daily hope
Joy in the Present
9 minutes · Audio access options are available in the app
Related Scripture: Romans 8:28a (recording quotes CEV). 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.
0:00Take a moment to notice what makes you happy.
0:06Notice that often what makes you happy is in the future, or that it's something that, if only you had that, then you'd be happy.
0:20But the funny thing is, joy can only be experienced in the present.
0:27As long as happiness is somewhere else, it will never be where you are.
0:35Today, right now, allow yourself to find joy in this practice and in your life as it is, because it won't be found anywhere else.
0:53Let's begin by loosening the shoulders and the chest.
1:01And when you feel ready, just allow the eyes to slowly close.
1:12Take a moment to consider this verse: We know that God is always at work for the good of everyone who loves Him.
1:32Again, we know that God is always at work for the good of everyone who loves Him.
1:55Now begin to soften the body, and pay attention to the breath.
2:09Now take a deep breath until the air reaches the top of the chest, and then slowly exhale.
2:33And again, let your inhale be slow and expansive, and then exhale, following the breath back out.
3:01Allow your breath to settle and become natural.
3:17Bring your attention to any sounds in the room.
3:29Maybe the room is quiet, or maybe it's not.
3:35Both are okay.
3:43Just notice the sounds and accept them as they are.
3:59You're right where you need to be.
4:13In this moment, everything is okay.
4:18God loves you.
4:31This is a place of rest and safety.
4:44Simply let go.
4:57Gradually, and with ease, bring your awareness to rest on your breath.
5:14Feel the body rise with each inhale, and then allow your awareness to rest in a little more with each exhale.
5:45Notice how with each breath, the body feels a little calmer.
6:03Begin to notice the space around the body.
6:13Feel the contact of the body on the chair, and your feet on the floor.
6:33When you feel comfortable, begin to scan the entire body to build up a picture of what the body feels like.
6:47Piece by piece, release any areas of tension.
6:57Let go of your stress.
7:00Let go of your anxiety.
7:06You are exactly where you're meant to be.
7:19Allow that natural rhythm of the breath to relax you.
7:36Let your breath guide you to a place of safety in the presence of God.
8:06You are accepted here.
8:10You are loved.
8:25Take this verse with you: "We know that God is always at work for the good of everyone who loves him." Slowly begin to bring your awareness back to the
8:52body, maybe even move your fingers and toes a little bit.
9:00When it feels natural, allow your eyes to slowly open.
9:07Take another big, deep breath in, and let it out with a sigh.
9:14Notice how you feel.
9:16I hope you feel a little more relaxed.
9:19We'll see you again tomorrow, with hope, mindfulness, and prayer.