daily hope
Learning to Listen
9 minutes · Audio access options are available in the app
Related Scripture: Romans 10:17a (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.
0:00Good relationships are built on two-way communication, with both parties sharing and listening.
0:08You can think about listening as being open and present.
0:13And so many times, when we feel distant from God, it's because we're occupied with distracting thoughts and feelings.
0:23It's usually because we aren't giving our awareness time to slow down and really let God speak to our heart.
0:33As we begin today's meditation, let yourself really slow down and allow God into your heart.
0:44Okay.
0:45Let's begin by getting comfortable, taking a few nice big, deep breaths.
0:58And when you're ready, allow your eyes to slowly close.
1:08Now, take a moment to consider this verse: Before you trust, you have to listen.
1:26And again, before you trust, you have to listen.
1:48Now, bring your attention to the way it feels when you breathe.
2:05Feel the stomach and the chest rise with each inhale, and feel the body relax with each exhale.
2:35In through the nose.
2:38Feel the body expand, and then slowly exhale.
3:01Let the breath be natural.
3:05Let the breath naturally relax the body.
3:23Allow the face and the neck to soften.
3:39Allow the forehead to relax and the shoulders to fall away from the ears.
3:57Relax the body and allow the chair to hold the body up.
4:14Just relaxing and letting the body unwind.
4:30Simply let go.
4:48Now, take a moment to be grateful for this opportunity to relax.
5:08Notice how good it feels just to be here in this moment.
5:24When it feels natural, begin to deepen the breath.
5:38Let go of your worries and focus your attention on the breath.
5:52Nothing else matters right now.
5:58You are here.
6:01There's nothing to do but relax.
6:15Allow your body to honor the natural calm given by God's presence.
6:32Just listening to the breath, noticing the rise and the fall of the chest.
6:47Deep breath in, expanding the body, and then exhale, letting your awareness rest.
7:12Take another deep breath as you feel your lungs expand.
7:21And exhale, following the air back out through the mouth.
7:36The thoughts may take you away, and that's okay.
7:55With each breath, effortlessly rest into the arms of God.
8:18Take this verse with you: Before you trust, you have to listen.
8:38Slowly bring your awareness back to the body, and when you feel ready, allow your eyes to open.
8:51Take a moment to notice how your body feels.
8:58I hope you feel a little better.
9:02We'll see you again tomorrow, with hope, mindfulness, and prayer.
9:08Remember, be easy with yourself.