The #1 Easiest Spiritual Discipline to Practice

This practice of grace is uncomplicated. It’s as easy as breathing. We all (this side of heaven) need to breathe so you can be encouraged that this simple spiritual discipline called, The Breath Prayer can bring life in so many ways.

God breathed his breath of life into our being. He brought life and purpose to us in this intentional act of love. His breath and Spirit connect us to him and one another. Breathing is required to exist, physically and spiritually.

Why not use breath as a practice of being more present to ourselves and God? Breathing can literally be done anywhere and at any time (except for maybe underwater). The point is you don’t have to make space or make time to do this. You can do it now. Come on……give it a try. BREATHE

Practice of Grace #  8  Breath Prayer

The breath prayer is an example of “praying without ceasing” found in 1 Thessalonians 5:17. We take a short excerpt of Scripture, breathing in with the first part of the text and breathing out with the next, repeating this pattern for extended periods of time. You can take your favorite, simple Scripture and do the breath prayer with it.

You can’t always stop into a church or find somewhere to kneel or light a candle or even close your eyes and bow your head. But you can always pray. Especially if you cultivate the habit of “breath prayers.” Guidepost has an article on all kinds of examples of breath prayers. Head on over and read their suggestions.

The practice can be done anywhere and at any time. It’s possible to make a date with God and your breath. Set a timer for 2, 5 or 10 minutes and pray. Here are a few practical steps to take:

1.    Choose a phrase. It can be a verse from the Bible or a line of praise and petition (one common formula is a name for God followed by your desire, such as “Spirit, peace”). You could also use the inward breath to name what you would like to receive and the outward breath to state what you would like to release. (Guideposts offers some simple suggestions)

2.    Breathe in and out, with the first part of your prayer coming to mind on the inward breath and the latter half connecting with the outward breath.

3.    Continue your prayer for a set period of time or until you feel you have reached a sense of inner stillness as you dwell in the presence of God.

God is incredible because he designed us to be continually reminded of him, his goodness and provision to us through his breath. He is only a breath away.