daily hope
Friends Who Understand
9 minutes · Audio access options are available in the app
Related Scripture: Psalm 23:4 (recording quotes NLT). The linked Bible reader uses the World English Bible.
Meditation transcript
Transcript of the recording. Scripture translation labels describe the translation quoted in the audio.
0:01When we're going through something painful, one of the best gifts you can receive is a friend who's been through something similar, someone that understands exactly how you're feeling.
0:19As you meditate today, allow yourself to rest with God and be thankful for the friends who make us feel heard and understood.
0:33Let's start by taking a few nice, deep breaths.
0:42As your breath begins to relax your body, allow your eyes to close, like the sun sets.
0:55Take a moment to consider this verse: Even when I walk through the darkest valley, I will not be afraid, for you are close beside me.
1:18And again: Even when I walk through the darkest valley, I will not be afraid, for you are close beside me.
1:46With an easy awareness, bring your attention to the space in the room.
2:00Just noticing the space with an easy curiosity.
2:12Notice your place in the room.
2:21Feel the weight of your body in the chair.
2:32Feel the air on your skin.
2:40Listen to the sounds in the room.
2:47Maybe it's quiet in the room, maybe it's not.
2:52Both are okay.
3:05You're just listening and welcoming the sounds as part of the exercise, not wishing to change the sounds, just accepting the sounds as they are.
3:36When it feels natural, slowly bring your awareness to the breath.
3:51Allow your breath to be a reminder to stay in this present moment.
4:06If your mind begins to wander, you can always come back to the feeling of the breath.
4:27Relax and let your body honor the natural calm that only comes from the presence of a loving God.
4:50Now, gently bring your awareness to the breath.
4:58Allow your breath to deepen and fill the lungs.
5:15Big, deep breath in, and then taking twice as long on the exhale.
5:31Let the inhale come easily and effortlessly, and then exhale, controlling the breath.
5:52Allow yourself to be here in this moment.
6:02This is all that matters right now.
6:12Whatever you need to let go of, let it go.
6:19Release it to God.
6:33Today is a new day with new opportunities.
6:49Allow your breath to renew your spirit and connect you to your Creator, who loves you.
7:09Deep breath, in through the nose and out through the mouth.
7:27Remember, this is a place of love.
7:33Let this practice be whatever you need it to be.
7:39God's calming presence is always accessible to you.
7:56Let your awareness rest in the loving presence of God.
8:16Take this verse with you: Even when I walk through the darkest valley, I will not be afraid, for you are close beside me.
8:44Allow your awareness to slowly come back to your body, and when it feels natural, begin to open your eyes.
8:58Sit back in your chair.
9:01Maybe you want to stretch a little bit.
9:04Do whatever feels good.
9:07Take a moment to notice how you feel.
9:13I hope you feel a little more relaxed.
9:16We'll see you again tomorrow for another day of hope.