meditations of mercy: Recent Episodes
hannah
welcome to meditations of mercy podcast, where we seek to start each morning centered on truth. each podcast is 3-6 minutes and includes scripture-based meditations followed by some guided intentional breathwork
Power
Eph 3:14-21 “For this reason I bow my knees before the Father, from whom every family in heaven and on earth is named, that according to the riches of his glory he may grant you to be strengthened with power through his Spirit in your inner being, so that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith—that you, being rooted and grounded in love, may have strength to comprehend with all the saints what is the breadth and length and height and depth, and to know the love of Christ that surpasses knowledge, that you may be filled with all the fullness of God. 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, to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, forever and ever. Amen.”
2 cor 13:4 “For he was crucified in weakness, but lives by the power of God. For we also are weak in him, but in dealing with you we will live with him by the power of God.”
2 Tim 1:7 For God gave us a spirit not of fear but of power and love and self-control.
Romans 8:11 “If the Spirit of him who raised Jesus from the dead dwells in you, he who raised Christ Jesus from the dead will also give life to your mortal bodies through his Spirit who dwells in you.”
With the goodness of God to desire our highest welfare, the wisdom of God to plan it, and the power of God to achieve it, what do we lack? Surely we are the most favored of all creatures. AW Tozer
I hope that this week has given you some moments to reorient your hearts and minds towards Christ and his desire for you in this upcoming season. I hope that it has ultimately been refreshing for you to pause, to remember & praise, to peel away, to pour in, gain a perspective of peace, and to prepare. As you plan and prepare, it’s important to remember what the aim of our preparations cannot be self-gain. Our goal is more of Christ, to be a part of His plan, not for Him to mold to ours. When we hear this, we of course agree, but how often do we try to create plans based on our finite thoughts instead of His limitlessness? IF only we would trust that His ways are greater. The plans of God require the power of God. And thankfully, He gives it to us! And with the goodness, wisdom, and power of God, what do we lack? In giving us His power, it’s apparent that He loves us and does not want us to fail. The power of God is unmeasurable. I mean, let’s just sit there for a second! The resurrection power, the miracle-working power, the redeeming power of the name of Jesus. It’s unmatched. There is no power greater - no other ruler or authority or plan can stand against the power of God. He has and will always ultimately be victorious.
Today, as I look to this upcoming season, I invite you in, surrender to your will, and welcome your power to work through me. God in this amazing power would you strengthen and prepare me for the road ahead? I want to see you work in mighty ways. I want to be used by you for your glory, not my own. Some may trust in horses, some may trust in chariots, but whatever is coming, I trust you. I am expectant and excited to see how you move. I confidently walk in your power, God. Thank you. As we take time to be in this moment, let’s breathe. Inhale through your nose and fill your lungs with air, expand your ribcage and relax. Exhale up and out through pursed lips as you draw everything in towards that imaginary center column. Continue this cycle as you meditate on the words of this song.
Prepare
Jeremiah 29:11 For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, to give you hope and a future.
2 Timothy 1:9 Who saved us and called us to a holy calling, not because of our works but because of his own purpose and grace, which he gave us in Christ Jesus before the ages began,
1 John 4:16 So we have come to know and to believe the love that God has for us. God is love, and whoever abides in love abides in God, and God abides in him.
Proverbs 16:1-3,9 The plans of the heart belong to man, but the answer of the tongue is from the Lord. All the ways of a man are pure in his own eyes, but the Lord weighs the spirit. Commit your work to the Lord, and your plans will be established… The heart of man plans his way, but the Lord establishes his steps.
2 Timothy 2:21 Therefore, if anyone cleanses himself from what is dishonorable, he will be a vessel for honorable use, set apart as holy, useful to the master of the house, ready for every good work.
Do you have something coming up in this next season? We are about to make a big move, and lately I’ve been pretty preoccupied with trying to figure out how to prepare everyone in my family for the change. When I get anxious or doubtful about the upcoming season, I notice myself trying much harder to operate out of my own ambition and expectation. This breeds even more anxiety. BUT, when I welcome the peace and presence of God in, I rest in the fact that He is in control and faithful amidst change + uncertainty. His plans for me are far greater and higher than any plans I could muster up on my own, and His love for me should remind me that His plans for me are not to hurt me. They are for my growth, not my decline! Instead of being exasperated, I can walk into this season with energy and expectation. This foundation of thought transforms the way I prepare. No longer am I focused on what I can gain. I simply want to glorify God in any situation and be used by Him. His sovereignty does not lead us to inaction, but rather our action is now fueled by the One who makes all things possible.
Today, as I begin to look ahead to this upcoming season, I am overwhelmed at how intimately and lovingly You show up for your people, God. Thank you for being faithful to walk with me in every moment, and for giving me the gift of your presence. Walking in your peace, I prepare for this coming season with expectation and anticipation of what you will do. I know you will be surprised by nothing. I know that you ultimately work all things for good. And I know that I can trust you completely, because you are a good Father. Thank you for the time to pause and remember. Thank you for the peeling away and the pouring in. I needed this time of renewal. Give me clarity and vision for this next season. Move me to action and intention. As we take time to be in this moment, let’s breathe. Inhale through your nose and fill your lungs with air, expand your ribcage and relax. Exhale up and out through pursed lips as you draw everything in towards that imaginary center column. Continue this cycle as you meditate on the words of this song.
Perspective of Peace
Isaiah 26:3 You keep him in perfect peace whose mind is stayed on you, because he trusts in you.
John 14:27 “peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. Not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your hearts be troubled, neither let them be afraid.”
Romans 8:6 For to set the mind on the flesh is death, but to set the mind on the Spirit is life and peace.
Isaiah 55:8-9 For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways, declares the Lord. For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways and my thoughts than your thoughts.
How do you move from a moment of inspiration into actually letting it transform your life? This happens to us all the time - we hear something that is powerful and we just KNOW we are going to not only remember it, but live by it. But then, one hour later, we are fumbling to remember the exact words of what was said. It’s a frustrating cycle! And the question becomes how to we remain? How do we continue to be filled with these feelings of hope and life and fullness?
This exchange of peeling away and then being poured into by God is vulnerable, and one that can be so easily attacked by our fears or anxieties or doubts. But we can stand firm because we have this promise - that He keeps us in perfect peace. He gives us HIS peace. The answer to staying in the fullness of God comes in being continually in the PRESENCE of God. When we draw near to Him through prayer, meditation, reading, communion, etc, we are entering the presence of God. This is not a blind or impulsive surrender, but one made knowing that He is God, and his ways are higher and better and greater than ours. This constant reverence and orientation towards God will change our perspective. Worry is replaced with peace. Doubt is replaced with peace. Uncertainty is replaced with peace. As we keep our mind set on him, He keeps us in an imperishable peace. This promise gives us confidence to continue to move forward.
So today, as I’ve taken time to pause, remember + praise, peel away, and pour in, I will now keep a perspective of peace. Right now, draw me in to your presence, Lord. I trust your promises, that you will keep me in perfect peace and fullness of joy. This eternal steadiness gives me hope and assurance today no matter what comes next, knowing that my reward is far greater than anything I can comprehend. Thank you for being here with me. Your presence is my gain. You are my peace. As we take time to be in this moment, let’s breathe. Inhale through your nose and fill your lungs with air, expand your ribcage and relax. Exhale up and out through pursed lips as you draw everything in towards that imaginary center column. Continue this cycle as you meditate on the words of this song.
Pour In
Verses: Isaiah 43:18-19 “Forget the former things; do not dwell on the past. See, I am doing a new thing! Now it springs up; do you not perceive it? I am making a way in the wilderness and streams in the wasteland.”
John 5:6-8 “When Jesus saw him lying there and learned that he had been in this condition for a long time, he asked him, “do you want to get well?” “Sir,” the invalid replied, “I have no one to help me into the pool when the water is stirred. While I am trying to get in, someone else goes down ahead of me.” Then Jesus said to him, “Get up! Pick up your mat and walk.”
Ephesians 3:17-19 So that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith - that you, being rooted and grounded in love, may have strength to comprehend with all the saints what is the breadth and length and height and depth, and to know the love of Christ that surpasses knowledge, that you may be filled with all the fullness of God.
John 4:14 But whoever drinks of the water that I will give him will never be thirsty again
In the fast-pace of life, we can fill ourselves to full in the blink of an eye. A small commitment here, a dinner there, minutes turned to an hour on our phone, a new tv series, a new hobby or habit, a new way of thought… and this is on top of our jobs, our family, our health needs, etc… …our plates are full. There is no shortage of ways to fill our time and our attention. But, once we take the time and courage to pause, to “peel away”, we realize we gain space to be filled back up. We gain room to welcome in whatever God has for us. In order to put our priorities in the right place, it often means getting rid of things that distract us. We’ve done the work of peeling away, here we are with an empty cup. But if we’re being honest, do we really want to be filled? Do we really really believe that the new thing God has for us could be better? Will God really prove to be true in this act of surrender? These are honest and raw questions. Is the peeling away really gain?
Scripture tells us that He is doing a new thing, which is confusing and amazing and nothing short of awe-inspiring. He replaces chaos with a clear way. Void with life. Hesitancy with commitment. Brokenness for healing. Thirst for satisfaction. He is doing this, and He wants to do this for you, he has done this for you. (Read Ephesians 3:17-19 again) To be filled with the fullness of God!
So today, I believe that peeling away gives you space, God, to pour in. I will open my life to be filled. In this moment may I dwell in your presence, may you help me comprehend the love that you have for ME. For me. Today, I want to receive what you have for me. I believe you are doing a new thing and what freedom and energy that brings to my soul. How refreshing to be in your presence today, God. Thank you for filling me with your Spirit. Thank you for filling me with that which satisfies as never runs out. Only you can do this God. I am ready and grateful. As we take time to recognize what we need to peel away, let’s breathe. Inhale through your nose and fill your lungs with air, expand your ribcage and relax. Exhale up and out through pursed lips as you draw everything in towards that imaginary center column. Continue this cycle as you meditate on the words of this song.
Day three: Peel away
Hebrews 12:1 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,
1 Cor. 9:24-27 “Do you not know that in a race all the runners run, but only one receives the prize? So run that you may obtain it. Every athlete exercises self-control in all things. They do it to receive a perishable weather, but we an imperishable. So I do not run aimlessly; I do not box as one beating the air. But I discipline my body and keep it under control, lest after preaching to others I myself should be disqualified.
Eph. 4:22-23 Put off your old self, which belongs to your former manner of life and is corrupt through deceitful desires, and to be renewed in the spirit of your minds,
Matthew 10:39 Whoever finds his life will lose it, and whoever loses his life for my sake will find it.
Once, a man was asked, “What did you gain by regularly praying to God?” The man replied, “let me tell you what I lost: anger, ego, greed, depression, insecurity, and fear.” Sometimes, the answer to our prayers is not gaining but losing, which ultimately is the gain.
In the rush and busyness of life, we often become so distracted from the fact that many of the things we are involved in are actually weighing us down - emotionally, physically, spiritually. There are so many days when I don’t even realize how tense I am until I take a deep breath. The relief I feel after is shocking and telling! When we are talking about “peeling away”, what I’m referring to is the act of letting go…and not just erratically throwing off every single obligation, but rather through discipline and awareness shedding off that which distracts us from our ultimate goal. This peeling away takes action. It takes awareness. It takes a momentary shift of focus. Sometimes it can be hard…the thing weighing us down can be heavy…more than simply taking a breath. It can feel impossible. That’s why yesterday we talked about remembering…because when we remember WHO has done the work for us…the act of peeling away suddenly becomes doable, because we are not doing it in our own power. But with the power of the one who quite literally defeated death.
Whatever you’re needing to peel away in this season - maybe it’s a lie you’re believing about yourself or your family, maybe it’s a habit, maybe it’s a toxic relationship…maybe it’s social media (LORD HELPUS!) whatever it is…what steps can you take today to take action? It starts with pausing, then remembering, and then asking Him to help you throw it off. He’s so ready to help you run the race! And the best part? In peeling away, we gain! In peeling away, we ultimately find breakthrough .
Today, I will trust Him enough to let go of that thing I think I need to be holding on to. I believe that in the act of peeling away, I gain. My next breakthrough is on the other side of surrendering. In this act of surrender, I realize that freedom is actually supposed to feel weightless. Lord would you break me free? As we take time to recognize what we need to peel away, let’s breathe. Inhale through your nose and fill your lungs with air, expand your ribcage and relax. Exhale up and out through pursed lips as you draw everything in towards that imaginary center column. Continue this cycle as you meditate on the words of this song.
REMEMBER + PRAISE
1 Chron. 16:12 Remember the wonders he has done,
his miracles, and the judgments he pronounced,
Psalm 77:11 I will remember the deeds of the Lord;
yes, I will remember your wonders of old.
Psalm 103:2 Bless the Lord, O my soul,
and forget not all his benefits,
Luke 22:19 And he took bread, gave thanks and broke it, and gave it to them, saying “given for you; do this in remembrance of me”
In a recent study done this last June, the average adult attention span is a whopping 8.25 seconds. We are constantly seeking to be entertained, filled, and captivated, and if it takes longer than eight seconds to grab our attention…might as well see ya later. We are so quick to jump on to the next thing and oftentimes forget what we just read/saw/heard.
This is why I believe the power and practice of remembering is so valuable. It keeps us tethered to those things that have formed us; foundational moments in our life that we’ve experienced, read, seen, felt, or heard. Remembering shows no favoritism…the good and the bad come to mind and I know this can be painful. But Scripture makes it clear that we are not simply called to remember the moments, but we are challenged to remember what God has done and as we remember, we begin to see a fresh perspective on how God has been with us in every moment.
Ultimately we see this at the passover when Jesus encourages us to remember Him and what he has done for us on the cross. This is not particularly a “happy memory” but the ultimate good that was produced should absolutely captivate us. The practice of remembering is an amazing way to hold our attention.. Remembering keeps us from replacing truth with momentary thrills. Remembering anchors us. It draws us back to gratitude, no matter what the present circumstance looks like because we become tethered to the one who never changes. The one who is in the middle of working all things ultimately for good.
So today as I look back on this summer, I take time to remember. In every moment, God was with me. In remembering, I recognize that God can work in and through all things, ultimately for my good. While I wait, I remember. While I look around, I remember. While I look ahead, I remember. And in my remembering, I am drawn to praise. This deep-rooted praise becomes my weapon against the lies, the distraction, and the tendency to forget. As we take time to remember + praise, let’s breathe. Inhale through your nose and fill your lungs with air, expand your ribcage and relax. Exhale up and out through pursed lips as you draw everything in towards that imaginary center column. Continue this cycle as you meditate on the words of this song.
Day one: PAUSE
Verses -
Isaiah 40:31 But those 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
Proverbs 10:19 In the multitude of words sin is not lacking, but he who restrains his lips is wise"
Job 37:14 Hear this, O Job; stop and consider the wondrous works of God.
Psalm 46:10 Be still, and know that I am God; I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth"
Genesis 2:2-3 so on the seventh day he rested from all his work. Then God blessed the seventh day and made it holy, because on it he rested from all the work of creating that he had done
Mark 1:35 Very early in the morning, while it was still dark, Jesus got up, left the house and went off to a solitary place, where he prayed.
As we see in these verses and many more throughout scripture, God values a pause. He created us to need a pause.. to take time away from the present work and draw into rest. To pause is to not only recognize my humanity, but also the worthiness of God, who gives me strength, wisdom, and a refreshed perspective.
So today as the busyness of this season continues to weigh on me and causes me to feel anxious or overwhelmed, I choose to pause. I will take time to recalibrate + reset my gaze. I will not let one more day go by without taking a moment to recenter and be still before the Lord. As I inhale, I will breathe in calm and recognize that He has been with me in every moment. As I exhale, I will breathe out the lies and negative thoughts that tangle me up. Today, I will replace the noise with truth. Who is for me is far greater than any thought or weapon against me. In this moment, I know I am not alone. I am held by my Maker, and I realize that even He took time to pause. In pausing, I gain wisdom. In pausing, I gain strength. And in pausing, I gain a greater perspective that His way is greater, higher, and better.
Take time now to pause and breathe. Inhale through your nose and fill your lungs with air, expand your ribcage and relax. Exhale up and out through pursed lips as you draw everything in towards that imaginary center column. Continue this cycle as you meditate on the words of this song. Remember, you have time to take your time here. You have time to pause.
Galatians 5:22-23 “But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control; against such things there is no law”
Luke 6:35 But love your enemies, and do good, and lend, expecting nothing in return, and your reward will be great, and you will be sons of the Most High, for he is kind to the ungrateful and the evil.
Inhale: I place so many expectations on the things I lend others - my time, money, resources.
Exhale: Jesus, fill me with a true heart of kindness, free from expectation.
Inhale: I struggle to be kind to those that are ungrateful, hateful, evil.
Exhale: Jesus - you did this! Thank you for being kind to all. Give me your strength and power to display this type of kindness.
Inhale: Lending often not only traps the receiver but the lender.
Exhale: Jesus, free me up from the constraints of lending with your powerful kindness. Loosen the bonds of assumption, and give me pure love for all.
Galatians 5:22-23 “But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control; against such things there is no law”
Hebrews 10:35-39 “Therefore do not throw away your confidence, which has a great reward. For you have need of endurance, so that when you have done the will of God you may receive what is promised. For, “Yet a little while, and the coming one will come and will not delay; but my righteous one shall live by faith, and if he shrinks back, my soul has no pleasure in him.” But we are not of those who shrink back and are destroyed, but of those who have faith and preserve their souls.”
Isaiah 55:11 “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, 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.”
Inhale: God, I am narrowed in and feel trapped in my current circumstance.
Exhale: Help me zoom out, give me reminders of the big picture and how you have been and will continue to be good to me.
Inhale: I am guilty of panicking when things seem “wilted” on the surface.
Exhale: Jesus, help me trust your process. I want to fully trust that you are working, even when I can’t see it.
Inhale: During the “wilting”, I become anxious and rushed, seeking answers and blessing n o w.
Exhale: Your timing is perfect in your processes, Lord. Thank you that your word and purposes NEVER return void. Give me patience.
Galatians 5:22-23 “But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control; against such things there is no law”
Ecclesiastes 7:9 “Better is the end of a thing than its beginning, and the patient in spirit is better than the proud in spirit.”
Inhale: I am so short-sided when it comes to perspective on my circumstances.
Exhale: Lord, give me eternal perspective, where you have already won and given me victory!
Inhale: I can’t see outside my current situation, and it’s causing me to doubt and fear.
Exhale: Lord, open my eyes to see what you have for me here - fill me with strength, confidence, and peace.
Inhale: I don’t want to do this on my own strength.
Exhale: Lord, teach me how to be patient. Guide me and give me vision on how you would like me to approach this circumstance.
Galatians 5:22-23 “But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control; against such things there is no law”
Isaiah 40:31 “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.”
Inhale: I am easily irritated and restless when it comes to waiting.
Exhale: Jesus, be my peace in these moments and transform my perspective.
Inhale: I often go down a negative spiral when I’m asked to be patient for things out of my control.
Exhale: Jesus, help me delight and find pleasure in the moment you have given me. Give me eyes, help me look up and around for what you have for me right now.
Inhale: My words to others can often be spiteful and rushed when I feel forced to be patient.
Exhale: Jesus, help me love others well while I am learning patience.
Galatians 5:22-23 “But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control; against such things there is no law”
Phil. 4:7 And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.
John 16:33 “I have said these things to you, that IN me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation. But take heart; I have overcome the world.”
Inhale: the clutter is piling up in my mind and heart and I’m full of anxiety.
Exhale: Jesus, forgive me. Would you give me the strength to give it to you completely.
Inhale: my efforts to manipulate situations often cause more messes
Exhale: IN you I have peace. Help me surrender to your strength and ability.
Inhale: my peace is hindered by my belief that I’m not worthy of forgiveness
Exhale: Jesus, thank you that you desire for me to have peace. Thank you for valuing my life so much that you’d do it all, just for me.
Galatians 5:22-23 “But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control; against such things there is no law”
Romans 8:6 For to set the mind on the flesh is death, but to set the mind on the Spirit is life and peace.
Inhale: I often focus on myself. Everything I research and meditate on tends to build me up.
Exhale: Jesus, help me shift my focus from temporary, finite things to things that are lasting and eternal, bigger than me.
Inhale: My mind is restless and I often feel out of control.
Exhale: Holy Spirit, help me set my mind on you, and intercede for me when I feel paralyzed.
Inhale: i often let circumstances dictate my peace.
Exhale: thank you Holy Spirit that regardless of circumstances, to set my mind on you is life and peace.
Galatians 5:22-23 “But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control; against such things there is no law”
Psalm. 4:7 You have put more joy in my heart than they have when their grain and wine abound.
Inhale: I have grown so accustomed to the “grind”
Exhale: Jesus, slow me down. Help me recognize the power of giving YOU space in my life.
Inhale: I often fill, fill, fill myself up with anything and everything that will give immediate satisfaction.
Exhale: Jesus, I know that what you give is better. Will YOU fill me with joy that is inexpressible?
Galatians 5:22-23 “But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control; against such things there is no law”
Proverbs 10:28 “The hope of the righteous brings joy, but the expectation of the wicked will perish.”
Romans 15:13 May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, so that by the power of the Holy Spirit you may abound in hope.
Inhale: I often confuse happiness and joy.
Exhale: Jesus, help me know in my heart the difference. Give me joy that can’t be taken away.
Inhale: I have a hard time trusting what you say to be true, Jesus.
Exhale: Fill me with understanding. Open my eyes to see what YOU want me to see about who you say you are.
Inhale: I want to live a life that has HOPE that produces joy and vis versa.
Exhale: Jesus, be real to me. Establish joy and hope firmly in my life.
Galatians 5:22-23 “But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control; against such things there is no law”
Colossians 3:14 And above all these put on love, which binds everything together in perfect harmony.
1 Corinthians 13:1 says “if I have a faith that can move mountains, but have not love, I am nothing.”
Inhale: I’ve lacked motivation and depth in my life right now.
Exhale: Jesus, breathe new life into me - ignite my love once again.
Inhale: I often settle for a dry, crumbly cookie.
Exhale: Jesus, thank you that your love is the gooey, perfectly textured cookie. The real deal kind of love. Help me be transformed by THIS love.
Inhale: I feel disconnected and out of sync in all areas of my life.
Exhale: Re-establish my love. Be my first love, Jesus and let everything else be united from that foundation.
Galatians 5:22-23 “But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control; against such things there is no law”
Romans 5:8 but God shows his love for us in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us.
Inhale: I realize that I place conditions and expectations on the love I give and receive.
Exhale: Jesus, teach me more about what it looks like to love unconditionally.
Inhale: It is hard to love and be committed enough to someone to stick with them through the ups and downs.
Exhale: Jesus, thank you that when I am weak, you are strong. Would you increase more in my life?
Inhale: I want to love others, myself, and ultimately You, Lord, unconditionally.
Exhale: It’s only possible through you Jesus! Help me
Galatians 5:22-23 “But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control; against such things there is no law”
Inhale: I often burst with responses and emotions that are from a prideful, selfish heart
Exhale: Jesus, give me space to reset. Fill me, so what overflows from me is marked by you.
Inhale: I feel rushed, hurried, full, stressed.
Exhale: Jesus, calm my mind + heart. Breathe fresh perspective into my outlook.
Inhale: I want to life a life marked by You and only You, Jesus.
Exhale: Fill me and teach me of your love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control.
Psalm 25:9 He leads the humble in what is right, and teaches the humble his way.
Phillipians 2:1-11 talks about this perfectly - “So if there is any encouragement in Christ, any comfort from love, any participation in the Spirit, any affection and sympathy, complete my joy by being of the same mind, having the same love, being in full accord and of one mind. Do nothing from selfish ambition or conceit, but in humility count others more significant than yourselves. Let each of you look not only to his own interests, but also to the interests of others. Have this mind among yourselves, which is yours in Christ Jesus, who, though he was in the form of God, did not count equality with God a thing to be grasped, but emptied himself, by taking the form of a servant, being born in the likeness of men. And being found in human form, he humbled himself by becoming obedient to the point of death, even death on a cross. Therefore God has highly exalted him and bestowed on him the name that is above every name, so that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.”
Inhale: I struggle to see the point of humility. It feels weak to me.
Exhale: Jesus, you displayed humility perfectly and it was POWERFUL. Soften my heart and open my eyes to see that humility is deep strength. It’s worth it.
Inhale: I’m feeling my time under tension - things are difficult and I can’t see what’s coming.
Exhale: Jesus, help me trust your example of humility, how you emptied yourself and endured the cross for ME. It was worth it to you, help me see that humility is worth it for me.
Inhale: I often fling my strength around recklessly.
Exhale: Jesus, help me be deliberate, controlled, and thoughtful. Help me grow in humility and teach me what is right.
Colossians 1: 13-16 “ He has delivered us from the domain of darkness and transferred us to the kingdom of his beloved Son, in whom we have redemption, the forgiveness of sins.He is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn of all creation. For by him all things were created, in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or dominions or rulers or authorities—all things were created through him and for him.”
1 Corinthians 2:16 “For who has understood the mind of the Lord so as to instruct him?”
Inhale: I am so weighed down in appearances and how others view me.
Exhale: Jesus, protect my mind and heart, and fill me with greater vision for myself, beyond the physical.
Inhale: I have a mind that is flighty and drawn to think surface level.
Exhale: Help me, Jesus, to take on your mind - to see myself for all that I am in You.
Inhale: I often don’t focus on You, Jesus.
Exhale: Help me recognize that you are the true image of God - full of redemption, forgiveness, power, and authority.
Ephesians 2:20-24 “But that is not the way you learned Christ! assuming that you have heard about him and were taught in him, as the truth is in Jesus,to put off your old self, which belongs to your former manner of life and is corrupt through deceitful desires, and to be renewed in the spirit of your minds, and to put on the new self, created after the likeness of God in true righteousness and holiness.”
Inhale: My own efforts always fall short. I feel a void of depth when I try to do it on my own.
Exhale: Help me trust you. Help me realize that you CAN and WANT TO renew and refresh me.
Inhale: I fall so easily into old habits of bitterness, laziness, apathy, and hate.
Exhale: You died on the cross to conquer these things once and for all. Help me put those ways off, knowing the victory I have in what You’ve done.
Inhale: Once I’m clean, I put on dirty clothes all the time.
Exhale: Jesus, give me strength to put on the new self and walk in it, abiding in who You say I am. Help me believe it!
Phillipians 2: 5-11
Have this mind among yourselves, which is yours in Christ Jesus, who, though he was in the form of God, did not count equality with God a thing to be grasped, but emptied himself, by taking the form of a servant, being born in the likeness of men. And being found in human form, he humbled himself by becoming obedient to the point of death, even death on a cross. Therefore God has highly exalted him and bestowed on him the name that is above every name, so that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.
Verses 1-4 says “So if there is any encouragement in Christ, any comfort from love, any participation in the Spirit, any affection and sympathy, complete my joy by being of the same mind, having the same love, being in full accord and of one mind.Do nothing from selfish ambition or conceit, but in humility count others more significant than yourselves. Let each of you look not only to his own interests, but also to the interests of others.”
Inhale: I don’t love my neighbor as I should.
Exhale: Jesus, you did it all for love. Fill me with the love that YOU have for my neighbor.
Inhale: I feel the weight of divisiveness within my own heart and world around me.
Exhale: Jesus, you came for unity. In your power, would you help me be a vessel of unity to ultimately help people see and come to you.
Inhale: I am so selfish.
Exhale: Jesus, you displayed the ultimate act of selflessness. Help me follow your example and give me humility to consider others and their interests.
Thank you Jesus.
Romans 12:2
Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect.
Psalm 51:10
Create in me a clean heart, O God, and renew a right spirit within me.
Inhale: I’m feeling weighed down by so many opinions and information
Exhale: Jesus, simplify it all for me.
Inhale: I recognize I’ve been letting many other resources define who You are Jesus
Exhale: Holy Spirit, renew my mind. Give me a clear mind to see you directly.
Inhale: I don’t want to live distracted or indecisive.
Exhale: create in me a clean heart o God and renew a right spirit within me. One that is clear, whole, and filled with purpose.
Isaiah 9:6-7
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 Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. Of the increase of His government and 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.
Zephaniah 3:16-20
On that day they will say to Jerusalem, “Do not fear, Zion; do not let your hands hang limp.
The Lord your God is with you, the Mighty Warrior who saves. He will take great delight in you; in his love he will no longer rebuke you, but will rejoice over you with singing.” “I will remove from you all who mourn over the loss of your appointed festivals, which is a burden and reproach for you.At that time I will deal with all who oppressed you. I will rescue the lame; I will gather the exiles. I will give them praise and honor in every land where they have suffered shame.At that time I will gather you; at that time I will bring you home. I will give you honor and praise among all the peoples of the earth when I restore your fortunes before your very eyes,” says the Lord.
Inhale: I’ve been minimizing what you’ve done, Jesus.
Exhale: THANK YOU. Thank you for coming so that I can find home in you. Help me understand the magnitude of what you’ve done.
Inhale: I’ve been searching this Christmas season for something more.
Exhale: Jesus, thank you for all that you are - for coming to our home long ago to restore our relationship, and thank you that you will one day come again to gather us and bring us home for good! Release the lies that hold me down, and give me freedom to celebrate what you’ve done!
Luke 15:11-32
And he said, “There was a man who had two sons. And the younger of them said to his father, ‘Father, give me the share of property that is coming to me.’ And he divided his property between them. Not many days later, the younger son gathered all he had and took a journey into a far country, and there he squandered his property in reckless living. And when he had spent everything, a severe famine arose in that country, and he began to be in need. So he went and hired himself out to one of the citizens of that country, who sent him into his fields to feed pigs. And he was longing to be fed with the pods that the pigs ate, and no one gave him anything.
“But when he came to himself, he said, ‘How many of my father's hired servants have more than enough bread, but I perish here with hunger! I will arise and go to my father, and I will say to him, “Father, I have sinned against heaven and before you. I am no longer worthy to be called your son. Treat me as one of your hired servants.”’ And he arose and came to his father. But while he was still a long way off, his father saw him and felt compassion, and ran and embraced him and kissed him. And the son said to him, ‘Father, I have sinned against heaven and before you. I am no longer worthy to be called your son.’ But the father said to his servants, ‘Bring quickly the best robe, and put it on him, and put a ring on his hand, and shoes on his feet.And bring the fattened calf and kill it, and let us eat and celebrate.For this my son was dead, and is alive again; he was lost, and is found.’ And they began to celebrate.
“Now his older son was in the field, and as he came and drew near to the house, he heard music and dancing. And he called one of the servants and asked what these things meant. And he said to him, ‘Your brother has come, and your father has killed the fattened calf, because he has received him back safe and sound.’But he was angry and refused to go in. His father came out and entreated him, but he answered his father, ‘Look, these many years I have served you, and I never disobeyed your command, yet you never gave me a young goat, that I might celebrate with my friends. But when this son of yours came, who has devoured your property with prostitutes, you killed the fattened calf for him!’ And he said to him, ‘Son, you are always with me, and all that is mine is yours. It was fitting to celebrate and be glad, for this your brother was dead, and is alive; he was lost, and is found.’”
Inhale: I’ve been the younger brother - wreck-less, ungrateful, hurried, and enticed by the world
Exhale: Jesus, thank you for allowing me to come home. Thank you for having compassion on me. Show me that you are better. Fill me with a content heart of gratitude.
Inhale: I’ve been the older brother - jealous, cut-throat, harboring compassion, selfish, and unwilling to show the same grace that I’ve been given.
Exhale: Jesus, thank you for allowing me to come home. Thank you for having compassion on me. Show me that you are always worth it. Fill me with a true, honest heart of gratitude.
Romans 8:16-17a The Spirit himself bears witness with our spirit that we are children of God, and if children, then heirs—heirs of God and fellow heirs with Christ,
John 1:12 But to all who did receive him, who believed in his name, he gave the right to become children of God,
Inhale: I am broken by my difficult family relationships.
Exhale: God, thank you for being my perfect Father - one I can always run Home to.
Inhale: I admit I’ve been only allowing You in to some of my life, on my timeline.
Exhale: Jesus, help me flip the script and find Home in you! Write my story and build my home.
Inhale: I feel insignificant and distant.
Exhale: Jesus, show me the magnitude of who you are and shift my focus off of myself and to You. In this exchange, help me recognize the love that you have for me and the relationship you offer to me.
John 10:10 the thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy. I came that they may have life and have it abundantly.
Inhale: I have felt out of control when it comes to my mind.
Exhale: Jesus, help me reclaim steadiness of my thoughts.
Inhale: I have felt relaxed lately on letting “unwanted guests” into my mind.
Exhale: Jesus, thank you that you provide life and peace, abundantly.
Inhale: I want to host my thoughts well.
Exhale: Jesus, come in to every moment and breathe life, peace, and harmony like only you can. I trust you with my mind and welcome you in as the Lord of it.
2 Corinthians 5:18-21 All this is from God, who through Christ reconciled us to himself and gave us the ministry of reconciliation; that is, in Christ God was reconciling the world to himself, not counting their trespasses against them, and entrusting to us the message of reconciliation. Therefore, we are ambassadors for Christ, God making his appeal through us. We implore you on behalf of Christ, be reconciled to God. For our sake he made him to be sin who knew no sin, so that in him we might become the righteousness of God.
Inhale: I recognize that I’ve been harboring compassion from others.
Exhale: Jesus, remind me that you showed compassion on ME!
Inhale: I am weary from different relationships.
Exhale: Jesus, thank you that you sympathize with me and show me how to forgive.
Inhale: I’m proud and bitter when it comes to forgiving and reconciling various relationships.
Exhale: Jesus, make me feel the weight of the humility and grace you displayed, and transform my heart and mind to show more compassion.
Isaiah 26:3-4 You keep him in perfect peace whose mind is stayed on you, because he trusts in you. Trust in the Lord forever, for the Lord God is an everlasting rock.
Inhale: I admit I’ve put my trust in my own ability to strengthen my “home”
Exhale: Jesus, remind me that you build better.
Inhale: My mind has been shaky. I’ve felt insecure.
Exhale: Jesus, thank you for being a steady foundation that I can put full trust in.
Inhale: My mind wanders.
Exhale: Jesus, help me dwell on you. Give me perfect peace as I trust you to build my home.
Acts 3:19-21 Repent therefore, and turn again, that your sins may be blotted out, that times of refreshing may come from the presence of the Lord, and that he may send the Christ appointed for you, Jesus, whom heaven must receive until the time for restoring all the things about which God spoke by the mouth of his holy prophets long ago.
Inhale: I admit I need restoration.
Exhale: Jesus, come in and tear down the walls I’ve built up to distance myself from you.
Inhale: My heart and mind are heavy.
Exhale: Jesus, remind me that you have paid the price to repair all the spaces in me that are tired.
Inhale: I’m feeling dry and empty.
Exhale: Jesus, fill me with your presence. Holy Spirit, fill me with wisdom.
John 6:35 “Jesus said to them, “I am the bread of life; whoever comes to me shall not hunger, and whoever believes in me shall never thirst.”
Inhale: God, I confess I often try to rely on the physical things to sustain me
Exhale: Jesus, you are all I need
Inhale: I’ve been hungry for more of you
Exhale: Jesus, fill me with your presence
Isaiah 32:17-18
And the effect of righteousness will be peace, and the result of righteousness; quietness and trust forever. My people will abide in a peaceful habitation, in secure dwellings, and in quiet resting places.”
Inhale: God, I am restless and tired.
Exhale: Jesus, help me find true rest in You.
Inhale: My mind feels chaotic.
Exhale: Jesus, thank you for securing my peace, forever. Fill me with it.
Inhale: My body is finite and physical rest lasts for a moment.
Exhale: Thank you Jesus that you have given me peace, right now, that lasts for eternity.
1 Samuel 16:7 “But the Lord said to Samuel, “Do not look on his appearance or on the height of his stature, because I have rejected him. For the Lord sees not as man sees: man looks on the outward appearance, but the Lord looks on the heart.”
Inhale: I confess I’ve been caught up in the exterior
Exhale: God, create a greater sense of wonder within me to go deeper.
Inhale: I realize I’ve paid more attention to how I appear to others
Exhale: God, help me find confidence knowing you see my heart.
Inhale: God, I have been believing lies of what the world says about you.
Exhale: Help me see how you see, and find home in your heart for me.
Psalm 84:10-11 “for a day in your courts is better than a thousand elsewhere. I would rather be a doorkeeper in the house of my God than dwell in the tents of wickedness”
John 10:9-10 says “I am the door. If anyone enters by me, he will be saved and will go in and out and find pasture. The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy. I came that they may have life and have it abundantly.” This is what it means to put on Christ. By. Being the doorkeeper, we are relying on THE DOOR to give us abundant purpose, impact, security, and a sense of home.
Inhale: God, I admit I’ve wanted to be anywhere else but in your House.
Exhale: Jesus, thank you for welcoming me in and reminding me you’re better
Inhale: God, forgive me for wanting to be elevated by the world
Exhale: Jesus, thank you for redeeming the “lowly” spaces
Inhale: I’m tired of running away.
Exhale: Jesus, thank you for welcoming me. You are better.
Day One of our 12 Days of Home Meditations
Hebrews 3:4 “For every house is built by someone, but the builder of all things is God.”
Inhale: I’m tired of doing it on my own.
Exhale: God, let me let you build my life. Thank you that you are the builder of all things. Help me find home in You.