daily hope
Growing in Small Ways
10 minutes · Audio access options are available in the app
Related Scripture: Matthew 13:31-32 (recording quotes MSG). 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.
0:00In today's fast-paced world, we're beginning to lose the idea of growth.
0:08Most things don't happen overnight.
0:12Whether it's repairing a broken relationship or finding purpose in your life, don't be discouraged if you aren't seeing results.
0:24As long as you're doing what needs to be done, you will grow and change.
0:34As you meditate today, rest in the knowledge that you are growing.
0:49Let's begin by allowing the body to become heavy.
0:58And as you begin to relax, allow your eyes to close.
1:08Now take a moment to consider this verse: God's kingdom is like an acorn that a farmer plants.
1:21It is quite small as seeds go, but in the course of years, it grows into a huge oak tree.
1:36And again, God's kingdom is like an acorn that a farmer plants.
1:44It is quite small as seeds go, but in the course of years, it grows into a huge oak tree.
2:05Now, let's take some nice deep breaths, in through the nose and out through the mouth.
2:24Just noticing and observing the breath, watching the rise and the fall of the chest.
2:44Listen to the gentle sound of your breathing.
2:56Begin to notice any feelings you may have brought with you today.
3:10Thoughts are a natural part of meditation.
3:18Just leave those feelings right where they are and then gently come back to the feeling of the breath.
3:38Long, deep inhale, then a slow controlled exhale.
3:54Allow the breath to calm the mind and relax the body.
4:12And now, allow your awareness to fall and move inward, finding that place where you feel loved.
4:32Feel that natural peace in God's presence.
4:44Remember, when you come near to God, He will come near to you.
5:13Notice how good it feels just to breathe.
5:29Allow your inhales to fill the body up, and then totally relax the body on the exhale.
5:59Notice how your breath changes the way your body feels.
6:17And on your next inhale, begin to count the breath.
6:25One on the inhale and two on the exhale.
6:33Three on the next inhale and four on the next exhale, counting up to 10, and then starting over again.
7:07If you lose track of the breath, it's okay, just start over again counting from one.
7:31There is nowhere to go, nowhere to be.
7:38We are just here, counting the breath.
7:53On the next exhale, allow the breath to relax and become natural.
8:14And now for a moment or two, let your mind relax.
8:34Take this verse with you, "God's kingdom is like an acorn that a farmer plants.
8:44It is quite small as seeds go, but in the course of years, it grows into a huge oak tree." When it feels easy, bring your attention back to the
9:10feeling of the breath.
9:13Take a few more deep breaths and slowly allow your eyes to open.
9:22Notice how the breath changes the way you feel.
9:27I hope you feel a little more relaxed.
9:31We'll see you again tomorrow.
9:34Take care of yourself.