daily hope
A State of Mind
9 minutes · Audio access options are available in the app
Related Scripture: Philippians 4:6-7 (recording quotes Paraphrase). 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.
0:00Sometimes meditation can feel like an activity that we need to fit into our schedule.
0:07In some ways, it's very true.
0:09But it's also important to remember that while it may start as an activity, we should think about it more as a state of mind, a mindset of calm presence
0:21and perpetual prayer.
0:25Let's start by taking a few nice, deep breaths.
0:34As your breath begins to relax your body, allow your eyes to close, like the sun sets.
0:47Take a moment to consider this verse: "To pray is to let go and let God take over." And again, "To pray is to let go and let God take
1:20over." Now, bring your awareness to the space around the body, not really examining it, just noticing the space with an easy curiosity.
2:01Notice any sensations on the skin.
2:09Feel the clothes on the skin.
2:19Feel the temperature of the room.
2:27Listen to the sounds in the room, just a nice, easy focus on the sounds in the room.
2:57Listen to the gentle sound of your breathing.
3:06Notice the rise and the fall of the chest.
3:23Maybe the breath is shallow, or maybe it's deep.
3:29Both are okay.
3:33Just follow the breath as it moves through your body.
3:49Let the rhythm of your breath relax your mind.
4:07This is a safe place.
4:12God is watching over you.
4:29Now, bring your attention to any emotions you're carrying with you, not engaging with the emotions, just noticing them with an easy curiosity.
5:15Now, take a few deep breaths and allow the body to relax a little more with each exhale.
5:42With each passing thought, allow your awareness to rest deeper into God's love.
6:02Now, begin to deepen the breath.
6:20Inhale slowly and lengthen the breath, and then exhale, letting go of the breath.
6:40And then right back into the next inhale.
6:48Slow it down and make it deep.
7:01And then exhale.
7:04Let the body relax.
7:19Now, allow your breath to settle and let your mind settle with it.
7:37Give yourself space just to be who you are, a child of God.
7:59Take this verse with you, "To pray is to let go and let God take over." When it feels easy, bring your attention back to the feeling of the breath.
8:31Take a few more deep breaths and slowly allow your eyes to open.
8:39Notice how the breath changes the way you feel.
8:44I hope you feel a little more relaxed.
8:48We'll see you again tomorrow.
8:51Take care of yourself.