daily hope
Real Over Imagined
9 minutes · Audio access options are available in the app
Related Scripture: Matthew 11:28 (recording quotes GNT). 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.
0:00Expectations can set us up for disappointment.
0:05Holding onto what we want frequently prevents us from accepting what is available.
0:16Unconsciously, we choose imaginary over real.
0:26Today, as you meditate, allow yourself to let go and accept what is meant for you.
0:39Let's begin by loosening the shoulders and the chest.
0:47And when you feel ready, just allow the eyes to slowly close.
0:58Take a moment to consider this verse, "Come to me, all of you who are tired from carrying heavy loads, and I will give you rest." And again, "Come to
1:24me, all of you who are tired from carrying heavy loads, and I will give you rest." Let's begin to take note of how the body is feeling, not really
1:57thinking too much about it, just letting go of those feelings of tightness and tension.
2:15When it feels comfortable, take a few deep breaths.
2:32In through the nose and out through the mouth.
2:46Deep breath in, expanding the body and filling the chest up.
2:55And exhale, feeling the chest fall and let go.
3:10Take another big, deep breath in, and control the exhale, letting it take twice as long as the inhale.
3:27With each breath, allow the tension to melt away from the body.
3:46Now, allow your breath to take up a natural rhythm.
3:56Let the gentle sound of your breathing relax your mind.
4:14There is no way to do this wrong, just an easy, effortless awareness.
4:29Letting go.
4:48When it feels comfortable, take a few nice, deep breaths in.
5:07Really making a point to expand the body and expand the chest.
5:25Notice how the breath makes you feel.
5:43Now, let the breath begin to settle.
5:52As your breath begins to settle, allow the body to become heavy.
6:08Notice any sensations in the body.
6:13See if you're holding onto any tension.
6:22Maybe the body is tight, or maybe it's not.
6:28Either is okay.
6:39You're just scanning the body, looking for any areas of tightness, and letting them release.
7:02And if the mind drifts away in thought, slowly bring it back to the feelings in the body and the breath.
7:19Your body knows how to relax.
7:36You don't have to think about it for it to happen.
7:40You are simply uncovering the calm that was always present.
7:58Let your awareness rest in the arms of God.
8:16Take this verse with you.
8:19"Come to me, all of you who are tired from carrying heavy loads, and I will give you rest." Slowly begin to bring your awareness back to the body.
8:49Maybe even move your fingers and toes a little bit.
8:54When it feels natural, allow your eyes to slowly open.
9:01Take another big, deep breath in, and let it out with a sigh.
9:08Notice how you feel.
9:11I hope you feel a little more relaxed.
9:14We'll see you again tomorrow, with hope, mindfulness, and prayer.