daily hope
Approved as You Are
9 minutes · Audio access options are available in the app
Related Scripture: Psalm 139:23 (recording quotes NIV). 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.
0:00We've all experienced moments in life where we're searching for some kind of approval.
0:07Know that God approves of you.
0:10He designed you to be who you are.
0:14Everything about you that makes you who you are was specifically put there by God.
0:21You are loved.
0:24God accepts you exactly as you are.
0:29Allow that message to rest with you as you meditate today.
0:35Let's start by taking a few nice, deep breaths.
0:45As your breath begins to relax your body, allow your eyes to close, like the sun sets.
0:58Take a moment to consider this verse: "Search me, O God, and know my heart.
1:08Test me and know my anxious thoughts." And again: "Search me, O God, and know my heart.
1:27Test me and know my anxious thoughts." With 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.
2:31Feel the air on your skin.
2:40Listen to the sounds in the room.
2:46Maybe it's quiet in the room, maybe it's not.
2:52Both are okay.
3:04You're just listening, and welcoming the sounds as part of the exercise.
3:17Not wishing to change the sounds.
3:21Just 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.
4:26Relax, and let your body honor the natural calm that only comes from the presence of a loving God.
4:49Now, gently bring your awareness to the breath.
4:58Allow your breath to deepen and fill the lungs.
5:14Big, deep breath in, and then taking twice as long on the exhale.
5:30Let the inhale come easily and effortlessly.
5:39And then exhale, controlling the breath.
5:52Allow yourself to be here in this moment.
6:01This is all that matters right now.
6:11Whatever you need to let go of, let it go.
6:19Release it to God.
6:32Today is a new day, with new opportunities.
6:48Allow your breath to renew your spirit and connect you to your creator, who loves you.
7:08Deep breath, in through the nose and out through the mouth.
7:26Remember, this is a place of love.
7:33Let this practice be whatever you need it to be.
7:38God's calming presence is always accessible to you.
7:56Let your awareness rest in the loving presence of God.
8:15Take this verse with you.
8:19"Search me, O God, and know my heart.
8:24Test me and know my anxious thoughts." Allow your awareness to slowly come back to your body, and when it feels natural, begin to open your eyes.
8:54Sit back in your chair.
8:57Maybe you want to stretch a little bit.
9:00Do whatever feels good.
9:03Take a moment to notice how you feel.
9:09I hope you feel a little more relaxed.
9:12We'll see you again tomorrow for another day of hope.