Meditation on scripture / bible verse meditation:
I want to share a short experience I had last week. One of the assignments I have in the Navy is with the Military Funeral Honors Detail. In connection to this detail I go the the graveside of Navy veterans who have recently died. There is a playing of taps and we fold and present the American flag. Well last week I arrived early to a funeral. The funeral was at the same cemetery where my father had been buried over thirty years ago. As I approached the grave I realized that the grave of this veteran was within sight of my father’s grave. As I approached the spot, the mortuary company had already set up a speaker and some music was softly playing. As I walked closer I recognized the hymn as “Oh My Father.” In this moment I felt closer to my earthly father than I have in many years.
Today we celebrate Father’s Day in the United States. I know a good number of you are outside of the US but I find this message is very applicable to everyone.
As I reflect on the vacuum that was left by the death of this great man, I realize that each person has a unique and different experience with their earthly parents. Some people have tragic relationships with their fathers, or no relationship. It is more than coincidence that our personal history with our earthly fathers can have a dramatic influence on how we perceive our Heavenly Father. People with loving and connected relationships to their fathers seem to have an easier time understanding God the Father as A loving father. For those of us who did not grow up in the presence of a loving father, this can be somewhat harder. Regardless, we can all benefit from some focused thought on the difference between our earthly relationships and our relationship to God.
Although I think it is a natural human response to experience this connection between our earthly and heavenly parents, it is not the most accurate comparison. Since I am a father now I am aware of the deep divide between the father I want to be and who I am. Even the best fathers are imperfect and can disappoint at times, whereas God is perfect. His love for us is also perfect. Although we face nearly constant trials and opportunities for growth in this life, God loves us perfectly. It is because of this perfect love that he helps us grow by helping us overcoming our trials.
Take a few moments now and consider if you connect your feelings for your earthly father and your heavenly father. Open your heart to the idea that God is a perfect and loving eternal Father and loves you beyond what you can imagine.
Meditation of Prayer:Pray as directed by the Spirit.Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:I invite you to sit in silence feeling being patient for your own faults and trials.
Meditate and Visualize Positive Change in Your Life:Implement the kind of change you want to see in your life. Length, Intensity, Modality, Freshness, Conclusion:Each week. Christianmeditationpodcast.com/contact
Website ChristianMeditationPodcast.com contact. Patreon.com/Christianmeditationpodcast
Final Question: How is your relationship with God the Father different compared to your relationship with your Earthly Father.
Final thought -I am older now than my Father was when he died. When I was young I could only see how I was missing out by not having a father. As I watch my children grow and enjoy them, I realize that my father was also deprived of the opportunity to be with his children. We all have our own life situations to go through and none are the same. Some of the greatest love on earth is the love that dedicated parents can feel toward their children. If you have missed out on a good relationship with your father.
If you find it difficult to connect to God due to an earthly connection. Take some time to refocus on who God is, and spend time with Him in prayer and meditation specifically regarding this issue. I know that as we continue to open our hearts up to His love, our relationship with Him as well as our earthly relationships can improve.
Outline: Relaxation, Reading, Meditation, Prayer, Contemplation, Visualization
If you enjoy this meditation I ask you to subscribe on Apple Podcasts or whatever podcast app you prefer. You can find links at my website ChristianMeditationPodcast.com.
Get into a place where you can sit comfortably and uninterrupted for 20 minutes. If you feel comfortable to do so, I invite you to close your eyes.
Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation:Consider what is written on the tablet of your heart.
Bible verse for meditation:
Proverbs 3:3-6
ESV3 Let not steadfast love and faithfulness forsake you; bind them around your neck; write them on the tablet of your heart.4 So you will find favor and good success in the sight of God and man.5 Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding.6 In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths.
NABREDo not let love and fidelity forsake you; bind them around your neck; write them on the tablet of your heart.4 Then will you win favor and esteem before God and human beings.5 Trust in the Lord with all your heart, on your own intelligence do not rely;6 In all your ways be mindful of him, and he will make straight your paths.
Notice the similarities and differences in the translations presented.
What does this scripture mean to you?Has it had a different effect this reading as compared to times past?How does this scripture make you feel?
Continue breathing deeply as you ponder this meaning.
Meditation on scripture / bible verse meditation:
This scripture was suggested By one of my Patreon supporters named Sandy. Thank you for that. The proverbs are often known for having isolated snippets of wisdom. Many times we isolate sections but I really like how these verses go together. Let not love and faithfulness forsake you. This is something many people strive for most of their lives. Many times we feel lonely, and full of fear. This scripture answers a question of how to not let love forsake us. The way we do that is in the verses that follow. We are to bind love around our neck and to write it on the tablets of our hearts. It is not enough to simply want others to love us or to want a certain feeling. We need to imagine that, if we have hearts of stone, that God will replace them with hearts of flesh as it talks about in Ezekiel 32:26. In 2 Corinthians 3:3 where paul talks about us as believers be the letter of Christ that is written on the fleshy tables of our hearts. When we do this, we find favor with God and everyone else. This represents what it says in luke about Jesus’ years growing up, that he found favor with God and man.
This seems like a great direction to go in but sometimes we don’t know how to do it. The next verse provides an insight in how to do that. This scripture prescribes trusting in the Lord. It is impossible to truly follow Him if we do not trust him. If we are lukewarm followers, we won’t demonstrate the faith we will need. Many times we can get distracted by our own doubts or thoughts. Human intelligence in inherently limited. Having formally studied logic as an undergraduate math major, I have walked along the edges of the powers of human logic. There are things we definitely will never be able to prove or understand. Godel’s incompleteness theorem shows us that.
So what should we do then? Not overly commit to the religion of self importance. When we make intellect more important than anything else it becomes an idol for us to worship and we stop worshiping at the feet of the Almighty God. I hope you receive my intended meaning that logic is valuable and has its place. It's just that we are limited and unable to know everything.
One way we can challenge this is as it says: In everything we do we can be mindful of Him and Acknowledge him. In many meditations we can be distracted to think about nothing or the universe or our own importance. Forms of mindfulness seem to suggest that all we need to do to find peace is to learn a certain skill of focus on ourselves. Ultimately this can help us but scripture teaches that we must be mindful of God at all times and then we will make our paths straight. When we learn to trust him and are mindful and focus on Him, then we will build the faith necessary to follow that path that he has laid out for us.
Meditation of Prayer:Pray as directed by the Spirit.Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:I invite you to sit in silence feeling being patient for your own faults and trials.
Meditate and Visualize Positive Change in Your Life:Implement the kind of change you want to see in your life. Length, Intensity, Modality, Freshness, Conclusion:Each week. Christianmeditationpodcast.com/contact
Question: what joy has God brought you as you have approached him in meditation?
Website ChristianMeditationPodcast.com contact. Patreon.com/Christianmeditationpodcast
Final Question: Whose perspective would you stand the most to gain from understanding and how can you do that?
Final thought - I invite you to spend the rest of today and tomorrow pondering how to write love on the tables of the your heart and to take this message fully into your life. Learning to trust God goes hand in hand with learning to love. You cannot do one without the other. As we learn both, he will direct our paths.
Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation:Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation:Each time you relax you get better at it. You’ll notice as you are able to
Bible verse for meditation:
Romans 14:7-11 NRSV7 We do not live to ourselves, and we do not die to ourselves. 8 If we live, we live to the Lord, and if we die, we die to the Lord; so then, whether we live or whether we die, we are the Lord’s. 9 For to this end Christ died and lived again, so that he might be Lord of both the dead and the living.10 Why do you pass judgment on your brother or sister? Or you, why do you despise your brother or sister? For we will all stand before the judgment seat of God. 11 For it is written,“As I live, says the Lord, every knee shall bow to me, and every tongue shall give praise to God.”12 So then, each of us will be accountable to God
KJV7 For none of us liveth to himself, and no man dieth to himself.8 For whether we live, we live unto the Lord; and whether we die, we die unto the Lord: whether we live therefore, or die, we are the Lord's.9 For to this end Christ both died, and rose, and revived, that he might be Lord both of the dead and living.10 But why dost thou judge thy brother? or why dost thou set at nought thy brother? for we shall all stand before the judgment seat of Christ.11 For it is written, As I live, saith the Lord, every knee shall bow to me, and every tongue shall confess to God.12 So then every one of us shall give account of himself to God.
Notice the similarities and differences in the translations presented.
What does this scripture mean to you?Has it had a different effect this reading as compared to times past?How does this scripture make you feel?
Continue breathing deeply as you ponder this meaning.
Meditation on scripture / bible verse meditation:
Many of the misunderstandings that e have with other people are because we fail to recognize what we have in common, our amazing ability to see the world from only our own perspective. In preparing for this meditation I was doing research for this episode I found a large amount of search results on how to deal with difficult people. It seems that when we have a disagreement with other people we immediately assume that resolving the problem involves us learning to deal with someone who is flawed and is in the wrong. What we often fail to realize is that they are viewing the world from their perspective and we are viewing it from our perspective. Our nature is to see ourselves at the center of focus. When we slow down and begin to imagine how we are all the same before God, we realize that our perspective is not magic or absolute in any way. It is just the perspective we have by default. As Paul says, none of us live to ourselves and none of us die to ourselves. We are not the center of our universe. We are interconnected with other children of God in a way to bless and challenge each other. It is interesting to think that my life may be most meaningful, not for what I do, but for what circumstances I create in other people’s lives that allows them to grow closer to God. I may never change the world in a significant way, but perhaps my life will overlap with someone who will. Each of us are, at the same time invaluable to God, while also we are nothing special. This realization allows for the height of Christian focus. Whether we live or die, we do it unto the Lord. This scripture states quite clearly that this is why Jesus came to earth and died. He is the Savior and God of the living and of the dead. As we begin to realize that our own importance is not how we should evaluate our lives a paradoxical thing happens. We realize that to constantly focus on increasing our own perspective of our own self worth may not be the most satisfying pursuit. Instead we can focus on playing whatever role we can in the God’s great human theater. As we are committed to living for God and living according to our deeply held Christian values, we serve and worship in true and genuine ways. Praise be to God for allowing us to learn from each other and to teach each other, both directly but more often indirectly.
Meditation of Prayer:Pray as directed by the Spirit.Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:I invite you to sit in silence feeling being patient for your own faults and trials.
Meditate and Visualize Positive Change in Your Life:Implement the kind of change you want to see in your life. Length, Intensity, Modality, Freshness, Conclusion:Each week. Christianmeditationpodcast.com/contact
Question: what joy has God brought you as you have approached him in meditation?
Website ChristianMeditationPodcast.com contact. Patreon.com/Christianmeditationpodcast
AlanaChristinaDrewMichelleRon Sandy Thomas TommyYvette
Final Question: Whose perspective would you stand the most to gain from understanding and how can you do that?
Final thought - I have come to believe that, since self esteem does not seem to be represented in the bible that a focus on increasing it, may not be the most fruitful way to gain more happiness in life. This is also borne out in my psychological worldview. The counseling model that I use in my chaplaincy work strongly represents this also. Constant preoccupation about our own self importance is often times counterproductive. What is productive is spending all of our energy in living according to our deeply held values. Allow God’s word to be these values in your life and dedicate all the energy of your soul to living according to His message to you.
Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation:Imagine flying
Bible verse for meditation:NABRE 28 Do you not know? Have you not heard?The Lord is God from of old, creator of the ends of the earth.He does not faint or grow weary, and his knowledge is beyond scrutiny.29 He gives power to the faint, abundant strength to the weak.30 Though young men faint and grow weary, and youths stagger and fall,31 They that hope in the Lord will renew their strength, they will soar on eagles’ wings;They will run and not grow weary, walk and not grow faint.
ESV28 Have you not known? Have you not heard?The Lord is the everlasting God, the Creator of the ends of the earth.He does not faint or grow weary; his understanding is unsearchable.29 He gives power to the faint, and to him who has no might he increases strength.30 Even youths shall faint and be weary, and young men shall fall exhausted;31 but they who wait for the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings like eagles;they shall run and not be weary; they shall walk and not faint
Notice the similarities and differences in the translations presented.
What does this scripture mean to you?Has it had a different effect this reading as compared to times past?How does this scripture make you feel?
Continue breathing deeply as you ponder this meaning.
Meditation on scripture / bible verse meditation:This particular scripture was recommended by a new friend of mine named Sue. I am so glad to cover it because this has often been such a beautiful scripture. Humans have long envied the flight of birds. Through different machines we have gained a perspective of the world as never before. I watched the launch of a shared Mission of NASA and the German Space program. During the launch a camera on the rocket captured the view of the earth as grew ever more distant from the rocket. In a matter of minutes the rocket provided a view of the curvature of the earth and then the air around the rocket grew darker blue and finally black. It is amazing to see such a dramatic change in perspective. We gain a new perspective about our place in the word. Perhaps this is why flight has been so compelling for us as humans. I imagine how amazing it would be to fly as free as an eagle. From that height you could see for miles, distant mountains. High clouds, observing the earth grow small. As I think about this view as well as that from the rocket, I imagine how limited this view is compared to the perspective God has of our earth. This scripture points out that he is the creator of this earth. He observed the foundations of this world and its change over time. Isaiah is careful to point out the vast difference in the powers of God. Despite his role as creator and his ability to see the whole world at once he never tires. Despite this, as humans even in our prime we tire from doing nothing more than moving slowly along the surface of the earth while running, we are not able to move mountains with our strength or fly or any other things. Any truly great things we aspire to are through the power of God. Through his power we can run beyond our own strength and accomplish things that we could never conceive of. To those who have no power he gives power to overcome. He makes the weak mighty and how fortunate we are to have such a creator and such a God.
Meditation of Prayer:Pray as directed by the Spirit.Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:I invite you to sit in silence feeling being patient for your own faults and trials.
Meditate and Visualize Positive Change in Your Life:Implement the kind of change you want to see in your life. Length, Intensity, Modality, Freshness, Conclusion:Each week. Christianmeditationpodcast.com/contact
Question: what joy has God brought you as you have approached him in meditation?
Website ChristianMeditationPodcast.com contact.
Final thought - it is impossible for me to express how surprised I have been by the growth of this podcast. I know so many of you have shared this message. I have heard from your friends and family who have been blessed because you were willing to share. I feel like you all have made this journey with me. You trust me to speak soft words of peace into your ears. Many of you been financially supporting the show at Patreon.com/Christianmeditationpodcast
If you are living through a period of sadness, know this.it will pass. Take the yoke of Jesus upon you. For his yoke is easy and his burden is light. Our best hope for joy in this life is by committing our whole soul to doing what we truly believe that God wants us to. We grow under His faith driven support. And with His glory lighting out way we will continue to walk with him eternally in peace love and joy.
Outline: Relaxation, Reading, Meditation, Prayer, Contemplation, Visualization
If you enjoy this meditation I ask you to subscribe on Apple Podcasts or whatever podcast app you prefer. You can find links at my website ChristianMeditationPodcast.com.
Get into a place where you can sit comfortably and uninterrupted for 20 minutes. If you feel comfortable to do so, I invite you to close your eyes.
Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation:Focus on being encircled by the love of God.
Bible verse for meditation:
KJV
3 The Lord hath done great things for us; whereof we are glad.
4 Turn again our captivity, O Lord, as the streams in the south.
5 They that sow in tears shall reap in joy.
6 He that goeth forth and weepeth, bearing precious seed, shall doubtless come again with rejoicing, bringing his sheaves with him.
NIV
3 The LORD has done great things for us, and we are filled with joy.
4 Restore our fortunes, O LORD, like streams in the Negev.
5 Those who sow in tears will reap with songs of joy.
6He who goes out weeping, carrying seed to sow, will return with songs of joy, carrying sheaves with him.
Notice the similarities and differences in the translations presented.
What does this scripture mean to you?Has it had a different effect this reading as compared to times past?How does this scripture make you feel?
Continue breathing deeply as you ponder this meaning.
Meditation on scripture / bible verse meditation:Today's episode Mark's a year of producing this podcast. I feel as David says here. God has been good to us and we are full of joy. During this first year of the podcast I have heard from so many people expressing deep profound challenges and trials. Horrible sadness brought on Suicide, death, terminal illness, domestic violence, depression, anxiety, financial strain and many other issues. Each of you in your way has reported feeling blessed by these simple recordings. I also feel blessed by them. I am encouraged and strengthened by making this podcast. I am grateful to a God who can take someone of such average ability such as myself and do a marvelous work in the lives od so many thousands of people. There were 15,000 people who listened in April, most of which are through podcasting apps. The podcast has spanned the globe and been downloaded in over 117 countries last I checked a few weeks ago. These countries include Russia, China, Iran, Saudi Arabia, over 15 countries in Africa, Almost every country in Europe and half the countries in South America. I never thought that I had anything to say that would be meaningful to such a wide group of believers. For this reason I focus myself grateful to God to take a lump of clay like me and to bring joy and peace to those who have sowed tears. It is not through what words are contained here but for the relationship that you are developing with God as you study His words and pray directly to Him after stripping away all distractions. If toy heater these words and still find yourself overcome with sadness. If you still are metaphorically planting seeds of tears, know this. God is faithful. He will have your testa grow into mighty trees of faith and glory being filled with joy. Thanks be to God for his everlasting mercy on you and on me.
Meditation of Prayer:Pray as directed by the Spirit.Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:I invite you to sit in silence feeling being patient for your own faults and trials.
Meditate and Visualize Positive Change in Your Life:Implement the kind of change you want to see in your life. Length, Intensity, Modality, Freshness, Conclusion:Each week. Christianmeditationpodcast.com/contact
Question: what joy has God brought you as you have approached him in meditation?
Website ChristianMeditationPodcast.com contact.
Final thought - it is impossible for me to express how surprised I have been by the growth of this podcast. I know so many of you have shared this message. I have heard from your friends and family who have been blessed because you were willing to share. I feel like you all have made this journey with me. You trust me to speak soft words of peace into your ears. Many of you been financially supporting the show at Patreon.com/Christianmeditationpodcast
If you are living through a period of sadness, know this.it will pass. Take the yoke of Jesus upon you. For his yoke is easy and his burden is light. Our best hope for joy in this life is by committing our whole soul to doing what we truly believe that God wants us to. We grow under His faith driven support. And with His glory lighting out way we will continue to walk with him eternally in peace love and joy.
Dedicate this moment to preparing your heart to receive the peace of God. Whatever worries you have put them on hold and allow your mind and your heart to calm.
Bible verse for meditation:
KJV
18 There is no fear in love; but perfect love casteth out fear: because fear hath torment. He that feareth is not made perfect in love.19 We love him, because he first loved us.20 If a man say, I love God, and hateth his brother, he is a liar: for he that loveth not his brother whom he hath seen, how can he love God whom he hath not seen?21 And this commandment have we from him, That he who loveth God love his brother also.
ESV
18 There is no fear in love, but perfect love casts out fear. For fear has to do with punishment, and whoever fears has not been perfected in love. 19 We love because he first loved us. 20 If anyone says, “I love God,” and hates his brother, he is a liar; for he who does not love his brother whom he has seen cannot[a] love God whom he has not seen. 21 And this commandment we have from him: whoever loves God must also love his brother.
Notice the similarities and differences in the translations presented.
What does this scripture mean to you?Has it had a different effect this reading as compared to times past?How does this scripture make you feel?
Continue breathing deeply as you ponder this meaning.
Meditation on scripture / bible verse meditation:
What is fear?
What purpose does fear play in our lives?
It is not enough just to say that fear is bad and that we should not feel it. God has made a place in our hearts for fear. The Old Testament also uses the term fear for how we should consider God. Fear can motivate us but it is the basest of urges. As we mature spiritually we should look far beyond being motivated by fear. Fear does not have the power to change us into what God truly wants from us. He wants us to be full of love. He wants us to love him purely and to love each other with that same passion. If we are motivated by fear then we cannot truly experience that love of God. This scripture states that this type of perfect love casts out fear. Fear and pure love do not coincide in our hearts together. As we learn to experience the pure love of God and His mercy and charity, we become more able to respond to this love instead of fear. This makes fear inert, and useless to us. When we feel fear we can realize that God’s love can cast it out as we pursue him in pure love. If we claim to be in the pure love of God but secretly guard anger or resentment towards others than we reserve a place in our hearts for fear to rule. We can try and justify this foothold for fear but the consequences of it do not go away. As we allow the pure love of God to penetrate our hearts, then we root out these secret dark alleyways where fear thrives. As we allow the love of God to penetrate us it sanitizes and cleanses our hearts of fear. Please join me in prayer.
Meditation of Prayer:Pray as directed by the Spirit.Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:I invite you to sit in silence feeling being patient for your own faults and trials.
Meditate and Visualize Positive Change in Your Life:Implement the kind of change you want to see in your life. Length, Intensity, Modality, Freshness, Conclusion: Weekly Episodes Christianmeditationpodcast.com/contactMerch/PatreonMultiple episodes in a week. Questions: What thing in your life requires more planning?
Website ChristianMeditationPodcast.com contact.
Final thought - Witness about prayer. I hope you will feel this relaxation all through the rest of the day. Have a good rest of the day.
Bible verse for meditation:
KJV
10 Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord, and in the power of his might.11 Put on the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil.12 For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places.
NIV
10 Finally, be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. 11 Put on the full armor of God, so that you can take your stand against the devil’s schemes. 12 For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms.
Notice the similarities and differences in the translations presented.
Continue breathing deeply as you ponder this meaning.
Meditation on scripture / bible verse meditation:
When you picture the Armor of God, what image comes to mind?I’ve seen many different artist renditions of it. The ones that I have seen usually depict the armor of God either as a medieval plate mail or some version of Roman armor from the period of Paul who is writting this. I have enjoyed these images but somehow I think they don’t fully represent the difference of the armor of God. Later in this chapter Paul lays out the elements of the armor of God.
Loins girt or the belt of truthBreastplate of righteousnessFeed fitted with the readiness that comes from the gospel of peace.Shield of faithHelmet of salvationSword of the Spirit which is the word of God
The descriptors that Paul uses do not sound like preparation for war, but for defense and preparation. The only offensive element to this is the sword of the Spirit which is the word of God. Paul states that we are against the powers of darkness. Raging angrily against darkness does not seem like a recipe for success. If we trust in God’s ways we can much more successfully defend ourselves against the darkness that seeks to destroy us. If we try to throw on God’s armor and then act as a vigilante we will not succeed. Our concept of the armor of God is not what will save us. It is God’s.The other day I came across some interesting information. I want to make it clear that this is not what paul was talking about but it adds an interesting metaphor to Paul’s metaphor. Gambison was a type of armor used hundreds of years after Paul wrote this but it helps to change our paradigm. Gambison is a type of armor that is made from taking multiple layers of cloth and creating a thick material that resists sharp objects. It looks more like a big coat than it does armor. However, in terms of its ability to protect the wearer, it is very effective. It is actually much more effective than butted chainmail. It looks fairly useless but it is far from it. I imagine by comparison to worldy armor God’s armor would be like this.In the battles in our lives it is God’s protection, that will come in forms that we do not expect, that will save us and teach us. God’s protection is mainly intended to teach and craft us and help us grow into what he has in mind for us. Look in your life for what the armor of God is.
Meditation of Prayer:Pray as directed by the Spirit.Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:I invite you to sit in silence feeling being patient for your own faults and trials.
Meditate and Visualize Positive Change in Your Life:Implement the kind of change you want to see in your life. Length, Intensity, Modality, Freshness,
Conclusion: Christianmeditationpodcast.com/contact
Questions: What does the armor of God look like in your life and how can you continually put it on?
Website ChristianMeditationPodcast.com contact.
Final thought -
FIND ME ON:
iTunes
ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
Youtube
Pintrist
050 Count the Cost - A Guided Christian Meditation of Luke 14:28-30.
I work as a Hospice Chaplain and having worked as an ICU chaplain in a busy hospital, my purpose in making this podcast is to help you find more peace in your life and to be more open to be changed by the Spirit of God. by using a centuries old form of Christian Meditation called Lectio Divina. It consists of:
Outline: Relaxation, Reading, Meditation, Prayer, Contemplation, Visualization
If you enjoy this meditation I ask you to subscribe on Apple Podcasts or whatever podcast app you prefer. You can find links at my website ChristianMeditationPodcast.com.
Get into a place where you can sit comfortably and uninterrupted for 20 minutes. If you feel comfortable to do so, I invite you to close your eyes.
Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation:Focus on being encircled by the love of God.
Bible verse for meditation:
ESV28 For which of you, desiring to build a tower, does not first sit down and count the cost, whether he has enough to complete it? 29 Otherwise, when he has laid a foundation and is not able to finish, all who see it begin to mock him, 30 saying, ‘This man began to build and was not able to finish.’
NABRE28 Which of you wishing to construct a tower does not first sit down and calculate the cost to see if there is enough for its completion? 29 Otherwise, after laying the foundation and finding himself unable to finish the work the onlookers should laugh at him 30 and say, ‘This one began to build but did not have the resources to finish.’
Notice the similarities and differences in the translations presented.
What does this scripture mean to you?Has it had a different effect this reading as compared to times past?How does this scripture make you feel?
Continue breathing deeply as you ponder this meaning.
Meditation on scripture / bible verse meditation:In this scripture Jesus outlines an important theological thought. If you have listened to this podcast for a while, you have heard many scriptures outlining our dependence on God’s spirit. So much of scripture talks about this. This scripture lays out the need for us to plan. St Augustine said: “Pray like everything depends on God, then work like everything depends on your.” This quote perhaps is an oversimplification but it demonstrates a complex dichotomy. We should plan and work while at the same time trusting in the province of God. This seemingly contradictory command brings humility to us and also enhances our drive to follow. To accomplish great things, we do the best we can. This involves planning on our own and consulting God in prayer. Having faith in God does not excuse our lack of focus in working toward positive goals. We cannot do difficult things without truly pushing ourselves. I hope this comes across the right way, namely in a spirit of humility and gratitude. As you probably know, I graduated from my Masters Program in Religious Studies. I have also completed the requirements for another MA program in MFT. This required a lot of sacrifice and work by me and my family. God can certainly Anything important does.
You will have time to reflect on this in a moment, for now, please join me in prayer.
Meditation of Prayer:Pray as directed by the Spirit.Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:I invite you to sit in silence feeling being patient for your own faults and trials.
Meditate and Visualize Positive Change in Your Life:Implement the kind of change you want to see in your life. Length, Intensity, Modality, Freshness, Conclusion: Weekly Episodes Christianmeditationpodcast.com/contact
Merch/PatreonMultiple episodes in a week. Questions: What thing in your life requires more planning?
Website ChristianMeditationPodcast.com contact.
Final thought - Witness about prayer. I hope you will feel this relaxation all through the rest of the day. Have a good rest of the day.
FIND ME ON
D ME ON:
iTunes
ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
Youtube
Pintrist
Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation:Focus on being encircled by the love of God.
Bible verse for meditation:1 Cor 7KJV22 For he that is called in the Lord, being a servant, is the Lord’s freeman: likewise also he that is called, being free, is Christ’s servant.23 Ye are bought with a price; be not ye the servants of men.24 Brethren, let every man, wherein he is called, therein abide with God.
ESV22 For he who was called in the Lord as a bondservant is a freedman of the Lord. Likewise he who was free when called is a bondservant of Christ. 23 You were bought with a price; do not become bondservants of men. 24 So, brothers, in whatever condition each was called, there let him remain with God.
Notice the similarities and differences in the translations presented.
What does this scripture mean to you?Has it had a different effect this reading as compared to times past?How does this scripture make you feel?
Continue breathing deeply as you ponder this meaning.
Meditation on scripture / bible verse meditation:
Today I was on the battlefield of Fredricksburg, a Civil War of the United States. I stood at the top of a ridge where there is an old wooden building that still has civil war bullets lodged in it from over 150 years ago. The scars of war are still visible. These scars can still afflict us as humans also through tradition or culture. As humans we think we're have more power than we do. Even the worst that we can do cannot control the ultimate destiny of another person. Here Paul recognizes a profound truth. Regardless of our circumstances in this life, through Christ we have freedom of we become His bondservants.Now as we're consider how to apply these concepts we can consider our reliance on God, as well to use all of our earthly power to help each other and to serve God. I think of the battle hymn of the republic which was popular during the civil war
In the beauty of the lilies Christ was born across the sea,With a glory in His bosom that transfigures you and me.As He died to make men holy, let us die* to make men free,While God is marching on.Glory, glory, hallelujah!
Meditation of Prayer:Pray as directed by the Spirit.Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:I invite you to sit in silence feeling being patient for your own faults and trials.
Meditate and Visualize Positive Change in Your Life:Implement the kind of change you want to see in your life. Length, Intensity, Modality, Freshness, Conclusion: Weekly Episodes ContactCHRISTIAN MEDITATION JOURNALKickstarterMerchPatreon
Website ChristianMeditationPodcast.com contact.
Final thought - Witness about prayer. I hope you will feel this relaxation all through the rest of the day. Have a good rest of the day.
Bible verse for meditation:2 Corinthians 4:
6 For God, who commanded the light to shine out of darkness, hath shined in our hearts, to give the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ.7 But we have this treasure in earthen vessels, that the excellency of the power may be of God, and not of us.8 We are troubled on every side, yet not distressed; we are perplexed, but not in despair;9 Persecuted, but not forsaken; cast down, but not destroyed;10 Always bearing about in the body the dying of the Lord Jesus, that the life also of Jesus might be made manifest in our body.
ESV
6 For God, who said, “Let light shine out of darkness,” has shone in our hearts to give the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ.7 But we have this treasure in jars of clay, to show that the surpassing power belongs to God and not to us. 8 We are afflicted in every way, but not crushed; perplexed, but not driven to despair; 9 persecuted, but not forsaken; struck down, but not destroyed; 10 always carrying in the body the death of Jesus, so that the life of Jesus may also be manifested in our bodies
Notice the similarities and differences in the translations presented.
What does this scripture mean to you?Has it had a different effect this reading as compared to times past?How does this scripture make you feel?
Continue breathing deeply as you ponder this meaning.
Meditation on scripture / bible verse meditation: Meditation of Prayer:Pray as directed by the Spirit.Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:I invite you to sit in silence feeling being patient for your own faults and trials.
Meditate and Visualize Positive Change in Your Life:Implement the kind of change you want to see in your life. Length, Intensity, Modality, Freshness, Conclusion: Weekly Episodes ContactCHRISTIAN MEDITATION JOURNALKickstarterMerchPatreon
Website ChristianMeditationPodcast.com contact.
Final thought - Witness about prayer. I hope you will feel this relaxation all through the rest of the day. Have a good rest of the day.
FIND ME ON:
iTunes
ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
Youtube
Pintrist
Bible verse for meditation:NIV4 He will cover you with his feathers, and under his wings you will find refuge; his faithfulness will be your shield and rampart.5 You will not fear the terror of night, nor the arrow that flies by day,
9 If you say, “The Lord is my refuge,” and you make the Most High your dwelling,10 no harm will overtake you, no disaster will come near your tent.11 For he will command his angels concerning you to guard you in all your ways;12 they will lift you up in their hands, so that you will not strike your foot against a stone.13 You will tread on the lion and the cobra; you will trample the great lion and the serpent.
KJV4 He shall cover thee with his feathers, and under his wings shalt thou trust: his truth shall be thy shield and buckler.5 Thou shalt not be afraid for the terror by night; nor for the arrow that flieth by day;
9 Because thou hast made the Lord, which is my refuge, even the most High, thy habitation;10 There shall no evil befall thee, neither shall any plague come nigh thy dwelling.11 For he shall give his angels charge over thee, to keep thee in all thy ways.12 They shall bear thee up in their hands, lest thou dash thy foot against a stone.13 Thou shalt tread upon the lion and adder: the young lion and the dragon shalt thou trample under feet.
Notice the similarities and differences in the translations presented.
What does this scripture mean to you?Has it had a different effect this reading as compared to times past?How does this scripture make you feel?
Continue breathing deeply as you ponder this meaning.
Meditation on scripture / bible verse meditation: Meditation of Prayer:Pray as directed by the Spirit.Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:I invite you to sit in silence feeling being patient for your own faults and trials.
Meditate and Visualize Positive Change in Your Life:Implement the kind of change you want to see in your life. Length, Intensity, Modality, Freshness, Conclusion: Weekly Episodes ContactCHRISTIAN MEDITATION JOURNALKickstarterMerchPatreon
Website ChristianMeditationPodcast.com contact.
Final thought - Witness about prayer. I hope you will feel this relaxation all through the rest of the day. Have a good rest of the day.
This podcast episode is unique in that it is not a normal episode but is intended specifically to demonstrate two other meditation styles. 1) Mantra meditation 2) Mindfulness
I work as a Hospice Chaplain and having worked as an ICU chaplain in a busy hospital, my purpose in making this podcast is to help you find more peace in your life and to be more open to be changed by the Spirit of God. by using a centuries old form of Christian Meditation called Lectio Divina. It consists of:
Outline: Relaxation, Reading, Meditation, Prayer, Contemplation, Visualization
If you enjoy this meditation I ask you to subscribe on Apple Podcasts or whatever podcast app you prefer. You can find links at my website ChristianMeditationPodcast.com.
Get into a place where you can sit comfortably and uninterrupted for 20 minutes. If you feel comfortable to do so, I invite you to close your eyes.
Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation:Feel the air come in and out of your lungs. Don’t force the air in and out of you. If you feel stressed just think of the God and how he has made himself known to you and let Him sooth you as you feel calmed. If you have tense muscles just try and feel the love that God has for you and know that you are on His earth. You are breathing His air into your lungs right now. Know that He loves you and suffered for your sins and he knows you and loves you. On that note we are going to appreciate 1 thing he has done for us.
Bible verse for meditation:KJV2 And, behold, there was a great earthquake: for the angel of the Lord descended from heaven, and came and rolled back the stone from the door, and sat upon it.3 His countenance was like lightning, and his raiment white as snow:4 And for fear of him the keepers did shake, and became as dead men.5 And the angel answered and said unto the women, Fear not ye: for I know that ye seek Jesus, which was crucified.6 He is not here: for he is risen, as he said. Come, see the place where the Lord lay.7 And go quickly, and tell his disciples that he is risen from the dead; and, behold, he goeth before you into Galilee; there shall ye see him: lo, I have told you.
ESV2 And behold, there was a great earthquake, for an angel of the Lord descended from heaven and came and rolled back the stone and sat on it. 3 His appearance was like lightning, and his clothing white as snow. 4 And for fear of him the guards trembled and became like dead men. 5 But the angel said to the women, "Do not be afraid, for I know that you seek Jesus who was crucified. 6 He is not here, for he has risen, as he said. Come, see the place where he lay. 7 Then go quickly and tell his disciples that he has risen from the dead, and behold, he is going before you to Galilee; there you will see him. See, I have told you."
Notice the similarities and differences in the translations presented.
What does this scripture mean to you?Has it had a different effect this reading as compared to times past?How does this scripture make you feel?
Continue breathing deeply as you ponder this meaning.
Meditation on scripture / bible verse meditation: Meditation of Prayer:Pray as directed by the Spirit.Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:I invite you to sit in silence feeling being patient for your own faults and trials.
Meditate and Visualize Positive Change in Your Life:Implement the kind of change you want to see in your life. Length, Intensity, Modality, Freshness, Conclusion: Weekly Episodes ContactCHRISTIAN MEDITATION JOURNALKickstarterMerchPatreon
Website ChristianMeditationPodcast.com contact.
Final thought - Witness about prayer. I hope you will feel this relaxation all through the rest of the day. Have a good rest of the day.
Outline: Relaxation, Reading, Meditation, Prayer, Contemplation, Visualization
If you enjoy this meditation I ask you to subscribe on Apple Podcasts or whatever podcast app you prefer. You can find links at my website ChristianMeditationPodcast.com.
Get into a place where you can sit comfortably and uninterrupted for 20 minutes. If you feel comfortable to do so, I invite you to close your eyes.
Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation:Feel the air come in and out of your lungs. Don’t force the air in and out of you. If you feel stressed just think of the God and how he has made himself known to you and let Him sooth you as you feel calmed. If you have tense muscles just try and feel the love that God has for you and know that you are on His earth. You are breathing His air into your lungs right now. Know that He loves you and suffered for your sins and he knows you and loves you. On that note we are going to appreciate 1 thing he has done for us.
Moment of gratitude: HEAL. Rick Hanson “Hardwiring Happiness.”
Bible verse for meditation:
KJV
6 Humble yourselves therefore under the mighty hand of God, that he may exalt you in due time:7 Casting all your care upon him; for he careth for you.8 Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour:9 Whom resist stedfast in the faith, knowing that the same afflictions are accomplished in your brethren that are in the world.10 But the God of all grace, who hath called us unto his eternal glory by Christ Jesus, after that ye have suffered a while, make you perfect, stablish, strengthen, settle you.11 To him be glory and dominion for ever and ever. Amen.
ESV
6 Humble yourselves, therefore, under the mighty hand of God so that at the proper time he may exalt you, 7 casting all your anxieties on him, because he cares for you. 8 Be sober-minded; be watchful. Your adversary the devil prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour. 9 Resist him, firm in your faith, knowing that the same kinds of suffering are being experienced by your brotherhood throughout the world. 10 And after you have suffered a little while, the God of all grace, who has called you to his eternal glory in Christ, will himself restore, confirm, strengthen, and establish you. 11 To him be the dominion forever and ever. Amen.
Notice the similarities and differences in the translations presented.
What does this scripture mean to you?Has it had a different effect this reading as compared to times past?How does this scripture make you feel?
Continue breathing deeply as you ponder this meaning.
Meditation on scripture / bible verse meditation: Peter teaches to let go of the desire to control others, and to instead attempt to live as Christ would, in Love. I find it important here that Peter connects the ideas of humbleness and anxiety. The world tells us that we need to build our own self importance up and only through that will we be able to cast of insecurity. Here Peter connects the ideas of submitting ourselves to God with casting our anxieties on him. Although this is not the only cause of anxiety it is certainly one source. When we are obsessed with a mindset of comparison we cannot truly approach the Lord in humility. When we want so desperately for others to see us as smart or attractive or worthy, we miss something far more important. God already loves you. He already cares for you, and it is for this reason that we can give all our cares to him. All our anxieties can be unburdened on Him and he is glad to do it. On the Cross he took on him our sin. He quite literally took on him the most anxiety causing thing of all, rebellion to God. In your heart experience what this feels like. What does it feel like when you hear that your anxieties have already been carried by the Lord? What thoughts do you have about that? Soak in this moment of gratitude for a glorious God who loves us enough to save us from all, from our sin, imperfection,We can return to God in an embrace of Love. What is there that can harm us when we realize that our enduring of this life can inspire others to find Him also and when it is all done, we can return to Him in unending peace, love, acceptance, and a complete absence of these earthly anxieties.
Meditation of Prayer:Pray as directed by the Spirit.Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:I invite you to sit in silence feeling being patient for your own faults and trials.
Meditate and Visualize Positive Change in Your Life:Implement the kind of change you want to see in your life. Length, Intensity, Modality, Freshness, Conclusion: Weekly Episodes ContactCHRISTIAN MEDITATION JOURNALKickstarterMerchPatreon
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Final thought - Witness about prayer. I hope you will feel this relaxation all through the rest of the day. Have a good rest of the day.
Feel the air come in and out of your lungs. Don’t force the air in and out of you. If you feel stressed just think of the God and how he has made himself known to you and let Him sooth you as you feel calmed. If you have tense muscles just try and feel the love that God has for you and know that you are on His earth. You are breathing His air into your lungs right now. Know that He loves you and suffered for your sins and he knows you and loves you. On that note we are going to appreciate 1 thing he has done for us.
Moment of gratitude: HEAL. Rick Hanson “Hardwiring Happiness.”
Bible verse for meditation:
James 1:5-8
NABRE
5 But if any of you lacks wisdom,* he should ask God who gives to all generously and ungrudgingly, and he will be given it.c
6 But he should ask in faith, not doubting, for the one who doubts is like a wave of the sea that is driven and tossed about by the wind.d
7 For that person must not suppose that he will receive anything from the Lord,
8 since he is a man of two minds, unstable in all his ways.
KJV
5 If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God, that giveth to all men liberally, and upbraideth not; and it shall be given him.
6 But let him ask in faith, nothing wavering. For he that wavereth is like a wave of the sea driven with the wind and tossed.
7 For let not that man think that he shall receive any thing of the Lord.
8 A double minded man is unstable in all his ways.
Notice the similarities and differences in the translations presented.
What does this scripture mean to you?
Has it had a different effect this reading as compared to times past?
How does this scripture make you feel?
Continue breathing deeply as you ponder this meaning.
Meditation on scripture / bible verse meditation:
Last week’s discussion focused on the verses that immediately preceded these verses. James taught that we should be willing to accept the temptation or trials which we find our lives in. It seems very intentional that one of the most direct scriptures that has us ask understanding from God is prefaced by this idea. Learning from God’s word is not something we can casually stroll by and grab on our rush to something else. Many times it is the trials and temptations that we experience that put our hearts in a place to be ready to receive from God. If we are mindful, no trial needs be waster. No question squandered.
This scripture says that God will teach as long as we come to him humbled with a broken heart and a contrite spirit as David says, as well if we let your trials teach us patience. When we are in this place we are ready to ask God and James teaches that he will be generous and will not get us in trouble for our questions. He will bless us with understanding. James also says that another factor that influences how God chooses to answer is our faith. When there are things about God that we don’t understand and we hubly approach Him in faith, He can guide us.
Take a moment to reflect on your current and past trials.
In what way have these trials prepared you for the questions you consider?
Do you believe that God will answer?
The answers of God many times do not come in the ways that we request or expect but He can teach us powerful truths through overcoming trials as well other movings of the Holy Spirit.
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit.
Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:
I invite you to sit in silence feeling being patient for your own faults and trials.
Meditate and Visualize Positive Change in Your Life:
This part is very important. It is no accident that scripture is so full of narratives. Our minds connect with narratives. Imagine a visualization of a Narrative of your life knowing the truths from this scripture.
Now visualize someone or a group of people who need this message. Imagine what their face would look like as they receive this scripture in their hearts. Imagine how you can share it with them.
Conclusion:
Homework: What question do you have, and how can you be patient for God’s answer?
Feedback:
I have been working through several episodes over the last few months. I am enjoying the meditations tremendously. I have been a Christian Counselor for 30+ years. I very much need a few minutes regularly to center my spirit in Christ, breathe in his love and strength, and let his Word sink in. You have created a beautiful method- and I thank you. I have sent many of my clients to your website, and they giving me great feedback about their experiences. Bless you, your work, and your family.
- Barbara
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Final thought - Witness about prayer. I hope you will feel this relaxation all through the rest of the day. Have a good rest of the day.
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042 - The Testing of Your Faith Produces Endurance - A Guided Christian Meditation Podcast
James 1:2-4
I work as a Hospice Chaplain and having worked as an ICU chaplain in a busy hospital, my purpose in making this podcast is to help you find more peace in your life and to be more open to be changed by the Spirit of God by using a centuries old form of Christian Meditation called Lectio Divina. It consists of:
Outline: Relaxation, Reading, Meditation, Prayer, Contemplation, Visualization
Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation:
Consider for a moment all the work your body had done this week. What stresses have your born? What has your body done without being asked: breathing, heart beating, blood pumping, sitting, walking, moving, working, feeling. Your body replicated cells and fought infection. What a blessing it is that we have such a body.
A low it to breath now. Allow a feeling a gratitude build for God about all that your body can do. With each breath you realize more the greatness of God's creation that is your body. Despite the aspects of our mortal frame that cause us suffering and sin there are also amazing aspects that glorify the God who created it. Breath slowly and allow this moment to be a time apart. Breath ever so softly but fully as you feel your mind show and your body rest. You feel relaxation building in your body and you feel grateful for it. Allow your mind to clear as you prepare to receive God's word. We will be reading from James 1:2-4
Bible verse for meditation:
NRSV
2 My brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of any kind, consider it nothing but joy,
3 because you know that the testing of your faith produces endurance;
4 and let endurance have its full effect, so that you may be mature and complete, lacking in nothing
KJV
2 My brethren, count it all joy when ye fall into divers temptations;
3 Knowing this, that the trying of your faith worketh patience.
4 But let patience have her perfect work, that ye may be perfect and entire, wanting nothing
Notice the similarities and differences in the translations presented.
What does this scripture mean to you?
Has it had a different effect this reading as compared to times past?
How does this scripture make you feel?
Continue breathing deeply as you ponder this meaning.
Meditation on scripture / bible verse meditation:
Our human weakness can be distressing. As we learn about our fallen nature it can be discouraging at times. We realize how we sin so easily, Ann's at times are slow to recognize God's hand in our lives. Wee feel trials and temptations as further evidence of our worth. This scripture is profound. Paul teaches that temptations or trials can be a source of joy. The range of these translations is useful. What is the difference between a trial and a temptation. Are they different? It could be argued the greatest trial is our own sin that results from our temptation. Yet even this can bring joy. How?
It certainly Glorifies God when we have our sins washed away and are left redeemed. Paul teaches that there is a benefit to our character. God continually works to teach his children. Unfortunately trials teach us profound lessons. They teach us patience that is said to lead to our improvement. The Glory of God’s mercy can yield patience in our hearts.
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit.
Pray now with an attitude of patience.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:
I invite you to sit in silence feeling being patient for your own faults and trials.
Meditate and Visualize Positive Change in Your Life:
This part is very important. It is no accident that scripture is so full of narratives. Our minds connect with narratives. Imagine a visualization of a Narrative of your life knowing the truths from this scripture.
Now visualize someone or a group of people who need this message. Imagine what their face would look like as they receive this scripture in their hearts. Imagine how you can share it with them.
Conclusion:
Homework: what trials have you noticed bring blessings?
Continuation of James 1 next week.
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Final thought
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I work as a Hospice Chaplain and having worked as an ICU chaplain in a busy hospital, my purpose in making this podcast is to help you find more peace in your life and to be more open to be changed by the Spirit of God by using a centuries old form of Christian Meditation called Lectio Divina. It consists of:
Outline: Relaxation, Reading, Meditation, Prayer, Contemplation, Visualization
Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation:
Calm yourself to prepare to receive God's word.
Bible verse for meditation:
NIV
7 The Jewish leaders insisted, “We have a law, and according to that law he must die, because he claimed to be the Son of God.”
8 When Pilate heard this, he was even more afraid,
9 and he went back inside the palace. “Where do you come from?” he asked Jesus, but Jesus gave him no answer.
10 “Do you refuse to speak to me?” Pilate said. “Don’t you realize I have power either to free you or to crucify you?”
11 Jesus answered, “You would have no power over me if it were not given to you from above. Therefore the one who handed me over to you is guilty of a greater sin.”
12 From then on, Pilate tried to set Jesus free, but the Jewish leaders kept shouting, “If you let this man go, you are no friend of Caesar. Anyone who claims to be a king opposes Caesar.”
KJV
7 The Jews answered him, We have a law, and by our law he ought to die, because he made himself the Son of God.
8 When Pilate therefore heard that saying, he was the more afraid;
9 And went again into the judgment hall, and saith unto Jesus, Whence art thou? But Jesus gave him no answer.
10 Then saith Pilate unto him, Speakest thou not unto me? knowest thou not that I have power to crucify thee, and have power to release thee?
11 Jesus answered, Thou couldest have no power at all against me, except it were given thee from above: therefore he that delivered me unto thee hath the greater sin.
12 And from thenceforth Pilate sought to release him: but the Jews cried out, saying, If thou let this man go, thou art not Caesar's friend: whosoever maketh himself a king speaketh against Caesar.
Notice the similarities and differences in the translations presented.
What does this scripture mean to you?
Has it had a different effect this reading as compared to times past?
How does this scripture make you feel?
Continue breathing deeply as you ponder this meaning.
Meditation on scripture / bible verse meditation:
There are any different aspects of the passion narrative. I’ve been thinking about the role of Pilate.
Many times as we discuss Pilate we try and figure out if he is a good person or not.
Pilate’s troubled history with the
Pilate’s wife’s dream
Pilate seems to have had some kind of belief in Jesus. It turns out that it wasn’t the kind of belief that leads to deep faith. Many times we see Pilate as a total villain. Based on the little that the Bible says about him it seems he made some half attempts to believe in Jesus. He even made some vague attempts to free Him.
As I read about Pilate I can’t help but to see parallels to us. Our natural desires work against us. When we have an encounter God and make a full commitment to Him, He can makes our efforts holy through His glory.
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit.
Pray now in a spirit of submission to Him.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:
I invite you to sit in silence feeling the comfort and Love of God
Meditate and Visualize Positive Change in Your Life:
This part is very important. It is no accident that scripture is so full of narratives. Our minds connect with narratives. Imagine a visualization of a Narrative of your life knowing the truths from this scripture.
Now visualize someone or a group of people who need this message. Imagine what their face would look like as they receive this scripture in their hearts. Imagine how you can share it with them.
Conclusion:
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This meditation has a lighter air. This is due to the presence of my daughter. Let her spirit lift you to see that through Christ all things are possible.
Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation:Let this moment be a time of breathing. As you prepare yourself for to hear the word of God allow your body to relax and calm. Stay with my voice for this time as you prepare your heart to let God in. Breathe in and out.Box breathingFeel the tension leaving your whole body.
Bible verse for meditation:Matthew 9:NIV23 When Jesus entered the synagogue leader’s house and saw the noisy crowd and people playing pipes, 24 he said, “Go away. The girl is not dead but asleep.” But they laughed at him. 25 After the crowd had been put outside, he went in and took the girl by the hand, and she got up. 26 News of this spread through all that region. KJV23 And when Jesus came into the ruler's house, and saw the minstrels and the people making a noise,24 He said unto them, Give place: for the maid is not dead, but sleepeth. And they laughed him to scorn.25 But when the people were put forth, he went in, and took her by the hand, and the maid arose.26 And the fame hereof went abroad into all that land.
Notice the similarities and differences in the translations presented.
What does this scripture mean to you?Has it had a different effect this reading as compared to times past?How does this scripture make you feel?
Continue breathing deeply as you ponder this meaning.
Meditation on scripture / bible verse meditation: Discussion with TayleeMeditation of Prayer:Pray as directed by the Spirit.Pray now in a spirit of submission to Him.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:I invite you to sit in silence feeling the comfort and Love of God
Meditate and Visualize Positive Change in Your Life:This part is very important. It is no accident that scripture is so full of narratives. Our minds connect with narratives. Imagine a visualization of a Narrative of your life knowing the truths from this scripture.Now visualize someone or a group of people who need this message. Imagine what their face would look like as they receive this scripture in their hearts. Imagine how you can share it with them.Conclusion:Stay with me until the end for a final thought and the reflection question. I have a couple of things to say and then I have a final thought so stay with me to the end.I release a new episode of this every Sunday morning at 1AM Mountain time in the US.I did an interview with Nikki over at Bible Meditation Podcast. It's the Saturday’s episode if you’d like to hear it. She is a competent and kind person and I appreciated the opportunity to talk with her. Her focus is on letting the scriptures speak and the form factor is much more compact. If you would like to listen to a thoughtful podcast dedicated to reading the liturgical scriptures, that would be a great choice. Also I welcome your responses to the reflection question as well as any other thoughts. You can contact me by going to ChristianMeditationPodcast.com and clicking on the contact tab. The information you fill in there just sends me a personal email. Reflection Question:What is one way that you can let go of anger and embrace more love in your life?Here is the Final thought:I love this scripture and I love the message that follows it. Love is patient and kind. As we learn to discipline ourselves by ridding our hearts of hate and allowing more love to take root, we invite the Spirit of God. Many times this is an act of faith. If we believe in the saving power of Jesus Christ then we trust that he can heal our hearts. He can help us stay safe from those who would do us harm while at the same time letting go of the soul rusting power of hate. If you have experienced deep betrayal from someone close to you, I am certainly not arguing that you need to put yourself in the way of further harm. Let God guide you in how you can free your heart from unpleasant feelings while at the same time making place for more love in your heart. There is a deeply freeing feeling that can fill us with peace as we learn to trust God in this crucial way. I say that in Jesus’ name Amen.
Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation:Let this moment be a time of breathing. As you prepare yourself for to hear the word of God allow your body to relax and calm. Stay with my voice for this time as you prepare your heart to let God in. Breathe in and out.Box breathing Feel the tension leaving your whole body.
Bible verse for meditation:1 Thes 4:13-18NRSV13 But we do not want you to be uninformed, brothers and sisters,[a] about those who have died,[b] so that you may not grieve as others do who have no hope. 14 For since we believe that Jesus died and rose again, even so, through Jesus, God will bring with him those who have died.[c] 15 For this we declare to you by the word of the Lord, that we who are alive, who are left until the coming of the Lord, will by no means precede those who have died.[d] 16 For the Lord himself, with a cry of command, with the archangel’s call and with the sound of God’s trumpet, will descend from heaven, and the dead in Christ will rise first. 17 Then we who are alive, who are left, will be caught up in the clouds together with them to meet the Lord in the air; and so we will be with the Lord forever. 18 Therefore encourage one another with these words
KJV 13 But I would not have you to be ignorant, brethren, concerning them which are asleep, that ye sorrow not, even as others which have no hope.14 For if we believe that Jesus died and rose again, even so them also which sleep in Jesus will God bring with him.15 For this we say unto you by the word of the Lord, that we which are alive and remain unto the coming of the Lord shall not prevent them which are asleep.16 For the Lord himself shall descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of the archangel, and with the trump of God: and the dead in Christ shall rise first:17 Then we which are alive and remain shall be caught up together with them in the clouds, to meet the Lord in the air: and so shall we ever be with the Lord.18 Wherefore comfort one another with these words.
Notice the similarities and differences in the translations presented.
What does this scripture mean to you?Has it had a different effect this reading as compared to times past?How does this scripture make you feel?
Continue breathing deeply as you ponder this meaning.
Meditation on scripture / bible verse meditation: One of my roles as a chaplains is to comfort people where they are. As we experience the pain of the death of loved ones sometimes it takes time for us to resolve these feelings with our faith. There are moments of pain at the loss of others, but there is also hope. God suggests that this hope in the future can help us and our grief can be swallowed up in our faith. In the hearts of those who suffer is a war between the reality of pain and the hope of future relief. Many times we go about resolving this the wrong way. We go about with a feeling of tension and war. This struggle is not only against the pain of death but about all kinds of human loss.There are times when we are overcome with the loss of things and people in this world. I am proposing a different solution to resolve this conflict. Let these words slowly wash over your heart like an incoming tide of peace. Pause and listen, and feel.But I would not have you to be ignorant, brethren, concerning them which are asleep, that ye sorrow not, even as others which have no hope. Feel this hope slowly rise in your heart. If you feel any other feeling of doubt, of pain, any other reaction than peace and gratitude observe how your heart begins to slowly feel the incoming tide of peace. This peace slowly washes over your heart. Feel the peace in your heart rise. It doesn't need to fight the other feelings, it ultimately is more powerful but it often wont force its way into your heart. Softly allow it to enter your heart. Focus on this peaceful gratitude as you hear this message. Then we which are alive and remain shall be caught up together with them in the clouds, to meet the Lord in the air: and so shall we ever be with the Lord. The message of the Lord, through Paul, is not one of judgement but one of confidence and peace.
What will it feel like to rise up to the clouds with Jesus?I imagine that our worry for everything of this world will matter very little in that day. Why should it matter now?
Meditation of Prayer:Pray as directed by the Spirit.Pray now in a spirit of submission to Him.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:I invite you to sit in silence feeling the comfort and Love of God
Meditate and Visualize Positive Change in Your Life:This part is very important. It is no accident that scripture is so full of narratives. Our minds connect with narratives. Imagine a visualization of a Narrative of your life knowing the truths from this scripture.Now visualize someone or a group of people who need this message. Imagine what their face would look like as they receive this scripture in their hearts. Imagine how you can share it with them.Conclusion:Stay with me until the end for a final thought and the reflection question. I have a couple of things to say and then I have a final thought so stay with me to the end.I release a new episode of this every Sunday morning at 1AM Mountain time in the US.I did an interview with Nikki over at Bible Meditation Podcast. It's the Saturday’s episode if you’d like to hear it. She is a competent and kind person and I appreciated the opportunity to talk with her. Her focus is on letting the scriptures speak and the form factor is much more compact. If you would like to listen to a thoughtful podcast dedicated to reading the liturgical scriptures, that would be a great choice. Also I welcome your responses to the reflection question as well as any other thoughts. You can contact me by going to ChristianMeditationPodcast.com and clicking on the contact tab. The information you fill in there just sends me a personal email. Reflection Question:What is one way that you can let go of anger and embrace more love in your life?Here is the Final thought:I love this scripture and I love the message that follows it. Love is patient and kind. As we learn to discipline ourselves by ridding our hearts of hate and allowing more love to take root, we invite the Spirit of God. Many times this is an act of faith. If we believe in the saving power of Jesus Christ then we trust that he can heal our hearts. He can help us stay safe from those who would do us harm while at the same time letting go of the soul rusting power of hate. If you have experienced deep betrayal from someone close to you, I am certainly not arguing that you need to put yourself in the way of further harm. Let God guide you in how you can free your heart from unpleasant feelings while at the same time making place for more love in your heart. There is a deeply freeing feeling that can fill us with peace as we learn to trust God in this crucial way. I say that in Jesus’ name Amen.
Everything is on pause for this moment. Let things slow down. Allow your breathing to slow. Don’t shy away from this moment. Allow the tensions that have been hiding in your body escape. Feel what is going on in your body. Breathe slowly. Anything unpleasant that wells up in your at this moment breathe it out effortlessly. Don’t attempt to control it just let it go. Let your muscles go also. The longer you keep breathing, the more calm comes over your body. Don’t fight the calm. Allow your mind to slow. If it feels pulled to one place or another just breathe deeply and allow it to slow. Open your mind and your heart for the scripture we are about to read.
Bible verse for meditation:1 Corinthians 13:1-3
NIV13 If I speak in the tongues of men and of angels, but have not love, I am a noisy gong or a clanging cymbal. 2 And if I have prophetic powers, and understand all mysteries and all knowledge, and if I have all faith, so as to remove mountains, but have not love, I am nothing. 3 If I give away all I have, and if I deliver up my body to be burned, but have not love, I gain nothing.
KJV1 Though I speak with the tongues of men and of angels, and have not charity, I am become as sounding brass, or a tinkling cymbal.2 And though I have the gift of prophecy, and understand all mysteries, and all knowledge; and though I have all faith, so that I could remove mountains, and have not charity, I am nothing.3 And though I bestow all my goods to feed the poor, and though I give my body to be burned, and have not charity, it profiteth me nothing.
Notice the similarities and differences in the translations presented.
What does this scripture mean to you?Has it had a different effect this reading as compared to times past?How does this scripture make you feel?
Continue breathing deeply as you ponder this meaning.
Meditation on scripture / bible verse meditation: I want to share a moment of vulnerability. This is not a flatering message but I hope it will be a metaphor for you to allow you to ask yourself the same questions. I was preparing to put out this podcast. I had my scripture selected and I had read it and was trying to get ot a place of peace as I started writing my notes for the episode. I was thinking about someone who I have recently been feeling deep disagreement with, by the way if you’re listening to this then it certainly is not you, anyway in this moment I found myself getting upset and angry. I had ahard time shaking these feelings and I resigned in myself that I was allowed to guard a little anger for this person in my heart.Have you ever done this? Do you still do this?Many times as we try to live a Christian life we encounter the realities of our humanity in this fallen state. Hate and anger enter our hearts. I found myself upset and I was not in a good place to bring peace. Instead of forcing myself to continue, I sat in my favorite chair put on a soft sound of a rushing stream and I began to relax and breathe deeply. In this moment I realized how I was trying to do something that contradicts reality. I was trying to justify not feeling love for someone while preaching a message of love. I opened my heart to the idea that I could disagree with this person while still loving them. As I opened my heart to prayer, I felt the peace of this scripture penetrate my heart and the anger I was feeling lost its grip on me. What does it feel like to feel love?What does it feel like to give up a grudge?I hoep that as we in America celebrate Valentine’s day that we can always remember this message. It is equally appropriate for romantic love, family love, and friendly love. May God grant us peace as we make room in our hearts for love.
Meditation of Prayer:Pray as directed by the Spirit.Pray now in a spirit of submission to Him.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:I invite you to sit in silence feeling the comfort and Love of God
Meditate and Visualize Positive Change in Your Life:This part is very important. It is no accident that scripture is so full of narratives. Our minds connect with narratives. Imagine a visualization of a Narrative of your life knowing the truths from this scripture.Now visualize someone or a group of people who need this message. Imagine what their face would look like as they receive this scripture in their hearts. Imagine how you can share it with them.Conclusion:Stay with me until the end for a final thought and the reflection question. I have a couple of things to say and then I have a final thought so stay with me to the end.I release a new episode of this every Sunday morning at 1AM Mountain time in the US.I did an interview with Nikki over at Bible Meditation Podcast. It's the Saturday’s episode if you’d like to hear it. She is a competent and kind person and I appreciated the opportunity to talk with her. Her focus is on letting the scriptures speak and the form factor is much more compact. If you would like to listen to a thoughtful podcast dedicated to reading the liturgical scriptures, that would be a great choice. Also I welcome your responses to the reflection question as well as any other thoughts. You can contact me by going to ChristianMeditationPodcast.com and clicking on the contact tab. The information you fill in there just sends me a personal email. Reflection Question:What is one way that you can let go of anger and embrace more love in your life?Here is the Final thought:I love this scripture and I love the message that follows it. Love is patient and kind. As we learn to discipline ourselves by ridding our hearts of hate and allowing more love to take root, we invite the Spirit of God. Many times this is an act of faith. If we believe in the saving power of Jesus Christ then we trust that he can heal our hearts. He can help us stay safe from those who would do us harm while at the same time letting go of the soul rusting power of hate. If you have experienced deep betrayal from someone close to you, I am certainly not arguing that you need to put yourself in the way of further harm. Let God guide you in how you can free your heart from unpleasant feelings while at the same time making place for more love in your heart. There is a deeply freeing feeling that can fill us with peace as we learn to trust God in this crucial way. I say that in Jesus’ name Amen.
FIND ME ON:
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ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
Youtube
Pintrist
In this moment, loosen your focus. Feel the air around you. What is the temperature of the air as it gently surrounds you. Feel it as it eases into your lungs. As you breathe in you feel it bring calm. As you breathe out you feel the tension in your body escape. You feel your shoulders settle in, your face unflex, your shoulder blades soften. Each part of your body eases in. This moment, is for peace. This moment is your time with God’s spirit. Gently embrace this moment. No holding on too tightly, but enjoying it while it's here.
As you sit in this quiet relaxation, a growing feeling of contentment begins to fill your body. Little by little you feel the ease of body associated with this contentment. Hope builds inside of you. Take this in. Take it all in. Allow this feeling of calm to be absorbed into your body. The spirit of the Lord inhabits you. Breathe in calmly.
Bible verse for meditation:
Matthew 6:16-18
ESV
16 “And when you fast, do not look gloomy like the hypocrites, for they disfigure their faces that their fasting may be seen by others. Truly, I say to you, they have received their reward.
17 But when you fast, anoint your head and wash your face,
18 that your fasting may not be seen by others but by your Father who is in secret. And your Father who sees in secret will reward you.
KJV
16 Moreover when ye fast, be not, as the hypocrites, of a sad countenance: for they disfigure their faces, that they may appear unto men to fast. Verily I say unto you, They have their reward.
17 But thou, when thou fastest, anoint thine head, and wash thy face;
18 That thou appear not unto men to fast, but unto thy Father which is in secret: and thy Father, which seeth in secret, shall reward thee openly.
Notice the similarities and differences in the translations presented.
What does this scripture mean to you?
Has it had a different effect this reading as compared to times past?
How does this scripture make you feel?
Continue breathing deeply as you ponder this meaning.
Meditation on scripture / bible verse meditation:
Something that I spend a great deal of time thinking about is the ideas of human suffering. In an effort not to be overwhelmed our efforts to accept suffering can confuse us and cause us to value suffering for its own sake. This scripture shows that suffering in and of itself is not a source of glory. We need not admire suffering, we need not relish in it. We endure suffering in the pursuit of God. We endure suffering to pursue something greater than this world. Willingness to endure suffering for the cause of God, does not equate to pursuit of suffering.
As you endure suffering in your life reflect for a moment, to what end do you suffer?
Are there areas in your life where you place a value on suffering for its own sake?
What way can you follow God while at the same time giving up any unnecessary suffering?
During the sermon on the mount Jesus tells us that the opinions of others, or arguably even ourselves, matter little when it comes to how we bear the hardships we encounter. We struggle for our Lord. Whether it is fasting, or any other aspect of religious devotion, we resist the things of this world to place value on the things of God and to do what He has asked us.
How can you follow God better?
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit.
Pray now in a spirit of submission to Him.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:
I invite you to sit in silence feeling the comfort and Love of God
Meditate and Visualize Positive Change in Your Life:
This part is very important. It is no accident that scripture is so full of narratives. Our minds connect with narratives. Imagine a visualization of a Narrative of your life knowing the truths from this scripture.
Now visualize someone or a group of people who need this message. Imagine what their face would look like as they receive this scripture in their hearts. Imagine how you can share it with them.
Conclusion:
Stay with me until the end for a final thought and the reflection question.
I have a couple of things to say and then I have a final thought so stay with me to the end.
I release a new episode of this every Sunday morning at 1AM Mountain time in the US.
I received a lot of input from so many of your regarding the answer to last week’s reflection question. I loved hearing about what things you consider as your still waters. So many things, including family, peace from God, ease from anxiety. There are so many things that he leads us to.
Here is the Final thought:
As social beings we desire the good opinion of others. Many times the people who are the most vocal about not wanting the approval of others are the ones who secretly want it the most. This is not a judgement because I experience the same human instinct. May this reflection be a guide to us to continually improve. As we let go of this form of pride, we are able to focus more clearly on the pursuit of obedience to God.
Later in this same chapter Jesus says that we should seek first the kingdom of God and all the blessings of God will be poured out upon us, in his time, and as we learn to endure the pains of this world. May God continue to bless us as we continually attempt to walk with His Spirit
I say that in Jesus’ name Amen.
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Begin by noticing your level of peacefulness. Try to focus on accurately noticing it and let go of a desire to force yourself to relax. There is no hurry to relax. Your body has started to unwind already and will continue to do so during this whole recording. Let go of any compulsion to feel relaxed and just let your body breathe and feel the points where you body touches your clothes and furniture. As you become aware of this you feel yourself resting deeper into this furniture through no effort of your own. Through this process you notice your level of peacefulness is continuing to grow. Your breathing is getting more gentle and fulfilling. Your whole body fills will cleansing air and all excess tension is breathed out. Feel you calm as you prepare to listen to readings from God’s word. The verses today are very meaningful for so many people and I invite you to attempt to remain in this relaxed state during the reading and allow God’s word to you in this moment be unique. Pretend as though you have never heard this scripture. Bible verse for meditation:
Psalm 23
KJV
1 The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want. 2 He maketh me to lie down in green pastures: he leadeth me beside the still waters. 3 He restoreth my soul: he leadeth me in the paths of righteousness for his name’s sake. 4 Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for thou art with me; thy rod and thy staff they comfort me. 5 Thou preparest a table before me in the presence of mine enemies: thou anointest my head with oil; my cup runneth over. 6 Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life: and I will dwell in the house of the Lord for ever.
Notice the similarities and differences in the translations presented.
NIV
1 The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want. 2 He maketh me to lie down in green pastures: he leadeth me beside the still waters. 3 He restoreth my soul: he leadeth me in the paths of righteousness for his name's sake. 4 Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for thou art with me; thy rod and thy staff they comfort me. 5 Thou preparest a table before me in the presence of mine enemies: thou anointest my head with oil; my cup runneth over. 6 Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life: and I will dwell in the house of the Lord for ever.
What does this scripture mean to you?
Has it had a different effect this reading as compared to times past?
Continue breathing deeply as you ponder this meaning.
Meditation on scripture / bible verse meditation:
I have a deep connection with this Psalm. As an ICU chaplain I read this scripture over many people who were dying or dead. In many ways I felt that I walked through the valley of the shadow of death professionally. It is hard for me to fully read this scripture afresh and I am overcome with emotion when I think of it. In sickness, health, death and life, God is our Shepherd. Jesus leads us in this life and into the next. I had a woman who emailed me the details of the tragic death of her husband. I was moved by her strength and reliance on the peace of God. Despite our love for God and His love for us, he allows us to deal with the sadness and pain of this life. Our pain is intimately connected to our love. This pain of loss is not always death. Sometimes its estrangement or just the normal distance of time. God understands the pain of separation for every reason. Moments before he raised Lazarus from the grave, He wept for the pain of Martha and others despite Him knowing His own power to raise him. God has not designed our bodies to be free of pain and sadness. This sadness teaches us of love and, if we bear it with patience can connect our hearts to others and to God. In this moment allow this calm feeling to remain as you consider what blessings are attributed to God in this scripture. Breath this in.
Meditation of Prayer:Pray as directed by the Spirit.Pray now in a spirit of submission to Him.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:
I invite you to sit in silence feeling the comfort and Love of God
Meditate and Visualize Positive Change in Your Life:This part is very important. It is no accident that scripture is so full of narratives. Our minds connect with narratives. Imagine a visualization of a Narrative of your life knowing the truths from this scripture.Now visualize someone or a group of people who need this message. Imagine what their face would look like as they receive this scripture in their hearts. Imagine how you can share it with them.
Conclusion:
I have a couple of things to say and then I have a final thought so stay with me to the end.
I release a new episode of this every Sunday morning at 1AM Mountain time in the US.
My wife mentioned to me that she would really enjoy a question be presented to continue reflecting on afterwords. Perhaps as a type of continued focus.
This week’s question will be, “What in your life represents the still waters and how is God leading you to them?”I would love to hear your answer. You can do that by visiting my website ChristianMeditationPodcast.com and clicking the contact tab.
Here is the Final thought:
Jesus is our Shepherd. We are compared to sheep because we need His constant guidance and protection. With God we truly need not want. Jesus repeatedly counseled us to give up the love of this world. As we do that He guides us on the path of the righteous and leads us to still waters and green pastures. As I have visualized the valley of the shadow of death it has always been dark and foreboding, but despite the pain associated with death this scripture teaches that God will be with us in that valley regardless how dark we think it is. Light will prevail as we trust in Him. and I say that in Jesus’ name Amen.
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Begin by breathing in freely. It is a gift from God that you can draw this breathe. If you notice a small feeling of gratitude for this allow it to grow. Gently allow this moment to be fill of your awareness on the goal of slowing your breath. All other concerns fade away. You are preparing your heart and mind to receive the peace of God. In order to prepare yourself let all worry go. The only thing you have to do right now is breathe.
You notice that as you place your intention on slowing your breathing that it becomes more calm. Breathe deeply softly, filling your whole body down to your belly. Imagine the air you breathe in goes farther than that. Imagine that the air you breathe in fills every part of you. Imagine that your breath fills your legs and feet, all the way down to your toes. Your breath similarly goes around your back and down your arms to your hands and fingers. You breathe also fills you head. As you continue to feel this breathe filling your body you notice that without your effort this breathe has been carrying away stress and anxiety. What is left is calmness, and stillness.
Bask in this peaceful feeling. Allow your muscles to continue relaxing.
Bible verse for meditation:
Matthew 12:25-30
KJV
25 Jesus knew their thoughts and said to them, “Every kingdom divided against itself will be ruined, and every city or household divided against itself will not stand. 26 If Satan drives out Satan, he is divided against himself. How then can his kingdom stand? 27 And if I drive out demons by Beelzebub, by whom do your people drive them out? So then, they will be your judges. 28 But if it is by the Spirit of God that I drive out demons, then the kingdom of God has come upon you.
29 “Or again, how can anyone enter a strong man’s house and carry off his possessions unless he first ties up the strong man? Then he can plunder his house.
30 “Whoever is not with me is against me, and whoever does not gather with me scatters.
NABRE
25 But he knew what they were thinking and said to them, “Every kingdom divided against itself will be laid waste, and no town or house divided against itself will stand.
26 And if Satan drives out Satan, he is divided against himself; how, then, will his kingdom stand?
27 And if I drive out demons by Beelzebul, by whom do your own people drive them out? Therefore they will be your judges.
28 But if it is by the Spirit of God that I drive out demons, then the kingdom of God has come upon you.
29 How can anyone enter a strong man’s house and steal his property, unless he first ties up the strong man? Then he can plunder his house. 30 Whoever is not with me is against me, and whoever does not gather with me scatters.
What does this scripture mean?
What message materialized as you listened to this scripture?
How does this scripture make you feel?
Meditation on scripture / bible verse meditation:
In the United States one of our Past Presidents Abraham Lincoln referred to this scripture during a speech. The crowd found it too divisive and caused him to lose an election. The ideas of God surrounding division are not always popular.
Spend a few moments thinking about how we as humans are divided.
How is this applicable on a personal level?
How is this applicable on a national level?
How is this applicable on an international level?
How is this applicable beyond this earthly existence?
When Jesus spoke them he referred to the casting out of devils as evidence that Satan would not do that to his own. This was a proclamation of the Condescension of God.
Think for a moment about the witness Jesus bore here of His righteousness.
What can we learn from his witness?
Are there ever times when you feel the sting of division?
Last week in the podcast I talked about unity and the community of God. I got an email from a woman who explained a family conflict to me. It was sad to me. Not all of life is uniformly good. Sometimes in our lives we may feel that it is not even mostly good. As you have calmed yourself in this moment allow the feelings of the peace of God to remain in your heart for a moment.
As gently as possible allow these words of Jesus speak truth to your life situation.
Allow God’s light to illuminate your life on how you can change things with His help.
Take this idea of a unified house and take the insights that you have gained from this peaceful reflection and join me in prayer.
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit.
Pray now in a spirit of submission to Him.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:
I invite you to sit in silence feeling the strength from God and those you care about.
Meditate and Visualize Positive Change in Your Life:
What insights did you gain during these moments?
What thing will change in your life after this moment?
Share this message :
Now visualize someone or a group of people who need this message. Imagine what their face would look like as they receive this scripture in their hearts. Imagine how you can share it with them.
Conclusion:
Print and use this scripture.
I release a new episode of this every Sunday morning at 1AM Mountain time in the US.
You can get more information about my podcast by visiting my website ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
I pray that each of you listening will be able to receive the Spirit of God’s peace. I pray God’s that you will be able to continually invite him into your life and thereby feel his peace. Jesus is very clear in this scripture. He tells us that division leads to insecurity and can be our downfall. After this scripture he goes on to say that we can receive a forgiveness of even the worst things we do in life, but not rejecting the Holy Spirit. Let us heed this warning and always embrace God’s spirit and make room for him.
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034 Two Are Better Than One - A Guided Christian Meditation Podcast Ecclesiastes 4:9-12. How to feel God’s Peace.
I work as a Hospice Chaplain and having worked as an ICU chaplain in a busy hospital, my purpose in making this podcast is to help you find more peace in your life and to be more open to be changed by the Spirit of God by using a centuries old form of Christian Meditation called Lectio Divina.
It consists of: Outline: Relaxation, Reading, Meditation, Prayer, Contemplation, Visualization
Intro:We will begin with some deep breathing in order to remove distractions so that we can focus completely on God’s word. Get into a comfortable position and if you feel safe to do so, close your eyes
Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation:Feel yourself resting on the chair where you are sitting. Hear the sounds that fall on your ears. Without a force of will, allow your focus to loosen. Let your focus slowly move along your muscles and notice any tension. Allow your tension to slide along your neck resting briefly at the base of your skull. Allow your focus to move down your back and rest softly between your shoulder blades. As you do this you feel the tension harmlessly escape with each passing breath. Your focus moves along your body searching for tension, freeing it and observes it be breathed out. As you do this, you feel your body fill will calm. Keep breathing slowly. Feel how good this calm feeling is. Allow the calm to grow and fill your whole body. Bask in this feeling. Allow it to wash over you. Allow this feeling to grow and be absorbed fully into your body. As you do you body relaxes fully and your mind is clear. Keep breathing deeply and calmly as I read from these scriptures. Allow your mind to remain clear and your body to remain calm as you are ready to receive the peace of the LORD.
Bible verse for meditation:Ecclesiastes 4:9-12.
KJV
9 ¶ Two are better than one; because they have a good reward for their labour.
10 For if they fall, the one will lift up his fellow: but woe to him that is alone when he falleth; for he hath not another to help him up.
11 Again, if two lie together, then they have heat: but how can one be warm alone?
12 And if one prevail against him, two shall withstand him; and a threefold cord is not quickly broken.
NIV
9 Two are better than one, because they have a good return for their labor:
10 If either of them falls down, one can help the other up.But pity anyone who falls and has no one to help them up.
11 Also, if two lie down together, they will keep warm. But how can one keep warm alone?
12 Though one may be overpowered, two can defend themselves.A cord of three strands is not quickly broken.
What does this scripture mean?
What message materialized as you listened to this scripture?
How does this scripture make you feel?
Meditation on scripture / bible verse meditation:
How are you blessed by those around you?
An inevitable truth of this life is that none of us are designed to live in complete isolation. Each of us receive strength from others. We receive strength from those we care about. This is why the scriptures counsel for the saints to gather. We strengthen each other and we help each other.
When is the last time you have been down and been lifted by someone else?
Who is someone who lifts you up?
When have you helped someone else in the same way?
As we learn to love and be loved we experience the most profound connection in life. There is nothing safe about caring about someone else. In fact caring about others puts us at risk for being hurt by loss or disappointment. When God chose to love us, this was not without risk either. It eventually led to the Cross. We love because he first loved us. Even if you wish you had more genuine connection in your life, know this, God is always with you and will strengthen you more than any person can. In our relationships Christ is always there to mediate. Think about ways that you could lift the spirits of those you know and care about.
Meditation of Prayer:Pray as directed by the Spirit.Pray now in a spirit of submission to Him.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm: I invite you to sit in silence feeling the strength from God and those you care about.Meditate and Visualize Positive Change in Your Life:What insights did you gain during these moments?What thing will change in your life after this moment?Share this message :Now visualize someone or a group of people who need this message. Imagine what their face would look like as they receive this scripture in their hearts. Imagine how you can share it with them.
Conclusion:Print and use this scripture.I release a new episode of this every Sunday morning at 1AM Mountain time in the US.You can get more information about my podcast by visiting my website ChristianMeditationPodcast.com.
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ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
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Pintrist
I work as a Hospice Chaplain and having worked as an ICU chaplain in a busy hospital, my purpose in making this podcast is to help you find more peace in your life and to be more open to be changed by the Spirit of God by using a centuries old form of Christian Meditation called Lectio Divina. It consists of:
Outline: Relaxation, Reading, Meditation, Prayer, Contemplation, Visualization
Intro:
We will begin with some deep breathing in order to remove distractions so that we can focus completely on God’s word. Get into a comfortable position and if you feel safe to do so, close your eyes
Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation:
Allow this moment to be one of dedication to God. Regardless of how you feel whether tense or relaxed, in pain due to illness or comfortable. This moment is a perfect opportunity to allow the peace of God to enter your heart. His word has miraculous power. His spirit can enter you heart. Take a slow breathe. Feel your muscles relax. With each passing moment you become more aware of where you body can further unflex and relax and yo find that is automatically doing this in preparation of receiving the word of God from the Bible.
You notice your muscles have relaxed. Sometimes as they do this you become aware of pain in your muscles. That is OK. That will pass. Let it pass. Let each moment end as smoothly as it began. Your mind has slowed. The distracting thoughts that inundate us have slowed. You feel more at peace. Continue allowing your body unwind. Let anything tense in your body escape with each passing breathe. You aren’t forcing this, you are just allowing it. Now that your mind is relaxed, keep in this state as we read through these scriptures. Become aware of what message God has for you in these verses.
Bible verse for meditation:
Luke 5:36-38
KJV
36 ¶ And he spake also a parable unto them; No man putteth a piece of a new garment upon an old; if otherwise, then both the new maketh a rent, and the piece that was taken out of the new agreeth not with the old.
37 And no man putteth new wine into old bottles; else the new wine will burst the bottles, and be spilled, and the bottles shall perish.
38 But new wine must be put into new bottles; and both are preserved.
NIV
36 He told them this parable: “No one tears a piece out of a new garment to patch an old one. Otherwise, they will have torn the new garment, and the patch from the new will not match the old. 37 And no one pours new wine into old wineskins. Otherwise, the new wine will burst the skins; the wine will run out and the wineskins will be ruined. 38 No, new wine must be poured into new wineskins.
What does this scripture mean?
What message materialized as you listened to this scripture?
How does this scripture make you feel?
Meditation on scripture / bible verse meditation:
Many of us have a tradition of creating New Year’s resolutions. We identify areas in our lives that we want to improve. Sometimes these things are related to our physical well being. Sometimes they are related to sin. Consider for a moment that these areas you want to improve represent a tear in your clothes. You want to patch it. In order to do this we consider incremental steps we can take to improve. I want you to consider now another alternative. Instead of incremental change, instead of changing in one small area at a time, we shed our old mindset and completely submit ourselves to God. Unless we are willing to do this then it is as if we are tearing the new clothes he would give us to try and patch the old. We cannot remain equally committed to our preconceived notions of who we are and God. So in this moment as you consider all the things you would like to improve, perhaps we could place at the top of this list to recommit to give all that we are to God.
In this moment consider what it would be like if you completely submitted to God.
What changes would you expect?
What changes could you never expect?
God can make more of our lives that we could imagine.
See if you can harness this image of what your life would be like if you completely submitted to God.
Would it be worth it?
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit.
Pray now in a spirit of submission to Him.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:
I invite you to sit in silence feeling the power of God over your life.
Meditate and Visualize Positive Change in Your Life:
What insights did you gain during these moments?
What thing will change in your life after this moment?
Share this message :
Now visualize someone or a group of people who need this message. Imagine what their face would look like as they receive this scripture in their hearts. Imagine how you can share it with them.
Conclusion:
Print and use this scripture.
I release a new episode of this every Sunday morning at 1AM Mountain time in the US.
You can get more information about my podcast by visiting my website ChristianMeditationPodcast.com.
I would ask that you pray that this podcast can continue to find people who need it. The more feedback I get from you all, the more I realize that this is much bigger than me. God’s power is made manifest through his word. I also want to say, as you can probably tell, I am sick as a dog. My whole family has been sick for days. I would love to receive your prayers on our behalf.
Above all I want to tell you that when we commit to live in a way pleasing to God, He can help us. He can change us beyond what we can do alone.
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***Due to a family emergency I will do more of a New Years theme in the next weeks.
This meditation is focused on the power of God. It may be aesthetically pleasing to feel relaxation but the reason we do it here is to put our minds right to remove distraction. So as you sit now allow your breathing to slow. Feel the air come in and go out slowly. Allow your mind to slow. Now is the moment to allow your mind to calm in preparation to receiving God’s word. Allow the worries of this world to fade away. The only thing that you have to do right now is breathe. Everything else is optional.
You can feel your body relaxing as you take slow and intentional breaths. You feel your muscles relax. Your brain begins to reset and send out all kinds of signals to your body that you are safe in this moment. Take in that feeling for a moment. Allow this calmness to sink into you. Let it be part of you. As you prepare to receive this message continue to allow this feeling of peace to develop.
Bible verse for meditation:
Matthew 9:2-8
2 And there people brought to him a paralytic lying on a stretcher. When Jesus saw their faith, he said to the paralytic, “Courage, child, your sins are forgiven.”
3 At that, some of the scribes* said to themselves, “This man is blaspheming.”4 Jesus knew what they were thinking, and said, “Why do you harbor evil thoughts?
5 Which is easier, to say, ‘Your sins are forgiven,’ or to say, ‘Rise and walk’?
6 But that you may know that the Son of Man has authority on earth to forgive sins”—he then said to the paralytic, “Rise, pick up your stretcher, and go home.”
7 He rose and went home.
8 When the crowds saw this they were struck with awe and glorified God who had given such authority to human beings.
KJV
2 And, behold, they brought to him a man sick of the palsy, lying on a bed: and Jesus seeing their faith said unto the sick of the palsy; Son, be of good cheer; thy sins be forgiven thee.
3 And, behold, certain of the scribes said within themselves, This man blasphemeth.
4 And Jesus knowing their thoughts said, Wherefore think ye evil in your hearts?
5 For whether is easier, to say, Thy sins be forgiven thee; or to say, Arise, and walk?
6 But that ye may know that the Son of man hath power on earth to forgive sins, (then saith he to the sick of the palsy,) Arise, take up thy bed, and go unto thine house.
7 And he arose, and departed to his house.
8 But when the multitudes saw it, they marvelled, and glorified God, which had given such power unto men.
What does this scripture mean?
What message materialized as you listened to this scripture?
How does this scripture make you feel?
Meditation on scripture / bible verse meditation:
In this reflection I do not want to derail your thoughts which may be inherantly more applicable than what I will say but I like to add a thought that perhaps you can carry.
Today my wife and kids were driving home from visiting family over Christmas. On the drive they got in a car accident where all of them were sent to the hospital via an ambulance. They were in a very small city and I was hours away. I dropped everything and drove the long distance to meet with them. As additional details came trickling in I found myself in though. One thing that I spend a lot of time thinking about is the balance God puts to us between faith and trust.
On one hand he asks us to pray to him and ask him for what we need. On the other hand we are to trust his timing and what he wills. I’m happy to report that the accident was not life threatening and there do not seem to be broken bones at this point. I find myself grateful to God but I acknowledge that it could easily have gone another way.
I love this scripture because it shows something so important. The greater miracle is that God forgives our sins. When things go well for us physically in this world, that may be nice but in an eternal sense the greatest gift is that of forgiveness. I am grateful for a God who has the power to do both and how thoughtfully he applies his will to us. No suffering is wasted if we draw nearer to him.
Take a moment and reflect on the miracle of forgiveness.
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit.
Pray now in a Spirit of deep gratitude.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:
I invite you to sit in silence feeling the power of God over your life.
Meditate and Visualize Positive Change in Your Life:
What insights did you gain during these moments?
What thing will change in your life after this moment?
Share this message :
Now visualize someone or a group of people who need this message. Imagine what their face would look like as they receive this scripture in their hearts. Imagine how you can share it with them.
Conclusion:
Print and use this scripture.
I release a new episode of this every Sunday morning at 1AM Mountain time in the US.
You can get more information about my podcast by visiting my website ChristianMeditationPodcast.com.
Next week I am going to read from Luke 2 for Christmas. If you have a scripture you would like me to consider covering in a future episode, email me at the contact page at Christianmeditationpodcast.com. They come straight to my personal email account.
During this week, focus on the value of the women in your life. Encourage them, praise them, and thank them. Be as kind to yourself as you want to be to others. Woman is God’s crowning and final act creation on Earth. Righteous women are God’s greatest creation on earth.
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I am releasing this on Christmas eve. I imagine that today has been deficient in opportunities to sit and reflect. And probably a larger than average amount of rush. Dedicate these next 20 minutes to stillness and reflection on God’s word. This is a time where you can dedicate to God.
We are going to be doing something a little differently. We are going to read long sections of the narrative of the birth of Jesus in memory of Christmas. During the reading continue the reading and let these words sink into your heart.
Bible verse for meditation:
1 And it came to pass in those days, that there went out a decree from Cæsar Augustus, that all the world should be taxed.
2 (And this taxing was first made when Cyrenius was governor of Syria.)
3 And all went to be taxed, every one into his own city.
4 And Joseph also went up from Galilee, out of the city of Nazareth, into Judæa, unto the city of David, which is called Bethlehem; (because he was of the house and lineage of David:)
5 To be taxed with Mary his espoused wife, being great with child.
6 And so it was, that, while they were there, the days were accomplished that she should be delivered.
7 And she brought forth her firstborn son, and wrapped him in swaddling clothes, and laid him in a manger; because there was no room for them in the inn.
8 And there were in the same country shepherds abiding in the field, keeping watch over their flock by night.
9 And, lo, the angel of the Lord came upon them, and the glory of the Lord shone round about them: and they were sore afraid.
10 And the angel said unto them, Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people.
11 For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord.
12 And this shall be a sign unto you; Ye shall find the babe wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in a manger.
13 And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God, and saying,
14 Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men.
15 And it came to pass, as the angels were gone away from them into heaven, the shepherds said one to another, Let us now go even unto Bethlehem, and see this thing which is come to pass, which the Lord hath made known unto us.
16 And they came with haste, and found Mary, and Joseph, and the babe lying in a manger.
17 And when they had seen it, they made known abroad the saying which was told them concerning this child.
18 And all they that heard it wondered at those things which were told them by the shepherds.
19 But Mary kept all these things, and pondered them in her heart.
Matthew 2:1-14
1 Now when Jesus was born in Bethlehem of Judæa in the days of Herod the king, behold, there came wise men from the east to Jerusalem,
2 Saying, Where is he that is born King of the Jews? for we have seen his star in the east, and are come to worship him.
3 When Herod the king had heard these things, he was troubled, and all Jerusalem with him.
4 And when he had gathered all the chief priests and scribes of the people together, he demanded of them where Christ should be born.
5 And they said unto him, In Bethlehem of Judæa: for thus it is written by the prophet,
6 And thou Bethlehem, in the land of Juda, art not the least among the princes of Juda: for out of thee shall come a Governor, that shall rule my people Israel.
7 Then Herod, when he had privily called the wise men, inquired of them diligently what time the star appeared.
8 And he sent them to Bethlehem, and said, Go and search diligently for the young child; and when ye have found him, bring me word again, that I may come and worship him also.
9 When they had heard the king, they departed; and, lo, the star, which they saw in the east, went before them, till it came and stood over where the young child was.
10 When they saw the star, they rejoiced with exceeding great joy.
11 ¶ And when they were come into the house, they saw the young child with Mary his mother, and fell down, and worshipped him: and when they had opened their treasures, they presented unto him gifts; gold, and frankincense, and myrrh.
12 And being warned of God in a dream that they should not return to Herod, they departed into their own country another way.
13 And when they were departed, behold, the angel of the Lord appeareth to Joseph in a dream, saying, Arise, and take the young child and his mother, and flee into Egypt, and be thou there until I bring thee word: for Herod will seek the young child to destroy him.
14 When he arose, he took the young child and his mother by night, and departed into Egypt:
What does this scripture mean?
What message materialized as you listened to this scripture?
How does this scripture make you feel?
Meditation on scripture / bible verse meditation:
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit.
Pray now in a Spirit of deep gratitude.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:
I invite you to sit in silence.
Meditate and Visualize Positive Change in Your Life:
What insights did you gain during these moments?
What thing will change in your life after this moment?
Absorb this message. Take the insights you gained in this reflection and imagine what your life would change if you lived according to this knowledge. Picture in as great detail as possible this life. Imagine this in as vivid detail as possible. Imagining you act exactly how you wish you did, visualize yourself feeling exactly how you want to. Let this moment be as vivid and real as possible.
Visualize blessing someone else:
Share this message :
Now visualize someone or a group of people who need this message. Imagine what their face would look like as they receive this scripture in their hearts. Imagine how you can share it with them.
Conclusion:
Print and use this scripture.
I release a new episode of this every Sunday morning at 1AM Mountain time in the US.
You can get more information about my podcast by visiting my website ChristianMeditationPodcast.com.
Next week I am going to read from Luke 2 for Christmas. If you have a scripture you would like me to consider covering in a future episode, email me at the contact page at Christianmeditationpodcast.com. They come straight to my personal email account.
During this week, focus on the value of the women in your life. Encourage them, praise them, and thank them. Be as kind to yourself as you want to be to others. Woman is God’s crowning and final act creation on Earth. Righteous women are God’s greatest creation on earth.
FIND ME ON:
iTunes
ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
Youtube
Pintrist
Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation:
Listen to the world around you. Sit quietly and hold your muscles gently. Leave your Body totally still. Instead of trying to control this moment just notice it. God has created every single spek of air entering your lungs. Your lungs have been perfectly designed to breathe this air. You feel it enter your body. You feel it interact in your lungs infusing them with live giving breath. Hold your attention lightly. If your mind wanders bring it gently back to the feelings of this relaxing pure air entering your body.
All of creating declares to glory of God including this moment and the air you’re breathing. You feel your muscles all over your body infused with God’s gift of life giving breath. Let go of all need to force this moment. You notice your breathing is getting more deep and relaxed. Your mind is preparing to receive God’s word in the Bible.
Bible verse for meditation:
This scripture is in Luke 1
KJV
28 And the angel came in unto her, and said, Hail, thou that art highly favoured, the Lord is with thee: blessed art thou among women.
29 And when she saw him, she was troubled at his saying, and cast in her mind what manner of salutation this should be.
30 And the angel said unto her, Fear not, Mary: for thou hast found favour with God.
31 And, behold, thou shalt conceive in thy womb, and bring forth a son, and shalt call his name Jesus.
32 He shall be great, and shall be called the Son of the Highest: and the Lord God shall give unto him the throne of his father David:
33 And he shall reign over the house of Jacob for ever; and of his kingdom there shall be no end.
What though, image, impression, or memory accompanied this story. Reflect on that.
As prepare to read another translation look for the similarities and differences.
ESV
28 And he came to her and said, “Greetings, O favored one, the Lord is with you!”
29 But she was greatly troubled at the saying, and tried to discern what sort of greeting this might be.
30 And the angel said to her, “Do not be afraid, Mary, for you have found favor with God.
31 And behold, you will conceive in your womb and bear a son, and you shall call his name Jesus.
32 He will be great and will be called the Son of the Most High. And the Lord God will give to him the throne of his father David,
33 and he will reign over the house of Jacob forever, and of his kingdom there will be no end.”
What does this scripture mean?
What message materialized as you listened to this scripture?
How does this scripture make you feel?
Meditation on scripture / bible verse meditation:
Instead of giving additional insights I will quote Mary.
38 And Mary said, “Behold, I am the servant of the Lord; let it be to me according to your word.” And the angel departed from her.
Later she went to go visit her Relative Elizabeth.
46 And Mary said,
“My soul magnifies the Lord,
47 and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior,
48 for he has looked on the humble estate of his servant.
For behold, from now on all generations will call me blessed;
49 for he who is mighty has done great things for me,
and holy is his name.
50 And his mercy is for those who fear him
from generation to generation.
51 He has shown strength with his arm;
he has scattered the proud in the thoughts of their hearts;
52 he has brought down the mighty from their thrones
and exalted those of humble estate;
53 he has filled the hungry with good things,
and the rich he has sent away empty.
54 He has helped his servant Israel,
in remembrance of his mercy,
55 as he spoke to our fathers,
to Abraham and to his offspring forever.”
It is difficult for me to express my feelings about the high value of righteous women. I was raised by an amazingly righteous woman. There is a reflection of Mary in the heart of every woman. Righteous women magnify the face of the Lord. If you are a woman, embrace this in your heart. If you know any women, then live in such a way to help them see how they magnify the face of the Lord.
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit.
Pray now in a Spirit of deep gratitude.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:
I invite you to sit in silence.
Meditate and Visualize Positive Change in Your Life:
What insights did you gain during these moments?
What thing will change in your life after this moment?
Absorb this message. Take the insights you gained in this reflection and imagine what your life would change if you lived according to this knowledge. Picture in as great detail as possible this life. Imagine this in as vivid detail as possible. Imagining you act exactly how you wish you did, visualize yourself feeling exactly how you want to. Let this moment be as vivid and real as possible.
Visualize blessing someone else:
Share this message :
Now visualize someone or a group of people who need this message. Imagine what their face would look like as they receive this scripture in their hearts. Imagine how you can share it with them.
Conclusion:
Print and use this scripture.
I release a new episode of this every Sunday morning at 1AM Mountain time in the US.
You can get more information about my podcast by visiting my website ChristianMeditationPodcast.com.
Next week I am going to read from Luke 2 for Christmas. If you have a scripture you would like me to consider covering in a future episode, email me at the contact page at Christianmeditationpodcast.com. They come straight to my personal email account.
During this week, focus on the value of the women in your life. Encourage them, praise them, and thank them. Be as kind to yourself as you want to be to others. Woman is God’s crowning and final act creation on Earth. Righteous women are God’s greatest creation on earth.
FIND ME ON:
iTunes
ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
Youtube
Pintrist
Now is a great time for you to slow down. You’ve already decided to have this moment be peaceful. Everything else fades out of your life for these minutes. As you continue to practice relaxation, you feel it come quicker and easier. You don’t need to force out any external noises. Anything you hear and feel is part of this moment now and just let it be what it is. Just let things progress naturally. Your body was created by an almighty God. This body has an amazing ability to feel of His peace.
You find yourself breathing effortlessly. You breath slows. you prepare your heart for the message from the Bible and therefore from God, continue this breathing. As you do you feel your muscles start to melt away. If you notice your mind trying to solve problems just remember that the only thing you have to do during this relaxation is to breathe. Everything else is optional.
Continue breathing slowly and rhythmically. As your breathing has naturally slowed, help it expand deeper. Breathe so deeply and softly that your stomach fills with air. Continue breathing throughout the rest of this meditation. You feel your heart open and ready to receive the words of Jesus in this scripture as he is preaching in the sermon on the mount.
Bible verse for meditation:
This scripture is in Matthew 6:19-22
ESV
19 Do not lay up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy and where thieves break in and steal,
20 but lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust destroys and where thieves do not break in and steal.
21 For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.
22 “The eye is the lamp of the body. So, if your eye is healthy, your whole body will be full of light,
What though, image, impression, or memory accompanied this story. Reflect on that.
As prepare to read another translation look for the similarities and differences.
KJV
9 Lay not up for yourselves treasures upon earth, where moth and rust doth corrupt, and where thieves break through and steal:
20 But lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust doth corrupt, and where thieves do not break through nor steal:
21 For where your treasure is, there will your heart be also.
22 The light of the body is the eye: if therefore thine eye be single, thy whole body shall be full of light
What does this scripture mean?
What message materialized as you listened to this scripture?
How does this scripture make you feel?
Meditation on scripture / bible verse meditation:
Many times when we hear Jesus’ commands to drop our obsession with the things of this world. We sometimes try and justify that perhaps that is not really what he meant. Ultimately though, Jesus did mean what he said. The wonders and terrors of this life hold nothing when compared to things beyond this life. There is nothing that we can attain in our lives that is more valuable than what God has in mind for those who love him. The problem is we trick ourselves at times to think that we are unavoidably connected with this world. As we have experiences in scripture, prayer, and with God’s Spirit, we realize that God’s promises are more profound than anything of this earth. If we aren’t careful we can get stuck. We think we can have it both ways. By learning to hold our desire lightly, we can be freed from this conflict.
The unavoidable fact is that eternal peace cannot be earned through the treasures of this world. Ultimately the best good that earthly goods can do is to ease physical suffering and allow us to develop deeper love for each other, and above all to draw our hearts and focus to God.
Those who find themselves in financial bondage may feel as though this scripture does not apply to us. The truth is that anytime we put life’s greatest aspirations or fears in debt or wealth, we remain distracted. When you die and are reunited with God he will only interested with how you loved Him and your neighbor and how we showed this. The fear we cause ourselves by worrying about money also don’t even have the effect of helping us out of any financial mess.
If you connected with any of this message I offer us this final challenge. Let go of desire. Realize that you don’t have to want anything to feel peaceful. You don’t have to “need” anything in this world. The only thing that we truly need is God’s grace and no amount of needing with force that issue only God’s sovereignty. During this Christmas season focus on emotionally letting go of money. When we realize that we are stewards of the resources of this world our anxiety around money can dissipate.
All that is left is to do the best we can. When we allow the money to be a treasure to us we miss the whole point. In your heart see if you can practice what it feels like to let go of the idea that money is treasure or that debt will enslave your soul for eternity. You can break free of this oppressive message with the Words of Jesus. Where your treasure is, there will your heart be also. Filter all financial plans through the lens of your deeply held Christian values, not fear or greed. God can rescue your soul and mine from the snares of this world. Let him free your heart. Commit to being responsible for everything you can and trusting in him for the rest. God’s spirit can attend your finances if you don’t hold it as treasure. Perhaps the simplest summary of this is that we cannot find the deepest peace of God if we consider money to be treasure.
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit.
Pray now in a Spirit of deep gratitude.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:
I invite you to sit in silence as you feel His gift in your heart.
Meditate and Visualize Positive Change in Your Life:
What insights did you gain during these moments?
What thing will change in your life after this moment?
I’m hoping you got a specific impression. I invite you to visualize what your life would look like and what you would feel like if what you imagined were true. Imagine what it would feel like if your positive intentions were realized and you were acting and feeling exactly as you wanted. Imagine you are living in this moment, not watchign it on TV. See how deeply you can feel it.
Visualize blessing someone else:
Share this message :
Now visualize someone or a group of people who need this message. Imagine what their face would look like as they receive this scripture in their hearts. Imagine how you can share it with them.
Conclusion:
Print and use this scripture.
I release a new episode of this every Sunday morning at 1AM Mountain time in the US.
You can get more information about my podcast by visiting my website ChristianMeditationPodcast.com.
I hope you can feel my deep and genuine concern in this topic. It was done with a complete absence of judgement. That’s why I so often use the word we instead of you. I am certain that God’ will bless you and me with His peace if we learn to redefine what treasure means. When you hear the word treasure practice imagining things of God, family, and friends instead of wealth, possessions, or resources. What will it benefit us if we get out of debt, raise a huge pile of money then realize that we have missed the whole purpose of life?
The flip side of the argument can also be made. What would we gain if we lost the whole world but we gained our souls? May we ever be willing to accept God’s bounteous grace that he so mercifully is willing to bestow on us. As it says in Mark 8:36 “And what do you benefit if you gain the whole world but lose your own soul?”
FIND ME ON:
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ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
Youtube
Pintrist
Feel your breathing. Feel the air coming into your body. Feel the air flow down past your chest all the way down to your stomach. Let the air coming into your body come and let it go. Feel your stomach slowly grow. Imagine that your stomach is a large balloon. Let it softly expand and deflate. Feel your breathing as it comes in and out. If you feel the need to do something let it pass. In this moment the only thing you have to do is breathe. As you do this you feel any tension in your body go out. Just feel your breath let it go in and out. As you are doing this feel how much Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ love you. Even if you make mistakes they love you. As you prepare your heart for the message from the Bible and therefore from God, continue this breathing and relaxation.
Bible verse for meditation:
This scripture is in Mark 1:1-3
KJV
1 The beginning of the gospel of Jesus Christ, the Son of God;
2 As it is written in the prophets, Behold, I send my messenger before thy face, which shall prepare thy way before thee.
3 The voice of one crying in the wilderness, Prepare ye the way of the Lord, make his paths straight.
What though, image, impression, or memory accompanied this story. Reflect on that.
As prepare to read another translation look for the similarities and differences.
NIV
1 The beginning of the good news about Jesus the Messiah, the Son of God, 2 as it is written in Isaiah the prophet: “I will send my messenger ahead of you, who will prepare your way” — 3 “a voice of one calling in the wilderness, ‘Prepare the way for the Lord, make straight paths for him.’ ”
What does this scripture mean?
What message materialized as you listened to this scripture?
How does this scripture make you feel?
Meditation on scripture / bible verse meditation:
Many Christians participate in types of anticipation for Christmas when we remember the coming of the Son of God. Some people use Advent calendars where they open a small door on an advent calendar leading up to the celebration of the coming of Jesus Christ into this world on Christmas day. This year the December 3 has been set as the first Sunday of the Advent. Many even choose something to give up similar to lent.
In reflecting on Advent this is what led me to choose this scripture. In Jesus’ earthly ministry there are few people on earth that understood his earthly ministry better than John the Baptist. When the Apostles were still clueless John was powerfully prophesying of the mission of Jesus. As we celebrate the coming of the Lord John’s message can speak to us as a voice calling from the wilderness. Consider what you can do in your own actions, mind, and heart that would prepare the way of the Lord for you and those you know.
How can you make his path straight?
John’s message can speak to us powerfully now as we prepare our lives for the coming of the Savior of the world. As the season gets busier and busier, dedicate time with God. In this time you can reflect on the miracle that was Jesus’ birth. When you prepare for a party at work or with family, consider how can you make His path straight. When you are thinking of what presents to give, think how you can prepare for the coming of the Lord.
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit.
Pray now in a Spirit of deep gratitude.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:
I invite you to sit in silence as you feel His gift in your heart.
Meditate and Visualize Positive Change in Your Life:
What insights did you gain during these moments?
What thing will change in your life after this moment?
Use you imagination to fully visualize what that change will look at. Image one very concrete change you will make in your life. What new action will you take. Visualize yourself now doing this new action. Make it as vivid as possible with as much detail.
Visualize blessing someone else:
Share this message :
Now visualize someone or a group of people who need this message. Imagine what their face would look like as they receive this scripture in their hearts. Imagine how you can share it with them.
Conclusion:
Print and use this scripture.
I release a new episode of this every Sunday morning at 1AM Mountain time in the US.
You can get more information about my podcast by visiting my website ChristianMeditationPodcast.com.
As you accept this Christmas season into your heart, may you feel his generous nature inspire you. The most valuable gift that you can give is to risk showing genuine care, love, and concern for others. This gift is not without risk, but it has the benefit of being infinite and limitless. The strangest blessing of the gift of love is the more we give, the more we have to give. May God bless you with the insights you need to love so deeply that it changes who you are. Let this Christmas be a time that causes your heart to grow as your realize how God can change you to meet his purposes.
I pray that you will find the courage to follow Jesus and love, and in so doing discover the greatest joy of life. The more love you are able to feel and give, the fuller your life will become. In the name of Jesus Christ Amen.
FIND ME ON:
iTunes
ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
Youtube
Pintrist
Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation:
Stop. Listen.
Notice your breath. Notice your body. Allow the rushing of thoughts to slow in your mind. Allow your focus to rest on your breathing. As you do this focus on allowing your breath to slow. Allow your focus to soften. There is no need for your to tense your focus. Allow it to rest gently on your slow and easy breath. One of the powerful aspects of meditation is how we can train our minds to slow. As we reinforce this trend it allows to think clearer at other times. As you continue to breathe deeply, you feel your muscles softening. You feel the tension leaving your body with no active will of your own. You feel your body and your mind prepare to receive the healing word of God. God’s message for you is unique and powerful. He can help you. Remain open to God’s word in the scripture I am about to read.
As you here these words focus on the rejoicing nature of these words. Search the rejoicing response in your own heart.
Bible verse for meditation:
This scripture is in 2 Corrinthians 9:9-15
NABRE
9 As it is written:
“He scatters abroad, he gives to the poor;
his righteousness endures forever.”
10 The one who supplies seed to the sower and bread for food will supply and multiply your seed and increase the harvest of your righteousness.
11 You are being enriched in every way for all generosity, which through us produces thanksgiving to God,
12 for the administration of this public service is not only supplying the needs of the holy ones but is also overflowing in many acts of thanksgiving to God.
13 Through the evidence of this service, you are glorifying God for your obedient confession of the gospel of Christ and the generosity of your contribution to them and to all others,
14 while in prayer on your behalf they long for you, because of the surpassing grace of God upon you.
15 Thanks be to God for his indescribable gift!
What though, image, impression, or memory accompanied this story. Reflect on that.
As prepare to read another translation look for the similarities and differences.
NIV
9 As it is written:
“They have freely scattered their gifts to the poor;
their righteousness endures forever.”
10 Now he who supplies seed to the sower and bread for food will also supply and increase your store of seed and will enlarge the harvest of your righteousness. 11 You will be enriched in every way so that you can be generous on every occasion, and through us your generosity will result in thanksgiving to God. 12 This service that you perform is not only supplying the needs of the Lord’s people but is also overflowing in many expressions of thanks to God. 13 Because of the service by which you have proved yourselves, others will praise God for the obedience that accompanies your confession of the gospel of Christ, and for your generosity in sharing with them and with everyone else. 14 And in their prayers for you their hearts will go out to you, because of the surpassing grace God has given you. 15 Thanks be to God for his indescribable gift!
What does this scripture mean?
What message materialized as you listened to this scritpure?
Meditation on scripture / bible verse meditation:
How do you bless others? What gifts have you been given that bless others? What are the seeds of this giving?
This scripture shows us how deeply our generosity is connected to God. Our generosity comes from being enriched by God. God is the one who provides the seeds of our giving. It is through the generosity that resides in our hearts, inspired by God, and in turn our generosity results in gratitude to God. This happens in our hearts and also in those who are blessed when our hearts yield to a generous nature.
Thanks be to God for his indescribable gift!
Not only does this service cause thanksgiving to God but it also results from obedience that accompanies our confession of the Gospel of Christ.
As we live according to the commands of Jesus Christ our hearts will naturally be filled with a generous nature that leads other to thanksgiving to God.
As we prepare to enter the Christmas season, lets have this message guide us. May our expressions of gratitude before God result in an overwhelming generosity of heart that leads us to give the most valuable gift of all, love. God himself showed us this message. This is the true meaning of the Christmas season. The birth of our Lord and savior Jesus Christ represents the greatest generosity in the history of earth. The condescension of God is the reason for our rejoicing. We share with each other gifts and love in memory of this, the greatest gift.
Thanks be to God for his indescribable gift!
If you feel emotional or financial burdens of this season, may they melt in importance when compared to the eternal value of the Salvation that came through Jesus Christ. His birth was a requitsite step. He first must be born as the Son of God before he could save the world.
Remember the purpose of Christmas is not only the veneration of the baby but the fact that this baby represents the incarnation of God. This is what we celebrate on Christmas.
What greater gift could God bestow than this, the promise of grace which we could never attain without his help. May we take the seeds with which God has given us and use them to bring the hearts of others to glorify his name and proclaim Hallelujah!
Thanks be to God for his indescribable gift!
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit.
Pray now in a Spirit of deep gratitude.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:
I invite you to sit in silence as you feel His gift in your heart.
Meditate and Visualize Positive Change in Your Life:
What insights did you gain during these moments?
What thing will change in your life after this moment?
Use you imagination to fully visualize what that change will look at. Image one very concrete change you will make in your life. What new action will you take. Visualize yourself now doing this new action. Make it as vivid as possible with as much detail.
Visualize blessing someone else:
Share this message :
Now visualize someone or a group of people who need this message. Imagine what their face would look like as they receive this scripture in their hearts. Imagine how you can share it with them.
Conclusion:
Print and use this scripture.
I release a new episode of this every Sunday morning at 1AM Mountain time in the US.
You can get more information about my podcast by visiting my website ChristianMeditationPodcast.com.
As you accept this Christmas season into your heart, may you feel his generous nature inspire you. The most valuable gift that you can give is to risk showing genuine care, love, and concern for others. This gift is not without risk, but it has the benefit of being infinite and limitless. The strangest blessing of the gift of love is the more we give, the more we have to give. May God bless you with the insights you need to love so deeply that it changes who you are. Let this Christmas be a time that causes your heart to grow as your realize how God can change you to meet his purposes.
I pray that you will find the courage to follow Jesus and love, and in so doing discover the greatest joy of life. The more love you are able to feel and give, the fuller your life will become. In the name of Jesus Christ Amen.
FIND ME ON:
iTunes
ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
Youtube
Pintrist
026
As a Hospice chaplain
026 Your Faith Has Made You Whole - A Guided Christian Meditation Podcast Luke 17:12-19 How to feel God’s Peace.
I work as a Hospice Chaplain and having worked as an ICU chaplain in a busy hospital, my purpose in making this podcast is to help you find more peace in your life and to be more open to be changed by the Spirit of God.
Outline: Relaxation, Reading, Meditation, Prayer, Contemplation, Visualization
Feel free to use this podcast each day for the coming week. Repetition will help it remain in your memory longer.
Intro:
We will begin with some deep breathing in order to remove distractions so that we can focus completely on God’s word. Close your eyes
Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation:
Stop. Listen.
Notice your breath. Notice your body. Allow the rushing of thoughts to slow in your mind. Allow your focus to rest on your breathing. As you do this focus on allowing your breath to slow. Allow your focus to soften. There is no need for your to tense your focus. Allow it to rest gently on your slow and easy breath. One of the powerful aspects of meditation is how we can train our minds to slow. As we reinforce this trend it allows to think clearer at other times. As you continue to breathe deeply, you feel your muscles softening. You feel the tension leaving your body with no active will of your own. You feel your body and your mind prepare to receive the healing word of God. God’s message for you is unique and powerful. He can help you. Remain open to God’s word in the scripture I am about to read.
As you here these words focus on the rejoicing nature of these words. Search the rejoicing response in your own heart.
Bible verse for meditation:
This scripture is in Luke 17:12-19
NIV
12 As he was going into a village, ten men who had leprosy met him. They stood at a distance
13 and called out in a loud voice, “Jesus, Master, have pity on us!”
14 When he saw them, he said, “Go, show yourselves to the priests.”And as they went, they were cleansed.
15 One of them, when he saw he was healed, came back, praising God in a loud voice. 16 He threw himself at Jesus’ feet and thanked him—and he was a Samaritan.
17 Jesus asked, “Were not all ten cleansed? Where are the other nine?
18 Has no one returned to give praise to God except this foreigner?”
19 Then he said to him, “Rise and go; your faith has made you well.”
What though, image, impression, or memory accompanied this story. Reflect on that.
As prepare to read another translation look for the similarities and differences.
KJV
12 And as he entered into a certain village, there met him ten men that were lepers, which stood afar off:
13 And they lifted up their voices, and said, Jesus, Master, have mercy on us.
4 And when he saw them, he said unto them, Go shew yourselves unto the priests. And it came to pass, that, as they went, they were cleansed.
15 And one of them, when he saw that he was healed, turned back, and with a loud voice glorified God,
16 And fell down on his face at his feet, giving him thanks: and he was a Samaritan.
17 And Jesus answering said, Were there not ten cleansed? but where are the nine?
18 There are not found that returned to give glory to God, save this stranger.
19 And he said unto him, Arise, go thy way: thy faith hath made thee whole.
What does this scripture mean?
What message materialized as you listened to this scritpure?
Meditation on scripture / bible verse meditation:
It can be hard for us in modern times to identify with or even understand such a miraculous change. Leprosy was a horrible and lethal skin disease. Not only did it cause immense physical suffering but it resulted in people being completely isolated from their family and all of their past sources of emotional support.
The healing here is indeed miraculous but that is not the focus of the story. The focus and purpose of this story is placed squarely on the response of those healed. Unfortunately this scripture demonstrates the immense and almost limitless potential of us as humans to not acknowledge the source of blessings and give thanks.
Similar to these lepers we have been given so much. The fact that you have the ability to listen to this recording shows the immense power of technology to bless and change our lives. We have human connections, we have financial blessings, we have life, we have LIFE.
The positive side of this story is that each of us can choose to be like this single leper who returned to give thanks to Jesus. In the moments that follow I want to allow you to focus on thanksgiving but not in a spirit of obligation. Imagine how you would feel as this leper did. Life your voice or thoughts high to God in a spirit of rejoicing.
I know many of you do not live in the US but this week in the US we celebrate Thanksgiving day. Use this time of thanksgiving to not only be grateful but lift your voice in rejoicing to God. He has told us that as we are grateful we will feel his blessings more deeply.
Both Scripture and science converge on this point. Gratitude will lead you to more happiness.
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit.
Pray now in a Spirit of deep gratitude.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:
I invite you to sit in silence with a heart of gratitude for everything we have.
Meditate and Visualize Positive Change in Your Life:
What insights did you gain during these moments?
What thing will change in your life after this moment?
Use you imagination to fully visualize what that change will look at. Image one very concrete change you will make in your life. What new action will you take. Visualize yourself now doing this new action. Make it as vivid as possible with as much detail.
Visualize blessing someone else:
Share this message :
Now visualize someone or a group of people who need this message. Imagine what their face would look like as they receive this scripture in their hearts. Imagine how you can share it with them.
Conclusion:
Print and use this scripture.
I release a new episode of this every Sunday morning at 1AM Mountain time in the US.
You can get more information about my podcast by visiting my website ChristianMeditationPodcast.com.
I want to send my fondest greetings to any of the people who I visit who are listening. I know some of you are. May God bless you with strength as you ponder his great mysteries and purpose for you in your life. Let us commit to spending each and every moment we have left in gratitude and thanksgiving, even when we don’t understand God’s purposes.
May you experience His peace in your life as you make these changes is my prayer in Jesus name. Amen.
FIND ME ON:
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ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
Youtube
Pintrist
Stop. Listen. In your heard in this moment let these words resonate. Lord, here am I. Your servant is listening. As you do this you feel your breathing start to slow. As you invite air all the way down into your belly you feel a tingle of release in all your tense muscles. Feel this calm.
Bible verse for meditation:
This scripture is in 1 John 1:8-10
KJV
8 If we say that we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us.
9 If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.
10 If we say that we have not sinned, we make him a liar, and his word is not in us.
ESV
8 If we say we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us.
9 If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.
10 If we say we have not sinned, we make him a liar, and his word is not in us.
Meditation on scripture / bible verse meditation:
I meant to do an episode on forgiveness, as in the need we have to forgive each other but I felt a strong pull to this passage. Only after we fully own our need for forgiveness to the other mandates of Jesus and his Apostles reach our hearts. Many calls for us to forgive are coincided with comparisons of our own need for forgiveness and how that is much greater.
It is quite unfashionable to speak of sin these days. Many people have been wounded by shame. Many of us fear our temptation, and we want to overcome it so badly. The sad consequence is that we can turn a blind eye. We must train our hearts to listen to our conscience. John loves the message of light for Jesus. When we constantly ignore God’s light we become less able to perceive it. When we feel convicted by the spirit, and we listen, the sentence is served not by shame but by a broken heart and a contrite spirit. We can reach a place when our ego is surrendered to gain the peace of God.
Consider who would win in a contest, the conviction of the Holy Spirit, or you? God’s desire to purify our hearts will ultimately bring us more happiness and peace than anything else in this life. When we can bow before him and feel the deep paradox of our eternal need for him while also feeling complete in Him.
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit.
Pray now regarding the beatitude that is resonating with you.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:
I invite you to sit in silence with a heart of gratitude for his ability to forgive us.
Meditate and Visualize Positive Change in Your Life:
What insights did you gain during these moments?
What thing will change in your life after this moment?
Use you imagination to fully visualize what that change will look at. Image one very concrete change you will make in your life. What new action will you take. Visualize yourself now doing this new action. Make it as vivid as possible with as much detail.
Visualize blessing someone else:
Now visualize someone or a group of people who need this message. Imagine what their face would look like as they receive this scripture in their hearts. Imagine how you can share it with them.
Conclusion:
Print and use this scripture.
I release a new episode of this every Sunday morning at 1AM Mountain time in the US.
You can get more information about my podcast by visiting my website ChristianMeditationPodcast.com.
After hearing the blessings many of you have been experiencing this podcast, I feel it is a good idea to offer an opportunity for you to support that option financially I have a Patreon page setup to accept donations at Patreon.com/christianmeditationpodcast. In this way you can help support this cause of bringing peace.
May you experience His peace in your life as you make these changes is my prayer in Jesus name. Amen.
FIND ME ON:
iTunes
ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
Youtube
Pintrist
Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation:
As you start to relax, resist the urge to force yourself to relax. Many times this is not successful. Instead focus on living in this moment that you have right now. Notice your body. As you pay attention to your breathing you are in a place to notice the work of God in bringing your heart peace. As Moses said to the people of Israel when they were stuck between the Red Sea and the Pharaoh's armies: “Fear ye not, stand still, and see the salvation of the Lord.”
Hear this message right now. Fear ye not. Stand Still and see the Salvation of the Lord.”
Allow your breathing to expand. Allow it to slow down. As you do, you feel your body slowly unwind. Allow you breathing to go all the way down into your belly. You feel your muscles unflexing. Your shoulders start drooping . As you go throughout the rest of this meditation you will continue to notice your breathing slow and become deeper. If you notice your breathing starting to speed, notice it and allow it to become deeper. This scripture is a powerful one. In this story Jesus teaches how important it is to serve each other and specifically those who are oppressed, those who are powerless, those who most need it. Allow your heart to remain open as you commit to allow the words of God to reach the deepest part of your heart.
My show notes are normally much more descriptive.
Bible verse for meditation:
This scripture is in the gospel of Matthew 25:34-40
34 Then shall the King say unto them on his right hand, Come, ye blessed of my Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world:
35 For I was an hungred, and ye gave me meat: I was thirsty, and ye gave me drink: I was a stranger, and ye took me in:
36 Naked, and ye clothed me: I was sick, and ye visited me: I was in prison, and ye came unto me.
37 Then shall the righteous answer him, saying, Lord, when saw we thee an hungred, and fed thee? or thirsty, and gave thee drink?
38 When saw we thee a stranger, and took thee in? or naked, and clothed thee?
39 Or when saw we thee sick, or in prison, and came unto thee?
40 And the King shall answer and say unto them, Verily I say unto you, Inasmuch as ye have done it unto one of the least of these my brethren, ye have done it unto me.
Meditation on scripture / bible verse meditation:
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit.
Pray now regarding the beatitude that is resonating with you.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:
I invite you to sit in silence and wait on the Lord.
Meditate and Visualize Positive Change in Your Life:
What insights did you gain during these moments?
What thing will change in your life after this moment?
Use you imagination to fully visualize what that change will look at. Image one very concrete change you will make in your life. What new action will you take. Visualize yourself now doing this new action. Make it as vivid as possible with as much detail.
Visualize blessing someone else:
Now visualize someone or a group of people who need this message. Imagine what their face would look like as they receive this scripture in their hearts. Imagine how you can share it with them.
Conclusion:
Print and use this scripture.
I release a new episode of this every Sunday morning at 1AM Mountain time in the US.
You can get more information about my podcast by visiting my website ChristianMeditationPodcast.com.
After hearing the blessings many of you have been experiencing this podcast, I feel it is a good idea to offer an opportunity for you to support that option financially I have a Patreon page setup to accept donations at Patreon.com/christianmeditationpodcast. In this way you can help support this cause of bringing peace.
May you experience His peace in your life as you make these changes is my prayer in Jesus name. Amen.
FIND ME ON:
iTunes
ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
Youtube
Pintrist
023 I Have Engraved You on the Palms of My Hands - A Guided Christian Meditation Podcast on Isaiah 49:14-16
As a Hospice chaplain and having worked as an ICU chaplain in a busy hospital, my purpose in making this podcast is to help you find more peace in your life and to be more open to be changed by the Spirit of God.
Outline: Relaxation, Reading, Meditation, Prayer, Contemplation, Visualization
Intro:
We will begin with some deep breathing in order to remove distractions so that we can focus completely on God’s word.
Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation:
As we begin, look down at your hands. Pick one and stare at it. If you can’t do this, visualize it or look at some other part of your body. Notice the creases in your hands. Try and notice every contour. When I look at my hands I notice small hairs, pores, and many scars. As you do this let your whole focus rest on what you are seeing. Perhaps you run your fingers along the palms of your hands. As you do this breathe deeply. Allow all your focus gently rest upon your hands. The imagery of our hands reminds us what we have done. These hands of yours have been with you your whole life. When you have held a baby, or touched the grass and dirt. When you have worshiped and sinned. This is part of your existence on earth. Perhaps you have lost the ability to fully use your hands or the experience discomfort. Perhaps you never think about them. Our relationship to our body is very complex and confusing at times. Take this time to breathe deeply and allow all your muscles relax. Don't run from feelings that come but just let them be without fighting it. Open your heart to the word of God in the Bible. I’m breaking tradition a little here. As you continue to relax close your eyes and keep breathing deeply. One of my new friends who has reached out to me via my website ChristianMeditationPodcast.com send me this message while we were talking about some hard things going on in his life. He brought up this scripture.
Bible verse for meditation:
This scripture is in the gospel of Isaiah 49:1-6
1
Hear me, coastlands,
listen, distant peoples.
Before birth the LORD called me,
from my mother’s womb he gave me my name.
2
He made my mouth like a sharp-edged sword,
concealed me, shielded by his hand.
He made me a sharpened arrow,
in his quiver he hid me.
3
He said to me, You are my servant,
in you, Israel, I show my glory.
4
Though I thought I had toiled in vain,
for nothing and for naught spent my strength,
Yet my right is with the LORD,
my recompense is with my God.
5
For now the LORD has spoken
who formed me as his servant from the womb,
That Jacob may be brought back to him
and Israel gathered to him;
I am honored in the sight of the LORD,
and my God is now my strength!
6
It is too little, he says, for you to be my servant,
to raise up the tribes of Jacob,
and restore the survivors of Israel;
I will make you a light to the nations,
that my salvation may reach to the ends of the earth
At times we can feel dejected. We can feel overcome. Deeply in need of the peace of the LORD. Later in the same scripture we find this profound scripture. Keep your heart open as you receive this scripture. Notice what word or thought your attention rests upon.
Isaiah 49:14-16
Catholic Bible (NABRE)
14
But Zion said, “The LORD has forsaken me;
my Lord has forgotten me.”
15
Can a mother forget her infant,
be without tenderness for the child of her womb?
Even should she forget,
I will never forget you.
16
See, upon the palms of my hands I have engraved you;
your walls are ever before me.
Look for similarities and differences in this reading.
ESV
14
But Zion said, “The LORD has forsaken me;
my Lord has forgotten me.”
15
“Can a woman forget her nursing child,
that she should have no compassion on the son of her womb?
Even these may forget,
yet I will not forget you.
16
Behold, I have engraved you on the palms of my hands;
your walls are continually before me.
Meditation on scripture / bible verse meditation:
Take another deep breath as you ponder what this scripture means.
What stuck out to you as you focused on the scripture?
Continue breathing deeply and pondering as I share some thoughts.
When I first started the podcast I started very exegetical and technical. Since there are many more people much smarter than me and the main goal of this podcast is to align ourselves with the spirit of peace my focus has turned to application. Part of me wants to talk about how Isaiah 49 forms one of the other servant songs. Similarl to Isiah 53 covered in episode 9. I'll place my focus on this follow on scripture.
At times we find ourselves feeling as though we have sinned before God and are no more worthy to be called his sons and daughters. At times we feel thrown off, neglected, or worse… rebellious. This scripture is a calm reminder of the care of God. I’ve held my own children with the overwhelming love of a father. As they have rested helplessly in my arms as they weep I have felt profound love for them. The love of a mother is even more unique. God correctly demonstrates that human parents can fail, but he will not. His love for you is so profound.
For you he treated the winepress alone. As he was betrayed outside gethsemane (which means wine press) He was crushed for our iniquity. He loves us so profoundly that he has engraven us upon the palms of his hands through his sacrifice. These same engravings he showed to his apostle Thomas after his resurrection. Remember as you looked at your frail human hands. God can hold the galaxies in His hands. His omnipresent omnipotent self was sacrificed for you and I willingly. He did it with full awareness. You and I have fallen. We have sinned. As we are held helplessly in the arms of God he pours his love over us.
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit.
Pray now regarding the beatitude that is resonating with you.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:
I invite you to sit in silence and feel yourself in God’s hands.
Meditate and Visualize Positive Change in Your Life:
What insights did you gain during these moments?
What thing will change in your life after this moment?
Use you imagination to fully visualize what that change will look at. Image one very concrete change you will make in your life. What new action will you take. Visualize yourself now doing this new action. Make it as vivid as possible with as much detail.
Visualize blessing someone else:
Now visualize someone or a group of people who need this message. Imagine what their face would look like as they receive this scripture in their hearts. Imagine how you can share it with them.
Conclusion:
Print and use this scripture.
I release a new episode of this every Sunday morning at 1AM Mountain time in the US.
You can get more information about my podcast by visiting my website ChristianMeditationPodcast.com.
After hearing the blessings many of you have been experiencing this podcast, I feel it is a good idea to offer an opportunity for you to support that option financially I have a Patreon page setup to accept donations at Patreon.com/christianmeditationpodcast. In this way you can help support this cause of bringing peace.
78 countries all 50 states.
May you experience His peace in your life as you make these changes is my prayer in Jesus name. Amen.
FIND ME ON:
iTunes
ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
Youtube
Pintrist
Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation:
As we begin, focus your attention on the idea of a blessing? Bring all of your focus to this word as your breathing slowly begins to expand. Feel the gentle breath enter your body as you imagine this idea of a blessing. Allow your breath to go all the way down to your stomach. Count your breath out. As you breathe in count to 5 slowly, then gently pause for a moment, then allow the air in you to gently rush out. Each breath you take is a blessing. Each breath you take is a miracle. Gently allow each new breath to come into your lungs for 5 seconds, the rest in your belly, then escape harmlessly. As you continue breathing, you feel the tension leave your body. All the tension leaves you slowly. Its is as though it is as ice that is melting and flows out of you. If you mind ever wanders, bring it back to this idea of a blessing. You feel a blessing rushing in you with each breath of fresh air being pulled into your lungs. As you continue to breath, you feel a gentle contentment with your life in this moment. These breaths are cleansing you from the inside and allowing you to focus all your attention. As I begin to read this scripture keep breathing deeply. This message will continue to speak peace to your heart and show you the many ways which we will be blessed. Keep your heart and mind open as you hear this message from God found in His scripture, the Bible. Place all of your focus on the scripture, allowing God to send you a message. This scripture is the beginning of Jesus sermon on the mount.
Bible verse for meditation:
This scripture is in the gospel of Matthew 5:2-12
2 And he opened his mouth and taught them, saying:
3 “Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.
4 “Blessed are those who mourn, for they shall be comforted.
5 “Blessed are the meek, for they shall inherit the earth.
6 “Blessed are those who hunger and thirsty for righteousness, for they shall be satisfied.
7 “Blessed are the merciful, for they shall receive mercy.
8 “Blessed are the pure in heart, for they shall see God.
9 “Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called sons of God.
10 “Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness' sake, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.
11 “Blessed are you when others revile you and persecute you and utter all kinds of evil against you falsely on my account.
12 Rejoice and be glad, for your reward is great in heaven, for so they persecuted the prophets who were before you.
Meditation on scripture / bible verse meditation:
Take another deep breath as you ponder what this scripture means.
What stuck out to you as you focused on the scripture?
The Sermon on the Mount and comprises Matthew 5-7. This first section is referred to as the Beatitudes Early texts of it did not have chapters and verses. As a result ancient readers would refer to a text by its first line. In this way the Sermon on the Mount was referred to as “Blessed are the poor.” As a reference to this, early Christians did not call themselves Christians but they called themselves “The Poor.” among other names.
When I read the sermon on the mount, I am impressed that these could refer to other people and to myself in the future. In my line of work as a chaplain I think of those that mourn as being other people who I am ministering to. On the other hand I strive to be a peacemaker.
How are these admonitions affecting you? Which are you latching onto? Take a deep breath and let this direction from Jesus, influence your heart.
Listen to these brief references. Poor, mourn, meek, hunger, merciful, pure in heart, peacemakers, persecuted. Which one of these speaks to you, either as you are, or as you would like to be? Hold this thought in your mind as we pray.
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit.
Pray now regarding the beatitude that is resonating with you.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:
I invite you to sit in silence and wait on the Lord.
Meditate and Visualize Positive Change in Your Life:
What insights did you gain during these moments?
What thing will change in your life after this moment?
Use you imagination to fully visualize what that change will look at. Image one very concrete change you will make in your life. What new action will you take. Visualize yourself now doing this new action. Make it as vivid as possible with as much detail.
Visualize blessing someone else:
Now visualize someone or a group of people who need this message. Imagine what their face would look like as they receive this scripture in their hearts. Imagine how you can share it with them.
Conclusion:
Print and use this scripture.
I release a new episode of this every Sunday morning at 1AM Mountain time in the US.
You can get more information about my podcast by visiting my website ChristianMeditationPodcast.com.
After hearing the blessings many of you have been experiencing this podcast, I feel it is a good idea to offer an opportunity for you to support that option financially I have a Patreon page setup to accept donations at Patreon.com/christianmeditationpodcast. In this way you can help support this cause of bringing peace.
May you experience His peace in your life as you make these changes is my prayer in Jesus name. Amen.
FIND ME ON:
iTunes
ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
Youtube
Pintrist
Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation:
As part of the meditation we will begin by starting with a relaxation. A powerful way to do that is to really connect with you body in some way. For this focusing and relaxing exercise I want you to pay close attention to your heart. Try and see if you can feel your heart beating. Notice it right now. Realize how you have almost never though about the beating of your heart for any extended period of time. Notice the impact of your breathing on your heart. As you pay attention to it as you relax your muscles you start to feel it beat more slowly.
Allow every muscle in your body relax. Imagine that you even relax your heart. As you continue breathing, you notice your breathing slow. You feel your heart become lighter. Allow your attention to move from your physical heart to your metaphoric heart. Imagine where in your body you feel emotion. Can you place it? Where does the feeling of calm sit inside of your body? Where does the feeling of love sit inside of you? Pay attention to this place in you as you hear this reading from the Bible.
Bible verse for meditation:
This scripture is in the gospel of Luke 24:31-33
KJV
31 And their eyes were opened, and they knew him; and he vanished out of their sight.
32 And they said one to another, Did not our heart burn within us, while he talked with us by the way, and while he opened to us the scriptures?
33 And they rose up the same hour, and returned to Jerusalem, and found the eleven gathered together, and them that were with them,
NIV
31 Then their eyes were opened and they recognized him, and he disappeared from their sight.
32 They asked each other, “Were not our hearts burning within us while he talked with us on the road and opened the Scriptures to us?”
33 They got up and returned at once to Jerusalem. There they found the Eleven and those with them, assembled together
Meditation on scripture / bible verse meditation:
What does this scripture mean to you?
What stuck out to you as you focused on the scripture?
This of a time when you may have felt something in connection to your faith.
Recently I was meeting with a woman whose husband was dying. As I talked with her I asked her what she thought would happen in the afterlife. She talked about how she wasn’t sure if she was a Christian. She referred to the fact that she had heard people refer to people hearing the voice of God or seeing him walking beside them. What resulted was a conversation that was a blessing to both her and me. She grew up being told many things about what God would do if she professed her faith. Instead of discussing this directly my chaplain instinct was to provide her with evidence in her own context that God may already have answered her question. After talking for a little while I mentioned the above scripture. We both felt God’s spirit of peace and calm. The spirit of God washed over us both.
If you have been listening to these podcasts and you are not sure where your faith is at, consider this. As you have been listening to these episodes and you have felt peace… did not your heart burn within you?
Did not your heart burn within you?
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit.
Let your heart remain open as you pray.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:
I invite you to sit in silence and wait on the Lord.
Meditate and Visualize Positive Change in Your Life:
What insights did you gain during these moments?
What thing will change in your life after this moment?
Use you imagination to fully visualize what that change will look at. Image one very concrete change you will make in your life. What new action will you take. Visualize yourself now doing this new action. Make it as vivid as possible with as much detail.
Visualize blessing someone else:
Now visualize someone or a group of people who need this message. Imagine what their face would look like as they receive this scripture in their hearts. Imagine how you can share it with them.
Conclusion:
Print and use this scripture.
I release a new episode of this every Sunday morning at 1AM Mountain time in the US.
You can get more information about my podcast by visiting my website ChristianMeditationPodcast.com.
I have been getting more feedback through my website contact form. I very much appreciate to hear your inspiriational and sad stories of how this podcast is experiencing you. This experience has helped me to change the way I think about this podcast. For all of you that I have talked to via email, I am grateful for your encouragement. So many of you have given me so much strength. In no uncertain terms you have told me to keep going no matter what. This has helped me understand the value that is being added to the world by the simple action of me recording into a microphone in my home. I am not shy about the blessing that this podcast is. If you share that same feeling, share it on social media.
Also I’m in the planning stages to developing an iOS and Android app for this podcast to listen and download the podcast in the app. The only thing that is on my birthday wishlist is for people to contribute to the app fund. I already have a deal worked out to get it done for $170. It will be made available for free in the appstore and google play store. It will also include a sleep timer and an alarm function as well as ways to contact me. I’d love to hear if any of you would be interested in that. If you want to support that option financially I have a Patreon page setup to accept donations at Patreon.com/christianmeditationpodcast
May you experience His peace in your life as you make these changes is my prayer in Jesus name. Amen.
FIND ME ON:
iTunes
ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
Youtube
Pintrist
One way to bring your focus to scripture is not with a spirit of fight but with a spirit of peace. A very effective way to do this is to become curious about your current moment. As an example is to observe your thoughts, feelings, and body tension. Another way to help your mind to find its way to scripture is to breathe deeply. Breathe deeply and it will help you relax. If you relax then it will be easier to untie your muscles. Realize that your body has breathed without your focus for years and years. You have literally taken tens of millions of breaths in your life. You don’t need to force it now. Only allow you breathing to expand. Feel your breath and you don’t have to force yourself to breathe. Your brain is hardwired to relax when it breathes deeply. God has placed this bit of programming into your body. Feel your body relax as you breathe deeply. And as you relax, your body will un-tense. Allow the air to fill your stomach. Slowly filling your lungs with full tummy breaths. As you do that you realize that you can receive peace without conquering the world. We know that we can’t conquer the world but we worship a mighty God who has overcome the world. It is in the hollow of his hand that you breathe deeply now. You can feel his calming influence around you now. Keep breathing calmly as I read through the selected scripture.
Bible verse for meditation:
This scripture is in the gospel of John 14:25-28.
NKJV
25 “These things I have spoken to you while being present with you.
26 But the Helper, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in My name, He will teach you all things, and bring to your remembrance all things that I said to you.
27 Peace I leave with you, My peace I give to you; not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid.
28 You have heard Me say to you, ‘I am going away and coming back to you.’ If you loved Me, you would rejoice because I said, ‘I am going to the Father,’ for My Father is greater than I.
Ponder on this meaning. Continue sitting in the grace of God and allow this scripture and God’s message to reach your heart.
NABRE
25 “These things I have spoken to you while being present with you.
26 But the Helper, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in My name, He will teach you all things, and bring to your remembrance all things that I said to you.
27 Peace I leave with you, My peace I give to you; not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid.
28 You have heard Me say to you, ‘I am going away and coming back to you.’ If you loved Me, you would rejoice because I said, ‘I am going to the Father,’ for My Father is greater than I.
Meditation on scripture / bible verse meditation:
What does this scripture mean to you?
What stuck out to you as you focused on the scripture?
Jesus tells them, and us, that the Father will send the Helper… which is a name for the Holy Spirit. It is through the name of Jesus that it is sent. Only by the mission of Jesus and His holy name can we fully receive the Spirit. The Holy Spirit can be with us especially in our darkest times. He can do many things, and one thing that is highlighted here is that he will bring things to our remembrance. Specifically the words of God.
Is there a particular memory that is coming to you now? Don’t force it, but realize that this is one thing that the Helper can do.
Only after he says that these things will be brought to our remembrance, is when he states that he leaves His peace with us. The peace of God is not a trick. It is not something that we control. A dangerous notion is to perceive meditation, reflection, scripture study, or anything else to fully dictate the spirit of God. It is important to realize that only the sovereignty, or unilateral decisions of God, dictate His spirit. We should therefore not expect that any spiritual practice will yield exactly what we want and when we want it. We should do the things we feel are right, such as spend time in His word and in prayer, then wait and be patient for the time that He determines to. As we readjust our expectations to accept the sovereignty of God, we are more patient for His timing.
In this passage, the disciples were sad that he was going away. They should have rejoiced when he said that, but how could they? Without an understanding of the full and true message of Jesus, which they didn’t have, why would the rejoice? So it is with us. We do not have a bird’s eye objective view of our lives. Sometimes we have an expectation that Jesus will always stay with us, not realizing that this is not His plan. Only by accepting what God’s true plan is, will we be able to recognize His Spirit in our lives.
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit.
Ask God for His Spirit to Rest on you.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:
Imagine the Spirit of God resting on you and bringing things to your remembrance and bringing peace to your heart. Be patient.
Meditate and Visualize Positive Change in Your Life:
What things have been brought to your remembrance. How can you change based on what you have listened to? Find some concrete way that you can change today or tomorrow. Take a specific thing and visualize that change occurring in your life. Do you have the moment?
What will that change look like? Who will be there? How will you interact with them? Imagine the full scene, like a movie scene where you get to rehearse out your changed character in this one specific way.
Visualize blessing someone else:
Now visualize someone or a group of people who need this message. Imagine what their face would look like as they receive this scripture in their hearts. Imagine how you can share it with them.
Conclusion:
Print this scripture out and focus on it during the coming week, perhaps listening to this episode more than once.
I release a new episode of this every Sunday morning at 1 AM Mountain time in the US.
You can help someone feel the peace you experienced here by sharing this podcast with those you care about. You can get more information about my podcast by visiting my website ChristianMeditationPodcast.com.
Allow Jesus to call these things, and others you need, to your remembrance. Realize that if it is from God then it will be with the goal of helping your change and improve. If you feel guilty for past actions, spend the time repenting to God, realizing that he loves you so profoundly that he will help you and walk with you as you correct those things in your life. The evil one will try and bog you down in eternal and unending shame. Allow these memories to drive you along the way of Jesus and place your trust fully in Him. His scriptures teach that as we do this, we will feel of His peace as his eternally needed grace showers over us and helps us change, and become more sanctified through His Holy Spirit. May you experience His peace in your life as you make these changes is my prayer in Jesus name. Amen.
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Pintrist
As we prepare to consider the most important commandments that Jesus declared, let’s take a moment to silence the distraction inside of us. Let’s begin with a deep and relaxing breath. As you breathe in, feel all your muscles begin to unflex. You notice every part of your body and where it is. You feel where your body touches fabric and furniture. Allow that this moment causes you to create a space of quiet inside of you now. As you let the things of this world to fade, you feel a place of peace be prepared in your heart. Breath deeply now. Allow the things you feel you must do take a back seat to the things that God has in mind for you. Allow this moment to be dedicated to God and allow the desires he has for you, to guide you. Breathe deeply and slowly. Every muscle has begun to relax and is much softer that in was previously. Your mind is calm, your body feels more peaceful and will feel even better as you engage with God’s spirit through His word. As I read through the selected Bible verses, keep breathing deeply and allow God’s words to penetrate deep into your heart and soul.
Bible verse for meditation:
Matthew 22:34-40
NIV
34 Hearing that Jesus had silenced the Sadducees, tested him with this question:
36 “Teacher, which is the greatest commandment in the Law?”
37 Jesus replied: “‘Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.’
38 This is the first and greatest commandment. 39 And the second is like it: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’
40 All the Law and the Prophets hang on these two commandments.”
KJV
34 But when the Pharisees had heard that he had put the Sadducees to silence, they were gathered together.
35 Then one of them, which was a lawyer, asked him a question, tempting him, and saying,
36 Master, which is the great commandment in the law?
37 Jesus said unto him, Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind.
38 This is the first and great commandment.
39 And the second is like unto it, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself.
40 On these two commandments hang all the law and the prophets.
Meditation on scripture / bible verse meditation:
What does this scripture mean to you?
What stuck out to you as you focused on the scripture?
This scripture is a great gift. We are not left to wonder about any hierarchy of commands. We are asked by Jesus to love God and each other. It is significant when Jesus says that this forms the basis for the Law and the Prophets. These are the Jewish references for the Torah which is the Law of Moses as contained in the first five books Christians refer to as the Old Testament. The Prophets refers to other parts of the Hebrew Bible such as the books of Isaiah and Jeremiah. His intention with this is that all of the Law and guidance given to all the prophets was to teach these two commands. To love God and to Love our fellow human beings.
This is not about personal preference. He taught in the Parable of the good Samaritan, that everyone can be considered our neighbor. We cannot allow hate to reside in us. Jesus tells it as a command. Bearing an echo of the Ten Commandments the KJV has it written as ‘Thou shalt love’. Myself included. We must love. If we expect to receive the peace of God Jesus teaches that we cannot do so without having love for God above all, and also love for each other. If try and love God but secretly hold hate in our heart, we will miss out on the gift of God’s spirit. The more we are able to accept God’s love into our hearts and allow him to replace our stony hearts with hearts of flesh, we communicate our love for God and make ourselves open to receive His love. Let’s take this moment inside our hearts right now to reject the hate that we have secretly been guarding. Take a deep breath. Imagine that any corners of your heart that are guarding and preserving hate are cleared out. Imagine this blackness being washed away by God’s light that rushes in you as you focus on His word and breathe it deeply in. Ponder this command. ‘Thou Shalt Love’
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit.
Ask for God’s help in developing pure love for Him and all of his creations.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:
Imagine the love of God penetrating your heart and allowing it to open to all humankind.
Meditate and Visualize Positive Change in Your Life:
As we have now reflected on the Love of God penetrating their heart, there will likely be things in our lives that can change. I want to to visualize this change. Imagine what specific action you can take that will represent your renewed desire to love everyone. Maybe there is someone specific that you are thinking of. Maybe you are considering your way of interacting with people. Pick something specific that you can do differently now. Fully visualize the interactions that will occur with this insight. Imagine a life full of love. How will you behave differently after implementing this change.
Visualize blessing someone else:
Now visualize someone or a group of people who need this message. Imagine what their face would look like as they receive this scripture in their hearts. Imagine how you can share it with them.
Conclusion:
I recommend printing these scriptures and placing them somewhere where you will see them each day. Spend time each day and reflect on what you have felt. Allow this scripture to guide your week.
I release a new episode of this every Sunday morning at 1AM Mountain time in the US.
You can help someone feel the peace you experienced here by sharing this podcast with those you care about. You can get more information about my podcast by visiting my website ChristianMeditationPodcast.com.
The promise of Jesus fills the gospels. As you learn to love God and those around you, you will be filled with His spirit of love and peace. God will bless our lives with His spirit if we obey his greatest two commandments. I say that in Jesus’ name Amen.
FIND ME ON:
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ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
Youtube
Pintrist
Regardless of what is going on in your life, making time for decompressing and relaxing is amazingly healing and productive. This is our intent at the moment. Become aware of every muscle in your body. Which muscles are flexing? You begin to notice the muscles flexing in your abdomen that are helping you breathe. Perhaps you feel muscles in your back or neck that are tense. Allow the muscles in your ab area slowly draw in a full breath. Breath slow and easy. As you continue to relax you feel your breath getting slower and easier. There is no need to worry about anything at this current moment. The only thing you have to be doing right this moment is to breathe. Everything else is optional. As you place the priority on your breathing you feel your body relax. You feel any worries melt away and be exhaled. Continue breathing slowly and allow this tension to continue to leave. During the rest of this meditation let the focus come on the things of God. Allow all your tensions to leave.
Bible verse for meditation:
Matt 6:25-30
NRSV
25 “Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or what you will drink, or about your body, what you will wear. Is not life more than food, and the body more than clothing?
26 Look at the birds of the air; they neither sow nor reap nor gather into barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not of more value than they?
27 And can any of you by worrying add a single hour to your span of life?
28 And why do you worry about clothing? Consider the lilies of the field, how they grow; they neither toil nor spin,
29 yet I tell you, even Solomon in all his glory was not clothed like one of these.
30 But if God so clothes the grass of the field, which is alive today and tomorrow is thrown into the oven, will he not much more clothe you—you of little faith?
KJV
25 Therefore I say unto you, Take no thought for your life, what ye shall eat, or what ye shall drink; nor yet for your body, what ye shall put on. Is not the life more than meat, and the body than raiment?
26 Behold the fowls of the air: for they sow not, neither do they reap, nor gather into barns; yet your heavenly Father feedeth them. Are ye not much better than they?
27 Which of you by taking thought can add one cubit unto his stature?
28 And why take ye thought for raiment? Consider the lilies of the field, how they grow; they toil not, neither do they spin:
29 And yet I say unto you, That even Solomon in all his glory was not arrayed like one of these.
30 Wherefore, if God so clothe the grass of the field, which to day is, and to morrow is cast into the oven, shall he not much more clothe you, O ye of little faith?
Meditation on scripture / bible verse meditation:
What does this scripture mean to you?
What stuck out to you as you focused on the scripture?
This scripture fits into the broader context of what has been called the Sermon on the mount. It starts in Matt 5-7. There are so many profound quotes in these three chapters that they are highly worth the read. During this week I have shared this scripture multiple times with the hospice patients I have been working with. This is a message that can apply to us at every phase of life. Somehow regardless of how much time we have we seem to find time to live in stresses. We have a tendency to worry. This is true now and it was true of people thousands of years ago.
As you breath deeply now, you continue to feel the worry fleeing. If you feel it, realize that this is natural, dont run from the worry, just let it go. Let God take it. As you do this continue to breathe deeply and feel more and more tension leaving.
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:
Imagine yourself as a flower growing slowly in a field. Gentle sun lands on your face as the flower gently sways in the breeze.
Meditate and Visualize Positive Change in Your Life:
Take the message that you feel that God has placed on your heart and let this come into your life. Let this existence become completely real in the theater of your mind. Imagine settings where it is true. Imagine specific scenes with people you know, and specific actions.
Imagine the share.
Conclusion:
Thanks for joining me.
I release a new episode every Sunday morning at 1AM Mountain time in the US.
If you found this podcast more relaxing than your favorite beverage perhaps consider donating to help me pay the hosting fees. You can do that through Patreon.com/christianmeditationpodcast.com
FIND ME ON:
iTunes
ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
Youtube
Pintrist
Consider your breathing as you allow the distractions of the world to fade. With eyes closed and sitting comfortably, you let go of your need to control everything. As you sit in peace, you hear the gentle waves and your muscles begin to intense. Remember that one goal of approaching God in prayer is to submit to His will. By maintaining a demand for absolute control, many times we end up working against him. As you continue breathing, you can feel your whole body slowing down and becoming more relaxed. The goal is to allow your mind to not fixate on any specific thought and allow the scripture that will be ready to fill your mind. As you breathe, all the tension leaves your body. Imagine that the air that enters you is like clean and pure water. As it slowly rushes over your muscles it cleans them. With each breath, this healing water rushes through your whole body.
Pay attention to the messages that God puts into your heart as you hear quoting from, His holy word, the Bible.
Bible verse for meditation:
John 4:7-10
ESV
7 A woman from Samaria came to draw water. Jesus said to her, “Give me a drink.”
8 (For his disciples had gone away into the city to buy food.)
9 The Samaritan woman said to him, “How is it that you, a Jew, ask for a drink from me, a woman of Samaria?” (For Jews have no dealings with Samaritans.)
10 Jesus answered her, “If you knew the gift of God, and who it is that is saying to you, ‘Give me a drink,’ you would have asked him, and he would have given you living water.”
KJV
7 There cometh a woman of Samaria to draw water: Jesus saith unto her, Give me to drink.
8 (For his disciples were gone away unto the city to buy meat.)
9 Then saith the woman of Samaria unto him, How is it that thou, being a Jew, askest drink of me, which am a woman of Samaria? for the Jews have no dealings with the Samaritans.
10 Jesus answered and said unto her, If thou knewest the gift of God, and who it is that saith to thee, Give me to drink; thou wouldest have asked of him, and he would have given thee living water.
Meditation on scripture / bible verse meditation:
What does this scripture mean to you?
What stuck out to you as you focused on the scripture?
This scripture is a powerful one. It explains how Jesus allows the faith of those He ministers to. Jesus waits by the well that Jacob, the Old Testament Prophet, built. When the Israelites came to live in the area, Each tribe settled in a certain region. After years a great division separated them. They separated into two different groups. The southern group was called Judah mainly because it focused on the tribe of Judah. The Northern Kingdom was called Israel. As time went on, the Northern Kingdom (of Israel) was conquered. Many of the Israelites were carried away and those that remained ended up intermarrying with other people. For this, the people of Judah rejected them as inferior because they did not maintain their ethnic purity. This made Jesus’s request to the Samaritan woman such a surprise.
She seems dismissive of Jesus and expresses distrust and some people interpret her response as a mocking of Jesus. One thing is clear. After Jesus told her about, what would have been an adulterous relationship, she believed Jesus. His goal was not to shame her but to motivate her to change and become a powerful missionary to help others. Jesus shows his interest in breaking down false barriers between people. He wants us to abandon biases and personal judgments in order to receive his healing living water. This living water is available only through Jesus. What are things you can do in your life to abandon your own biases and replace them with the living water of Jesus Christ?
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit.
I invite you to ask God for forgiveness and then trust Him. I invite you to pray for his loving spirit to wash away your shame.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:
Imagine sitting in the love of God as it pours over you as you are real about your sin.
Meditate and Visualize Positive Change in Your Life:
I want to share something with you that I hope you don’t find too morbid. In my work in hospice, I talk to people who, many times, know that they are about to die. They begin to reflect their life and it finally sets in that this life is short. I consider it a blessing to have spent so much time in this place. For better of for worse, this is the only life that you will have. This is the life that is teaching you what you really need to learn. A major part of that message is learning how to be reliant on God. As you realize that it is only through the sacrifice of Jesus Christ that we can overcome this world, you begin to truly connect with a new and eternal hope. Imagine that, with God’s mercy, you can change this life that you have. With the Spirit of God, you have EVERYTHING you need to change and become the best version of yourself. Visualize how this message can play out in YOUR life.
Conclusion:
Thanks for joining me.
I release a new episode every Sunday morning at 1 AM Mountain time in the US.
You can help someone feel the peace you experienced here by sharing this podcast with those you care about. You can get more information about my podcast by visiting my website ChristianMeditationPodcast.com. You can also send me a message through the site. I would love to hear what your experience is with my podcast.
As you learn to acknowledge both your own sin and God’s mercy you will find greater meaning in life and find the contentment Paul referred to (see episode 1 of this podcast).
FIND ME ON:
iTunes
ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
Youtube
Pintrist
in the 6th century AD. It is meant to be u
Outline: Relaxation, Reading, Meditation, Prayer, Contemplation, Visualization
I invite you to get comfortable for 20 minutes, without driving or doing chores, but focusing exclusively on the message God has for you. If you feel safe to do so, close your eyes. The goal of this relaxation is to remove distractions to allow us to focus on God’s word.
Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation:
I have found that it is easiest to relax not by blocking out all of your senses but by being allowing them to just be as you prepare your heart for a fast from the attention of the world. Listen to the sounds around you. Listen to the soothing sounds of the sea as the waves gently churn. As you become more aware of this moment you allow it to fade gently. You notice your breathing gently expanding. Air slowly fills your stomach as you breath all the way from your diaphragm. Imagine your stomach is a large balloon filling with air. Gently breathe in with me as I count. For five seconds breath in. 1, 2, 3, 4, 5. Then pause. Breath out, 2, 3, 4, 5. Continue breathing slowly. As you breathe slowly you feel your muscles relax and unflex. With each passing breath you relax more and more preparing to receive a message from the bible, from God directly. As I read through this scripture keep your heart, mind, and ears open to God’s message to you.
Bible verse for meditation:
Luke 18:10-14 KJV
10 Two men went up into the temple to pray; the one a Pharisee, and the other a publican.
11 The Pharisee stood and prayed thus with himself, God, I thank thee, that I am not as other men are, extortioners, unjust, adulterers, or even as this publican.
12 I fast twice in the week, I give tithes of all that I possess.
13 And the publican, standing afar off, would not lift up so much as his eyes unto heaven, but smote upon his breast, saying, God be merciful to me a sinner.
14 I tell you, this man went down to his house justified rather than the other: for every one that exalteth himself shall be abased; and he that humbleth himself shall be exalted.
Luke 18:10-14 NIV
10 “Two men went up to the temple to pray, one a Pharisee and the other a tax collector.
11 The Pharisee stood by himself and prayed: ‘God, I thank you that I am not like other people—robbers, evildoers, adulterers—or even like this tax collector.
12 I fast twice a week and give a tenth of all I get.’
13 “But the tax collector stood at a distance. He would not even look up to heaven, but beat his breast and said, ‘God, have mercy on me, a sinner.’
14 “I tell you that this man, rather than the other, went home justified before God. For all those who exalt themselves will be humbled, and those who humble themselves will be exalted.”
Meditation on scripture / bible verse meditation:
What stood out in this scripture?
Who do you identify with in this scripture?
What can you learn from this scripture?
I find it an important distinction to separate the ideas of shame and humbly admitting our sin before God. Take a moment and reflect on the purpose God has in this scripture. Why does Jesus tell this story? Not only why does he tell it, but why does he want us to acknowledge our sinful nature? How is this feeling different from shame?
Is it possible to reject shame while still embracing humility before God?
In my work it seems that people who experience shame fatigue often misinterpret messages like this, then go on to see God as a being who desires us to feel immense shame. I would argue that shame is the adversary's counterfeit for a grieved conscience.
Open yourself up to the idea that your sin is egregious yet at the same time, through the infinite Love of God He knows exactly how to handle that.
I firmly feel that as we learn to engage in our guilt in a healthy way, that our artificial and inflated shame will decrease in most situations. Let God extend his great mercy to you. If you would like deeper reflection on this, see episode 9 that discusses Isaiah 53. With His stripes we are healed. Also refer back to last episode about how we can stop deceiving ourselves.
Continue breathing deeply as you acknowledge your sin before God. Allow his love to penetrate your sin. Make your heart ready for him to replace your stony heart with a heart of flesh.
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit.
I invite you to ask God for forgiveness and then trust Him. I invite you to pray for his loving spirit to wash away your shame.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:
Imagine sitting in the love of God as it pours over you as you are real about your sin.
Meditate and Visualize Positive Change in Your Life:
I want to share something with you that I hope you don’t find too morbid. In my work in hospice, I talk to people who, many times, know that they are about to die. They begin to reflection their life and it finally sets in that this life is short. I consider it a blessing to have spent so much time in this place. For better of for worse, this is the only life that you will have. This is the life that is teaching you what you really need to learn. A major part of that message is learning how to be reliant on God. As you realize that it is only through the sacrifice of Jesus Christ that we can overcome this world, you begin to truly connect with a new and eternal hope. Imagine that, with God’s mercy, you can change this life that you have. With the Spirit of God you have EVERYTHING you need to change and become the best version of yourself. Visualize how this message can play out in YOUR life.
Conclusion:
Thanks for joining me.
I release a new episode every Sunday morning at 1AM Mountain time in the US.
You can help someone feel the peace you experienced here by sharing this podcast with those you care about. You can get more information about my podcast by visiting my website ChristianMeditationPodcast.com. You can also send me a message through the site. I would love to hear what your experience is with my podcast.
As you learn to acknowledge both your own sin and God’s mercy you will find greater meaning in life and find the contentment Paul referred to (see episode 1 of this podcast).
FIND ME ON:
iTunes
ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
Youtube
Pintrist
Intro:
I find it an important distinction to separate the ideas of shame and humbly admitting our sin before God. Take a moment and reflect on the purpose God has in this scripture. Why does Jesus tell this story? Not only why does he tell it, but why does he want us to acknowledge our sinful nature? How is this feeling different from shame?
Is it possible to reject shame while still embracing humility before God?
In my work, it seems that people who experience shame fatigue often misinterpret messages like this, then go on to see God as a being who desires us to feel immense shame. I would argue that shame is the adversary's counterfeit for a grieved conscience.
Outline: Relaxation, Reading, Meditation, Prayer, Contemplation, Visualization
I invite you to get comfortable for 20 minutes, without driving or doing chores, but focusing exclusively on the message God has for you. If you feel safe to do so, close your eyes. The goal of this relaxation is to remove distractions to allow us to focus on God’s word.
Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation:
I have found that it is easiest to relax not by blocking out all of your senses but by being allowing them to just be as you prepare your heart for a fast from the attention of the world. Listen to the sounds around you. Listen to the soothing sounds of the sea as the waves gently churn. As you become more aware of this moment you allow it to fade gently. You notice your breathing gently expanding. Air slowly fills your stomach as you breathe all the way from your diaphragm. Imagine your stomach is a large balloon filling with air. Gently breathe in with me as I count. For five seconds breath in. 1, 2, 3, 4, 5. Then pause. Breath out, 2, 3, 4, 5. Continue breathing slowly. As you breathe slowly you feel your muscles relax and unflex. With each passing breath, you relax more and more prepared to receive a message from the Bible, from God directly. As I read through this scripture keep your heart, mind, and ears open to God’s message to you.
Bible verse for meditation:
Luke 18:10-14 KJV
10 Two men went up into the temple to pray; the one a Pharisee, and the other a publican.
11 The Pharisee stood and prayed thus with himself, God, I thank thee, that I am not as other men are, extortioners, unjust, adulterers, or even as this publican.
12 I fast twice in the week, I give tithes of all that I possess.
13 And the publican, standing afar off, would not lift up so much as his eyes unto heaven, but smote upon his breast, saying, God be merciful to me a sinner.
14 I tell you, this man went down to his house justified rather than the other: for every one that exalteth himself shall be abased; and he that humbleth himself shall be exalted.
Luke 18:10-14 NIV
10 “Two men went up to the temple to pray, one a Pharisee and the other a tax collector.
11 The Pharisee stood by himself and prayed: ‘God, I thank you that I am not like other people—robbers, evildoers, adulterers—or even like this tax collector.
12 I fast twice a week and give a tenth of all I get.’
13 “But the tax collector stood at a distance. He would not even look up to heaven, but beat his breast and said, ‘God, have mercy on me, a sinner.’
14 “I tell you that this man, rather than the other, went home justified before God. For all those who exalt themselves will be humbled, and those who humble themselves will be exalted.”
Meditation on scripture / bible verse meditation:
What stood out in this scripture?
Who do you identify with in this scripture?
What can you learn from this scripture?
I find it an important distinction to separate the ideas of shame and humbly admitting our sin before God. Take a moment and reflect on the purpose God has in this scripture. Why does Jesus tell this story? Not only why does he tell it, but why does he want us to acknowledge our sinful nature? How is this feeling different from shame?
Is it possible to reject shame while still embracing humility before God?
In my work, it seems that people who experience shame fatigue often misinterpret messages like this, then go on to see God as a being who desires us to feel immense shame. I would argue that shame is the adversary's counterfeit for a grieved conscience.
Open yourself up to the idea that your sin is egregious yet at the same time, through the infinite Love of God, He knows exactly how to handle that.
I firmly feel that as we learn to engage in our guilt in a healthy way, that our artificial and inflated shame will decrease in most situations. Let God extend his great mercy to you. If you would like a deeper reflection on this, see episode 9 that discusses Isaiah 53. With His stripes, we are healed. Also refer back to the last episode about how we can stop deceiving ourselves.
Continue breathing deeply as you acknowledge your sin before God. Allow his love to penetrate your sin. Make your heart ready for him to replace your stony heart with a heart of flesh.
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit.
I invite you to ask God for forgiveness and then trust Him. I invite you to pray for his loving spirit to wash away your shame.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:
Imagine sitting in the love of God as it pours over you as you are real about your sin.
Meditate and Visualize Positive Change in Your Life:
I want to share something with you that I hope you don’t find too morbid. In my work in hospice, I talk to people who, many times, know that they are about to die. They begin to reflect that their life and it finally sets in that this life is short. I consider it a blessing to have spent so much time in this place. For better of for worse, this is the only life that you will have. This is the life that is teaching you what you really need to learn. A major part of that message is learning how to be reliant on God. As you realize that it is only through the sacrifice of Jesus Christ that we can overcome this world, you begin to truly connect with a new and eternal hope. Imagine that, with God’s mercy, you can change this life that you have. With the Spirit of, God you have EVERYTHING you need to change and become the best version of yourself. Visualize how this message can play out in YOUR life.
Conclusion:
Thanks for joining me.
I release a new episode every Sunday morning at 1AM Mountain time in the US.
You can help someone feel the peace you experienced here by sharing this podcast with those you care about. You can get more information about my podcast by visiting my website ChristianMeditationPodcast.com. You can also send me a message through the site. I would love to hear what your experience is with my podcast.
As you learn to acknowledge both your own sin and God’s mercy you will find greater meaning in life and find the contentment Paul referred to (see episode 1 of this podcast).
FIND ME ON:
iTunes
ChristianMeditationPodcast.com
Youtube
Pintrist
Christians often experience conflict about anger. In, some ways we realize that is a natural human response. In other ways, we realize the damaging consequences of it. Some people wonder if Jesus really felt anger as he drove the moneychangers out of the temple, and if so, wouldn't that be a sin. Sometimes we try and justify our anger using this example. The greatest danger of our anger is when it affects our relationships with others. Ultimately though when we are thoughtful and honest we realize that righteous anger probably represents a small portion of our anger if at all. This meditation will focus on how to reconcile the anger we feel, and hopefully, learn a kind of discipline to make anger a less frequent visitor in our lives.
Intro:
This meditation will follow an ancient Christian model called Lectio Divina which originated in the 6th century AD. It is meant to be used all week long.
Outline: Relaxation, Reading, Meditation, Prayer, Contemplation, Visualization
I invite you to get comfortable for 20 minutes, without driving or doing chores, but focusing exclusively on the message God has for you. If you feel safe to do so, close your eyes. The goal of this relaxation is to remove distractions to allow us to focus on God’s word.
Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation:
Observe your body. Are you currently carrying tension? What does that tension feel like? Is it pent up anger, perhaps it's anxiety or fear? Gently allow air to come into your body and fill your stomach. Breathe slowly all the way down to your diaphragm. The experience of tension does not need to rule you. You notice that as you continue to focus on slowing your breath that you release this tension as you go. Your body receives the message. Imagine
As you continue breathing deeply, leave your heart open to receive this message of scripture.
Bible verse for meditation:
James 4:1-3 - KJV
1 From whence come wars and fightings among you? come they not hence, even of your lusts that war in your members?
2 Ye lust, and have not: ye kill, and desire to have, and cannot obtain: ye fight and war, yet ye have not, because ye ask not.
3 Ye ask, and receive not, because ye ask amiss, that ye may consume it upon your lusts.
James 4:1-3 - NIV
1 What causes fights and quarrels among you? Don’t they come from your desires that battle within you?
2 You desire but do not have, so you kill. You covet but you cannot get what you want, so you quarrel and fight. You do not have because you do not ask God.
3 When you ask, you do not receive, because you ask with wrong motives, that you may spend what you get on your pleasures.
Meditation on scripture / bible verse meditation:
The cause of much of our contention is rooted in our desires, lusts, and expectations. Again I want to be clear that this is not universal.
Think about a time when you were Angry? Was it related to desires lusts and expectations?
Now breathe deeply and release that anger energy. Let the battle of desire within you subside.
What is the solution recommended by scripture? We do not have because we don't ask God. If we have the wrong motive, we will not receive.
As we learn to let go of that, we find greater peace.
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:
Imagine what it would feel like to give up worldly desire.
Meditate and Visualize Positive Change in Your Life:
Take the message that you gained from God’s word as you continue to allow his breath cleanse you. What message did you get from this scripture?
Remember that you can use your own experience, reason, but more importantly scripture and the Spirit of God to bounce this idea off.
I invite you to imagine how this message would play out in your life. What behaviors would change if you lived your life, with the knowledge that this thing is true. Imagine at least one specific thing that you could do today or tomorrow based on this message. Fully visualize this. What would it look like in your life? What positive things could you do, or what would happen around you, knowing that this thing was true?
Visualize the change
Conclusion:
Thanks for joining me.
I release a new episode every Sunday morning at 1AM Mountain time in the US.
You can help someone feel the peace you experienced here by sharing this podcast with those you care about. You can get more information about my podcast by visiting my website ChristianMeditationPodcast.com. You can also send me a message through the site. I would love to hear what your experience is with my podcast.
REVIEW: A friend of mine Michael, who runs a podcast called Diet Science commented on my Facebook page Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast the following: Jared, this is awesome! Great Job and I love the music in the background. Nicely done! Thanks, Michael. If you haven't heard Michael’s podcast I would highly recommend it. He interviews an expert on various aspects of nutrition and health. It's a great podcast.
If you would like to look me up on Facebook, via my website, or on Twitter @christianmedpod I would love to hear from you.
As we learn to let the conflict of desire within you slow, we become more able to feel Gods peace.
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This week, much of the United States was riveted by the appearance of a total solar eclipse. If you are fatigued on this topic please be patient with me as I feel it is relevant. I drove up to Idaho with my two kids, unfortunately my wife had to work. As the eclipse began, my kids were quite complacent. Despite the fact that other people had told them of how amazing it would be, they were bored. Ii tried to explain why it was worth the long drive and sleeping in our vehicle but they didn’t grasp the vision. The moment the sun was totally eclipsed was completely stunning to see in person. My children cheered and threw their hands in the air. There is no way that I could have understood it without seeing it. I could stare directly at the sun and see it glowing with a celestial brilliance, but with my own eyes. The glowing beams that surrounded the eclipsed sun was surreal and, at least for me, extremely spiritual. I imagined what it would be like to be able to see Jesus on the mount of transfiguration. I thought of the words of Peter “it is good to be here.” (Luke 9:33) As the smalles part of the sun broke around the edge of the moono I could see it glisten with perfect clarity. As the bright streams of light broke forth as it came out, I didn’t want to look away. I imagined that this was, on a small scale, like wanting to look directly upon the glory of God but wanting to. As we go through this meditation, perhaps one thing you could reflect on is what Joy will fill our hearts as we are received into his glory through Jesus Christ our Savior and why Jesus says this to Nathaniel.
Relaxation is often best to be begun with introspection. As you sit comfortably, look inside of your body. What tensions are there in you, and where are they? On the positive side, where is there a gleam of God’s glory poking through allowing its light to be shown? Allow your breathing to slow. Be very minful about the air comming in. You are preparing your heart to read the words that God spoke through the spirit. Gently fill your stomach with air. As you breath deeply, you feel your body relaxing.
Luke 9:33 And it came to pass, as they departed from him, Peter said unto Jesus, Master, it is good for us to be here: and let us make three tabernacles; one for thee, and one for Moses, and one for Elias: not knowing what he said.
Continue to breath deeply as I read these verses of the bible for meditation. Imagine what message stands out to you as you listen to them.
Bible verse for meditation:
John 1:48-51 - KJV The calling of Nathanael
48 Nathanael saith unto him, Whence knowest thou me? Jesus answered and said unto him, Before that Philip called thee, when thou wast under the fig tree, I saw thee.
49 Nathanael answered and saith unto him, Rabbi, thou art the Son of God; thou art the King of Israel.
50 Jesus answered and said unto him, Because I said unto thee, I saw thee under the fig tree, believest thou? thou shalt see greater things than these.
51 And he saith unto him, Verily, verily, I say unto you, Hereafter ye shall see heaven open, and the angels of God ascending and descending upon the Son of man.
Reflect on that message.
As I read from another version look for similarities and differences. See how this contributes to the message you heard the first time.
John 1:48-51 - ESV
48 Nathanael said to him, “How do you know me?” Jesus answered him, “Before Philip called you, when you were under the fig tree, I saw you.”
49 Nathanael answered him, “Rabbi, you are the Son of God! You are the King of Israel!”
50 Jesus answered him, “Because I said to you, ‘I saw you under the fig tree,’ do you believe? You will see greater things than these.”
51 And he said to him, “Truly, truly, I say to you, you will see heaven opened, and the angels of God ascending and descending on the Son of Man.
Meditation on scripture / bible verse for meditation:
As you were hearing this verse, what message stuck out to you?
Continue to remain relaxed and allow yourself to focus on the message you got from scripture.
This describes when Jesus called Nathaniel to be one of his primary disciples. Nathanial is not naive. When Philip tells him about Jesus he rebuts “can any good thing come from Nazareth?” He knows the prophecies. Phillips response is a powerful one. Come and see. The same option is available to each of us. Come and see. Consider what it teaches us as Jesus praises Nathaniel. What is he praised for? He is a true Israelite, but why? Because there is no guile or deceit in him. He has no desire to pretend to be something he isn’t. As Jesus talks of seeing him under the fig tree we don’t have much of a backstory here but this is extremely meaningful to Nathaniel. As Nathaniel was living his life, perhaps in devotion to God under a fig tree, Jesus was aware of him. Now that he is called by Jesus he will see greater things. The heavens opened. What would it look like for the heavens to be open? Spend some time on that thought for a second. As the heavens open and glorious angels are seen ascending and descending how would that feel. From the experiences we see from scriptures such as Moses and others, an experience with God is not intellectual it was spiritual. The feelings associated with such an experience would be so profound. Take stock this moment. How open are you to the guiding light God has placed in you? With no deception in your heart consider how willing you are to follow God in whatever he asks you to do despite your own preconceived notions. As we are willing to give up all that we think we are to be closer to Him, His spirit will bless us.
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:
As we sit in quiet, Imagine how it would feel to sit before the open heavens and watch angels ascend and descend to Jesus Christ.
Meditate and Visualize Positive Change in Your Life:
Take the message that you gained from God’s word as you continue to allow his breath cleanse you. What message has solidified in your mind?
Remember that you can use your own experience, reason, but more importantly scripture and the Spirit of God to bounce this idea off.
I invite you to imagine how this message would play out in your life. What behaviors would change if you lived your life, with the knowledge that this thing is true. Imagine at least one specific thing that you could do today or tomorrow based on this message. Fully visualize this. What would it look like in your life? What positive things could you do, or what would happen around you, knowing that this thing was true?
Visualize the change
Conclusion:
Thanks for joining me.
I release a new episode every Sunday morning at 1AM Mountain time in the US.
You can help someone feel the peace you experienced here by sharing this podcast with those you care about.
First Patreon donation: Michelle. Requested more King James Version. It was because of this that I now decided to include two different translations. I’m hoping that this will enhance our understanding of the content of the message.
I had my first patreon subscriber Michelle mentioned how she loves the KJV. As I was trying to decide this week’s episode and what version of scripture to use. I realized that I could use two different versions. So when we get to that section I will use two.
On Itunes: Mtnbikechick
“Meditation really helps me with anxiety, which unfortunately seems to have gotten worse as I have gotten older. Being a Christian, I wanted a faith based meditation. I just found this, and it’s been very helpful.”
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Fear is a common emotion. It is inevitable that we will all feel it. The bravest people are the one’s that are able to experience the feeling of fear and still charge forward. It is false to suppose that people who do amazing and challenging things must be free of the debilitating feeling of fear. Many of the things we do, sometimes more importantly, don’t do are as a result of fear. As we go through this meditation, I would like you to consider how fear is stopping your progress.
Outline: Relaxation, Reading, Meditation, Prayer, Contemplation, Visualization
I invite you to get comfortable for 20 minutes, without driving or doing chores, but focusing exclusively on the message God has for you. If you feel safe to do so, close your eyes.
Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation:
As you sit and listen to the sound of waves take a slow and intentional breath. Allow your muscles to unflex. Continue deep breaths. Allow your mind to calm.
Imagine that a single small candle is burning in the middle of your chest. With each slow and deep breath in you gently fan that flame allowing it to grow. As you place your focus on this flame it feels like pure love. You can’t help but to feel this love. It starts to grow. Imagine all the tension in your body burns in this fire. As your attention rests on this small yet growing flame, you realize that it is the gift of God to you. In the rest of this meditation I invite you to think about what that gift is.
As you continue breathing deeply, leave your heart open to receive this message of scripture.
Bible verse for meditation:
2 Timothy 1:6-8 ESV
6 For this reason I remind you to fan into flame the gift of God, which is in you through the laying on of my hands,
7 for God gave us a spirit not of fear but of power and love and self-control.
8 Therefore do not be ashamed of the testimony about our Lord, nor of me his prisoner, but share in suffering for the gospel by the power of God,
Meditation on scripture / bible verse meditation:
What stood out to you in this scripture?
Consider what is the gift of God?
How is the fanning of this flame related to overcoming fear?
There is an intellectual meaning to this gift as it relates to the laying on of hands. The most meaningful experience of the early disciples is that of deep communion with God, as it is for us. Christians have interpreted this laying on of hands differently, and what is most striking is that it is always to allow God’s power to be more fully visible in this world. As you ponder how this gift plays out in your life, imagine how you can apply it to overcome your deepest fear. What is your deepest fear. Take a slow and easy breath as you fan the flame of the gift of God in you, and imagine what this fear is. For many people it is a fear of being unloved, or lonely. Many people fear not being important, or not being able to survive the situations that they are in. Whatever your fear is, don’t focus on a feeling of judgement for having it. Release that judgement. Let Jesus take that. All judgement is given to the Son. What I invite you to consider is how this fear can melt away as you fan the flame of the gift of God. As you allow his power and love to fill your being, you will be able to gain self control. You can overcome any fear, any worry, any anxiety, any panic. Allow the reality of your situation to remain unchanged as you walk hand in hand with the Holy Spirit. Don’t fear the suffering that results for living well. Suffer well and let God be with you in that suffering. As you do you will no longer fear it.
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:
Imagine this gift as it burns in your chest. Open yourself up to feel the love of God.
Meditate and Visualize Positive Change in Your Life:
Take the message that you gained from God’s word as you continue to allow his breath cleanse you. What message did you get from this scripture?
Remember that you can use your own experience, reason, but more importantly scripture and the Spirit of God to bounce this idea off.
I invite you to imagine how this message would play out in your life. What behaviors would change if you lived your life, with the knowledge that this thing is true. Imagine at least one specific thing that you could do today or tomorrow based on this message. Fully visualize this. What would it look like in your life? What positive things could you do, or what would happen around you, knowing that this thing was true?
Visualize the change
Conclusion:
Thanks for joining me.
I release a new episode every Sunday morning at 1AM Mountain time in the US.
You can help someone feel the peace you experienced here by sharing this podcast with those you care about.
Facebook.com/ChristianMeditationPodcast
I think that was awesome. What a nice unique way to combine the study of the Scriptures with a kind of meditation atmosphere conducive to deeper thought about the Scriptures you read, and the insightful background offered. I hope you keep this going and I for one will continue to watch everyone you produce
Thanks Doug.
Thank you for trusting me with the value of your sacred time. I feel honored you allow me into your home to share this scripture. Feel free to listen to this meditation as many times as you need, until I release my next episode next week. I rejoice with you that you have invested it in relaxing and thinking on God’s words. I know that as you spend time with Him, you will feel more of His love. I say that in Jesus Name amen.
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Although not universally positive, children possess so many admirable traits. When I watch my kids pray for others, forgive after disagreements, and most of all when I see their faith, I am moved. Children have an amazing capacity to love. As we learn to be in communion with the spirit of God, we are able to absorb and integrate the most positive traits of Children, while turning away from the negative. In this meditation we are going to spend some time thinking about this, and how it applies to our life journey as we seek to live by the word of God.
Outline: Relaxation, Reading, Meditation, Prayer, Contemplation, Visualization
I invite you to get comfortable for 20 minutes, without driving or doing chores, but focusing exclusively on the message God has for you. If you feel safe to do so, close your eyes.
Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation:
How to relax and how to meditate: Take stock of your breathing first. Instead of trying to force the world out, become a curious observer. Allow your focus to become soft. If you notice your mind wander bring it back to your breath. Allow your muscles to unflex. Breath deeply and allow the air to gently sweep over you. Imagine that the inside of your body is becoming full of air. With each passing breath you more it fills you deeper. All of the tension drains out of you as you feel your attention resting on this air coming in.
Through the rest of this meditation let your attention gently rest on the message you find in scripture. As I read the following scripture continue to relax and breath deeply. Allow your attention to focus on whatever message you see in this following scripture.
Bible verse for meditation:
Matt 18:1-4 NRSV
1 At that time the disciples came to Jesus and asked, “Who is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven?”
2 He called a child, whom he put among them,
3 and said, “Truly I tell you, unless you change and become like children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven.
4 Whoever becomes humble like this child is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven.
Meditation on scripture / bible verse meditation:
What is the thing that stood out to you most in this scripture?
What does this message mean to you?
What is the most important part of you?
What is the most important aspect of you?
This scripture gives us a clue as to what parts of you God things are most important. Somewhere deep inside of you there is the same person that was in your body when you were a child. In God’s eyes you are still a child. He invites us continually to be with him. His constant message is “I want to be with you, do you want to be with me?” The things He loves and admires the most about you are wrapped up in the child part of your personality. When is the last time that you have lived in this kind of innocence? Let the darkness of cynicism lift from your mind as you see yourself running and playing before the presence of the Lord. Imagine that all the negativity that surrounds your heart disappears. Take the lessons you have learned as you have matured as ask yourself: “Have they brought me closer to God or not?” We learn how to be more critical, more secretive, put on more of a false persona. We learn how to give up our childish ways to avoid being seen as a child to the world.
How can you be more like the little child that Jesus put before his disciples?
How can you be more like the little child that Jesus put before his disciples?
Lets pray to God and engage this question.
As you take another deep breath continue allowing the muscles in your body to loosen, gently and continually bringing your mind back to the message of this scripture.
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm
As you start to sit in the feeling of the innocence of a child, Imagine the Love that God pours into you. Sit silently with this feeling.
Meditate and Visualize Positive Change in Your Life:
Take the message that you gained from God’s word as you continue to allow his breath cleanse you. What message did you get from this scripture?
Remember that you can use your own experience, reason, but more importantly scripture and the Spirit of God to bounce this idea off.
I invite you to imagine how this message would play out in your life. What behaviors would change if you lived your life, with the knowledge that this thing is true. Imagine at least one specific thing that you could do today or tomorrow based on this message. Fully visualize this. What would it look like in your life? What positive things could you do, or what would happen around you, knowing that this thing was true?
Visualize the change
Conclusion:
Thanks for joining me.
I release a new episode every Sunday morning at 1AM Mountain time in the US.
If you found this message useful please share it with people you care about. You literally can contribute to someone feeling more peace today.
I’ve been thinking about how to more fully engage with you all, as my listeners. One way that I found is by reading a iTunes review each week. If you want me to read your review, go to iTunes and write me a review you can subscribe to the podcast there also. This message comes from tytynunwax it says:
“My family and I look forward to this podcast every week. We are sure to find peace as we listen to him guide us in a meditation and thoughts on a new scripture each week. Then we end in healing prayer, ready to start our day with a clear mind full of God’s words.”
Thank you for trusting me with the value of your sacred time. I feel honored you allow me into your home to share this scripture. Feel free to listen to this meditation as many times as you need, until I release my next episode next week. I rejoice with you that you have invested it in relaxing and thinking on God’s words. I know that as you spend time with Him, you will feel more of His love. I say that in Jesus Name amen.
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Have you ever tried to explain a spiritual experience to someone else? It's hard. Our language is not powerful enough or perhaps not precise enough to do it justice. Despite this deficiency, those who have experienced it, cannot deny the reality of this experience. It is the core of the scriptures, human experience with God. What is more amazing is that the Holy Spirit is offered to us. We can be born of His spirit, His spirit of peace. Now lets prepare our hearts and minds to listen to His word.
Outline of the Meditation.
I invite you to get comfortable for 20 minutes, without driving or doing chores, but focusing exclusively on the message God has for you. If you feel safe to do so, close your eyes.
Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation:
How to relax and how to meditate: Begin by observing how quiet your body is. Move until you are comfortable and don’t need to move in the slightest bit. This time is an opportunity for you to fast from the constant inputs that are coming into your life. Right now there is no input, there is nothing coming in, but air. And the thing that is leaving is all tension. Leaving only a perfectly relaxed body behind. Bring any distracted thought back to the idea of fresh air coming in.
Continue breathing deeply and what you will notice is that your body will gently release that tension. Imagine all the weight of your body begins to slowly melt away As you continue to take in breaths you become lighter and lighter. All the heavy tension of your body leaks out of you as you breath deeply. As you continue to breath you find yourself weightless in your chair. Imagine your body slowly floating above your chair. As you imagine yourself floating, your body is as weightless and loose as a cloud. With each breath that you let in your body you feel the gentle cloudiness sooth any spots that felt tense until they too are light as air.
Keep breathing deeply as you listen to this scripture. While staying relaxed, listen carefully and let the message penetrate your soul.
Bible verse for meditation:
The reading will be from John 3:5-8 From the ESV
5 Jesus answered, “Truly, truly, I say to you, unless one is born of water and the Spirit, he cannot enter the kingdom of God.
6 What is born of flesh is flesh and what is born of spirit is spirit.
7 Do not be amazed that I told you, ‘You must be born from above.’
8 The wind blows where it wills, and you can hear the sound it makes, but you do not know where it comes from or where it goes; so it is with everyone who is born of the Spirit.”
Meditation on scripture / bible verse meditation:
Some people go to great lengths to justify their faith in terms of academic means. This is a noble venture but ultimately the only way that we can truly gain this witness is by having an experience with the Holy Spirit. I want to be very careful to not say that we can demand this from God. This is not something that we deserve. Despite this, God makes it very clear that he wants us to approach him. As David says in Psalm 51:17 “The sacrifices of God are a broken spirit; a broken and contrite heart, O God, you will not despise.” As we approach him true humbly, one of the responses is an outpouring of His spirit.
God’s spirit can bring peace. In my experience, God pours out his spirit more abundantly as we consistently focus on preparing our minds.
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm
Sit in silence before the Lord and Foster in you pure Awe, demonstrating the purest gratitude you know how to for the forgiveness of your sins.
Meditate and Visualize Positive Change in Your Life:
Imagine the message you got from scripture today. How can that be applied to your life? Visualize that in as much detail as possible.
Take these ideas and share them with people you trust in your life, compare to other scriptures to provide checks and balances. Trust the spirit of the Lord and He will direct you for Good.
Conclusion:
I release a new episode every Sunday morning at 1AM Mountain time
I would appreciate your help to share this message with anyone.
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What do you have that is important? What things do you hold of others that is valuable? Maybe you know someone intimately well. Maybe you know the full details of someone’s life. That knowledge is a kind of sacred trust. What do you know from God that is sacred to you. So sacred that you would not share it? Do you have things that are so sacred that you must share them? In what contexts do you share things? Are you worthy of the trust people put in you?
In our highly technical world we know so little about each other in some ways and in other ways, perfect strangers know more about us that we could imagine. In this meditation we will ponder how to be better stewards of the that with which we have been entrusted and to treat knowledge about each other with a sacred perspective. I invite you to get comfortable for 20 minutes, without driving or doing chores, but focusing exclusively on the message.
Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation:
How to relax and how to meditate: Begin by observing how quiet your body is. Move until you are comfortable and don’t need to move in the slightest bit. This time is an opportunity for you to fast from the constant inputs that are coming into your life. Right now there is no input, there is nothing coming in, but air. And the thing that is leaving is all tension. Leaving only a perfectly relaxed body behind. Bring any distracted thought back to the idea of fresh air coming in.
Continue breathing deeply and what you will notice is that your body will gently release that tension. Imagine all the weight of your body begins to slowly melt away As you continue to take in breaths you become lighter and lighter. All the heavy tension of your body leaks out of you as you breath deeply. As you continue to breath you find yourself weightless in your chair. Imagine your body slowly floating above your chair. As you imagine yourself floating, your body is as weightless and loose as a cloud. With each breath that you let in your body you feel the gentle cloudiness sooth any spots that felt tense until they too are light as air.
Keep breathing deeply as you listen to this scripture. While staying relaxed, listen carefully and let the message penetrate your soul.
Bible verse for meditation:
The reading will be from 1 Timothy 6:17-21 From the NABRE New American Bible Revised Edition
17 Tell the rich in the present age not to be proud and not to rely on so uncertain a thing as wealth but rather on God, who richly provides us with all things for our enjoyment.
18 Tell them to do good, to be rich in good works, to be generous, ready to share,
19 thus accumulating as treasure a good foundation for the future, so as to win the life that is true life.
20 O Timothy, guard what has been entrusted to you. Avoid profane babbling and the absurdities of so-called knowledge.
21 By professing it, some people have deviated from the faith.
Grace be with all of you.
Meditation on scripture / bible verse meditation:
What Message did you receive from this scripture?
What have have you been entrusted with? What do you value most in this world? What do you hold of others that they most value? What do you hold of God’s that is of value? How are you planning on using or guarding that?
Share that with God.
In the silence of these moments you feel the weight of loyalty, born out of love. As we love each other we want the best for each other. Guard the sacred trust that you have been entrusted with. Honor it more precious than Gold.
Many people claim that money is the root of all evil. That is not true. Paul states earlier in this letter that it is the love of money that is the root of all evil. Do you love the gain of this world more than you honor your sacred trust. I promise you that as you more carefully honor that with which you have been entrusted, the more God will guide you in guide you in how to use it, according to His will.
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit.
Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm
Sit in silence before the Lord and Foster in you pure Awe, demonstrating the purest gratitude you know how to for the forgiveness of your sins.
Meditate and Visualize Positive Change in Your Life:
Imagine the message you got from scripture today. How can that be applied to your life? Visualize that in as much detail as possible.
Take these ideas and share them with people you trust in your life, compare to other scriptures to provide checks and balances. Trust the spirit of the Lord and He will direct you for Good.
Conclusion:
Thank you for joining me today. We will reach well over 1,500 downloads for this month. Thank you for your support with that. I want to share with you something that I found profound. I recently upgraded my stats package with my media hosting. Now I am able to see geographical information about the episodes. I am still nerding out about the results. I discovered that there are downloads all over the US. This podcast has been downloaded in 32 states or territories of the US. Also I had no idea about the international appeal of this program also. This podcast has been downloaded in 15 Countries!!! 10% of the audience of the most recent episode is in Ireland and 8% is in Spain. Gracias por escuchar mis amigos. The Countries where this has been downloaded include:
United States
Ireland
Spain
Canada
Australia
France
India
United Kingdom
Japan
South Africa
Germany
Mexico
Malaysia
Botswana
Philippines
And Other regions too.
If you listen in a country I didn’t list please let me know.
I am honored that you did. If you felt blessed by listening the only thing I ask of you in return for this free Podcast is to help me share it with everyone who you think would benefit from it. Please help me reach our shared goal to lift up the hearts and bring the peace of Jesus. You can share it on Social media like FaceBook and Twitter, email and text messaging. Good old fashioned phone calls are great too. I feel blessed that you shared your time with me.
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The great cry of our generation is to reduce the anxiety that overwhelms so many of us. Many people try and find a mechanical solution. They think that a set procedure can alleviate that. Many people worry about the future or ruminate on things they have done wrong. Although God has placed in us an amazing power within ourselves to find through practices like meditation, without the Help of God we can’t fully. In this episode we will go over the real source of our peace and how to tap into it. Get into a place where you can sit comfortably for 20 minutes. I recommend not driving or doing chores so you can focus totally on the message God and if there is something wrong in your body I recommend you talk to a medical person to let the miracle of medicine help you as much as it can.
Intro:
As you get comfortable I want to say Oh my goodness my friends, I am overwhelmed by the spike in listenership. Just to be totally transparent, this month we are experiencing a 1000% growth. That is because many of you share it with people you care about. I’ve been watching the download numbers and often times I see little spikes of 10 or 20 and I know just shared it. We had over 300 downloads of the last podcast. With you help, my goal is to reach 1000 downloads in the month of July and 10,000 downloads in the first year. I can only do that with your help, and it costs you nothing to share. Even though I am in grad school… again I am so happy to produce this podcast. My only compensation for putting this podcast out is to know that people are benefiting from it, so please pay it forward and share this podcast on social media and teach other people how to subscribe. Thank you so much for letting me into your home to whisper in your ear. I take that trust seriously.
Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation:
If you feel comfortable doing so, feel free to close your eyes. First things first as you sit comfortably in your chair, take inventory of your body. What sensations do you detect? what is your breathing doing? Is it fast? or is it nice and slow and even? Spend some time now and notice it. For this first part, if your notice your mind wandering gently redirect it back to your breathing.
As you scan your body, try to notice areas that feel calm, spend time enjoying that part of the body that God has given you. If there are any areas of your body that feel tense, spend a moment to notice what that feels like. Now try and intentionally unflex them.
Continue breathing deeply and what you will notice is that your body will gently release that tension. Imagine all the weight of your body begins to slowly melt away As you continue to take in breaths you become lighter and lighter. All the heavy tension of your body leaks out of you as you breath deeply. As you continue to breath you find yourself weightless in your chair. Imagine your body slowly floating above your chair. As you imagine yourself floating, your body is as weightless and loose as a cloud. With each breath that you let in your body you feel the gentle cloudiness sooth any spots that felt tense until they too are light as air.
Keep breathing deeply as you listen to this scripture. While staying relaxed, listen carefully and let the message penetrate your soul. This reading will be Isaiah 53:4-6. The reading will be from the KJV.
Bible verse for meditation:
4 Surely he hath borne our griefs, and carried our sorrows: yet we did esteem him stricken, smitten of God, and afflicted.
5 But he was wounded for our transgressions, he was bruised for our iniquities: the chastisement of our peace was upon him; and with his stripes we are healed.
6 All we like sheep have gone astray; we have turned every one to his own way; and the Lord hath laid on him the iniquity of us all.
Meditation on scripture / bible verse meditation:
What Message did you receive from this passage?
This is one of a the 4 servant songs in the book of Isaiah. The other servant songs identify the servant as the people of Israel, or God’s covenant people. This one is not specified and scholars have argued the identity of this servant. As Christians it is very difficult to read this and not imagine Jesus Christ as we hear this. He bore our grief. He was stricken and afflicted. He carried our sorrow. Many times as Christians we don’t realize the full gravity of this phrase. Jesus Christ quite literally carries our griefs and sorrows. Jesus helps with far more than only sin. His desire is to save us from all suffering as we learn to trust on Him and grow in Him. It is through His stripes we are healed. Despite this, we have gone astray. As we saw in last episode despite our going astray, Jesus considers us a gift to him. Despite the cost.
I invite you to open your heart to Jesus. Let Him see your pain, your grief, your loss. Sit open to him without any need to explain yourself, because he understands you. Open up your sin to him also. As you do this you realize that any pain and guilt from this sin is for one reason, to help you change. Even as we feel convicted, Jesus has an amazing ability to convert our sin into growth and eternal glory. Trust in Him and keep no secrets and he will care for you and cleans you. Let his spirit guide you in how you need to resolve Sin. Perhaps he wants you to make things right or talk to someone. As you do spend a moment to feel the love of God for you, in the depths of your heart.
Meditation of Prayer:
Pray as directed by the Spirit.
Meditation on God and His Glory / Hesychasm
Sit in silence before the Lord and Foster in you pure Awe, demonstrating the purest gratitude you know how to for the forgiveness of your sins.
Meditate and Visualize Positive Change in Your Life:
Imagine the message you got from scripture today. How can that be applied to your life? Visualize that in as much detail as possible.
Take these ideas and share them with people you trust in your life, compare to other scriptures to provide checks and balances. Trust the spirit of the Lord and He will direct you for Good.
Conclusion:
Thank you for joining me today. I am honored that you did. If you felt blessed by listening the only thing I ask of you in return for this free Podcast is to help me share it with everyone who you think would benefit from it. Please help me reach our shared goal to lift up the hearts and bring the peace of Jesus. You can share it on Social media like FaceBook and Twitter, email and text messaging. Good old fashioned phone calls are great too. I feel blessed that you shared your time with me.
Listener Feedback
“I can share this verse as encouragement and a theme of what God is focusing me concerning Psalm 90:17 NIV May the favor of The Lord our God rest on us; establish the work of our hands for us” - @IAMHISDancer on Twitter
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How can we find more peace with God? It is unity with God and the power of relaxation he created in our bodies that can help us feel peace. Through His spirit we can feel calm and reduce stress, worry, and anxiety. The most useful meditation that I have had is when I feel that all formal barriers are dropped between me and God.
Introduction:
Get comfortable and take some time. Dedicate 20 minutes to get the most out of this.
If this is helpful share to 7 friends. If you want to learn how to subscribe to this podcast, send me an email through my website christianmeditationpodcast.com. I would also love to hear your thoughts about the podcast or scriptures you would like me to cover in the podcast. I would love to hear from you.
Outline: Relaxation, Meditation, Prayer, Contemplation, Visualization
Relaxation and breathing exercises to reduce stress:
Relaxation helps us prepare our minds to listen to God. Begin by becoming aware of your body. As you do and you become aware of your breathing pattern. Breath slowly. Allow yourself to calm. Feel your muscles unflex. Let all compulsive thoughts go and focus on breathing, preparing your mind to receive the scripture.
Biblical Meditation on Bible verses John 17:20-23:
20 “I pray not only for them, but also for those who will believe in me through their word,
21 so that they may all be one, as you, Father, are in me and I in you, that they also may be in us, that the world may believe that you sent me.
22 And I have given them the glory you gave me, so that they may be one, as we are one,
23 I in them and you in me, that they may be brought to perfection as one, that the world may know that you sent me, and that you loved them even as you loved me.
Meditation prayer to God:
What message stood out to you during the reading of this scripture?
This is part of the great intercessory prayer. This is Jesus praying for his disciples. Right before this he specifically mentions how he is praying for those that his father had given him, those who believe in Him. When Jesus prayed for them he prays that they may be one with Him. Jesus wants you to be one with him as he is one with the Father. Imagine that. My goal here is not to examine an abstract theology but to look at the concrete way Jesus compares His union with the Father to the union we can share with Him. Regardless of how literal this is, this is an amazing overpowering thought. What kind of things does Jesus pray for? He prays that you can be one with him. His greatest desire is that we are joined with Him. Let that sink in. You can be one with Jesus. This is not through our power. This is because we are a gift to Jesus. Despite all our brokenness. Despite our rebellious desires, somehow Jesus considers fallen humans a gift. Despite what we cost Him. Despite Gethsemane, despite Golgotha, despite the blood on the Cross and the tomb, He calls us friends. May this union with God continually draw us closer to Jesus’ desires for us.
Contemplative Meditation with God:
Through a contemplative silence we open our hearts to God. We experience His friendship. We sit in awe of his love and mercy. Bring to mind the last time you experienced awe. Apply that to unity with God. Imagine God’s loving face smiling at you.
Watch God redeem you:
There are powerful lessons from reflecting on God’s word. As you have been meditating on these things, consider what is the most valuable thing that has been impressed on you. Visualize that moment is as great of detail as possible.
Share these insights with someone you trust spiritually, in the comments section in iTunes, or by contacting me through my website christianmeditationpodcast.com.
Conclusion:
Please use this podcast as a tool, and not a crutch, to help you draw closer to God and feel his peace. The power to feel peace comes from interacting with the Spirit of God as well as tapping into the power of relaxation he created inside of us.
If this content was meaningful for you share it with 7 people you care about. The only thing I get out of this podcast is knowing that this message can bring peace to people’s lives. As you share it you can help bring them some peace in their lives as well. I release a new episode each Sunday morning at 1 AM mountain time. By subscribing to the podcast you can easily download them to your smartphone each week when they come out.
LINK: FaceBook, iTunes, Chistianmeditationpodcast.com, YouTube
Many times we don’t understand the work that God has for us. We don’t understand that the most important thing we can do in this life is to take care of each other. Jesus responded that the two greatest commandments were to Love God and to Love our fellow human beings. Without this love, we can do nothing of value in the world. This week’s episode will be a guided meditation on John 21:15-17. I recommend that you get into a comfortable chair where you can sit uninterrupted for 20 minutes.
Introduction:
As you do that I want to thank you for listening. I am blown away by the recent spike in people who have joined us in the last couple weeks. We have had hundreds of downloads. I am grateful for this and I have realized the power that you all have in helping to share this message. So if you find this meditation helpful please share it with 10 other people. I am glad that everyone I have shared it with has responded so positively.
I am also on iTunes now. and I would greatly appreciate reviews there. It helps make this content more searchable. I have included the link here in the show notes below
iTunes link
Outline review: Relaxation to increase focus on God, scripture to meditate on, prayer for inspiration and guidance, contemplative worship, and visualization of change.
Relaxation exercise to reduce distraction:
Notice your breathing. Allow it to slow. Feel your stomach gently expand. Breath in for 5 seconds, gently hold it for 5 seconds, then let it out for 5 seconds.
Bible verses for meditation:
15 When they had finished breakfast, Jesus said to Simon Peter, “Simon, son of John, do you love me more than these?” He said to him, “Yes, Lord; you know that I love you.” He said to him, “Feed my lambs.”
16 He said to him a second time, “Simon, son of John, do you love me?” He said to him, “Yes, Lord; you know that I love you.” He said to him, “Tend my sheep.”
17 He said to him the third time, “Simon, son of John, do you love me?” Peter was grieved because he said to him the third time, “Do you love me?” and he said to him, “Lord, you know everything; you know that I love you.” Jesus said to him, “Feed my sheep.
Meditate on the meaning of scripture:
Reflect on the key verse, phrase or word that stuck out to you.
We find this story occurring right after the death and resurrection of Jesus. Peter, unsure what to do goes back to what he knows, fishing. Due to the friendship that the apostles have developed and his leadership role, they follow him. While they are doing this they saw a man on the shore. He told them where to cast their nets. As they did this they brought in a huge catch of fish. Peter recognized Jesus and dove into the water to swim to him. After that we see this gentle but powerful rebuke by Jesus. He is building the men who will lead His earthly kingdom, with His guidance. The Apostles don’t understand this yet.
The metaphor is not lost to John. The efforts of man are unprofitable, but when guided by Jesus, they can bring in results greater than they could have imagined. Even after witnessing His ministry, these humble men don’t know how to run a church or bolster a fledgling Jesus movement. They aren’t sure what to do, so they do what they are comfortable with. Jesus does not let them stay comfortable.
Jesus’ simple repeated question now rings in our ears. Do we love God? If so what are we doing about it? What are we willing to do about it? What is the greatest thing we could do if we allow Jesus to guide us through our discomfort? What is the greatest thing you can imagine God doing through you?
Meditative Prayer on the impressions received:
Pray as the Spirit directs.
Contemplative Meditation
Sit in awe of the Glory of God as you would a beautiful work of art or a grad mountain view.
Visualization of Godly Change:
As fully as possible visualize what that change would look like in your life. How can you bless the lives of others? Make it as tangible as possible. Commit to sharing these insights with 7 people.
Conclusion
Thank you for joining me for this meditation. I hope you have found it valuable. If you did the way you can pay it forward is by sharing this content with 7 people who you feel need this message. You can share a number of different links: FaceBook, iTunes, or on Chistianmeditationpodcast.com.
Our lives should be dedicated to helping others. In our profession, in our personal lives, and in our spiritual service we should maintain the view that what we do can bless others. Jesus showed Peter directly what he wanted for him. We can be guided to fill the niche in this world that God has in mind for us. You can bless the lives of those around you and participate in the healing work of God by sharing this content.
Introduction: In the USA we celebrate Independence Day on the 4th of July. For us, this represents liberty and freedom. The Bible teaches of a different kind of liberty, Christian liberty. We will discuss that. Christian Liberty is different.
Get comfortable.
Music Credit Andrew Payne
Statio:
Guided relaxation
Lectio:
11 And that is what some of you were. But you were washed, you were sanctified, you were justified in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ and by the Spirit of our God.
12 “I have the right to do anything,” you say—but not everything is beneficial. “I have the right to do anything”—but I will not be mastered by anything.
13 You say, “Food for the stomach and the stomach for food, and God will destroy them both.” The body, however, is not meant for sexual immorality but for the Lord, and the Lord for the body.
Meditatio:
The Corinthians really struggled in many ways. Paul’s letter to them included many different corrections about sexual immorality, and various contentions as well. Among them was a form of spiritual covetousness. The argued and had ongoing drama.This was so pronounced that Roman Christians wrote a letter correcting the saints at Corinth in an apocryphal epistle known as 1 Clement. These Corinthians were confused on how to fully live the Gospel. Paul taught that.
As Christians we consider the Law to have been fulfilled in Jesus Christ. At times we can be tempted to think that this means that we can do whatever we want as long as we have faith in Jesus. As Paul says in Romans 6:1 “What shall we say, then? Shall we go on sinning so that grace may increase?” His answer to this is “by no means” or “God forbid.” There are times when we may argue “I have the right to do anything” as if there is no sin. The transition from the way in which this was taught in the law versus the way it is taught in the New Testament was important. It changed from a set of prescribed rules to a set of prescribed principles. Instead of very direct do’s and don't's we are given higher principles upon which to guide our action. What is harder to live?
Is it easier to live the higher law? I would argue that this requires greater spiritual maturity to live the higher principle based system. Yet we don’t do it alone. God will help. He guides us through his Holy Spirit. The challenge is that we have to be listening to gain the full benefit of this. As we yield to God’s Spirit, He will guide us to take action that will draw us nearer to him and cause us to change in meaningful ways. We can be sanctified through His Spirit.
Oratio:
Prayer as indicated by the spirit.
Contemplatio:
Sit in contemplative silence in the spirit of God.
Operatio:
Visualize the change indicated to you through this scripture and share the message.
Conclusion:
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In the last episode, I spent a lot of time on biological factors of change. This episode I want to focus more on emotional validation, and how Jesus did this. I have been blessed and humbled by the overwhelmingly positive feedback I have been receiving. It is really motivating for me to continue to put these episodes out.
Outline: After a brief intro I will begin a relaxation exercise (Statio). This will be followed by a quiet reading of Scripture (Lectio) followed by Prayer (Oratio). We will then take some moments to bask in God’s spirit (Contemplatio), then imagine how the message of this scripture can change you. Prepare yourself to relax for 20 minutes or so by getting in a comfortable chair.
Introduction: This scripture was not chosen by me. I asked an 8-year-old girl what were her favorite scriptures and what I should do an episode on. She said I should do one on Jesus appearing to Mary at the Tomb. She also listed some other scriptures that I will cover in the future, but I was struck with this one. This woman in embryo saw something special in this scripture. Perhaps it’s because she is drawn to a woman being the center of Jesus’s attention through her unshaken faith. Maybe it's because she hopes to have that faith. Perhaps it’s because she lives in a culture that constantly degrades both men and women but particularly women. When I thought of this my heart ached. To me, this attack is not accidental. How can we stand against this attack? It is not through our own strength
Statio: Allow your body to relax and don’t be distracted by the impulses of the day. Prepare your mind to be open to scripture.
Lectio: John 20:13-16 New American Bible
13 And they said to her, “Woman, why are you weeping?” She said to them, “They have taken my Lord, and I don’t know where they laid him.”
14 When she had said this, she turned around and saw Jesus there, but did not know it was Jesus.
15 Jesus said to her, “Woman, why are you weeping? Whom are you looking for?”She thought it was the gardener and said to him, “Sir, if you carried him away, tell me where you laid him, and I will take him.”
16 Jesus said to her, “Mary!” She turned and said to him in Hebrew, “Rabbouni,” which means Teacher
Oratio: Prayer guided by the Holy Spirit
Contemplatio: Sit contemplatively while reflecting on the grandeur of God.
Operatio: Imagine how God can help you change your life.
Conclusion: God in His grace has decided to bestow on us a gift greater than anything we could imagine. He does this because He loves us. Scripture says that we love Him because He first loved us (John 4:19). I hope you go through the rest of your day, week and beyond feeling the value you have to God. He loves you and He loves me in a way we don’t fully understand. Thanks for joining me.
To get an outline of this episode or to see other episodes like this go to christianmeditationpodcast.com. You can subscribe to this podcast through podcast apps by adding the URL christianmeditationpodcast.com/rss which will be included in the show notes. I'm in the process of developing cover art for the podcast and once I get that complete, I'll submit to iTunes and other directories.
As always I appreciate hearing from you. You can also reach out to me through my website contact form at christianmeditationpodcast.com
I encourage you to use this podcast as a springboard, to a crutch, to improve your relationship with God. Until next week, may the Spirit of God rest with you and continually change you.
Science is not doctrine but, when taken in the context that it is generally available revelation about God’s creation, it can enlighten our minds with additional inspiration to improve. In recent decades it has been shown that human brain cells continually grow throughout life. This debunks old school ways of seeing intelligence and mental skills as unchangeable. It has been demonstrated that the human brain physically rewires itself when we place intention on it. For example, when you learn to juggle, the parts of your brain that have to do with tracking visual inputs, grow.
This information has been applied to meditation with increasingly motivating results. If you meditate consistently over months and years the parts of your brain associated with emotional regulation, memory, focus, attention, and happiness grow. This is amazing to know because it means that they hardware that your mind runs on can be physically upgraded by practice. By spending time in silence in meditation your brain grows. Although there is not specific research on Christian meditation, I suspect that these benefits would be joined with other spiritual benefits as well such as growth in the feeling that a loving God is watching over you.
Relaxation: This relaxation is more focused on thinking about the grandeur of creation. Other episodes have been more of a guided step by step process. Let me know what you think
You being alive is a miracle. The air you breath has traveled the world. You could be breathing air that was in Jerusalem a thousand years ago. Your body is built from the dust. Specifically through molecules that were in other plants and animals. This is thought that can join us to the rest of creation. God can look across the millions of miles that separate his galaxies and see you, not as a spec on one of billions of rocks, but as someone worth the sacrifice of Jesus Christ.
Ezekiel 36:25-27
25 Then will I sprinkle clean water upon you, and ye shall be clean: from all your filthiness, and from all your idols, will I cleanse you.
26 A new heart also will I give you, and a new spirit will I put within you: and I will take away the stony heart out of your flesh, and I will give you an heart of flesh.
27 And I will put my spirit within you, and cause you to walk in my statutes, and ye shall keep my judgments, and do them.
Meditation: Through the waters of Baptism we can be symbolically cleansed as we give up, and he takes our unclean hearts.
He gives us a new heart. Just as we reviewed in the idea of neuroplasticity (the brain’s ability to change and grow) God can change our heart, referring to the emotional and spiritual motivation in us can increase and change as well. He puts His Spirit into us. This will purify us.
Prayer: Pray according to the dictates of your heart.
Contemplation: Imagine yourself standing before the throne of God.
Application: Now visualize the change you feel you need to make based on this experience.
Share this message with someone you know or via feedback on iTunes or other directories.
Blessings
Drink and eat in remembrance of me. A meditation in preparation for taking the Sacrament of the Last Supper, Eucharist, Communion.
A way to practice preparing your mind to be prepared for communing with God while partaking of the Sacrament.
Intro:
I’m so grateful for the ongoing feedback I’m getting from people who are benefiting from this podcast. Perhaps I shouldn’t say this but I am surprised that this podcast is being so well received so far, so thank you to all of you who have reached out to me to let me know what you think.
One piece of feedback I received that I want to use is a heads up at the beginning, that this episode, like all the others, will involve an invitation to sit quietly for 15 to 20 minutes. So if you are not in a comfortable chair I invite you to find a comfortable position.
Most Christians participate in the ritual outlined as the Sacrament, also called the Eucharist or Communion. What does that mean? It means something similar, yet somewhat different, to many Christians. Something I think most of us share is that it provides an opportunity for us to reflect on our standing with God. We come before the God of heaven and are indicating to Him that we are remembering him and the Salvific sacrifice of Jesus Christ.
Many people find it a challenge to remain focused on the moment as the silence fills the church. In the time it takes for everyone else to have the Sacrament offered to them, there is a perfect opportunity to reflect in a meditative way. This meditation is intended for that specific purpose. I am confident that as we meditate on the meaning that Jesus offered to us, we will feel closer to God and truly feel that we are in communion with him.
Our meditation will begin with Relaxation, followed by the reading from the King James Bible, then reflecting on the meaning of the verses, followed by prayer after which we will allow time for silent contemplation, then finalizing this episode with an invitation on how this experience can change our lives.
Let’s begin with the relaxation:
Guided relaxation.
Then on to the reading:
26 ¶ And as they were eating, Jesus took bread, and blessed it, and brake it, and gave it to the disciples, and said, Take, eat; this is my body.
27 And he took the cup, and gave thanks, and gave it to them, saying, Drink ye all of it;
28 For this is my blood of the new testament, which is shed for many for the remission of sins.
Meditation:
This scripture represents the institution of the Sacrament of the Lord's Supper. There is not an extensive reference in the scriptures to the last supper but it is clear that it was important to early Christians. Paul writes about it in his letter to the corinthians in 1 Corinthians 11:23-32.
Jesus taught publicly about the need to eat of his flesh and drink his blood in the Gospel of John.
After this Jesus lost many disciples. He asked Peter will you also go away?
To which Peter responded:
“To whom would we go?”
Is Jesus asking us today the same question when our minds wonder as we sit waiting to eat of the Sacrament?
Is he asking us as he did to his Apostles in Gethsemane “could you not watch with me one hour?”
As we practice focusing our thoughts we can be more open to the spirit as we partake of the Sacrament.
Prayer:
Pray as the spirit directs
Contemplation:
Enjoy silence in the Spirit of God.
Practical application:
Visualize how this change will be implemented in your life.
What manner of man is this
Intro
christianmeditationpodcast.com
Positive feedback
Multiple people gave positive feedback and I appreciated the technical feedback as well.
This meditation is not entirely Lectio Divina but shares many things with that style of reflection and meditation. I referenced Tim Gray's called Praying Scriputre for change: an Introduction to Lectio Divina.
There is great power in stillness is reducing distraction, even if there is noise around us.
As you settle into a comfortable place I want to challenge the notion that silence is required for these. Many times in the hospital people seemed to try and force out any noise. In reality, these noises are part of your reality right now. They don’t need to be your enemy.
Relaxation
Consider the calming power of God.
For details about me feel free to see the about me section of my website. I will also be listing an episode 000 explaining my theological framework. There are components borrowed from general relaxation practices as well Lectio Divina. I referenced Tim Gray's Book which is available on Amazon here (I don't have an affiliate link yet).
I outline the structure for the meditation as follows:
1) Relaxation exercise (deep breathing, guided relaxation)
2) Read the verses twice (encouraging thoughtfulness)
3) Meditation (reflection on content)
4) Prayer (I lead then give some time for you)
5) Contemplative moment
6) Visualize application
I'd love to hear from you about what insights you gained from this experience.