Take a deep breath. Feel the air fill your lungs. Now exhale slowly. Feels good, doesn’t it? First, there’s the refreshment from a fresh supply of oxygen that our bodies need. Then, as we release the air and we expel the carbon-dioxide that our body does not need, we feel a bit more relaxed. In this busy season, simply taking a breath like that can make all the difference.
Most of you probably spent time with family for Thanksgiving. While these are usually good times, they can also be stressful and tiring, as our schedules fill up and we spend more time on the road than usual. In the midst of it all, take a deep breath. Have a moment of refreshment. Just breathe.
This morning, as we gather together for worship, take a deep breath. Chances are, the events of the past week and the business of the season have built up, and you will feel immediate relief. You will feel a bit more at ease.
Now, take a different type of breath … a spiritual breath. Like a physical breath fills our lungs with oxygen, which in turn, refreshes our blood, a spiritual breath can refresh our relationship with God. Soak in the fact that we are united by the shed blood of Christ. In the middle of a song, pause and listen to the rest of the congregation sing praises to God. Let the worship of God almighty refresh your heart and mind. Then, as we study God’s word, soak that in as well.
Finally exhale. As a physical breath frees us of toxins, like carbon-dioxide, a spiritual breath can free us of the clutter in our lives that distracts us from God. Refreshing, isn’t it? Relish the refreshment of God’s presence. Remember, “The Spirit of God has made me, And the breath of the Almighty gives me life.” (Job 33:4). Now, refreshed, carry out Psalm 150:6, “Let everything that has breath praise the LORD. Praise the LORD!”
In His grip,
Pastor Decker
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