By Bill Gaultiere © 2011
Ask God to lead you to one or two of these Breath Prayers (very short meditations based on a Bible verse) inspired by the characters in the Christmas story. Practice “abiding” (John 15:7, ESV) in the prayer by slowly repeating the words. You might experiment with breathing the words in and out as indicated. When your mind wanders just gently bring it back to the prayer.
The goal of a Breath Prayer is for the Word of God to descend from your mind into your heart, forming your will to be more aligned with the gospel of Christ.
An Angel Announces Christ’s Coming to Zechariah
“Believe the good news… Be silent” (~Luke 1:19-20).
Try it this way: Breathe in to trust in God’s good news… Breathe out deceptions.
Mary Receives the Miracle Birth of Jesus
“Let it be to me… According to your Word” (Luke 1:38, NKJV).
Try it this way: Breathe in to appreciate the life of Christ flowing into you… Breathe out to submit to God’s Word.
Joseph Protects Mary and Jesus
“God is with me… I will not fear” (~Matthew 1:20, 23).
Try it this way: Breathe in the Holy Spirit… Breathe out fear.
The Innkeeper Offers his Stable (but not his Room) for Jesus’ Birth
“Immanuel, in your name I hope… For your name is good” (~Luke 2:7 and Psalm 5:2).
Try it this way: Breathe in to open your heart to Immanuel… Breathe out your praise to him.
Angels Sing Out the News of Christ’s Birth
“The Prince of Peace has come… Glory to God!” (~Luke 2:10-14).
Try it this way: Breathe in to appreciate Christ’s coming… Breathe out your praise to God.
Shepherds Rejoice to See the Newborn King
“Precious Jesus… You’re above all” (~Luke 2:19).
Try it this way: Breathe in to appreciate Jesus as your precious treasure… Breathe out whatever distracts you from Jesus.
Did any Sheep Follow the Shepherds to see Christ’s Birth?
“The Lord speaks… I skip like a lamb” (~Luke 2:16 and Psalm 28:7,9; 29:3,6,11).
Try it this way: Breathe in to receive the Lord’s “good news of great joy” (Luke 2:10)… Breathe out with a smile of thanks.
The Magi Bring Gifts to the Christ Child
“Christ, my King / I rejoice in you… / I give you my heart” (~Matthew 2:11).
Try it this way: Wait to breathe as you long for Christ / Breathe in to rejoice in him… / Breathe out your prayer to give your best to him.
More Soul Shepherding
“Breath Prayers from the Bible” features prayers of the heart from beloved Bible verses, each with a suggested breathing rhythm to help you use your body to focus your mind and engage your heart in prayer.
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Bill Gaultiere, PhD & Kristi Gaultiere, PsyD ~ SoulShepherding.org
