Christian Meditation Podcast

Bible verse for meditation: Revelations 21:4-6 NIV 4 'He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death' or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of things has passed away." 5 He who was seated on the throne said, "I am making everything new!"Then he said, "Write this down, for these words are trustworthy and true." 6 He said to me: "It is done. I am the Alpha and the Omega, the Beginning and the End. To the thirsty I will give water without cost from the spring of the water of life. ESV 4 He will wipe away every tear from their eyes, and death shall be no more, neither shall there be mourning, nor crying, nor pain anymore, for the former things have passed away." 5 And he who was seated on the throne said, "Behold, I am making all things new." Also he said, "Write this down, for these words are trustworthy and true." 6 And he said to me, "It is done! I am the Alpha and the Omega, the beginning and the end. To the thirsty I will give from the spring of the water of life without payment. What does this scripture mean to you? Has it had a different effect this reading as compared to times past? How does this scripture make you feel? Continue breathing deeply as you ponder this meaning. Meditation on scripture / bible verse meditation: A fact that is common to all of us is loss. Sooner or later each of us will be touched by massive loss and death. Unfortunately many people I talk to are so uncomfortable with dealing with loss that they put off thinking and talking about it until it becomes disruptive in life. Our faith in God is not intended to be a long string of perfecting sprinkled with rare occurrences of loss. Our life is meant to be full of loss. In fact it is impossible to love and not experience loss eventually. The scriptures do not shy away from this idea and even more more important than just telling us we will suffer, God tells us how to overcome the loss of this world. It is through learning how to have hope through Him. He is the source of comforting our suffering. By developing a relationship with him we realize that happiness comes by the ability to acknowledge our pain and to move through it and beyond it. My young family has experienced a recent loss. This week we had to put down my dog. He suffered a massive stroke. He was 15 years old. My wife and I have had this little dog in our lives since before our children were born. We have moved more than a dozen times and he is one of the few constants in our lives. He was always there. My children grew up with him always in the home. I helped walk my children through opening the floodgates of their emotion and they cried harder than I have ever seen them cry. We also talked about how to receive comfort from God. We talked about His plan and heaven. The strange thing is that in the days that have passed since those first two days their sadness has been much more moderated. We continue to talk about him and the loss but the bitter sting has been eased by their willingness to walk through challenging emotion while not intentionally wallowing in it, but letting it surface and be what it is without catastrophizing it and then letting God heal their hearts. In subsequent waves of grief we focused on the gratitude that we have for having so many years with this dear sweet pet. I hope my example is not insensitive. By no means do I compare the value of a human life to that of a dog so please take these words as an allegory or metaphor. Because God is the beginning and the end he is able to make all our loss right. Eventually death will be no more in our eyes as it is already no more in his. He has an eternal solution filled with love. Take a few moments to reflect on this message and how it applies to your own life. Meditation of Prayer: Pray as directed by the Spirit. Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him. Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm: I invite you to sit in silence feeling being patient for your own faults and trials. Meditate and Visualize Positive Change in Your Life: Sue donated on Patreon and selected the scripture. Thanks Sue! Final Question: what is the light of God. Final thought - What causes you the most tears, and how can God help heal that in your life? In this podcast I talked only of one kind of loss, which is death. In truth we suffer from many types of loss including divorce, betrayal of friendship, job loss, even empty nesting. God's power is not only reserved for death but every tear we ever let loose. Although overcoming such deep sadness is not simple I think great benefit can be gained by plainly acknowledging the pain, then realizing that it is temporary, then trusting in God to help. After this when we are struck with further evidences of it we can repeat the cycle and replace our sadness with gratitude for the good times we have had. God will dry every tear and all loss will be understood and I truly believe that we

Bible verse for meditation: KJV 18 He that believeth on him is not condemned: but he that believeth not is condemned already, because he hath not believed in the name of the only begotten Son of God. 19 And this is the condemnation, that light is come into the world, and men loved darkness rather than light, because their deeds were evil. 20 For every one that doeth evil hateth the light, neither cometh to the light, lest his deeds should be reproved. 21 But he that doeth truth cometh to the light, that his deeds may be made manifest, that they are wrought in God. NABRE 18 Whoever believes in him will not be condemned, but whoever does not believe has already been condemned, because he has not believed in the name of the only Son of God. 19 And this is the verdict, that the light came into the world, but people preferred darkness to light, because their works were evil. 20 For everyone who does wicked things hates the light and does not come toward the light, so that his works might not be exposed. 21 But whoever lives the truth comes to the light, so that his works may be clearly seen as done in God. What does this scripture mean to you? Has it had a different effect this reading as compared to times past? How does this scripture make you feel? Continue breathing deeply as you ponder this meaning. Meditation on scripture / bible verse meditation: In the last few days I was watching a science program that attempted to explain why moths fly toward light. One hypothesis for how this happens is that bugs use light as a reference to fly straight. Bugs are used to using a consistent light source such as the moon, to fly. So in reality they attempt to fly past the light but since it is so short a distance compared to the moon, it causes them to fly in a spiral toward the light. Another hypothesis is that the moths fly toward the light. The simple fact is that nobody knows exactly why bugs fly toward the light. This is surprising because humans have observed this since humans first controlled fire and we still don't have an answer. The human struggle to draw near to the light are probably just as old as this. This scripture teaches us the reason for this. Our drawing close to the light of Jesus is related to our love of the Light, or Loving God. Those who hate God's light will do evil. John chapter 1 states that the Truth, that is Jesus, gives light to everyone. But not everyone responds to that. This scripture states why. Those who hate the light are not those than benefit from it. God has created in us the ability to love the light and to follow it. This is why he taught that the first and greatest commandment is to love God with all our hearts mind might and strength, including in our mind and with our actions. Evaluate your life. Do you love the light? Are you living in such a way that shows that you love the light? Meditation of Prayer: Pray as directed by the Spirit. Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him. Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm: I invite you to sit in silence feeling being patient for your own faults and trials. Meditate and Visualize Positive Change in Your Life: Sue donated on Patreon and selected the scripture. Thanks Sue! Final Question: what is the light of God. Final thought - We can find many reasons to follow God. The lowest level of spiritual maturity is to do God's will in an attempt to avoid going to hell. This is how ancient Israel operated. The next level up is because we want some reward, perhaps because we want a gift, like an eternal heaven, then we follow from trust. The highest level of Spiritual maturity is that we do what God wants because of a deep love for him and a desire to be like him. May our lives be guided by this desire. May you and I have success in loving him with all that we are.

Bible verse for meditation: KJV 28 But what think ye? A certain man had two sons; and he came to the first, and said, Son, go work to day in my vineyard. 29 He answered and said, I will not: but afterward he repented, and went. 30 And he came to the second, and said likewise. And he answered and said, I go, sir: and went not. 31 Whether of them twain did the will of his father? They say unto him, The first. Jesus saith unto them, Verily I say unto you, That the publicans and the harlots go into the kingdom of God before you. NIV 28 "What do you think? There was a man who had two sons. He went to the first and said, 'Son, go and work today in the vineyard.' 29 "'I will not,' he answered, but later he changed his mind and went. 30 "Then the father went to the other son and said the same thing. He answered, 'I will, sir,' but he did not go. 31 "Which of the two did what his father wanted?" "The first," they answered. Jesus said to them, "Truly I tell you, the tax collectors and the prostitutes are entering the kingdom of God ahead of you. What does this scripture mean to you? Has it had a different effect this reading as compared to times past? How does this scripture make you feel? Continue breathing deeply as you ponder this meaning. Meditation on scripture / bible verse meditation: This scripture speaks to us. Often times we deny ourselves of the full blessings of hearing God's word. Here he teaches that we can return to His work regardless of how long we have stopped listening. No matter how much we rebel and struggle. God is not asking us for perfection and he certainly is not reserving heaven only for those who follow immediately without struggle. He wants us, rebellious nature and all. He will take our faith and create a new being in us as we remain dedicated to turning back to him. He will use us to do His work. For over a year I have been doing these meditations focusing on bringing peace through God's word. I want to be careful that I am not suggesting that we should expect a life of unending tranquility. We have no shortage of opportunity for suffering and stress in daily life. For this reason taking time to slow down and focus on God's will can be such a blessing, however, we cannot hope to have a life devoid of energy and work. It is moments of tranquility that invigorate us again to take up the yoke of Jesus and draw nearer to Him. One way this work may show up is in the form of harnessing our faith to bring about tangible changes in our lives. As we work in faith on our shortcomings we can be filled with energy of spirit to experience lasting changes. Wherever you are in your life at this moment. May we consider how we are like the first son and determine to return to work with God in one of the most challenging endeavors we can experience, that of improving upon our fallen nature. Meditation of Prayer: Pray as directed by the Spirit. Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him. Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm: I invite you to sit in silence feeling being patient for your own faults and trials. Meditate and Visualize Positive Change in Your Life: Sue donated on Patreon and selected the scripture. Thanks Sue! Final Question: What work can you return to? Final thought - My hope and prayer is that, just as in this scripture, that we can continually exert our faith in God. So in moments like this, when we experience the slowness and peace of God we can be recharged to continue on in life invigorated by loving and Godly work. When we go to work with Him, we can do so with increased focus with more faith, hope, and charity. Let our times of tranquility be mingled with times of concerted effort.

067 Do Not Let Me to Be Put to Shame - A Guided Christian Meditation on Psalms 25:1-5 I work as a hospice chaplain and an ICU chaplain, my purpose in making this podcast is to help you find more peace in your life and to be more open to be changed by the Spirit of God. by using a centuries old form of Christian Meditation called Lectio Divina. It consists of: Outline: Relaxation, Reading, Meditation, Prayer, Contemplation, Visualization Get into a place where you can sit comfortably and uninterrupted for about 20 minutes.You should not be driving or anything tensing or unrelaxing. If you feel comfortable to do so, I invite you to close your eyes. Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation: Breathe and direct your thoughts to contacting God. Bible verse for meditation: Matthew 6:19-21 NIV 1 In you, Lord my God, I put my trust. 2 I trust in you; do not let me be put to shame, nor let my enemies triumph over me. 3 No one who hopes in you will ever be put to shame, but shame will come on those who are treacherous without cause. 4 Show me your ways, Lord, teach me your paths. 5 Guide me in your truth and teach me, for you are God my Savior, and my hope is in you all day long. KJV 1 Unto thee, O Lord, do I lift up my soul. 2 O my God, I trust in thee: let me not be ashamed, let not mine enemies triumph over me. 3 Yea, let none that wait on thee be ashamed: let them be ashamed which transgress without cause. 4 Shew me thy ways, O Lord; teach me thy paths. 5 Lead me in thy truth, and teach me: for thou art the God of my salvation; on thee do I wait all the day. What does this scripture mean to you? Has it had a different effect this reading as compared to times past? How does this scripture make you feel? Continue breathing deeply as you ponder this meaning. Meditation on scripture / bible verse meditation: This scripture makes an interesting connection between shame and trust. This scripture mentions shame 3 different times. Shame can mean different things but it often can hound us for things. When we violate our conscience we feel the twinges of guilt. Many times I have heard people talk about guilt as wrong. The truth is that if we do something horrible and harmful to others we may feel our conscience disturbed. It is right for us to be directed to correct things based on our conscience. This can help us be good to each other and treat each other like neighbors. We should not seek to avoid any response to our conscience but we should seek to learn from it as much as we can. We can search our hearts honestly knowing that God wants us to improve and will help us become new creatures in him. The flip side of this is when we are overcome and constantly barraged by feelings of shame. When we feel constantly burdened by overwhelming feelings of shame this can be disruptive to personal growth. I have a couple different friends who have OCD and they feel shame for things that might happen. For example they worry that they could have done something harmful to someone else (but didn't). These feelings are not the result of actual violations of their virtue. The challenge can be to determine the difference. The guiding principle can be, growing in the Lord. Our goal is not to make ourselves feel good or bad but to conform ourselves to the image of Christ in us. When we feel the light of Christ speak in our hearts we can listen and make course corrections that are needed, repent and then trust that God will help us make it right in so far as we can. We can overcome shame by focusing on trusting in God who will save those who believe him and follow his path. Meditation of Prayer: Pray as directed by the Spirit. Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him. Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm: I invite you to sit in silence feeling being patient for your own faults and trials. Meditate and Visualize Positive Change in Your Life: Sue donated on Patreon and selected the scripture. Thanks Sue! Final Question: What is some specific thing that you want to place more focus on in your life? Final thought - I have heard people make a difference between shame and guilt. Perhaps this is a false splitting of words but there are two separate concepts. One is a feeling that can lead us to change and improve. Another feeling degrades us and discourages us from growing. We should allow guilt to work its benevolent course without resistance and with full trust in God, our savior while at the same time not being overburdened by Shame. As we trust more fully in God we can overcome shame. FIND ME ON: iTunes Facebook ChristianMeditationPodcast.com Youtube Twitter Pintrist

The scripture is a continuation of the scripture from Episode 37 Bible verse for meditation: Matthew 6:19-21 NIV 19 "Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moths and vermin destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. 20 But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moths and vermin do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal. 21 For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also. ESV 19 "Do not lay up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy and where thieves break in and steal, 20 but lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust destroys and where thieves do not break in and steal. 21 For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also. What does this scripture mean to you?Has it had a different effect this reading as compared to times past?How does this scripture make you feel? Continue breathing deeply as you ponder this meaning. Meditation on scripture / bible verse meditation: What is treasure? What is important to you right now?For faithful followers of Christ, heaven is the greatest treasure that we seek. It can be very instructive as we ponder what we spend our time doing. Where are our hearts. The scriptures teach that the love of money is the root of all evil. When we place our hearts anywhere but on the Love of God we waste our focus and our lives. As we learn to let go of ambition and the things of this world, we prepare our hearts to be open to God and the things of heaven. By having this kind of Godly focus we also end up serving and loving each other while forming meaningful bonds. This week I am going to be at a funeral of a man who was on hospice as well as a US Navy veteran. In hearing of his love for family I was moved. He and his wife had a tradition of giving each other the same candies each year for their birthdays ang going out to diner. As he was not able to leave the house he had others buy the candies for him and people from our hospice company helped them share a dinner date. This man had spent a life of dedication to others. This is a fulfilment of Jesus' second great commandment. We can't wait until the end of our life to start placing our focus on what is important. We must begin now. We can exert and develop our faith in God. We can learn to trust him and then, with his help, do everything in our power to live his Gospel. With this focus he can mold us in his image. Meditation of Prayer: Pray as directed by the Spirit.Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him. Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:I invite you to sit in silence feeling being patient for your own faults and trials. Meditate and Visualize Positive Change in Your Life:Implement the kind of change you want to see in your life. Length, Intensity, Modality, Freshness, Conclusion:2 People who have dedicated artistic talent to help move the podcast along. Schedule Christianmeditationpodcast.com/contact Patreon.com/Christianmeditationpodcast Final Question: What is some specific thing that you want to place more focus on in your life? Final thought -Faith in God is not a single act but a principle of power. It is lived in a life of trust in Him and concerted focus. As we have faith in God, we can then put Him first in our lives. In the coming days, keep this thought in your mind. Allow it to guide you. Accept His guidance of your focus. God can heal us of sin and all suffering and guide our path to lay up in store treasure in heaven. Where are hearts are, there is our treasure. May our treasure always be God and His glory.

Bible verse for meditation:KJV 30 And Jesus answering said, A certain man went down from Jerusalem to Jericho, and fell among thieves, which stripped him of his raiment, and wounded him, and departed, leaving him half dead.31 And by chance there came down a certain priest that way: and when he saw him, he passed by on the other side.32 And likewise a Levite, when he was at the place, came and looked on him, and passed by on the other side.33 But a certain Samaritan, as he journeyed, came where he was: and when he saw him, he had compassion on him,34 And went to him, and bound up his wounds, pouring in oil and wine, and set him on his own beast, and brought him to an inn, and took care of him.35 And on the morrow when he departed, he took out two pence, and gave them to the host, and said unto him, Take care of him; and whatsoever thou spendest more, when I come again, I will repay thee.36 Which now of these three, thinkest thou, was neighbour unto him that fell among the thieves?37 And he said, He that shewed mercy on him. Then said Jesus unto him, Go, and do thou likewise. What does this scripture mean to you?Has it had a different effect this reading as compared to times past?How does this scripture make you feel? Continue breathing deeply as you ponder this meaning. Meditation on scripture / bible verse meditation: This scripture is known as the story of the good Sameritain. In the verses that are right before it. There is a lawyer tempting Jesus asking what he has to do to inherit the earth. He states to Jesus the same that he had heart Jesus tell others were the two greatest commandments: "Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy strength, and with all thy mind; and thy neighbour as thyself." Jesus answers saying, this do, and thou shalt live. To justify himself the man continues by asking who his neighbor is. Jesus' response was even more meaningful because of the long-standing relationships between the Samaritans and the Jews that we talked to in episode 63. When I read this scripture I think about how amazing this level of care and love is. It both reassures me of how we can care for each other but I also realize how profoundly I don't live up to what Jesus is really asking. It is hard to truly devote ourselves so fully to every person who could be considered our neighbor. On the flip side, it is amazing to be so well cared for. I imagine that this is what heaven would feel like. Often when we think of Heaven we consider that it will be filled with people who will be willing to serve each other so purely. Jesus taught that the The Kingdom of Heaven is brought to earth by heavenly actions inspired by the Love of God. As we love God and each other we bring. When we place self righteousness, fear, or anything else above Love, we truly are not living the way of the kingdom of heaven. May this story inspire us to recommit to each other that we will serve and love each other as well as to love and serve God. Meditation of Prayer: Pray as directed by the Spirit.Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him. Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:I invite you to sit in silence feeling being patient for your own faults and trials. Meditate and Visualize Positive Change in Your Life:Implement the kind of change you want to see in your life. Length, Intensity, Modality, Freshness, Conclusion:Thanks to Patrons I got a craft cutter to be able to make T-shirts, bookmarks, and sticker etc. for Patrons in the future. Patrons: Alana, Cristina, Drew, Katherine, Kay, Lindsay, M, Michelle, Paula, Rebecca, Ron, Sandy, Thomas, Tommy, Yvette, and Zack. Your donations help pay for hosting and for fun projects that will help spread the message of peace that comes from God's word. Dani - Designing the logo.Alana - Lettering Patreon.com/ChristianmeditationpodcastT-Shirt, stickers, interests you. Final Question: Who is your neighbor? Try to put deep thought into it. Who is your neighbor? Final thought -I hope that God blesses you. I was thinking about the hours I spend on this podcast. My former economics mind got curious and I added up the opportunity cost. I spend several hours each episode for over a year which adds up to nearly 10 thousand dollars. I then divide that by the number of downloads it means that for each listener It costs me less than a dolar to reach you. Compared to the good samaritan story that return on investment is pretty amazing. It warmed my heart to know that I could be a small blessing in your life. Just as the traveling man who has fallen by the road each of us have struggles at times. I pray that the healing balm of God's love and His word will heal your heart. It is the hard times that allow the greatest blessings in service and will yield the greatest improvements in us. May we be thankful to God for them. FIND ME ON:iTunesFacebookChristianMeditationPodcast.comYoutubeTwitterP

Bible verse for meditation: 1 Corinthians 15:9-11 KJV9 For I am the least of the apostles, that am not meet to be called an apostle, because I persecuted the church of God.10 But by the grace of God I am what I am: and his grace which was bestowed upon me was not in vain; but I laboured more abundantly than they all: yet not I, but the grace of God which was with me.11 Therefore whether it were I or they, so we preach, and so ye believed. NABRE9 For I am the least of the apostles, not fit to be called an apostle, because I persecuted the church of God. 10 But by the grace of God I am what I am, and his grace to me has not been ineffective. Indeed, I have toiled harder than all of them; not I, however, but the grace of God [that is] with me. 11 Therefore, whether it be I or they, so we preach and so you believed. What does this scripture mean to you?Has it had a different effect this reading as compared to times past?How does this scripture make you feel? Continue breathing deeply as you ponder this meaning. Meditation on scripture / bible verse meditation: This scripture is made more interested considering that the most prolific human writer for the New Testament was Paul, yet here he called himself the least of the apostles and not even fit to be called apostles. This is not because he doesn't believe in his own call. When Paul contends with other people who claim to be apostles without having been called, he declares his call and defends it. The sentiment he expresses here is something I think we all feel at times. He is expressing his awareness of his own human failings while also recognizing the power of God. As I have mentioned before I am a hospital chaplain. Part of my work involves visiting people in the hospital during the last moments of life. This week I visited a woman who was dying and had no visible consciousness. Her large catholic family was silently gathered around the bed. Their grieving was complicated by the fact that this woman was relatively young but she was dying because of complications from a life of drug abuse. I stood by her bedside gently stroking her arm and consoling the family regarding God's sovereignty and that we can never know the hearts of others regarding their faith. As I looked down on her to pray. I saw her shaved head from where they had attempted life saving surgery that did not work and saw her face shrouded in the veil of death. This common thought returned: that could easily have been me in that bed. I haven't used drugs but none of us are impenetrable from the effects of sin. I could have made other choices in my life. By the grace of God I am what I am. And now I hope that her life blesses you with this insight and by the grace of God she is what she is. Meditation of Prayer: Pray as directed by the Spirit.Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him. Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:I invite you to sit in silence feeling being patient for your own faults and trials. Meditate and Visualize Positive Change in Your Life:Implement the kind of change you want to see in your life. Length, Intensity, Modality, Freshness, Conclusion:2 People who have dedicated artistic talent to help move the podcast along. Schedule Christianmeditationpodcast.com/contact Patreon.com/Christianmeditationpodcast Final Question: What could you do in your life to search for God with all your heart. Final thought -The doors of life swing on small hinges. Not only have choices in your life brought you to where you are, more importantly the choices you make today tomorrow and the next day will greatly influence your tomorrow. As we yield to God through faith He can make far more of our lives than we can. This day resolve to allow God to change your life. It may require large decisions or many small ones but I know that if we follow him and allow him to Guide us we will see him work miracles in our lives. FIND ME ON:iTunesFacebookChristianMeditationPodcast.comYoutubeTwitterPintrist

Jeremiah 29:11-13Jeremiah 29:11-13 NRSV11 For surely I know the plans I have for you, says the Lord, plans for your welfare and not for harm, to give you a future with hope. 12 Then when you call upon me and come and pray to me, I will hear you. 13 When you search for me, you will find me; if you seek me with all your heart, ESV11 For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans for welfare[b] and not for evil, to give you a future and a hope. 12 Then you will call upon me and come and pray to me, and I will hear you. 13 You will seek me and find me, when you seek me with all your heart. What does this scripture mean to you?Has it had a different effect this reading as compared to times past?How does this scripture make you feel? Continue breathing deeply as you ponder this meaning. Meditation on scripture / bible verse meditation: Normally I don't get too heavy into heavy into history in this podcast but I feel that this is really important for a metaphor for our time. During the time of the Old Testament God warned the people to repent or they would be overthrown. The didn't listen and paid the consequences. At that time the people of Israel were divided into the northern and the southern Kingdom. The northern Kingdom retained the name of Israel and the Southern Kingdom retained the name of its principle tribe of Judah. Jeremiah was a prophet to the Southern Kingdom. Both the North and the South Kingdoms had prophets foretelling their demise. For the northern Kingdom this happened around 721 BC. They never regained their status as the people of God. Because their religious practice and culture had been mixed with other nations they were regarded very lowly by the Jews at the time of Jesus. One name used to represent a subset of these people during the time of Jesus was Samaritans who Jesus taught and spoke of. In the time of Jeremiah the Southern Kingdom had been overthrown also. They had been brought into Babylon but here God lays out a way for them to return. A way for them to remain the people of God. That way is to search for him with all their heart. Jeremiah tells them that in 70 years the Lord will deliver them back out of Babylon. Other parts of the Old Testament show how the people were able to return after a time. For you and I in our time God has continued to tell us how to be saved by him. He has taught us how to overcome death and sin. The answer is the same. Search for Him will all our heart. When Jehovah told this to Jeremiah to tell to the people, he knew that he would come and die for us all. He knew that we stood no chance to be redeemed through the Law. Our only hope is to search for Him. May we humble our hearts and search for God will all our hearts. Meditation of Prayer: Pray as directed by the Spirit.Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him. Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:I invite you to sit in silence feeling being patient for your own faults and trials. Meditate and Visualize Positive Change in Your Life:Implement the kind of change you want to see in your life. Length, Intensity, Modality, Freshness, Conclusion:2 People who have dedicated artistic talent to help move the podcast along. Schedule Christianmeditationpodcast.com/contact Patreon.com/Christianmeditationpodcast Final Question: What could you do in your life to search for God with all your heart. Final thought -We can be delivered only by seeking God. One powerful way to do that is to engage in meaningful prayer. I make this podcast to assist you and me in maintaining a prayerful and God centered mindset but it is not enough to listen and feel calm. We need to search for Him through deep and meaningful prayer. My greatest desire with this podcast is that it inspires each of us to do just that. And to develop a relationship with God that drives us ever closer to him, a relationships that constantly strengthens our faith and guides our actions to abide by what He has taught. FIND ME ON:iTunesFacebookChristianMeditationPodcast.comYoutubeTwitterPintrist

Bible verse for meditation: Psalms 34:3-9 KJV3 O magnify the Lord with me, and let us exalt his name together.4 I sought the Lord, and he heard me, and delivered me from all my fears.5 They looked unto him, and were lightened: and their faces were not ashamed.6 This poor man cried, and the Lord heard him, and saved him out of all his troubles.7 The angel of the Lord encampeth round about them that fear him, and delivereth them.8 O taste and see that the Lord is good: blessed is the man that trusteth in him.9 O fear the Lord, ye his saints: for there is no want to them that fear him. ESV3 Oh, magnify the Lord with me,and let us exalt his name together!4 I sought the Lord, and he answered meand delivered me from all my fears.5 Those who look to him are radiant, and their faces shall never be ashamed.6 This poor man cried, and the Lord heard him and saved him out of all his troubles.7 The angel of the Lord encampsaround those who fear him, and delivers them.8 Oh, taste and see that the Lord is good!Blessed is the man who takes refuge in him!9 Oh, fear the Lord, you his saints,for those who fear him have no lack! What does this scripture mean to you?Has it had a different effect this reading as compared to times past?How does this scripture make you feel? Continue breathing deeply as you ponder this meaning. Meditation on scripture / bible verse meditation: The language of this scripture is interesting. The thing that magnifies is the psalmist and us by extension. This theology is interesting. If we consider that God is the source of light and we also consider what a magnifying glass does with regards to light. When I was a kid I was always interested in the the effects that a magnifying glass has when used to focus the light of the sun. I would burn leaves and be surprised how intense the focused beam of sun can be. Although sunlight surrounded me the small lens focused that light to perform an amazing thing. The magnifying glass doesn't make the light nor does it carry the energy of the light. With that said it must be pointed in the right direction. The lens must be directed with conscious effort. In a way our seeking the Lord can be compared to us seeking sunlight. The light of God fill all things. As we seek the Lord then we are not really discovering the light but learning how to recognize it and focus it. We are like sunflowers that turn their faces toward the sun. We can magnify the power of God's light to bless our lives and the lives of others. The unique difference between the sun and God's light is that God's light seeks us and represents the will of God. In other words, as it says here, when we seek the Lord, he brings his light to find us. As we learn to turn ourselves and our actions to face His light, we feel His answers to our prayers. He will always supply what we truly need. Meditation of Prayer: Pray as directed by the Spirit.Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him. Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:I invite you to sit in silence feeling being patient for your own faults and trials. Meditate and Visualize Positive Change in Your Life:Implement the kind of change you want to see in your life. Length, Intensity, Modality, Freshness, Conclusion:2 People who have dedicated artistic talent to help move the podcast along. Schedule Christianmeditationpodcast.com/contact Patreon.com/Christianmeditationpodcast Final Question: What is an action you can take in your life to focus the light of God? Final thought -During our efforts to find and be directed by the light of God, we are blessed. This scripture compares these blessings to a good taste. God certainly can and will bless our efforts to magnify His light. In addition to this is says that the Angel of the Lord will encamp around us to assist in these efforts. May God continue to guide us as we live in his light.

Bible verse for meditation: John 8:33-36 NABRE 33 They answered him, "We are Abraham's descendants and have never been slaves of anyone. How can you say that we shall be set free?" 34 Jesus replied, "Very truly I tell you, everyone who sins is a slave to sin. 35 Now a slave has no permanent place in the family, but a son belongs to it forever. 36 So if the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed. NIV 33 They answered him, "We are Abraham's descendants and have never been slaves of anyone. How can you say that we shall be set free?" 34 Jesus replied, "Very truly I tell you, everyone who sins is a slave to sin. 35 Now a slave has no permanent place in the family, but a son belongs to it forever. 36 So if the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed. What does this scripture mean to you? Has it had a different effect this reading as compared to times past? How does this scripture make you feel? Continue breathing deeply as you ponder this meaning. Meditation on scripture / bible verse meditation: For the first time I feel inspired to make this episode a continuation of last weeks discussion. As a short refresher, Jesus was talking to the covenant people of israel. As he was talking with them he told them that being his true0 disciple and following him will give them truth which will set them free. It is interesting to note that their first response was that they had never been slaves and they needed no freedom more than they had. Here I think is another similarity to our lives. I have noticed that we as human beings, alternate between catastrophe and complacence. We either feel we are having the worst day ever or we blow it off and don't think much of it. Sometimes we are shown our weakness and we are compelled to receive God's help and at others we feel that we are doing pretty good all by ourselves, thank you very much. These people seem to be feeling the second way. When we fail to see our servitude of sin, we fail to see the miracle of God. As we preach, read, learn, and praise God for his grace we can be tempted to feel that we have always been free or that sin was never much of a difficult thing to overcome to begin with. We may find ourselves metaphorically thinking that we have never really been slave to sin. Jesus teaches us that this is not true. We cannot become what He wants of us unless we are willing to completely abandon our own complacence and feel his love fill us and change us. Meditation of Prayer: Pray as directed by the Spirit. Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him. Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm: I invite you to sit in silence feeling being patient for your own faults and trials. Meditate and Visualize Positive Change in Your Life: Implement the kind of change you want to see in your life. Length, Intensity, Modality, Freshness, Conclusion: 2 People who have dedicated artistic talent to help move the podcast along. Schedule Christianmeditationpodcast.com/contact Patreon.com/Christianmeditationpodcast Final Question: What can you do in your life to live as a child of God this week? Final thought - How is it that sin causes us to be in servitude. We may feel that it is enough to serve God and try to be good but that won't do. He wants all of us. He wants us fully committed as a son or daughter. We can become joint heirs with Christ only if we are willing to take up the role of Children of God's covenant. We cannot hope to keep one foot in Babalon and work a part-time servant for Jesus we must give ourselves up and truly become children of God. FIND ME ON: iTunes Facebook ChristianMeditationPodcast.com Youtube Twitter Pintrist

Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation: Set this moment apart in your mind for preparing to receive God's word. As you prepare you become aware of all your body. To become aware of your body allows you to become aware of any distractions in your body that prevent you from opening up to connect to God and receiving his answer. As you feel your body allow any distraction and tention to release. As you do this, you can feel the tension leaving your body and calmness replaces it. What a great blessing from God that this moment allows you the freedom to take slow and calming breaths. Bible verse for meditation: John 8:28-32 ESV28 So Jesus said to them, "When you have lifted up the Son of Man, then you will know that I am he, and that I do nothing on my own authority, but speak just as the Father taught me. 29 And he who sent me is with me. He has not left me alone, for I always do the things that are pleasing to him." 30 As he was saying these things, many believed in him.31 So Jesus said to the Jews who had believed him, "If you abide in my word, you are truly my disciples, 32 and you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free." KJV28 Then said Jesus unto them, When ye have lifted up the Son of man, then shall ye know that I am he, and that I do nothing of myself; but as my Father hath taught me, I speak these things.29 And he that sent me is with me: the Father hath not left me alone; for I do always those things that please him.30 As he spake these words, many believed on him.31 Then said Jesus to those Jews which believed on him, If ye continue in my word, then are ye my disciples indeed;32 And ye shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free. the similarities and differences in the translations presented. What does this scripture mean to you?Has it had a different effect this reading as compared to times past?How does this scripture make you feel? Continue breathing deeply as you ponder this meaning. Meditation on scripture / bible verse meditation: During this week we in the US celebrated Independence Day. As many other countries, we celebrate independence and freedom. As humans we have various ideologies and regional interests but one need that we all share is the need for truth. This scripture points out the greatest truth of all. Our need for God. In the previous verses of this scripture Jesus was testifying of his actions and how he was following the Father. Not only this but he prophesied his death on the Cross. When the people heard his witness, they began to believe Him. Jesus teaches them that those who believe should follow, and those that follow are disciples. These disciples who believe and follow what Jesus says are those who will know the truth, which is that his sacrifice overcame death and hell. He teaches what frees us. It is faith that leads to following Him. This is by far the greatest need we have to be freed. In this world many millions of people have had their freedoms taken. Many people suffer and have suffered. Many people receive severe punishments for following their conscience. As tragic as this is, Jesus teaches that the far greater tragedy is when we fail to be freed by Jesus, from sin. In Matthew 10:28 Jesus teaches that we don't need to fear other people who do not stand as our Judge in this life, but to recognize this role pertains to God. It is His will that carries eternal judgement and reward beyond our deserving. Ours is to to the best we can with what we have. Perhaps then an argument could be made that the greatest Independence Day we could possibly celebrate would be Easter Sunday where Jesus provided all of us the opportunity to be eternally free. As we celebrate freedoms (or perhaps contemplate how they are restricted for us) we can draw connections to the greatest freedom we enjoy as a result of Jesus: Freedom to live with Him in heaven. Meditation of Prayer: Pray as directed by the Spirit.Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him. Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:I invite you to sit in silence feeling being patient for your own faults and trials. Meditate and Visualize Positive Change in Your Life:Implement the kind of change you want to see in your life. Length, Intensity, Modality, Freshness, Conclusion:Each week. Christianmeditationpodcast.com/contact Website ChristianMeditationPodcast.com contact. Patreon.com/Christianmeditationpodcast Final Question: What is a way that you can increase your faith in God? Final thought -I want to present my cautions on the way I cover individual scriptures. I hope it is clear that my goal is not to perform deep analysis on the scripture and provide the only lesson from it. My goal is to provide insights which I believe are true and are represented in the scripture. Equally important lessons could be taught from this scripture about honesty, faith, humility, absolute truth, and various other doctrinal points. For example, the con

Bible verse for meditation: Matthew 23:25-27 NIV25 "Woe to you, teachers of the law and Pharisees, you hypocrites! You clean the outside of the cup and dish, but inside they are full of greed and self-indulgence. 26 Blind Pharisee! First clean the inside of the cup and dish, and then the outside also will be clean.27 "Woe to you, teachers of the law and Pharisees, you hypocrites! You are like whitewashed tombs, which look beautiful on the outside but on the inside are full of the bones of the dead and everything unclean. 28 In the same way, on the outside you appear to people as righteous but on the inside you are full of hypocrisy and wickedness. Kjv25 Woe unto you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! for ye make clean the outside of the cup and of the platter, but within they are full of extortion and excess.26 Thou blind Pharisee, cleanse first that which is within the cup and platter, that the outside of them may be clean also.27 Woe unto you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! for ye are like unto whited sepulchres, which indeed appear beautiful outward, but are within full of dead men's bones, and of all uncleanness. the similarities and differences in the translations presented. What does this scripture mean to you?Has it had a different effect this reading as compared to times past?How does this scripture make you feel? Continue breathing deeply as you ponder this meaning. Meditation on scripture / bible verse meditation: This scripture was chosen by my daughter. Why did this scripture stick out to you? When we read about those who persecuted Jesus it becomes painfully obvious how they missed the mark. They didn't believe him. Even those Pharisees who did believe often didn't truly trust in him. The reason that these verses were included in the Scripture is not just to show us how in error these people were so many years ago, but for us to examine our hearts. We have much more in common with these people that we would care to admit most of the time. Do we truly trust God? Do we allow him to cleanse us by believing in his gracious goodness and approaching him as the way. Early Christians, before they were called Christians, would refer to the community of Christians as "the way" in reference to what Jesus asks from us. We can only have our inner cup cleaned by Jesus. If we spend our whole lives only focusing on how to make ourselves look clean, but never truly invite God into our hearts to clean the inside of our cup then we will always have a contaminated cup that results in sickness and disease. This is not to say that we should attempt to be the same as the world. We should remember what God has asked of those who follow him. As we accept our need for God to help clean our hearts and minds, then we are ready to continually work and improve. Ultimately a Gospel of Jesus Christ without a realization of sin and the forgiveness of that sin will leave our hearts full of dirt. The time we spend in God can be in gratitude for his blessings and grace, and also in repentance for the errors that we acknowledge before him and determine to improve with His help. This scripture teaches that as we clean this inner cup, the outer cup gets cleaned in the process. Meditation of Prayer:Pray as directed by the Spirit.Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him. Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:I invite you to sit in silence feeling being patient for your own faults and trials. Meditate and Visualize Positive Change in Your Life:Implement the kind of change you want to see in your life. Length, Intensity, Modality, Freshness, Conclusion:Each week. Christianmeditationpodcast.com/contact Website ChristianMeditationPodcast.com contact. Patreon.com/Christianmeditationpodcast Final Question: What is a way that you can increase your faith in God? Final thought -Even these people who put such trust in God and maintained that hope throughout life, did not receive the payout in this life. Think about that for a moment. These prophets were so close to receiving God's word and many heard his voice directly and saw visions. Yet even they went to their graves without perfect understanding but they had full trust, and hope that God would be faithful. And he was for them and he will be for you and me if we have faith in Him. We can have hope that he will guide us, redeem us, and justify us, allowing us into the Kingdom of Heaven. FIND ME ON:iTunesFacebookChristianMeditationPodcast.comYoutubeTwitterPintrist

KJV1 Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen.2 For by it the elders obtained a good report.3 Through faith we understand that the worlds were framed by the word of God, so that things which are seen were not made of things which do appear.13 These all died in faith, not having received the promises, but having seen them afar off, and were persuaded of them, and embraced them, and confessed that they were strangers and pilgrims on the earth.14 For they that say such things declare plainly that they seek a country.15 And truly, if they had been mindful of that country from whence they came out, they might have had opportunity to have returned.16 But now they desire a better country, that is, an heavenly: wherefore God is not ashamed to be called their God: for he hath prepared for them a city. NRSV1 Now faith is the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen. 2 Indeed, by faith our ancestors received approval. 3 By faith we understand that the worlds were prepared by the word of God, so that what is seen was made from things that are not visible.13 All of these died in faith without having received the promises, but from a distance they saw and greeted them. They confessed that they were strangers and foreigners on the earth, 14 for people who speak in this way make it clear that they are seeking a homeland. 15 If they had been thinking of the land that they had left behind, they would have had opportunity to return. 16 But as it is, they desire a better country, that is, a heavenly one. Therefore God is not ashamed to be called their God; indeed, he has prepared a city for them. Notice the similarities and differences in the translations presented. What does this scripture mean to you?Has it had a different effect this reading as compared to times past?How does this scripture make you feel? Continue breathing deeply as you ponder this meaning. Meditation on scripture / bible verse meditation: I think at times we confuse the power of faith with faith itself. I love this scripture because it demonstrates faith to be what it is. It is not a perfect knowledge of something. It is not getting what we want. It is not redemption and salvation. Those things are the power that God has given to faith, but faith itself is just the hope that we as believers hold in the God, his power and word. If we become uncomfortable with faith and instead desire only sure knowledge, we will never be able to hang on to faith. Think for a moment. How important is perfect understanding in your relationship with God? If we become overly obsessed with assurances and not concerned enough with hope then we will miss what Paul teaches us here. He lays out stories from the prophets and shows how they moved forward, not understanding the end. It is easy for us to look back on their stories as bedrock, but most of the time the prophets walked by faith, many times they had no idea what would come text. They had one step to take and they trusted God and had hope in His guidance. Take the next few moments and take stock of the state of your faith. As your faith grows and matures you will gain hope in all the different aspects of what He teaches us in scripture but if you are finding yourself in doubt of what you truly have faith in. I suggest that you ask God to strengthen your faith and hope in his role as your savior. Once we trust that he will care for us, we are prepared to become what he wants us to become. We become ready to change through his spirit, which is part of the power of God through faith. If we find ourselves in need of deeper fulfillment, it comes through trusting God to help us become more than we are today. If we don't want to always be only what we have been, we must be willing to become something more. Meditation of Prayer:Pray as directed by the Spirit.Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him. Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:I invite you to sit in silence feeling being patient for your own faults and trials. Meditate and Visualize Positive Change in Your Life:Implement the kind of change you want to see in your life. Length, Intensity, Modality, Freshness, Conclusion:Each week. Christianmeditationpodcast.com/contact Website ChristianMeditationPodcast.com contact. Patreon.com/Christianmeditationpodcast Final Question: What is a way that you can increase your faith in God? Final thought -Even these people who put such trust in God and maintained that hope throughout life, did not receive the payout in this life. Think about that for a moment. These prophets were so close to receiving God's word and many heard his voice directly and saw visions. Yet even they went to their graves without perfect understanding but they had full trust, and hope that God would be faithful. And he was for them and he will be for you and me if we have faith in Him. We can have hope that he will guide us, r

NRSV 12 When your days are fulfilled and you lie down with your ancestors, I will raise up your offspring after you, who shall come forth from your body, and I will establish his kingdom. 13 He shall build a house for my name, and I will establish the throne of his kingdom forever. 14 I will be a father to him, and he shall be a son to me. When he commits iniquity, I will punish him with a rod such as mortals use, with blows inflicted by human beings. 15 But I will not take my steadfast love from him, as I took it from Saul, whom I put away from before you. 16 Your house and your kingdom shall be made sure forever before me; your throne shall be established forever. NIV 12 When your days are over and you rest with your ancestors, I will raise up your offspring to succeed you, your own flesh and blood, and I will establish his kingdom. 13 He is the one who will build a house for my Name, and I will establish the throne of his kingdom forever. 14 I will be his father, and he will be my son. When he does wrong, I will punish him with a rod wielded by men, with floggings inflicted by human hands. 5 But my love will never be taken away from him, as I took it away from Saul, whom I removed from before you. 16 Your house and your kingdom will endure forever before me; your throne will be established forever.'" Notice the similarities and differences in the translations presented. What does this scripture mean to you?Has it had a different effect this reading as compared to times past?How does this scripture make you feel? Continue breathing deeply as you ponder this meaning. Meditation on scripture / bible verse meditation: I want to share a short experience I had last week. One of the assignments I have in the Navy is with the Military Funeral Honors Detail. In connection to this detail I go the the graveside of Navy veterans who have recently died. There is a playing of taps and we fold and present the American flag. Well last week I arrived early to a funeral. The funeral was at the same cemetery where my father had been buried over thirty years ago. As I approached the grave I realized that the grave of this veteran was within sight of my father's grave. As I approached the spot, the mortuary company had already set up a speaker and some music was softly playing. As I walked closer I recognized the hymn as "Oh My Father." In this moment I felt closer to my earthly father than I have in many years. Today we celebrate Father's Day in the United States. I know a good number of you are outside of the US but I find this message is very applicable to everyone. As I reflect on the vacuum that was left by the death of this great man, I realize that each person has a unique and different experience with their earthly parents. Some people have tragic relationships with their fathers, or no relationship. It is more than coincidence that our personal history with our earthly fathers can have a dramatic influence on how we perceive our Heavenly Father. People with loving and connected relationships to their fathers seem to have an easier time understanding God the Father as A loving father. For those of us who did not grow up in the presence of a loving father, this can be somewhat harder. Regardless, we can all benefit from some focused thought on the difference between our earthly relationships and our relationship to God. Although I think it is a natural human response to experience this connection between our earthly and heavenly parents, it is not the most accurate comparison. Since I am a father now I am aware of the deep divide between the father I want to be and who I am. Even the best fathers are imperfect and can disappoint at times, whereas God is perfect. His love for us is also perfect. Although we face nearly constant trials and opportunities for growth in this life, God loves us perfectly. It is because of this perfect love that he helps us grow by helping us overcoming our trials. Take a few moments now and consider if you connect your feelings for your earthly father and your heavenly father. Open your heart to the idea that God is a perfect and loving eternal Father and loves you beyond what you can imagine. Meditation of Prayer:Pray as directed by the Spirit.Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him. Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:I invite you to sit in silence feeling being patient for your own faults and trials. Meditate and Visualize Positive Change in Your Life:Implement the kind of change you want to see in your life. Length, Intensity, Modality, Freshness, Conclusion:Each week. Christianmeditationpodcast.com/contact Website ChristianMeditationPodcast.com contact. Patreon.com/Christianmeditationpodcast Final Question: How is your relationship with God the Father different compared to your relationship with your Earthly Father. Final thought -I am older now than my Father was when he died. When I was young I could onl

Outline: Relaxation, Reading, Meditation, Prayer, Contemplation, Visualization If you enjoy this meditation I ask you to subscribe on Apple Podcasts or whatever podcast app you prefer. You can find links at my website ChristianMeditationPodcast.com. Get into a place where you can sit comfortably and uninterrupted for 20 minutes. If you feel comfortable to do so, I invite you to close your eyes. Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation:Consider what is written on the tablet of your heart. Bible verse for meditation: Proverbs 3:3-6 ESV3 Let not steadfast love and faithfulness forsake you; bind them around your neck; write them on the tablet of your heart.4 So you will find favor and good success in the sight of God and man.5 Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding.6 In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths. NABREDo not let love and fidelity forsake you; bind them around your neck; write them on the tablet of your heart.4 Then will you win favor and esteem before God and human beings.5 Trust in the Lord with all your heart, on your own intelligence do not rely;6 In all your ways be mindful of him, and he will make straight your paths. Notice the similarities and differences in the translations presented. What does this scripture mean to you?Has it had a different effect this reading as compared to times past?How does this scripture make you feel? Continue breathing deeply as you ponder this meaning. Meditation on scripture / bible verse meditation: This scripture was suggested By one of my Patreon supporters named Sandy. Thank you for that. The proverbs are often known for having isolated snippets of wisdom. Many times we isolate sections but I really like how these verses go together. Let not love and faithfulness forsake you. This is something many people strive for most of their lives. Many times we feel lonely, and full of fear. This scripture answers a question of how to not let love forsake us. The way we do that is in the verses that follow. We are to bind love around our neck and to write it on the tablets of our hearts. It is not enough to simply want others to love us or to want a certain feeling. We need to imagine that, if we have hearts of stone, that God will replace them with hearts of flesh as it talks about in Ezekiel 32:26. In 2 Corinthians 3:3 where paul talks about us as believers be the letter of Christ that is written on the fleshy tables of our hearts. When we do this, we find favor with God and everyone else. This represents what it says in luke about Jesus' years growing up, that he found favor with God and man. This seems like a great direction to go in but sometimes we don't know how to do it. The next verse provides an insight in how to do that. This scripture prescribes trusting in the Lord. It is impossible to truly follow Him if we do not trust him. If we are lukewarm followers, we won't demonstrate the faith we will need. Many times we can get distracted by our own doubts or thoughts. Human intelligence in inherently limited. Having formally studied logic as an undergraduate math major, I have walked along the edges of the powers of human logic. There are things we definitely will never be able to prove or understand. Godel's incompleteness theorem shows us that. So what should we do then? Not overly commit to the religion of self importance. When we make intellect more important than anything else it becomes an idol for us to worship and we stop worshiping at the feet of the Almighty God. I hope you receive my intended meaning that logic is valuable and has its place. It's just that we are limited and unable to know everything. One way we can challenge this is as it says: In everything we do we can be mindful of Him and Acknowledge him. In many meditations we can be distracted to think about nothing or the universe or our own importance. Forms of mindfulness seem to suggest that all we need to do to find peace is to learn a certain skill of focus on ourselves. Ultimately this can help us but scripture teaches that we must be mindful of God at all times and then we will make our paths straight. When we learn to trust him and are mindful and focus on Him, then we will build the faith necessary to follow that path that he has laid out for us. Meditation of Prayer:Pray as directed by the Spirit.Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him. Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:I invite you to sit in silence feeling being patient for your own faults and trials. Meditate and Visualize Positive Change in Your Life:Implement the kind of change you want to see in your life. Length, Intensity, Modality, Freshness, Conclusion:Each week. Christianmeditationpodcast.com/contact Question: what joy has God brought you as you have approached him in meditation? Website ChristianMeditationPodcast.com contact. Patreon.com/Christianmeditationpodcast Final Que

Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation:Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation:Each time you relax you get better at it. You'll notice as you are able to Bible verse for meditation: Romans 14:7-11 NRSV7 We do not live to ourselves, and we do not die to ourselves. 8 If we live, we live to the Lord, and if we die, we die to the Lord; so then, whether we live or whether we die, we are the Lord's. 9 For to this end Christ died and lived again, so that he might be Lord of both the dead and the living.10 Why do you pass judgment on your brother or sister? Or you, why do you despise your brother or sister? For we will all stand before the judgment seat of God. 11 For it is written,"As I live, says the Lord, every knee shall bow to me, and every tongue shall give praise to God."12 So then, each of us will be accountable to God KJV7 For none of us liveth to himself, and no man dieth to himself.8 For whether we live, we live unto the Lord; and whether we die, we die unto the Lord: whether we live therefore, or die, we are the Lord's.9 For to this end Christ both died, and rose, and revived, that he might be Lord both of the dead and living.10 But why dost thou judge thy brother? or why dost thou set at nought thy brother? for we shall all stand before the judgment seat of Christ.11 For it is written, As I live, saith the Lord, every knee shall bow to me, and every tongue shall confess to God.12 So then every one of us shall give account of himself to God. Notice the similarities and differences in the translations presented. What does this scripture mean to you?Has it had a different effect this reading as compared to times past?How does this scripture make you feel? Continue breathing deeply as you ponder this meaning. Meditation on scripture / bible verse meditation: Many of the misunderstandings that e have with other people are because we fail to recognize what we have in common, our amazing ability to see the world from only our own perspective. In preparing for this meditation I was doing research for this episode I found a large amount of search results on how to deal with difficult people. It seems that when we have a disagreement with other people we immediately assume that resolving the problem involves us learning to deal with someone who is flawed and is in the wrong. What we often fail to realize is that they are viewing the world from their perspective and we are viewing it from our perspective. Our nature is to see ourselves at the center of focus. When we slow down and begin to imagine how we are all the same before God, we realize that our perspective is not magic or absolute in any way. It is just the perspective we have by default. As Paul says, none of us live to ourselves and none of us die to ourselves. We are not the center of our universe. We are interconnected with other children of God in a way to bless and challenge each other. It is interesting to think that my life may be most meaningful, not for what I do, but for what circumstances I create in other people's lives that allows them to grow closer to God. I may never change the world in a significant way, but perhaps my life will overlap with someone who will. Each of us are, at the same time invaluable to God, while also we are nothing special. This realization allows for the height of Christian focus. Whether we live or die, we do it unto the Lord. This scripture states quite clearly that this is why Jesus came to earth and died. He is the Savior and God of the living and of the dead. As we begin to realize that our own importance is not how we should evaluate our lives a paradoxical thing happens. We realize that to constantly focus on increasing our own perspective of our own self worth may not be the most satisfying pursuit. Instead we can focus on playing whatever role we can in the God's great human theater. As we are committed to living for God and living according to our deeply held Christian values, we serve and worship in true and genuine ways. Praise be to God for allowing us to learn from each other and to teach each other, both directly but more often indirectly. Meditation of Prayer:Pray as directed by the Spirit.Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him. Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:I invite you to sit in silence feeling being patient for your own faults and trials. Meditate and Visualize Positive Change in Your Life:Implement the kind of change you want to see in your life. Length, Intensity, Modality, Freshness, Conclusion:Each week. Christianmeditationpodcast.com/contact Question: what joy has God brought you as you have approached him in meditation? Website ChristianMeditationPodcast.com contact. Patreon.com/Christianmeditationpodcast AlanaChristinaDrewMichelleRon Sandy Thomas TommyYvette Final Question: Whose perspective would you stand the most to gain from understanding and how can you do that? Final thought - I have come to believe t

Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation:Imagine flying Bible verse for meditation:NABRE 28 Do you not know? Have you not heard?The Lord is God from of old, creator of the ends of the earth.He does not faint or grow weary, and his knowledge is beyond scrutiny.29 He gives power to the faint, abundant strength to the weak.30 Though young men faint and grow weary, and youths stagger and fall,31 They that hope in the Lord will renew their strength, they will soar on eagles' wings;They will run and not grow weary, walk and not grow faint. ESV28 Have you not known? Have you not heard?The Lord is the everlasting God, the Creator of the ends of the earth.He does not faint or grow weary; his understanding is unsearchable.29 He gives power to the faint, and to him who has no might he increases strength.30 Even youths shall faint and be weary, and young men shall fall exhausted;31 but they who wait for the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings like eagles;they shall run and not be weary; they shall walk and not faint Notice the similarities and differences in the translations presented. What does this scripture mean to you?Has it had a different effect this reading as compared to times past?How does this scripture make you feel? Continue breathing deeply as you ponder this meaning. Meditation on scripture / bible verse meditation:This particular scripture was recommended by a new friend of mine named Sue. I am so glad to cover it because this has often been such a beautiful scripture. Humans have long envied the flight of birds. Through different machines we have gained a perspective of the world as never before. I watched the launch of a shared Mission of NASA and the German Space program. During the launch a camera on the rocket captured the view of the earth as grew ever more distant from the rocket. In a matter of minutes the rocket provided a view of the curvature of the earth and then the air around the rocket grew darker blue and finally black. It is amazing to see such a dramatic change in perspective. We gain a new perspective about our place in the word. Perhaps this is why flight has been so compelling for us as humans. I imagine how amazing it would be to fly as free as an eagle. From that height you could see for miles, distant mountains. High clouds, observing the earth grow small. As I think about this view as well as that from the rocket, I imagine how limited this view is compared to the perspective God has of our earth. This scripture points out that he is the creator of this earth. He observed the foundations of this world and its change over time. Isaiah is careful to point out the vast difference in the powers of God. Despite his role as creator and his ability to see the whole world at once he never tires. Despite this, as humans even in our prime we tire from doing nothing more than moving slowly along the surface of the earth while running, we are not able to move mountains with our strength or fly or any other things. Any truly great things we aspire to are through the power of God. Through his power we can run beyond our own strength and accomplish things that we could never conceive of. To those who have no power he gives power to overcome. He makes the weak mighty and how fortunate we are to have such a creator and such a God. Meditation of Prayer:Pray as directed by the Spirit.Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him. Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:I invite you to sit in silence feeling being patient for your own faults and trials. Meditate and Visualize Positive Change in Your Life:Implement the kind of change you want to see in your life. Length, Intensity, Modality, Freshness, Conclusion:Each week. Christianmeditationpodcast.com/contact Question: what joy has God brought you as you have approached him in meditation? Website ChristianMeditationPodcast.com contact. Final thought - it is impossible for me to express how surprised I have been by the growth of this podcast. I know so many of you have shared this message. I have heard from your friends and family who have been blessed because you were willing to share. I feel like you all have made this journey with me. You trust me to speak soft words of peace into your ears. Many of you been financially supporting the show at Patreon.com/Christianmeditationpodcast If you are living through a period of sadness, know this.it will pass. Take the yoke of Jesus upon you. For his yoke is easy and his burden is light. Our best hope for joy in this life is by committing our whole soul to doing what we truly believe that God wants us to. We grow under His faith driven support. And with His glory lighting out way we will continue to walk with him eternally in peace love and joy.

Outline: Relaxation, Reading, Meditation, Prayer, Contemplation, Visualization If you enjoy this meditation I ask you to subscribe on Apple Podcasts or whatever podcast app you prefer. You can find links at my website ChristianMeditationPodcast.com. Get into a place where you can sit comfortably and uninterrupted for 20 minutes. If you feel comfortable to do so, I invite you to close your eyes. Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation:Focus on being encircled by the love of God. Bible verse for meditation: KJV 3 The Lord hath done great things for us; whereof we are glad. 4 Turn again our captivity, O Lord, as the streams in the south. 5 They that sow in tears shall reap in joy. 6 He that goeth forth and weepeth, bearing precious seed, shall doubtless come again with rejoicing, bringing his sheaves with him. NIV 3 The LORD has done great things for us, and we are filled with joy. 4 Restore our fortunes, O LORD, like streams in the Negev. 5 Those who sow in tears will reap with songs of joy. 6He who goes out weeping, carrying seed to sow, will return with songs of joy, carrying sheaves with him. Notice the similarities and differences in the translations presented. What does this scripture mean to you?Has it had a different effect this reading as compared to times past?How does this scripture make you feel? Continue breathing deeply as you ponder this meaning. Meditation on scripture / bible verse meditation:Today's episode Mark's a year of producing this podcast. I feel as David says here. God has been good to us and we are full of joy. During this first year of the podcast I have heard from so many people expressing deep profound challenges and trials. Horrible sadness brought on Suicide, death, terminal illness, domestic violence, depression, anxiety, financial strain and many other issues. Each of you in your way has reported feeling blessed by these simple recordings. I also feel blessed by them. I am encouraged and strengthened by making this podcast. I am grateful to a God who can take someone of such average ability such as myself and do a marvelous work in the lives od so many thousands of people. There were 15,000 people who listened in April, most of which are through podcasting apps. The podcast has spanned the globe and been downloaded in over 117 countries last I checked a few weeks ago. These countries include Russia, China, Iran, Saudi Arabia, over 15 countries in Africa, Almost every country in Europe and half the countries in South America. I never thought that I had anything to say that would be meaningful to such a wide group of believers. For this reason I focus myself grateful to God to take a lump of clay like me and to bring joy and peace to those who have sowed tears. It is not through what words are contained here but for the relationship that you are developing with God as you study His words and pray directly to Him after stripping away all distractions. If toy heater these words and still find yourself overcome with sadness. If you still are metaphorically planting seeds of tears, know this. God is faithful. He will have your testa grow into mighty trees of faith and glory being filled with joy. Thanks be to God for his everlasting mercy on you and on me. Meditation of Prayer:Pray as directed by the Spirit.Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him. Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:I invite you to sit in silence feeling being patient for your own faults and trials. Meditate and Visualize Positive Change in Your Life:Implement the kind of change you want to see in your life. Length, Intensity, Modality, Freshness, Conclusion:Each week. Christianmeditationpodcast.com/contact Question: what joy has God brought you as you have approached him in meditation? Website ChristianMeditationPodcast.com contact. Final thought - it is impossible for me to express how surprised I have been by the growth of this podcast. I know so many of you have shared this message. I have heard from your friends and family who have been blessed because you were willing to share. I feel like you all have made this journey with me. You trust me to speak soft words of peace into your ears. Many of you been financially supporting the show at Patreon.com/Christianmeditationpodcast If you are living through a period of sadness, know this.it will pass. Take the yoke of Jesus upon you. For his yoke is easy and his burden is light. Our best hope for joy in this life is by committing our whole soul to doing what we truly believe that God wants us to. We grow under His faith driven support. And with His glory lighting out way we will continue to walk with him eternally in peace love and joy.

Dedicate this moment to preparing your heart to receive the peace of God. Whatever worries you have put them on hold and allow your mind and your heart to calm. Bible verse for meditation: KJV 18 There is no fear in love; but perfect love casteth out fear: because fear hath torment. He that feareth is not made perfect in love.19 We love him, because he first loved us.20 If a man say, I love God, and hateth his brother, he is a liar: for he that loveth not his brother whom he hath seen, how can he love God whom he hath not seen?21 And this commandment have we from him, That he who loveth God love his brother also. ESV 18 There is no fear in love, but perfect love casts out fear. For fear has to do with punishment, and whoever fears has not been perfected in love. 19 We love because he first loved us. 20 If anyone says, "I love God," and hates his brother, he is a liar; for he who does not love his brother whom he has seen cannot[a] love God whom he has not seen. 21 And this commandment we have from him: whoever loves God must also love his brother. Notice the similarities and differences in the translations presented. What does this scripture mean to you?Has it had a different effect this reading as compared to times past?How does this scripture make you feel? Continue breathing deeply as you ponder this meaning. Meditation on scripture / bible verse meditation: What is fear? What purpose does fear play in our lives? It is not enough just to say that fear is bad and that we should not feel it. God has made a place in our hearts for fear. The Old Testament also uses the term fear for how we should consider God. Fear can motivate us but it is the basest of urges. As we mature spiritually we should look far beyond being motivated by fear. Fear does not have the power to change us into what God truly wants from us. He wants us to be full of love. He wants us to love him purely and to love each other with that same passion. If we are motivated by fear then we cannot truly experience that love of God. This scripture states that this type of perfect love casts out fear. Fear and pure love do not coincide in our hearts together. As we learn to experience the pure love of God and His mercy and charity, we become more able to respond to this love instead of fear. This makes fear inert, and useless to us. When we feel fear we can realize that God's love can cast it out as we pursue him in pure love. If we claim to be in the pure love of God but secretly guard anger or resentment towards others than we reserve a place in our hearts for fear to rule. We can try and justify this foothold for fear but the consequences of it do not go away. As we allow the pure love of God to penetrate our hearts, then we root out these secret dark alleyways where fear thrives. As we allow the love of God to penetrate us it sanitizes and cleanses our hearts of fear. Please join me in prayer. Meditation of Prayer:Pray as directed by the Spirit.Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him. Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:I invite you to sit in silence feeling being patient for your own faults and trials. Meditate and Visualize Positive Change in Your Life:Implement the kind of change you want to see in your life. Length, Intensity, Modality, Freshness, Conclusion: Weekly Episodes Christianmeditationpodcast.com/contactMerch/PatreonMultiple episodes in a week. Questions: What thing in your life requires more planning? Website ChristianMeditationPodcast.com contact. Final thought - Witness about prayer. I hope you will feel this relaxation all through the rest of the day. Have a good rest of the day.

Bible verse for meditation: KJV 10 Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord, and in the power of his might.11 Put on the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil.12 For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places. NIV 10 Finally, be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. 11 Put on the full armor of God, so that you can take your stand against the devil's schemes. 12 For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms. Notice the similarities and differences in the translations presented. Continue breathing deeply as you ponder this meaning. Meditation on scripture / bible verse meditation: When you picture the Armor of God, what image comes to mind?I've seen many different artist renditions of it. The ones that I have seen usually depict the armor of God either as a medieval plate mail or some version of Roman armor from the period of Paul who is writting this. I have enjoyed these images but somehow I think they don't fully represent the difference of the armor of God. Later in this chapter Paul lays out the elements of the armor of God. Loins girt or the belt of truthBreastplate of righteousnessFeed fitted with the readiness that comes from the gospel of peace.Shield of faithHelmet of salvationSword of the Spirit which is the word of God The descriptors that Paul uses do not sound like preparation for war, but for defense and preparation. The only offensive element to this is the sword of the Spirit which is the word of God. Paul states that we are against the powers of darkness. Raging angrily against darkness does not seem like a recipe for success. If we trust in God's ways we can much more successfully defend ourselves against the darkness that seeks to destroy us. If we try to throw on God's armor and then act as a vigilante we will not succeed. Our concept of the armor of God is not what will save us. It is God's.The other day I came across some interesting information. I want to make it clear that this is not what paul was talking about but it adds an interesting metaphor to Paul's metaphor. Gambison was a type of armor used hundreds of years after Paul wrote this but it helps to change our paradigm. Gambison is a type of armor that is made from taking multiple layers of cloth and creating a thick material that resists sharp objects. It looks more like a big coat than it does armor. However, in terms of its ability to protect the wearer, it is very effective. It is actually much more effective than butted chainmail. It looks fairly useless but it is far from it. I imagine by comparison to worldy armor God's armor would be like this.In the battles in our lives it is God's protection, that will come in forms that we do not expect, that will save us and teach us. God's protection is mainly intended to teach and craft us and help us grow into what he has in mind for us. Look in your life for what the armor of God is. Meditation of Prayer:Pray as directed by the Spirit.Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him. Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:I invite you to sit in silence feeling being patient for your own faults and trials. Meditate and Visualize Positive Change in Your Life:Implement the kind of change you want to see in your life. Length, Intensity, Modality, Freshness, Conclusion: Christianmeditationpodcast.com/contact Questions: What does the armor of God look like in your life and how can you continually put it on? Website ChristianMeditationPodcast.com contact. Final thought - FIND ME ON: iTunes Facebook ChristianMeditationPodcast.com Youtube Twitter Pintrist

050 Count the Cost - A Guided Christian Meditation of Luke 14:28-30. I work as a Hospice Chaplain and having worked as an ICU chaplain in a busy hospital, my purpose in making this podcast is to help you find more peace in your life and to be more open to be changed by the Spirit of God. by using a centuries old form of Christian Meditation called Lectio Divina. It consists of: Outline: Relaxation, Reading, Meditation, Prayer, Contemplation, Visualization If you enjoy this meditation I ask you to subscribe on Apple Podcasts or whatever podcast app you prefer. You can find links at my website ChristianMeditationPodcast.com. Get into a place where you can sit comfortably and uninterrupted for 20 minutes. If you feel comfortable to do so, I invite you to close your eyes. Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation:Focus on being encircled by the love of God. Bible verse for meditation: ESV28 For which of you, desiring to build a tower, does not first sit down and count the cost, whether he has enough to complete it? 29 Otherwise, when he has laid a foundation and is not able to finish, all who see it begin to mock him, 30 saying, 'This man began to build and was not able to finish.' NABRE28 Which of you wishing to construct a tower does not first sit down and calculate the cost to see if there is enough for its completion? 29 Otherwise, after laying the foundation and finding himself unable to finish the work the onlookers should laugh at him 30 and say, 'This one began to build but did not have the resources to finish.' Notice the similarities and differences in the translations presented. What does this scripture mean to you?Has it had a different effect this reading as compared to times past?How does this scripture make you feel? Continue breathing deeply as you ponder this meaning. Meditation on scripture / bible verse meditation:In this scripture Jesus outlines an important theological thought. If you have listened to this podcast for a while, you have heard many scriptures outlining our dependence on God's spirit. So much of scripture talks about this. This scripture lays out the need for us to plan. St Augustine said: "Pray like everything depends on God, then work like everything depends on your." This quote perhaps is an oversimplification but it demonstrates a complex dichotomy. We should plan and work while at the same time trusting in the province of God. This seemingly contradictory command brings humility to us and also enhances our drive to follow. To accomplish great things, we do the best we can. This involves planning on our own and consulting God in prayer. Having faith in God does not excuse our lack of focus in working toward positive goals. We cannot do difficult things without truly pushing ourselves. I hope this comes across the right way, namely in a spirit of humility and gratitude. As you probably know, I graduated from my Masters Program in Religious Studies. I have also completed the requirements for another MA program in MFT. This required a lot of sacrifice and work by me and my family. God can certainly Anything important does. You will have time to reflect on this in a moment, for now, please join me in prayer. Meditation of Prayer:Pray as directed by the Spirit.Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him. Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:I invite you to sit in silence feeling being patient for your own faults and trials. Meditate and Visualize Positive Change in Your Life:Implement the kind of change you want to see in your life. Length, Intensity, Modality, Freshness, Conclusion: Weekly Episodes Christianmeditationpodcast.com/contact Merch/PatreonMultiple episodes in a week. Questions: What thing in your life requires more planning? Website ChristianMeditationPodcast.com contact. Final thought - Witness about prayer. I hope you will feel this relaxation all through the rest of the day. Have a good rest of the day. FIND ME ON D ME ON: iTunes Facebook ChristianMeditationPodcast.com Youtube Twitter Pintrist

Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation:Focus on being encircled by the love of God. Bible verse for meditation:1 Cor 7KJV22 For he that is called in the Lord, being a servant, is the Lord's freeman: likewise also he that is called, being free, is Christ's servant.23 Ye are bought with a price; be not ye the servants of men.24 Brethren, let every man, wherein he is called, therein abide with God. ESV22 For he who was called in the Lord as a bondservant is a freedman of the Lord. Likewise he who was free when called is a bondservant of Christ. 23 You were bought with a price; do not become bondservants of men. 24 So, brothers, in whatever condition each was called, there let him remain with God. Notice the similarities and differences in the translations presented. What does this scripture mean to you?Has it had a different effect this reading as compared to times past?How does this scripture make you feel? Continue breathing deeply as you ponder this meaning. Meditation on scripture / bible verse meditation: Today I was on the battlefield of Fredricksburg, a Civil War of the United States. I stood at the top of a ridge where there is an old wooden building that still has civil war bullets lodged in it from over 150 years ago. The scars of war are still visible. These scars can still afflict us as humans also through tradition or culture. As humans we think we're have more power than we do. Even the worst that we can do cannot control the ultimate destiny of another person. Here Paul recognizes a profound truth. Regardless of our circumstances in this life, through Christ we have freedom of we become His bondservants.Now as we're consider how to apply these concepts we can consider our reliance on God, as well to use all of our earthly power to help each other and to serve God. I think of the battle hymn of the republic which was popular during the civil war In the beauty of the lilies Christ was born across the sea,With a glory in His bosom that transfigures you and me.As He died to make men holy, let us die* to make men free,While God is marching on.Glory, glory, hallelujah! Meditation of Prayer:Pray as directed by the Spirit.Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him. Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:I invite you to sit in silence feeling being patient for your own faults and trials. Meditate and Visualize Positive Change in Your Life:Implement the kind of change you want to see in your life. Length, Intensity, Modality, Freshness, Conclusion: Weekly Episodes ContactCHRISTIAN MEDITATION JOURNALKickstarterMerchPatreon Website ChristianMeditationPodcast.com contact. Final thought - Witness about prayer. I hope you will feel this relaxation all through the rest of the day. Have a good rest of the day.

Bible verse for meditation:2 Corinthians 4: 6 For God, who commanded the light to shine out of darkness, hath shined in our hearts, to give the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ.7 But we have this treasure in earthen vessels, that the excellency of the power may be of God, and not of us.8 We are troubled on every side, yet not distressed; we are perplexed, but not in despair;9 Persecuted, but not forsaken; cast down, but not destroyed;10 Always bearing about in the body the dying of the Lord Jesus, that the life also of Jesus might be made manifest in our body. ESV 6 For God, who said, "Let light shine out of darkness," has shone in our hearts to give the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ.7 But we have this treasure in jars of clay, to show that the surpassing power belongs to God and not to us. 8 We are afflicted in every way, but not crushed; perplexed, but not driven to despair; 9 persecuted, but not forsaken; struck down, but not destroyed; 10 always carrying in the body the death of Jesus, so that the life of Jesus may also be manifested in our bodies Notice the similarities and differences in the translations presented. What does this scripture mean to you?Has it had a different effect this reading as compared to times past?How does this scripture make you feel? Continue breathing deeply as you ponder this meaning. Meditation on scripture / bible verse meditation: Meditation of Prayer:Pray as directed by the Spirit.Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him. Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:I invite you to sit in silence feeling being patient for your own faults and trials. Meditate and Visualize Positive Change in Your Life:Implement the kind of change you want to see in your life. Length, Intensity, Modality, Freshness, Conclusion: Weekly Episodes ContactCHRISTIAN MEDITATION JOURNALKickstarterMerchPatreon Website ChristianMeditationPodcast.com contact. Final thought - Witness about prayer. I hope you will feel this relaxation all through the rest of the day. Have a good rest of the day. FIND ME ON: iTunes Facebook ChristianMeditationPodcast.com Youtube Twitter Pintrist

Bible verse for meditation:NIV4 He will cover you with his feathers, and under his wings you will find refuge; his faithfulness will be your shield and rampart.5 You will not fear the terror of night, nor the arrow that flies by day, 9 If you say, "The Lord is my refuge," and you make the Most High your dwelling,10 no harm will overtake you, no disaster will come near your tent.11 For he will command his angels concerning you to guard you in all your ways;12 they will lift you up in their hands, so that you will not strike your foot against a stone.13 You will tread on the lion and the cobra; you will trample the great lion and the serpent. KJV4 He shall cover thee with his feathers, and under his wings shalt thou trust: his truth shall be thy shield and buckler.5 Thou shalt not be afraid for the terror by night; nor for the arrow that flieth by day; 9 Because thou hast made the Lord, which is my refuge, even the most High, thy habitation;10 There shall no evil befall thee, neither shall any plague come nigh thy dwelling.11 For he shall give his angels charge over thee, to keep thee in all thy ways.12 They shall bear thee up in their hands, lest thou dash thy foot against a stone.13 Thou shalt tread upon the lion and adder: the young lion and the dragon shalt thou trample under feet. Notice the similarities and differences in the translations presented. What does this scripture mean to you?Has it had a different effect this reading as compared to times past?How does this scripture make you feel? Continue breathing deeply as you ponder this meaning. Meditation on scripture / bible verse meditation: Meditation of Prayer:Pray as directed by the Spirit.Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him. Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:I invite you to sit in silence feeling being patient for your own faults and trials. Meditate and Visualize Positive Change in Your Life:Implement the kind of change you want to see in your life. Length, Intensity, Modality, Freshness, Conclusion: Weekly Episodes ContactCHRISTIAN MEDITATION JOURNALKickstarterMerchPatreon Website ChristianMeditationPodcast.com contact. Final thought - Witness about prayer. I hope you will feel this relaxation all through the rest of the day. Have a good rest of the day.

This podcast episode is unique in that it is not a normal episode but is intended specifically to demonstrate two other meditation styles. 1) Mantra meditation 2) Mindfulness

I work as a Hospice Chaplain and having worked as an ICU chaplain in a busy hospital, my purpose in making this podcast is to help you find more peace in your life and to be more open to be changed by the Spirit of God. by using a centuries old form of Christian Meditation called Lectio Divina. It consists of: Outline: Relaxation, Reading, Meditation, Prayer, Contemplation, Visualization If you enjoy this meditation I ask you to subscribe on Apple Podcasts or whatever podcast app you prefer. You can find links at my website ChristianMeditationPodcast.com. Get into a place where you can sit comfortably and uninterrupted for 20 minutes. If you feel comfortable to do so, I invite you to close your eyes. Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation:Feel the air come in and out of your lungs. Don't force the air in and out of you. If you feel stressed just think of the God and how he has made himself known to you and let Him sooth you as you feel calmed. If you have tense muscles just try and feel the love that God has for you and know that you are on His earth. You are breathing His air into your lungs right now. Know that He loves you and suffered for your sins and he knows you and loves you. On that note we are going to appreciate 1 thing he has done for us. Bible verse for meditation:KJV2 And, behold, there was a great earthquake: for the angel of the Lord descended from heaven, and came and rolled back the stone from the door, and sat upon it.3 His countenance was like lightning, and his raiment white as snow:4 And for fear of him the keepers did shake, and became as dead men.5 And the angel answered and said unto the women, Fear not ye: for I know that ye seek Jesus, which was crucified.6 He is not here: for he is risen, as he said. Come, see the place where the Lord lay.7 And go quickly, and tell his disciples that he is risen from the dead; and, behold, he goeth before you into Galilee; there shall ye see him: lo, I have told you. ESV2 And behold, there was a great earthquake, for an angel of the Lord descended from heaven and came and rolled back the stone and sat on it. 3 His appearance was like lightning, and his clothing white as snow. 4 And for fear of him the guards trembled and became like dead men. 5 But the angel said to the women, "Do not be afraid, for I know that you seek Jesus who was crucified. 6 He is not here, for he has risen, as he said. Come, see the place where he lay. 7 Then go quickly and tell his disciples that he has risen from the dead, and behold, he is going before you to Galilee; there you will see him. See, I have told you." Notice the similarities and differences in the translations presented. What does this scripture mean to you?Has it had a different effect this reading as compared to times past?How does this scripture make you feel? Continue breathing deeply as you ponder this meaning. Meditation on scripture / bible verse meditation: Meditation of Prayer:Pray as directed by the Spirit.Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him. Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:I invite you to sit in silence feeling being patient for your own faults and trials. Meditate and Visualize Positive Change in Your Life:Implement the kind of change you want to see in your life. Length, Intensity, Modality, Freshness, Conclusion: Weekly Episodes ContactCHRISTIAN MEDITATION JOURNALKickstarterMerchPatreon Website ChristianMeditationPodcast.com contact. Final thought - Witness about prayer. I hope you will feel this relaxation all through the rest of the day. Have a good rest of the day.

Outline: Relaxation, Reading, Meditation, Prayer, Contemplation, Visualization If you enjoy this meditation I ask you to subscribe on Apple Podcasts or whatever podcast app you prefer. You can find links at my website ChristianMeditationPodcast.com. Get into a place where you can sit comfortably and uninterrupted for 20 minutes. If you feel comfortable to do so, I invite you to close your eyes. Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation:Feel the air come in and out of your lungs. Don't force the air in and out of you. If you feel stressed just think of the God and how he has made himself known to you and let Him sooth you as you feel calmed. If you have tense muscles just try and feel the love that God has for you and know that you are on His earth. You are breathing His air into your lungs right now. Know that He loves you and suffered for your sins and he knows you and loves you. On that note we are going to appreciate 1 thing he has done for us. Moment of gratitude: HEAL. Rick Hanson "Hardwiring Happiness." Bible verse for meditation: KJV 6 Humble yourselves therefore under the mighty hand of God, that he may exalt you in due time:7 Casting all your care upon him; for he careth for you.8 Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour:9 Whom resist stedfast in the faith, knowing that the same afflictions are accomplished in your brethren that are in the world.10 But the God of all grace, who hath called us unto his eternal glory by Christ Jesus, after that ye have suffered a while, make you perfect, stablish, strengthen, settle you.11 To him be glory and dominion for ever and ever. Amen. ESV 6 Humble yourselves, therefore, under the mighty hand of God so that at the proper time he may exalt you, 7 casting all your anxieties on him, because he cares for you. 8 Be sober-minded; be watchful. Your adversary the devil prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour. 9 Resist him, firm in your faith, knowing that the same kinds of suffering are being experienced by your brotherhood throughout the world. 10 And after you have suffered a little while, the God of all grace, who has called you to his eternal glory in Christ, will himself restore, confirm, strengthen, and establish you. 11 To him be the dominion forever and ever. Amen. Notice the similarities and differences in the translations presented. What does this scripture mean to you?Has it had a different effect this reading as compared to times past?How does this scripture make you feel? Continue breathing deeply as you ponder this meaning. Meditation on scripture / bible verse meditation: Peter teaches to let go of the desire to control others, and to instead attempt to live as Christ would, in Love. I find it important here that Peter connects the ideas of humbleness and anxiety. The world tells us that we need to build our own self importance up and only through that will we be able to cast of insecurity. Here Peter connects the ideas of submitting ourselves to God with casting our anxieties on him. Although this is not the only cause of anxiety it is certainly one source. When we are obsessed with a mindset of comparison we cannot truly approach the Lord in humility. When we want so desperately for others to see us as smart or attractive or worthy, we miss something far more important. God already loves you. He already cares for you, and it is for this reason that we can give all our cares to him. All our anxieties can be unburdened on Him and he is glad to do it. On the Cross he took on him our sin. He quite literally took on him the most anxiety causing thing of all, rebellion to God. In your heart experience what this feels like. What does it feel like when you hear that your anxieties have already been carried by the Lord? What thoughts do you have about that? Soak in this moment of gratitude for a glorious God who loves us enough to save us from all, from our sin, imperfection,We can return to God in an embrace of Love. What is there that can harm us when we realize that our enduring of this life can inspire others to find Him also and when it is all done, we can return to Him in unending peace, love, acceptance, and a complete absence of these earthly anxieties. Meditation of Prayer:Pray as directed by the Spirit.Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him. Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:I invite you to sit in silence feeling being patient for your own faults and trials. Meditate and Visualize Positive Change in Your Life:Implement the kind of change you want to see in your life. Length, Intensity, Modality, Freshness, Conclusion: Weekly Episodes ContactCHRISTIAN MEDITATION JOURNALKickstarterMerchPatreon Website ChristianMeditationPodcast.com contact. Final thought - Witness about prayer. I hope you will feel this relaxation all through the rest of the day. Have a good rest of the day.

Feel the air come in and out of your lungs. Don't force the air in and out of you. If you feel stressed just think of the God and how he has made himself known to you and let Him sooth you as you feel calmed. If you have tense muscles just try and feel the love that God has for you and know that you are on His earth. You are breathing His air into your lungs right now. Know that He loves you and suffered for your sins and he knows you and loves you. On that note we are going to appreciate 1 thing he has done for us. Moment of gratitude: HEAL. Rick Hanson "Hardwiring Happiness." Bible verse for meditation: James 1:5-8 NABRE 5 But if any of you lacks wisdom,* he should ask God who gives to all generously and ungrudgingly, and he will be given it.c 6 But he should ask in faith, not doubting, for the one who doubts is like a wave of the sea that is driven and tossed about by the wind.d 7 For that person must not suppose that he will receive anything from the Lord, 8 since he is a man of two minds, unstable in all his ways. KJV 5 If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God, that giveth to all men liberally, and upbraideth not; and it shall be given him. 6 But let him ask in faith, nothing wavering. For he that wavereth is like a wave of the sea driven with the wind and tossed. 7 For let not that man think that he shall receive any thing of the Lord. 8 A double minded man is unstable in all his ways. Notice the similarities and differences in the translations presented. What does this scripture mean to you? Has it had a different effect this reading as compared to times past? How does this scripture make you feel? Continue breathing deeply as you ponder this meaning. Meditation on scripture / bible verse meditation: Last week's discussion focused on the verses that immediately preceded these verses. James taught that we should be willing to accept the temptation or trials which we find our lives in. It seems very intentional that one of the most direct scriptures that has us ask understanding from God is prefaced by this idea. Learning from God's word is not something we can casually stroll by and grab on our rush to something else. Many times it is the trials and temptations that we experience that put our hearts in a place to be ready to receive from God. If we are mindful, no trial needs be waster. No question squandered. This scripture says that God will teach as long as we come to him humbled with a broken heart and a contrite spirit as David says, as well if we let your trials teach us patience. When we are in this place we are ready to ask God and James teaches that he will be generous and will not get us in trouble for our questions. He will bless us with understanding. James also says that another factor that influences how God chooses to answer is our faith. When there are things about God that we don't understand and we hubly approach Him in faith, He can guide us. Take a moment to reflect on your current and past trials. In what way have these trials prepared you for the questions you consider? Do you believe that God will answer? The answers of God many times do not come in the ways that we request or expect but He can teach us powerful truths through overcoming trials as well other movings of the Holy Spirit. Meditation of Prayer: Pray as directed by the Spirit. Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him. Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm: I invite you to sit in silence feeling being patient for your own faults and trials. Meditate and Visualize Positive Change in Your Life: This part is very important. It is no accident that scripture is so full of narratives. Our minds connect with narratives. Imagine a visualization of a Narrative of your life knowing the truths from this scripture. Now visualize someone or a group of people who need this message. Imagine what their face would look like as they receive this scripture in their hearts. Imagine how you can share it with them. Conclusion: Homework: What question do you have, and how can you be patient for God's answer? Feedback: I have been working through several episodes over the last few months. I am enjoying the meditations tremendously. I have been a Christian Counselor for 30+ years. I very much need a few minutes regularly to center my spirit in Christ, breathe in his love and strength, and let his Word sink in. You have created a beautiful method- and I thank you. I have sent many of my clients to your website, and they giving me great feedback about their experiences. Bless you, your work, and your family. - Barbara Privacy Patreon Website ChristianMeditationPodcast.com contact. Final thought - Witness about prayer. I hope you will feel this relaxation all through the rest of the day. Have a good rest of the day. FIND ME ON: iTunes Facebook ChristianMeditationPodcast.com Youtube Twitter Pintrist

042 - The Testing of Your Faith Produces Endurance - A Guided Christian Meditation Podcast James 1:2-4 I work as a Hospice Chaplain and having worked as an ICU chaplain in a busy hospital, my purpose in making this podcast is to help you find more peace in your life and to be more open to be changed by the Spirit of God by using a centuries old form of Christian Meditation called Lectio Divina. It consists of: Outline: Relaxation, Reading, Meditation, Prayer, Contemplation, Visualization Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation: Consider for a moment all the work your body had done this week. What stresses have your born? What has your body done without being asked: breathing, heart beating, blood pumping, sitting, walking, moving, working, feeling. Your body replicated cells and fought infection. What a blessing it is that we have such a body. A low it to breath now. Allow a feeling a gratitude build for God about all that your body can do. With each breath you realize more the greatness of God's creation that is your body. Despite the aspects of our mortal frame that cause us suffering and sin there are also amazing aspects that glorify the God who created it. Breath slowly and allow this moment to be a time apart. Breath ever so softly but fully as you feel your mind show and your body rest. You feel relaxation building in your body and you feel grateful for it. Allow your mind to clear as you prepare to receive God's word. We will be reading from James 1:2-4 Bible verse for meditation: NRSV 2 My brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of any kind, consider it nothing but joy, 3 because you know that the testing of your faith produces endurance; 4 and let endurance have its full effect, so that you may be mature and complete, lacking in nothing KJV 2 My brethren, count it all joy when ye fall into divers temptations; 3 Knowing this, that the trying of your faith worketh patience. 4 But let patience have her perfect work, that ye may be perfect and entire, wanting nothing Notice the similarities and differences in the translations presented. What does this scripture mean to you? Has it had a different effect this reading as compared to times past? How does this scripture make you feel? Continue breathing deeply as you ponder this meaning. Meditation on scripture / bible verse meditation: Our human weakness can be distressing. As we learn about our fallen nature it can be discouraging at times. We realize how we sin so easily, Ann's at times are slow to recognize God's hand in our lives. Wee feel trials and temptations as further evidence of our worth. This scripture is profound. Paul teaches that temptations or trials can be a source of joy. The range of these translations is useful. What is the difference between a trial and a temptation. Are they different? It could be argued the greatest trial is our own sin that results from our temptation. Yet even this can bring joy. How? It certainly Glorifies God when we have our sins washed away and are left redeemed. Paul teaches that there is a benefit to our character. God continually works to teach his children. Unfortunately trials teach us profound lessons. They teach us patience that is said to lead to our improvement. The Glory of God's mercy can yield patience in our hearts. Meditation of Prayer: Pray as directed by the Spirit. Pray now with an attitude of patience. Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm: I invite you to sit in silence feeling being patient for your own faults and trials. Meditate and Visualize Positive Change in Your Life: This part is very important. It is no accident that scripture is so full of narratives. Our minds connect with narratives. Imagine a visualization of a Narrative of your life knowing the truths from this scripture. Now visualize someone or a group of people who need this message. Imagine what their face would look like as they receive this scripture in their hearts. Imagine how you can share it with them. Conclusion: Homework: what trials have you noticed bring blessings? Continuation of James 1 next week. Patreon Website ChristianMeditationPodcast.com contact. Final thought FIND ME ON: iTunes Facebook ChristianMeditationPodcast.com Youtube Twitter Pintrist

I work as a Hospice Chaplain and having worked as an ICU chaplain in a busy hospital, my purpose in making this podcast is to help you find more peace in your life and to be more open to be changed by the Spirit of God by using a centuries old form of Christian Meditation called Lectio Divina. It consists of: Outline: Relaxation, Reading, Meditation, Prayer, Contemplation, Visualization Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation: Calm yourself to prepare to receive God's word. Bible verse for meditation: NIV 7 The Jewish leaders insisted, "We have a law, and according to that law he must die, because he claimed to be the Son of God." 8 When Pilate heard this, he was even more afraid, 9 and he went back inside the palace. "Where do you come from?" he asked Jesus, but Jesus gave him no answer. 10 "Do you refuse to speak to me?" Pilate said. "Don't you realize I have power either to free you or to crucify you?" 11 Jesus answered, "You would have no power over me if it were not given to you from above. Therefore the one who handed me over to you is guilty of a greater sin." 12 From then on, Pilate tried to set Jesus free, but the Jewish leaders kept shouting, "If you let this man go, you are no friend of Caesar. Anyone who claims to be a king opposes Caesar." KJV 7 The Jews answered him, We have a law, and by our law he ought to die, because he made himself the Son of God. 8 When Pilate therefore heard that saying, he was the more afraid; 9 And went again into the judgment hall, and saith unto Jesus, Whence art thou? But Jesus gave him no answer. 10 Then saith Pilate unto him, Speakest thou not unto me? knowest thou not that I have power to crucify thee, and have power to release thee? 11 Jesus answered, Thou couldest have no power at all against me, except it were given thee from above: therefore he that delivered me unto thee hath the greater sin. 12 And from thenceforth Pilate sought to release him: but the Jews cried out, saying, If thou let this man go, thou art not Caesar's friend: whosoever maketh himself a king speaketh against Caesar. Notice the similarities and differences in the translations presented. What does this scripture mean to you? Has it had a different effect this reading as compared to times past? How does this scripture make you feel? Continue breathing deeply as you ponder this meaning. Meditation on scripture / bible verse meditation: There are any different aspects of the passion narrative. I've been thinking about the role of Pilate. Many times as we discuss Pilate we try and figure out if he is a good person or not. Pilate's troubled history with the Pilate's wife's dream Pilate seems to have had some kind of belief in Jesus. It turns out that it wasn't the kind of belief that leads to deep faith. Many times we see Pilate as a total villain. Based on the little that the Bible says about him it seems he made some half attempts to believe in Jesus. He even made some vague attempts to free Him. As I read about Pilate I can't help but to see parallels to us. Our natural desires work against us. When we have an encounter God and make a full commitment to Him, He can makes our efforts holy through His glory. Meditation of Prayer: Pray as directed by the Spirit. Pray now in a spirit of submission to Him. Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm: I invite you to sit in silence feeling the comfort and Love of God Meditate and Visualize Positive Change in Your Life: This part is very important. It is no accident that scripture is so full of narratives. Our minds connect with narratives. Imagine a visualization of a Narrative of your life knowing the truths from this scripture. Now visualize someone or a group of people who need this message. Imagine what their face would look like as they receive this scripture in their hearts. Imagine how you can share it with them. Conclusion: FIND ME ON: iTunes Facebook ChristianMeditationPodcast.com Youtube Twitter Pintrist

This meditation has a lighter air. This is due to the presence of my daughter. Let her spirit lift you to see that through Christ all things are possible. Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation:Let this moment be a time of breathing. As you prepare yourself for to hear the word of God allow your body to relax and calm. Stay with my voice for this time as you prepare your heart to let God in. Breathe in and out.Box breathingFeel the tension leaving your whole body. Bible verse for meditation:Matthew 9:NIV23 When Jesus entered the synagogue leader's house and saw the noisy crowd and people playing pipes, 24 he said, "Go away. The girl is not dead but asleep." But they laughed at him. 25 After the crowd had been put outside, he went in and took the girl by the hand, and she got up. 26 News of this spread through all that region. KJV23 And when Jesus came into the ruler's house, and saw the minstrels and the people making a noise,24 He said unto them, Give place: for the maid is not dead, but sleepeth. And they laughed him to scorn.25 But when the people were put forth, he went in, and took her by the hand, and the maid arose.26 And the fame hereof went abroad into all that land. Notice the similarities and differences in the translations presented. What does this scripture mean to you?Has it had a different effect this reading as compared to times past?How does this scripture make you feel? Continue breathing deeply as you ponder this meaning. Meditation on scripture / bible verse meditation: Discussion with TayleeMeditation of Prayer:Pray as directed by the Spirit.Pray now in a spirit of submission to Him. Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:I invite you to sit in silence feeling the comfort and Love of God Meditate and Visualize Positive Change in Your Life:This part is very important. It is no accident that scripture is so full of narratives. Our minds connect with narratives. Imagine a visualization of a Narrative of your life knowing the truths from this scripture.Now visualize someone or a group of people who need this message. Imagine what their face would look like as they receive this scripture in their hearts. Imagine how you can share it with them.Conclusion:Stay with me until the end for a final thought and the reflection question. I have a couple of things to say and then I have a final thought so stay with me to the end.I release a new episode of this every Sunday morning at 1AM Mountain time in the US.I did an interview with Nikki over at Bible Meditation Podcast. It's the Saturday's episode if you'd like to hear it. She is a competent and kind person and I appreciated the opportunity to talk with her. Her focus is on letting the scriptures speak and the form factor is much more compact. If you would like to listen to a thoughtful podcast dedicated to reading the liturgical scriptures, that would be a great choice. Also I welcome your responses to the reflection question as well as any other thoughts. You can contact me by going to ChristianMeditationPodcast.com and clicking on the contact tab. The information you fill in there just sends me a personal email. Reflection Question:What is one way that you can let go of anger and embrace more love in your life?Here is the Final thought:I love this scripture and I love the message that follows it. Love is patient and kind. As we learn to discipline ourselves by ridding our hearts of hate and allowing more love to take root, we invite the Spirit of God. Many times this is an act of faith. If we believe in the saving power of Jesus Christ then we trust that he can heal our hearts. He can help us stay safe from those who would do us harm while at the same time letting go of the soul rusting power of hate. If you have experienced deep betrayal from someone close to you, I am certainly not arguing that you need to put yourself in the way of further harm. Let God guide you in how you can free your heart from unpleasant feelings while at the same time making place for more love in your heart. There is a deeply freeing feeling that can fill us with peace as we learn to trust God in this crucial way. I say that in Jesus' name Amen.

Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation:Let this moment be a time of breathing. As you prepare yourself for to hear the word of God allow your body to relax and calm. Stay with my voice for this time as you prepare your heart to let God in. Breathe in and out.Box breathing Feel the tension leaving your whole body. Bible verse for meditation:1 Thes 4:13-18NRSV13 But we do not want you to be uninformed, brothers and sisters,[a] about those who have died,[b] so that you may not grieve as others do who have no hope. 14 For since we believe that Jesus died and rose again, even so, through Jesus, God will bring with him those who have died.[c] 15 For this we declare to you by the word of the Lord, that we who are alive, who are left until the coming of the Lord, will by no means precede those who have died.[d] 16 For the Lord himself, with a cry of command, with the archangel's call and with the sound of God's trumpet, will descend from heaven, and the dead in Christ will rise first. 17 Then we who are alive, who are left, will be caught up in the clouds together with them to meet the Lord in the air; and so we will be with the Lord forever. 18 Therefore encourage one another with these words KJV 13 But I would not have you to be ignorant, brethren, concerning them which are asleep, that ye sorrow not, even as others which have no hope.14 For if we believe that Jesus died and rose again, even so them also which sleep in Jesus will God bring with him.15 For this we say unto you by the word of the Lord, that we which are alive and remain unto the coming of the Lord shall not prevent them which are asleep.16 For the Lord himself shall descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of the archangel, and with the trump of God: and the dead in Christ shall rise first:17 Then we which are alive and remain shall be caught up together with them in the clouds, to meet the Lord in the air: and so shall we ever be with the Lord.18 Wherefore comfort one another with these words. Notice the similarities and differences in the translations presented. What does this scripture mean to you?Has it had a different effect this reading as compared to times past?How does this scripture make you feel? Continue breathing deeply as you ponder this meaning. Meditation on scripture / bible verse meditation: One of my roles as a chaplains is to comfort people where they are. As we experience the pain of the death of loved ones sometimes it takes time for us to resolve these feelings with our faith. There are moments of pain at the loss of others, but there is also hope. God suggests that this hope in the future can help us and our grief can be swallowed up in our faith. In the hearts of those who suffer is a war between the reality of pain and the hope of future relief. Many times we go about resolving this the wrong way. We go about with a feeling of tension and war. This struggle is not only against the pain of death but about all kinds of human loss.There are times when we are overcome with the loss of things and people in this world. I am proposing a different solution to resolve this conflict. Let these words slowly wash over your heart like an incoming tide of peace. Pause and listen, and feel.But I would not have you to be ignorant, brethren, concerning them which are asleep, that ye sorrow not, even as others which have no hope. Feel this hope slowly rise in your heart. If you feel any other feeling of doubt, of pain, any other reaction than peace and gratitude observe how your heart begins to slowly feel the incoming tide of peace. This peace slowly washes over your heart. Feel the peace in your heart rise. It doesn't need to fight the other feelings, it ultimately is more powerful but it often wont force its way into your heart. Softly allow it to enter your heart. Focus on this peaceful gratitude as you hear this message. Then we which are alive and remain shall be caught up together with them in the clouds, to meet the Lord in the air: and so shall we ever be with the Lord. The message of the Lord, through Paul, is not one of judgement but one of confidence and peace. What will it feel like to rise up to the clouds with Jesus?I imagine that our worry for everything of this world will matter very little in that day. Why should it matter now? Meditation of Prayer:Pray as directed by the Spirit.Pray now in a spirit of submission to Him. Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:I invite you to sit in silence feeling the comfort and Love of God Meditate and Visualize Positive Change in Your Life:This part is very important. It is no accident that scripture is so full of narratives. Our minds connect with narratives. Imagine a visualization of a Narrative of your life knowing the truths from this scripture.Now visualize someone or a group of people who need this message. Imagine what their face would look like as they receive this scripture in their hearts. Imagine how you can share it with them.Conclusion:Stay with me until the end

Everything is on pause for this moment. Let things slow down. Allow your breathing to slow. Don't shy away from this moment. Allow the tensions that have been hiding in your body escape. Feel what is going on in your body. Breathe slowly. Anything unpleasant that wells up in your at this moment breathe it out effortlessly. Don't attempt to control it just let it go. Let your muscles go also. The longer you keep breathing, the more calm comes over your body. Don't fight the calm. Allow your mind to slow. If it feels pulled to one place or another just breathe deeply and allow it to slow. Open your mind and your heart for the scripture we are about to read. Bible verse for meditation:1 Corinthians 13:1-3 NIV13 If I speak in the tongues of men and of angels, but have not love, I am a noisy gong or a clanging cymbal. 2 And if I have prophetic powers, and understand all mysteries and all knowledge, and if I have all faith, so as to remove mountains, but have not love, I am nothing. 3 If I give away all I have, and if I deliver up my body to be burned, but have not love, I gain nothing. KJV1 Though I speak with the tongues of men and of angels, and have not charity, I am become as sounding brass, or a tinkling cymbal.2 And though I have the gift of prophecy, and understand all mysteries, and all knowledge; and though I have all faith, so that I could remove mountains, and have not charity, I am nothing.3 And though I bestow all my goods to feed the poor, and though I give my body to be burned, and have not charity, it profiteth me nothing. Notice the similarities and differences in the translations presented. What does this scripture mean to you?Has it had a different effect this reading as compared to times past?How does this scripture make you feel? Continue breathing deeply as you ponder this meaning. Meditation on scripture / bible verse meditation: I want to share a moment of vulnerability. This is not a flatering message but I hope it will be a metaphor for you to allow you to ask yourself the same questions. I was preparing to put out this podcast. I had my scripture selected and I had read it and was trying to get ot a place of peace as I started writing my notes for the episode. I was thinking about someone who I have recently been feeling deep disagreement with, by the way if you're listening to this then it certainly is not you, anyway in this moment I found myself getting upset and angry. I had ahard time shaking these feelings and I resigned in myself that I was allowed to guard a little anger for this person in my heart.Have you ever done this? Do you still do this?Many times as we try to live a Christian life we encounter the realities of our humanity in this fallen state. Hate and anger enter our hearts. I found myself upset and I was not in a good place to bring peace. Instead of forcing myself to continue, I sat in my favorite chair put on a soft sound of a rushing stream and I began to relax and breathe deeply. In this moment I realized how I was trying to do something that contradicts reality. I was trying to justify not feeling love for someone while preaching a message of love. I opened my heart to the idea that I could disagree with this person while still loving them. As I opened my heart to prayer, I felt the peace of this scripture penetrate my heart and the anger I was feeling lost its grip on me. What does it feel like to feel love?What does it feel like to give up a grudge?I hoep that as we in America celebrate Valentine's day that we can always remember this message. It is equally appropriate for romantic love, family love, and friendly love. May God grant us peace as we make room in our hearts for love. Meditation of Prayer:Pray as directed by the Spirit.Pray now in a spirit of submission to Him. Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm:I invite you to sit in silence feeling the comfort and Love of God Meditate and Visualize Positive Change in Your Life:This part is very important. It is no accident that scripture is so full of narratives. Our minds connect with narratives. Imagine a visualization of a Narrative of your life knowing the truths from this scripture.Now visualize someone or a group of people who need this message. Imagine what their face would look like as they receive this scripture in their hearts. Imagine how you can share it with them.Conclusion:Stay with me until the end for a final thought and the reflection question. I have a couple of things to say and then I have a final thought so stay with me to the end.I release a new episode of this every Sunday morning at 1AM Mountain time in the US.I did an interview with Nikki over at Bible Meditation Podcast. It's the Saturday's episode if you'd like to hear it. She is a competent and kind person and I appreciated the opportunity to talk with her. Her focus is on letting the scriptures speak and the form factor is much more compact. If you would like to listen to a thoughtful podcast dedicated to reading the liturgi

In this moment, loosen your focus. Feel the air around you. What is the temperature of the air as it gently surrounds you. Feel it as it eases into your lungs. As you breathe in you feel it bring calm. As you breathe out you feel the tension in your body escape. You feel your shoulders settle in, your face unflex, your shoulder blades soften. Each part of your body eases in. This moment, is for peace. This moment is your time with God's spirit. Gently embrace this moment. No holding on too tightly, but enjoying it while it's here. As you sit in this quiet relaxation, a growing feeling of contentment begins to fill your body. Little by little you feel the ease of body associated with this contentment. Hope builds inside of you. Take this in. Take it all in. Allow this feeling of calm to be absorbed into your body. The spirit of the Lord inhabits you. Breathe in calmly. Bible verse for meditation: Matthew 6:16-18 ESV 16 "And when you fast, do not look gloomy like the hypocrites, for they disfigure their faces that their fasting may be seen by others. Truly, I say to you, they have received their reward. 17 But when you fast, anoint your head and wash your face, 18 that your fasting may not be seen by others but by your Father who is in secret. And your Father who sees in secret will reward you. KJV 16 Moreover when ye fast, be not, as the hypocrites, of a sad countenance: for they disfigure their faces, that they may appear unto men to fast. Verily I say unto you, They have their reward. 17 But thou, when thou fastest, anoint thine head, and wash thy face; 18 That thou appear not unto men to fast, but unto thy Father which is in secret: and thy Father, which seeth in secret, shall reward thee openly. Notice the similarities and differences in the translations presented. What does this scripture mean to you? Has it had a different effect this reading as compared to times past? How does this scripture make you feel? Continue breathing deeply as you ponder this meaning. Meditation on scripture / bible verse meditation: Something that I spend a great deal of time thinking about is the ideas of human suffering. In an effort not to be overwhelmed our efforts to accept suffering can confuse us and cause us to value suffering for its own sake. This scripture shows that suffering in and of itself is not a source of glory. We need not admire suffering, we need not relish in it. We endure suffering in the pursuit of God. We endure suffering to pursue something greater than this world. Willingness to endure suffering for the cause of God, does not equate to pursuit of suffering. As you endure suffering in your life reflect for a moment, to what end do you suffer? Are there areas in your life where you place a value on suffering for its own sake? What way can you follow God while at the same time giving up any unnecessary suffering? During the sermon on the mount Jesus tells us that the opinions of others, or arguably even ourselves, matter little when it comes to how we bear the hardships we encounter. We struggle for our Lord. Whether it is fasting, or any other aspect of religious devotion, we resist the things of this world to place value on the things of God and to do what He has asked us. How can you follow God better? Meditation of Prayer: Pray as directed by the Spirit. Pray now in a spirit of submission to Him. Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm: I invite you to sit in silence feeling the comfort and Love of God Meditate and Visualize Positive Change in Your Life: This part is very important. It is no accident that scripture is so full of narratives. Our minds connect with narratives. Imagine a visualization of a Narrative of your life knowing the truths from this scripture. Now visualize someone or a group of people who need this message. Imagine what their face would look like as they receive this scripture in their hearts. Imagine how you can share it with them. Conclusion: Stay with me until the end for a final thought and the reflection question. I have a couple of things to say and then I have a final thought so stay with me to the end. I release a new episode of this every Sunday morning at 1AM Mountain time in the US. I received a lot of input from so many of your regarding the answer to last week's reflection question. I loved hearing about what things you consider as your still waters. So many things, including family, peace from God, ease from anxiety. There are so many things that he leads us to. Here is the Final thought: As social beings we desire the good opinion of others. Many times the people who are the most vocal about not wanting the approval of others are the ones who secretly want it the most. This is not a judgement because I experience the same human instinct. May this reflection be a guide to us to continually improve. As we let go of this form of pride, we are able to focus more clearly on the pursuit of obedience to God. Later in this same chapter Jesus says that we should see

Begin by noticing your level of peacefulness. Try to focus on accurately noticing it and let go of a desire to force yourself to relax. There is no hurry to relax. Your body has started to unwind already and will continue to do so during this whole recording. Let go of any compulsion to feel relaxed and just let your body breathe and feel the points where you body touches your clothes and furniture. As you become aware of this you feel yourself resting deeper into this furniture through no effort of your own. Through this process you notice your level of peacefulness is continuing to grow. Your breathing is getting more gentle and fulfilling. Your whole body fills will cleansing air and all excess tension is breathed out. Feel you calm as you prepare to listen to readings from God's word. The verses today are very meaningful for so many people and I invite you to attempt to remain in this relaxed state during the reading and allow God's word to you in this moment be unique. Pretend as though you have never heard this scripture. Bible verse for meditation: Psalm 23 KJV 1 The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want. 2 He maketh me to lie down in green pastures: he leadeth me beside the still waters. 3 He restoreth my soul: he leadeth me in the paths of righteousness for his name's sake. 4 Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for thou art with me; thy rod and thy staff they comfort me. 5 Thou preparest a table before me in the presence of mine enemies: thou anointest my head with oil; my cup runneth over. 6 Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life: and I will dwell in the house of the Lord for ever. Notice the similarities and differences in the translations presented. NIV 1 The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want. 2 He maketh me to lie down in green pastures: he leadeth me beside the still waters. 3 He restoreth my soul: he leadeth me in the paths of righteousness for his name's sake. 4 Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for thou art with me; thy rod and thy staff they comfort me. 5 Thou preparest a table before me in the presence of mine enemies: thou anointest my head with oil; my cup runneth over. 6 Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life: and I will dwell in the house of the Lord for ever. What does this scripture mean to you? Has it had a different effect this reading as compared to times past? Continue breathing deeply as you ponder this meaning. Meditation on scripture / bible verse meditation: I have a deep connection with this Psalm. As an ICU chaplain I read this scripture over many people who were dying or dead. In many ways I felt that I walked through the valley of the shadow of death professionally. It is hard for me to fully read this scripture afresh and I am overcome with emotion when I think of it. In sickness, health, death and life, God is our Shepherd. Jesus leads us in this life and into the next. I had a woman who emailed me the details of the tragic death of her husband. I was moved by her strength and reliance on the peace of God. Despite our love for God and His love for us, he allows us to deal with the sadness and pain of this life. Our pain is intimately connected to our love. This pain of loss is not always death. Sometimes its estrangement or just the normal distance of time. God understands the pain of separation for every reason. Moments before he raised Lazarus from the grave, He wept for the pain of Martha and others despite Him knowing His own power to raise him. God has not designed our bodies to be free of pain and sadness. This sadness teaches us of love and, if we bear it with patience can connect our hearts to others and to God. In this moment allow this calm feeling to remain as you consider what blessings are attributed to God in this scripture. Breath this in. Meditation of Prayer:Pray as directed by the Spirit.Pray now in a spirit of submission to Him. Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm: I invite you to sit in silence feeling the comfort and Love of God Meditate and Visualize Positive Change in Your Life:This part is very important. It is no accident that scripture is so full of narratives. Our minds connect with narratives. Imagine a visualization of a Narrative of your life knowing the truths from this scripture.Now visualize someone or a group of people who need this message. Imagine what their face would look like as they receive this scripture in their hearts. Imagine how you can share it with them. Conclusion: I have a couple of things to say and then I have a final thought so stay with me to the end. I release a new episode of this every Sunday morning at 1AM Mountain time in the US. My wife mentioned to me that she would really enjoy a question be presented to continue reflecting on afterwords. Perhaps as a type of continued focus. This week's question will be, "What in your life represents the still water

Begin by breathing in freely. It is a gift from God that you can draw this breathe. If you notice a small feeling of gratitude for this allow it to grow. Gently allow this moment to be fill of your awareness on the goal of slowing your breath. All other concerns fade away. You are preparing your heart and mind to receive the peace of God. In order to prepare yourself let all worry go. The only thing you have to do right now is breathe. You notice that as you place your intention on slowing your breathing that it becomes more calm. Breathe deeply softly, filling your whole body down to your belly. Imagine the air you breathe in goes farther than that. Imagine that the air you breathe in fills every part of you. Imagine that your breath fills your legs and feet, all the way down to your toes. Your breath similarly goes around your back and down your arms to your hands and fingers. You breathe also fills you head. As you continue to feel this breathe filling your body you notice that without your effort this breathe has been carrying away stress and anxiety. What is left is calmness, and stillness. Bask in this peaceful feeling. Allow your muscles to continue relaxing. Bible verse for meditation: Matthew 12:25-30 KJV 25 Jesus knew their thoughts and said to them, "Every kingdom divided against itself will be ruined, and every city or household divided against itself will not stand. 26 If Satan drives out Satan, he is divided against himself. How then can his kingdom stand? 27 And if I drive out demons by Beelzebub, by whom do your people drive them out? So then, they will be your judges. 28 But if it is by the Spirit of God that I drive out demons, then the kingdom of God has come upon you. 29 "Or again, how can anyone enter a strong man's house and carry off his possessions unless he first ties up the strong man? Then he can plunder his house. 30 "Whoever is not with me is against me, and whoever does not gather with me scatters. NABRE 25 But he knew what they were thinking and said to them, "Every kingdom divided against itself will be laid waste, and no town or house divided against itself will stand. 26 And if Satan drives out Satan, he is divided against himself; how, then, will his kingdom stand? 27 And if I drive out demons by Beelzebul, by whom do your own people drive them out? Therefore they will be your judges. 28 But if it is by the Spirit of God that I drive out demons, then the kingdom of God has come upon you. 29 How can anyone enter a strong man's house and steal his property, unless he first ties up the strong man? Then he can plunder his house. 30 Whoever is not with me is against me, and whoever does not gather with me scatters. What does this scripture mean? What message materialized as you listened to this scripture? How does this scripture make you feel? Meditation on scripture / bible verse meditation: In the United States one of our Past Presidents Abraham Lincoln referred to this scripture during a speech. The crowd found it too divisive and caused him to lose an election. The ideas of God surrounding division are not always popular. Spend a few moments thinking about how we as humans are divided. How is this applicable on a personal level? How is this applicable on a national level? How is this applicable on an international level? How is this applicable beyond this earthly existence? When Jesus spoke them he referred to the casting out of devils as evidence that Satan would not do that to his own. This was a proclamation of the Condescension of God. Think for a moment about the witness Jesus bore here of His righteousness. What can we learn from his witness? Are there ever times when you feel the sting of division? Last week in the podcast I talked about unity and the community of God. I got an email from a woman who explained a family conflict to me. It was sad to me. Not all of life is uniformly good. Sometimes in our lives we may feel that it is not even mostly good. As you have calmed yourself in this moment allow the feelings of the peace of God to remain in your heart for a moment. As gently as possible allow these words of Jesus speak truth to your life situation. Allow God's light to illuminate your life on how you can change things with His help. Take this idea of a unified house and take the insights that you have gained from this peaceful reflection and join me in prayer. Meditation of Prayer: Pray as directed by the Spirit. Pray now in a spirit of submission to Him. Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm: I invite you to sit in silence feeling the strength from God and those you care about. Meditate and Visualize Positive Change in Your Life: What insights did you gain during these moments? What thing will change in your life after this moment? Share this message : Now visualize someone or a group of people who need this message. Imagine what their face would look like as they receive this scripture in their hearts. Imagine how you can share it with them. Conclusion:

034 Two Are Better Than One - A Guided Christian Meditation Podcast Ecclesiastes 4:9-12. How to feel God's Peace. I work as a Hospice Chaplain and having worked as an ICU chaplain in a busy hospital, my purpose in making this podcast is to help you find more peace in your life and to be more open to be changed by the Spirit of God by using a centuries old form of Christian Meditation called Lectio Divina. It consists of: Outline: Relaxation, Reading, Meditation, Prayer, Contemplation, Visualization Intro:We will begin with some deep breathing in order to remove distractions so that we can focus completely on God's word. Get into a comfortable position and if you feel safe to do so, close your eyes Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation:Feel yourself resting on the chair where you are sitting. Hear the sounds that fall on your ears. Without a force of will, allow your focus to loosen. Let your focus slowly move along your muscles and notice any tension. Allow your tension to slide along your neck resting briefly at the base of your skull. Allow your focus to move down your back and rest softly between your shoulder blades. As you do this you feel the tension harmlessly escape with each passing breath. Your focus moves along your body searching for tension, freeing it and observes it be breathed out. As you do this, you feel your body fill will calm. Keep breathing slowly. Feel how good this calm feeling is. Allow the calm to grow and fill your whole body. Bask in this feeling. Allow it to wash over you. Allow this feeling to grow and be absorbed fully into your body. As you do you body relaxes fully and your mind is clear. Keep breathing deeply and calmly as I read from these scriptures. Allow your mind to remain clear and your body to remain calm as you are ready to receive the peace of the LORD. Bible verse for meditation:Ecclesiastes 4:9-12. KJV 9 ¶ Two are better than one; because they have a good reward for their labour. 10 For if they fall, the one will lift up his fellow: but woe to him that is alone when he falleth; for he hath not another to help him up. 11 Again, if two lie together, then they have heat: but how can one be warm alone? 12 And if one prevail against him, two shall withstand him; and a threefold cord is not quickly broken. NIV 9 Two are better than one, because they have a good return for their labor: 10 If either of them falls down, one can help the other up.But pity anyone who falls and has no one to help them up. 11 Also, if two lie down together, they will keep warm. But how can one keep warm alone? 12 Though one may be overpowered, two can defend themselves.A cord of three strands is not quickly broken. What does this scripture mean? What message materialized as you listened to this scripture? How does this scripture make you feel? Meditation on scripture / bible verse meditation: How are you blessed by those around you? An inevitable truth of this life is that none of us are designed to live in complete isolation. Each of us receive strength from others. We receive strength from those we care about. This is why the scriptures counsel for the saints to gather. We strengthen each other and we help each other. When is the last time you have been down and been lifted by someone else? Who is someone who lifts you up? When have you helped someone else in the same way? As we learn to love and be loved we experience the most profound connection in life. There is nothing safe about caring about someone else. In fact caring about others puts us at risk for being hurt by loss or disappointment. When God chose to love us, this was not without risk either. It eventually led to the Cross. We love because he first loved us. Even if you wish you had more genuine connection in your life, know this, God is always with you and will strengthen you more than any person can. In our relationships Christ is always there to mediate. Think about ways that you could lift the spirits of those you know and care about. Meditation of Prayer:Pray as directed by the Spirit.Pray now in a spirit of submission to Him. Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm: I invite you to sit in silence feeling the strength from God and those you care about.Meditate and Visualize Positive Change in Your Life:What insights did you gain during these moments?What thing will change in your life after this moment?Share this message :Now visualize someone or a group of people who need this message. Imagine what their face would look like as they receive this scripture in their hearts. Imagine how you can share it with them. Conclusion:Print and use this scripture.I release a new episode of this every Sunday morning at 1AM Mountain time in the US.You can get more information about my podcast by visiting my website ChristianMeditationPodcast.com. FIND ME ON: iTunes Facebook ChristianMeditationPodcast.com Youtube Twitter Pintrist

I work as a Hospice Chaplain and having worked as an ICU chaplain in a busy hospital, my purpose in making this podcast is to help you find more peace in your life and to be more open to be changed by the Spirit of God by using a centuries old form of Christian Meditation called Lectio Divina. It consists of: Outline: Relaxation, Reading, Meditation, Prayer, Contemplation, Visualization Intro: We will begin with some deep breathing in order to remove distractions so that we can focus completely on God's word. Get into a comfortable position and if you feel safe to do so, close your eyes Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation: Allow this moment to be one of dedication to God. Regardless of how you feel whether tense or relaxed, in pain due to illness or comfortable. This moment is a perfect opportunity to allow the peace of God to enter your heart. His word has miraculous power. His spirit can enter you heart. Take a slow breathe. Feel your muscles relax. With each passing moment you become more aware of where you body can further unflex and relax and yo find that is automatically doing this in preparation of receiving the word of God from the Bible. You notice your muscles have relaxed. Sometimes as they do this you become aware of pain in your muscles. That is OK. That will pass. Let it pass. Let each moment end as smoothly as it began. Your mind has slowed. The distracting thoughts that inundate us have slowed. You feel more at peace. Continue allowing your body unwind. Let anything tense in your body escape with each passing breathe. You aren't forcing this, you are just allowing it. Now that your mind is relaxed, keep in this state as we read through these scriptures. Become aware of what message God has for you in these verses. Bible verse for meditation: Luke 5:36-38 KJV 36 ¶ And he spake also a parable unto them; No man putteth a piece of a new garment upon an old; if otherwise, then both the new maketh a rent, and the piece that was taken out of the new agreeth not with the old. 37 And no man putteth new wine into old bottles; else the new wine will burst the bottles, and be spilled, and the bottles shall perish. 38 But new wine must be put into new bottles; and both are preserved. NIV 36 He told them this parable: "No one tears a piece out of a new garment to patch an old one. Otherwise, they will have torn the new garment, and the patch from the new will not match the old. 37 And no one pours new wine into old wineskins. Otherwise, the new wine will burst the skins; the wine will run out and the wineskins will be ruined. 38 No, new wine must be poured into new wineskins. What does this scripture mean? What message materialized as you listened to this scripture? How does this scripture make you feel? Meditation on scripture / bible verse meditation: Many of us have a tradition of creating New Year's resolutions. We identify areas in our lives that we want to improve. Sometimes these things are related to our physical well being. Sometimes they are related to sin. Consider for a moment that these areas you want to improve represent a tear in your clothes. You want to patch it. In order to do this we consider incremental steps we can take to improve. I want you to consider now another alternative. Instead of incremental change, instead of changing in one small area at a time, we shed our old mindset and completely submit ourselves to God. Unless we are willing to do this then it is as if we are tearing the new clothes he would give us to try and patch the old. We cannot remain equally committed to our preconceived notions of who we are and God. So in this moment as you consider all the things you would like to improve, perhaps we could place at the top of this list to recommit to give all that we are to God. In this moment consider what it would be like if you completely submitted to God. What changes would you expect? What changes could you never expect? God can make more of our lives that we could imagine. See if you can harness this image of what your life would be like if you completely submitted to God. Would it be worth it? Meditation of Prayer: Pray as directed by the Spirit. Pray now in a spirit of submission to Him. Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm: I invite you to sit in silence feeling the power of God over your life. Meditate and Visualize Positive Change in Your Life: What insights did you gain during these moments? What thing will change in your life after this moment? Share this message : Now visualize someone or a group of people who need this message. Imagine what their face would look like as they receive this scripture in their hearts. Imagine how you can share it with them. Conclusion: Print and use this scripture. I release a new episode of this every Sunday morning at 1AM Mountain time in the US. You can get more information about my podcast by visiting my website ChristianMeditationPodcast.com. I would ask that you pray that this podcast can continue to find people wh

***Due to a family emergency I will do more of a New Years theme in the next weeks. This meditation is focused on the power of God. It may be aesthetically pleasing to feel relaxation but the reason we do it here is to put our minds right to remove distraction. So as you sit now allow your breathing to slow. Feel the air come in and go out slowly. Allow your mind to slow. Now is the moment to allow your mind to calm in preparation to receiving God's word. Allow the worries of this world to fade away. The only thing that you have to do right now is breathe. Everything else is optional. You can feel your body relaxing as you take slow and intentional breaths. You feel your muscles relax. Your brain begins to reset and send out all kinds of signals to your body that you are safe in this moment. Take in that feeling for a moment. Allow this calmness to sink into you. Let it be part of you. As you prepare to receive this message continue to allow this feeling of peace to develop. Bible verse for meditation: Matthew 9:2-8 2 And there people brought to him a paralytic lying on a stretcher. When Jesus saw their faith, he said to the paralytic, "Courage, child, your sins are forgiven." 3 At that, some of the scribes* said to themselves, "This man is blaspheming."4 Jesus knew what they were thinking, and said, "Why do you harbor evil thoughts? 5 Which is easier, to say, 'Your sins are forgiven,' or to say, 'Rise and walk'? 6 But that you may know that the Son of Man has authority on earth to forgive sins"—he then said to the paralytic, "Rise, pick up your stretcher, and go home." 7 He rose and went home. 8 When the crowds saw this they were struck with awe and glorified God who had given such authority to human beings. KJV 2 And, behold, they brought to him a man sick of the palsy, lying on a bed: and Jesus seeing their faith said unto the sick of the palsy; Son, be of good cheer; thy sins be forgiven thee.3 And, behold, certain of the scribes said within themselves, This man blasphemeth.4 And Jesus knowing their thoughts said, Wherefore think ye evil in your hearts?5 For whether is easier, to say, Thy sins be forgiven thee; or to say, Arise, and walk?6 But that ye may know that the Son of man hath power on earth to forgive sins, (then saith he to the sick of the palsy,) Arise, take up thy bed, and go unto thine house.7 And he arose, and departed to his house.8 But when the multitudes saw it, they marvelled, and glorified God, which had given such power unto men. What does this scripture mean? What message materialized as you listened to this scripture? How does this scripture make you feel? Meditation on scripture / bible verse meditation: In this reflection I do not want to derail your thoughts which may be inherantly more applicable than what I will say but I like to add a thought that perhaps you can carry. Today my wife and kids were driving home from visiting family over Christmas. On the drive they got in a car accident where all of them were sent to the hospital via an ambulance. They were in a very small city and I was hours away. I dropped everything and drove the long distance to meet with them. As additional details came trickling in I found myself in though. One thing that I spend a lot of time thinking about is the balance God puts to us between faith and trust. On one hand he asks us to pray to him and ask him for what we need. On the other hand we are to trust his timing and what he wills. I'm happy to report that the accident was not life threatening and there do not seem to be broken bones at this point. I find myself grateful to God but I acknowledge that it could easily have gone another way. I love this scripture because it shows something so important. The greater miracle is that God forgives our sins. When things go well for us physically in this world, that may be nice but in an eternal sense the greatest gift is that of forgiveness. I am grateful for a God who has the power to do both and how thoughtfully he applies his will to us. No suffering is wasted if we draw nearer to him. Take a moment and reflect on the miracle of forgiveness. Meditation of Prayer: Pray as directed by the Spirit. Pray now in a Spirit of deep gratitude. Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm: I invite you to sit in silence feeling the power of God over your life. Meditate and Visualize Positive Change in Your Life: What insights did you gain during these moments? What thing will change in your life after this moment? Share this message : Now visualize someone or a group of people who need this message. Imagine what their face would look like as they receive this scripture in their hearts. Imagine how you can share it with them. Conclusion: Print and use this scripture. I release a new episode of this every Sunday morning at 1AM Mountain time in the US. You can get more information about my podcast by visiting my website ChristianMeditationPodcast.com. Next week I am going to read from Luke 2 for Christmas. If you

I am releasing this on Christmas eve. I imagine that today has been deficient in opportunities to sit and reflect. And probably a larger than average amount of rush. Dedicate these next 20 minutes to stillness and reflection on God's word. This is a time where you can dedicate to God. We are going to be doing something a little differently. We are going to read long sections of the narrative of the birth of Jesus in memory of Christmas. During the reading continue the reading and let these words sink into your heart. Bible verse for meditation: 1 And it came to pass in those days, that there went out a decree from Cæsar Augustus, that all the world should be taxed. 2 (And this taxing was first made when Cyrenius was governor of Syria.) 3 And all went to be taxed, every one into his own city. 4 And Joseph also went up from Galilee, out of the city of Nazareth, into Judæa, unto the city of David, which is called Bethlehem; (because he was of the house and lineage of David:) 5 To be taxed with Mary his espoused wife, being great with child. 6 And so it was, that, while they were there, the days were accomplished that she should be delivered. 7 And she brought forth her firstborn son, and wrapped him in swaddling clothes, and laid him in a manger; because there was no room for them in the inn. 8 And there were in the same country shepherds abiding in the field, keeping watch over their flock by night. 9 And, lo, the angel of the Lord came upon them, and the glory of the Lord shone round about them: and they were sore afraid. 10 And the angel said unto them, Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people. 11 For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord. 12 And this shall be a sign unto you; Ye shall find the babe wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in a manger. 13 And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God, and saying, 14 Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men. 15 And it came to pass, as the angels were gone away from them into heaven, the shepherds said one to another, Let us now go even unto Bethlehem, and see this thing which is come to pass, which the Lord hath made known unto us. 16 And they came with haste, and found Mary, and Joseph, and the babe lying in a manger. 17 And when they had seen it, they made known abroad the saying which was told them concerning this child. 18 And all they that heard it wondered at those things which were told them by the shepherds. 19 But Mary kept all these things, and pondered them in her heart. Matthew 2:1-14 1 Now when Jesus was born in Bethlehem of Judæa in the days of Herod the king, behold, there came wise men from the east to Jerusalem, 2 Saying, Where is he that is born King of the Jews? for we have seen his star in the east, and are come to worship him. 3 When Herod the king had heard these things, he was troubled, and all Jerusalem with him. 4 And when he had gathered all the chief priests and scribes of the people together, he demanded of them where Christ should be born. 5 And they said unto him, In Bethlehem of Judæa: for thus it is written by the prophet, 6 And thou Bethlehem, in the land of Juda, art not the least among the princes of Juda: for out of thee shall come a Governor, that shall rule my people Israel. 7 Then Herod, when he had privily called the wise men, inquired of them diligently what time the star appeared. 8 And he sent them to Bethlehem, and said, Go and search diligently for the young child; and when ye have found him, bring me word again, that I may come and worship him also. 9 When they had heard the king, they departed; and, lo, the star, which they saw in the east, went before them, till it came and stood over where the young child was. 10 When they saw the star, they rejoiced with exceeding great joy. 11 ¶ And when they were come into the house, they saw the young child with Mary his mother, and fell down, and worshipped him: and when they had opened their treasures, they presented unto him gifts; gold, and frankincense, and myrrh. 12 And being warned of God in a dream that they should not return to Herod, they departed into their own country another way. 13 And when they were departed, behold, the angel of the Lord appeareth to Joseph in a dream, saying, Arise, and take the young child and his mother, and flee into Egypt, and be thou there until I bring thee word: for Herod will seek the young child to destroy him. 14 When he arose, he took the young child and his mother by night, and departed into Egypt: What does this scripture mean? What message materialized as you listened to this scripture? How does this scripture make you feel? Meditation on scripture / bible verse meditation: Meditation of Prayer: Pray as directed by the Spirit. Pray now in a Spirit of deep gratitude. Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm: I invite you to sit in silence. Meditate and Visualize Positiv

Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation: Listen to the world around you. Sit quietly and hold your muscles gently. Leave your Body totally still. Instead of trying to control this moment just notice it. God has created every single spek of air entering your lungs. Your lungs have been perfectly designed to breathe this air. You feel it enter your body. You feel it interact in your lungs infusing them with live giving breath. Hold your attention lightly. If your mind wanders bring it gently back to the feelings of this relaxing pure air entering your body. All of creating declares to glory of God including this moment and the air you're breathing. You feel your muscles all over your body infused with God's gift of life giving breath. Let go of all need to force this moment. You notice your breathing is getting more deep and relaxed. Your mind is preparing to receive God's word in the Bible. Bible verse for meditation: This scripture is in Luke 1 KJV 28 And the angel came in unto her, and said, Hail, thou that art highly favoured, the Lord is with thee: blessed art thou among women. 29 And when she saw him, she was troubled at his saying, and cast in her mind what manner of salutation this should be. 30 And the angel said unto her, Fear not, Mary: for thou hast found favour with God. 31 And, behold, thou shalt conceive in thy womb, and bring forth a son, and shalt call his name Jesus. 32 He shall be great, and shall be called the Son of the Highest: and the Lord God shall give unto him the throne of his father David: 33 And he shall reign over the house of Jacob for ever; and of his kingdom there shall be no end. What though, image, impression, or memory accompanied this story. Reflect on that. As prepare to read another translation look for the similarities and differences. ESV 28 And he came to her and said, "Greetings, O favored one, the Lord is with you!" 29 But she was greatly troubled at the saying, and tried to discern what sort of greeting this might be. 30 And the angel said to her, "Do not be afraid, Mary, for you have found favor with God. 31 And behold, you will conceive in your womb and bear a son, and you shall call his name Jesus. 32 He will be great and will be called the Son of the Most High. And the Lord God will give to him the throne of his father David, 33 and he will reign over the house of Jacob forever, and of his kingdom there will be no end." What does this scripture mean? What message materialized as you listened to this scripture? How does this scripture make you feel? Meditation on scripture / bible verse meditation: Instead of giving additional insights I will quote Mary. 38 And Mary said, "Behold, I am the servant of the Lord; let it be to me according to your word." And the angel departed from her. Later she went to go visit her Relative Elizabeth. 46 And Mary said, "My soul magnifies the Lord, 47 and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior, 48 for he has looked on the humble estate of his servant. For behold, from now on all generations will call me blessed; 49 for he who is mighty has done great things for me, and holy is his name. 50 And his mercy is for those who fear him from generation to generation. 51 He has shown strength with his arm; he has scattered the proud in the thoughts of their hearts; 52 he has brought down the mighty from their thrones and exalted those of humble estate; 53 he has filled the hungry with good things, and the rich he has sent away empty. 54 He has helped his servant Israel, in remembrance of his mercy, 55 as he spoke to our fathers, to Abraham and to his offspring forever." It is difficult for me to express my feelings about the high value of righteous women. I was raised by an amazingly righteous woman. There is a reflection of Mary in the heart of every woman. Righteous women magnify the face of the Lord. If you are a woman, embrace this in your heart. If you know any women, then live in such a way to help them see how they magnify the face of the Lord. Meditation of Prayer: Pray as directed by the Spirit. Pray now in a Spirit of deep gratitude. Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm: I invite you to sit in silence. Meditate and Visualize Positive Change in Your Life: What insights did you gain during these moments? What thing will change in your life after this moment? Absorb this message. Take the insights you gained in this reflection and imagine what your life would change if you lived according to this knowledge. Picture in as great detail as possible this life. Imagine this in as vivid detail as possible. Imagining you act exactly how you wish you did, visualize yourself feeling exactly how you want to. Let this moment be as vivid and real as possible. Visualize blessing someone else: Share this message : Now visualize someone or a group of people who need this message. Imagine what their face would look like as they receive this scripture in their hearts. Imagine how you can share it with them. Conclusion: Print and use this scripture.

Now is a great time for you to slow down. You've already decided to have this moment be peaceful. Everything else fades out of your life for these minutes. As you continue to practice relaxation, you feel it come quicker and easier. You don't need to force out any external noises. Anything you hear and feel is part of this moment now and just let it be what it is. Just let things progress naturally. Your body was created by an almighty God. This body has an amazing ability to feel of His peace. You find yourself breathing effortlessly. You breath slows. you prepare your heart for the message from the Bible and therefore from God, continue this breathing. As you do you feel your muscles start to melt away. If you notice your mind trying to solve problems just remember that the only thing you have to do during this relaxation is to breathe. Everything else is optional. Continue breathing slowly and rhythmically. As your breathing has naturally slowed, help it expand deeper. Breathe so deeply and softly that your stomach fills with air. Continue breathing throughout the rest of this meditation. You feel your heart open and ready to receive the words of Jesus in this scripture as he is preaching in the sermon on the mount. Bible verse for meditation: This scripture is in Matthew 6:19-22 ESV 19 Do not lay up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy and where thieves break in and steal, 20 but lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust destroys and where thieves do not break in and steal. 21 For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also. 22 "The eye is the lamp of the body. So, if your eye is healthy, your whole body will be full of light, What though, image, impression, or memory accompanied this story. Reflect on that. As prepare to read another translation look for the similarities and differences. KJV 9 Lay not up for yourselves treasures upon earth, where moth and rust doth corrupt, and where thieves break through and steal: 20 But lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust doth corrupt, and where thieves do not break through nor steal: 21 For where your treasure is, there will your heart be also. 22 The light of the body is the eye: if therefore thine eye be single, thy whole body shall be full of light What does this scripture mean? What message materialized as you listened to this scripture? How does this scripture make you feel? Meditation on scripture / bible verse meditation: Many times when we hear Jesus' commands to drop our obsession with the things of this world. We sometimes try and justify that perhaps that is not really what he meant. Ultimately though, Jesus did mean what he said. The wonders and terrors of this life hold nothing when compared to things beyond this life. There is nothing that we can attain in our lives that is more valuable than what God has in mind for those who love him. The problem is we trick ourselves at times to think that we are unavoidably connected with this world. As we have experiences in scripture, prayer, and with God's Spirit, we realize that God's promises are more profound than anything of this earth. If we aren't careful we can get stuck. We think we can have it both ways. By learning to hold our desire lightly, we can be freed from this conflict. The unavoidable fact is that eternal peace cannot be earned through the treasures of this world. Ultimately the best good that earthly goods can do is to ease physical suffering and allow us to develop deeper love for each other, and above all to draw our hearts and focus to God. Those who find themselves in financial bondage may feel as though this scripture does not apply to us. The truth is that anytime we put life's greatest aspirations or fears in debt or wealth, we remain distracted. When you die and are reunited with God he will only interested with how you loved Him and your neighbor and how we showed this. The fear we cause ourselves by worrying about money also don't even have the effect of helping us out of any financial mess. If you connected with any of this message I offer us this final challenge. Let go of desire. Realize that you don't have to want anything to feel peaceful. You don't have to "need" anything in this world. The only thing that we truly need is God's grace and no amount of needing with force that issue only God's sovereignty. During this Christmas season focus on emotionally letting go of money. When we realize that we are stewards of the resources of this world our anxiety around money can dissipate. All that is left is to do the best we can. When we allow the money to be a treasure to us we miss the whole point. In your heart see if you can practice what it feels like to let go of the idea that money is treasure or that debt will enslave your soul for eternity. You can break free of this oppressive message with the Words of Jesus. Where your treasure is, there will your heart be also. Filter all f

Feel your breathing. Feel the air coming into your body. Feel the air flow down past your chest all the way down to your stomach. Let the air coming into your body come and let it go. Feel your stomach slowly grow. Imagine that your stomach is a large balloon. Let it softly expand and deflate. Feel your breathing as it comes in and out. If you feel the need to do something let it pass. In this moment the only thing you have to do is breathe. As you do this you feel any tension in your body go out. Just feel your breath let it go in and out. As you are doing this feel how much Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ love you. Even if you make mistakes they love you. As you prepare your heart for the message from the Bible and therefore from God, continue this breathing and relaxation. Bible verse for meditation: This scripture is in Mark 1:1-3 KJV 1 The beginning of the gospel of Jesus Christ, the Son of God; 2 As it is written in the prophets, Behold, I send my messenger before thy face, which shall prepare thy way before thee. 3 The voice of one crying in the wilderness, Prepare ye the way of the Lord, make his paths straight. What though, image, impression, or memory accompanied this story. Reflect on that. As prepare to read another translation look for the similarities and differences. NIV 1 The beginning of the good news about Jesus the Messiah, the Son of God, 2 as it is written in Isaiah the prophet: "I will send my messenger ahead of you, who will prepare your way" — 3 "a voice of one calling in the wilderness, 'Prepare the way for the Lord, make straight paths for him.' " What does this scripture mean? What message materialized as you listened to this scripture? How does this scripture make you feel? Meditation on scripture / bible verse meditation: Many Christians participate in types of anticipation for Christmas when we remember the coming of the Son of God. Some people use Advent calendars where they open a small door on an advent calendar leading up to the celebration of the coming of Jesus Christ into this world on Christmas day. This year the December 3 has been set as the first Sunday of the Advent. Many even choose something to give up similar to lent. In reflecting on Advent this is what led me to choose this scripture. In Jesus' earthly ministry there are few people on earth that understood his earthly ministry better than John the Baptist. When the Apostles were still clueless John was powerfully prophesying of the mission of Jesus. As we celebrate the coming of the Lord John's message can speak to us as a voice calling from the wilderness. Consider what you can do in your own actions, mind, and heart that would prepare the way of the Lord for you and those you know. How can you make his path straight? John's message can speak to us powerfully now as we prepare our lives for the coming of the Savior of the world. As the season gets busier and busier, dedicate time with God. In this time you can reflect on the miracle that was Jesus' birth. When you prepare for a party at work or with family, consider how can you make His path straight. When you are thinking of what presents to give, think how you can prepare for the coming of the Lord. Meditation of Prayer: Pray as directed by the Spirit. Pray now in a Spirit of deep gratitude. Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm: I invite you to sit in silence as you feel His gift in your heart. Meditate and Visualize Positive Change in Your Life: What insights did you gain during these moments? What thing will change in your life after this moment? Use you imagination to fully visualize what that change will look at. Image one very concrete change you will make in your life. What new action will you take. Visualize yourself now doing this new action. Make it as vivid as possible with as much detail. Visualize blessing someone else: Share this message : Now visualize someone or a group of people who need this message. Imagine what their face would look like as they receive this scripture in their hearts. Imagine how you can share it with them. Conclusion: Print and use this scripture. I release a new episode of this every Sunday morning at 1AM Mountain time in the US. You can get more information about my podcast by visiting my website ChristianMeditationPodcast.com. As you accept this Christmas season into your heart, may you feel his generous nature inspire you. The most valuable gift that you can give is to risk showing genuine care, love, and concern for others. This gift is not without risk, but it has the benefit of being infinite and limitless. The strangest blessing of the gift of love is the more we give, the more we have to give. May God bless you with the insights you need to love so deeply that it changes who you are. Let this Christmas be a time that causes your heart to grow as your realize how God can change you to meet his purposes. I pray that you will find the courage to follow Jesus and love, and in so doing discover the greatest jo

Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation: Stop. Listen. Notice your breath. Notice your body. Allow the rushing of thoughts to slow in your mind. Allow your focus to rest on your breathing. As you do this focus on allowing your breath to slow. Allow your focus to soften. There is no need for your to tense your focus. Allow it to rest gently on your slow and easy breath. One of the powerful aspects of meditation is how we can train our minds to slow. As we reinforce this trend it allows to think clearer at other times. As you continue to breathe deeply, you feel your muscles softening. You feel the tension leaving your body with no active will of your own. You feel your body and your mind prepare to receive the healing word of God. God's message for you is unique and powerful. He can help you. Remain open to God's word in the scripture I am about to read. As you here these words focus on the rejoicing nature of these words. Search the rejoicing response in your own heart. Bible verse for meditation: This scripture is in 2 Corrinthians 9:9-15 NABRE 9 As it is written: "He scatters abroad, he gives to the poor; his righteousness endures forever." 10 The one who supplies seed to the sower and bread for food will supply and multiply your seed and increase the harvest of your righteousness. 11 You are being enriched in every way for all generosity, which through us produces thanksgiving to God, 12 for the administration of this public service is not only supplying the needs of the holy ones but is also overflowing in many acts of thanksgiving to God. 13 Through the evidence of this service, you are glorifying God for your obedient confession of the gospel of Christ and the generosity of your contribution to them and to all others, 14 while in prayer on your behalf they long for you, because of the surpassing grace of God upon you. 15 Thanks be to God for his indescribable gift! What though, image, impression, or memory accompanied this story. Reflect on that. As prepare to read another translation look for the similarities and differences. NIV 9 As it is written: "They have freely scattered their gifts to the poor; their righteousness endures forever." 10 Now he who supplies seed to the sower and bread for food will also supply and increase your store of seed and will enlarge the harvest of your righteousness. 11 You will be enriched in every way so that you can be generous on every occasion, and through us your generosity will result in thanksgiving to God. 12 This service that you perform is not only supplying the needs of the Lord's people but is also overflowing in many expressions of thanks to God. 13 Because of the service by which you have proved yourselves, others will praise God for the obedience that accompanies your confession of the gospel of Christ, and for your generosity in sharing with them and with everyone else. 14 And in their prayers for you their hearts will go out to you, because of the surpassing grace God has given you. 15 Thanks be to God for his indescribable gift! What does this scripture mean? What message materialized as you listened to this scritpure? Meditation on scripture / bible verse meditation: How do you bless others? What gifts have you been given that bless others? What are the seeds of this giving? This scripture shows us how deeply our generosity is connected to God. Our generosity comes from being enriched by God. God is the one who provides the seeds of our giving. It is through the generosity that resides in our hearts, inspired by God, and in turn our generosity results in gratitude to God. This happens in our hearts and also in those who are blessed when our hearts yield to a generous nature. Thanks be to God for his indescribable gift! Not only does this service cause thanksgiving to God but it also results from obedience that accompanies our confession of the Gospel of Christ. As we live according to the commands of Jesus Christ our hearts will naturally be filled with a generous nature that leads other to thanksgiving to God. As we prepare to enter the Christmas season, lets have this message guide us. May our expressions of gratitude before God result in an overwhelming generosity of heart that leads us to give the most valuable gift of all, love. God himself showed us this message. This is the true meaning of the Christmas season. The birth of our Lord and savior Jesus Christ represents the greatest generosity in the history of earth. The condescension of God is the reason for our rejoicing. We share with each other gifts and love in memory of this, the greatest gift. Thanks be to God for his indescribable gift! If you feel emotional or financial burdens of this season, may they melt in importance when compared to the eternal value of the Salvation that came through Jesus Christ. His birth was a requitsite step. He first must be born as the Son of God before he could save the world. Remember the purpose of Christmas is not only the veneration of the baby but the fac

026 As a Hospice chaplain 026 Your Faith Has Made You Whole - A Guided Christian Meditation Podcast Luke 17:12-19 How to feel God's Peace. I work as a Hospice Chaplain and having worked as an ICU chaplain in a busy hospital, my purpose in making this podcast is to help you find more peace in your life and to be more open to be changed by the Spirit of God. Outline: Relaxation, Reading, Meditation, Prayer, Contemplation, Visualization Feel free to use this podcast each day for the coming week. Repetition will help it remain in your memory longer. Intro: We will begin with some deep breathing in order to remove distractions so that we can focus completely on God's word. Close your eyes Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation: Stop. Listen. Notice your breath. Notice your body. Allow the rushing of thoughts to slow in your mind. Allow your focus to rest on your breathing. As you do this focus on allowing your breath to slow. Allow your focus to soften. There is no need for your to tense your focus. Allow it to rest gently on your slow and easy breath. One of the powerful aspects of meditation is how we can train our minds to slow. As we reinforce this trend it allows to think clearer at other times. As you continue to breathe deeply, you feel your muscles softening. You feel the tension leaving your body with no active will of your own. You feel your body and your mind prepare to receive the healing word of God. God's message for you is unique and powerful. He can help you. Remain open to God's word in the scripture I am about to read. As you here these words focus on the rejoicing nature of these words. Search the rejoicing response in your own heart. Bible verse for meditation: This scripture is in Luke 17:12-19 NIV 12 As he was going into a village, ten men who had leprosy met him. They stood at a distance 13 and called out in a loud voice, "Jesus, Master, have pity on us!"14 When he saw them, he said, "Go, show yourselves to the priests."And as they went, they were cleansed.15 One of them, when he saw he was healed, came back, praising God in a loud voice. 16 He threw himself at Jesus' feet and thanked him—and he was a Samaritan.17 Jesus asked, "Were not all ten cleansed? Where are the other nine? 18 Has no one returned to give praise to God except this foreigner?" 19 Then he said to him, "Rise and go; your faith has made you well." What though, image, impression, or memory accompanied this story. Reflect on that. As prepare to read another translation look for the similarities and differences. KJV 12 And as he entered into a certain village, there met him ten men that were lepers, which stood afar off:13 And they lifted up their voices, and said, Jesus, Master, have mercy on us.4 And when he saw them, he said unto them, Go shew yourselves unto the priests. And it came to pass, that, as they went, they were cleansed.15 And one of them, when he saw that he was healed, turned back, and with a loud voice glorified God,16 And fell down on his face at his feet, giving him thanks: and he was a Samaritan.17 And Jesus answering said, Were there not ten cleansed? but where are the nine?18 There are not found that returned to give glory to God, save this stranger.19 And he said unto him, Arise, go thy way: thy faith hath made thee whole. What does this scripture mean? What message materialized as you listened to this scritpure? Meditation on scripture / bible verse meditation: It can be hard for us in modern times to identify with or even understand such a miraculous change. Leprosy was a horrible and lethal skin disease. Not only did it cause immense physical suffering but it resulted in people being completely isolated from their family and all of their past sources of emotional support. The healing here is indeed miraculous but that is not the focus of the story. The focus and purpose of this story is placed squarely on the response of those healed. Unfortunately this scripture demonstrates the immense and almost limitless potential of us as humans to not acknowledge the source of blessings and give thanks. Similar to these lepers we have been given so much. The fact that you have the ability to listen to this recording shows the immense power of technology to bless and change our lives. We have human connections, we have financial blessings, we have life, we have LIFE. The positive side of this story is that each of us can choose to be like this single leper who returned to give thanks to Jesus. In the moments that follow I want to allow you to focus on thanksgiving but not in a spirit of obligation. Imagine how you would feel as this leper did. Life your voice or thoughts high to God in a spirit of rejoicing. I know many of you do not live in the US but this week in the US we celebrate Thanksgiving day. Use this time of thanksgiving to not only be grateful but lift your voice in rejoicing to God. He has told us that as we are grateful we will feel his blessings more deeply. Both Scripture and science converge on

Stop. Listen. In your heard in this moment let these words resonate. Lord, here am I. Your servant is listening. As you do this you feel your breathing start to slow. As you invite air all the way down into your belly you feel a tingle of release in all your tense muscles. Feel this calm. Bible verse for meditation: This scripture is in 1 John 1:8-10 KJV 8 If we say that we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us. 9 If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. 10 If we say that we have not sinned, we make him a liar, and his word is not in us. ESV 8 If we say we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us. 9 If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. 10 If we say we have not sinned, we make him a liar, and his word is not in us. Meditation on scripture / bible verse meditation: I meant to do an episode on forgiveness, as in the need we have to forgive each other but I felt a strong pull to this passage. Only after we fully own our need for forgiveness to the other mandates of Jesus and his Apostles reach our hearts. Many calls for us to forgive are coincided with comparisons of our own need for forgiveness and how that is much greater. It is quite unfashionable to speak of sin these days. Many people have been wounded by shame. Many of us fear our temptation, and we want to overcome it so badly. The sad consequence is that we can turn a blind eye. We must train our hearts to listen to our conscience. John loves the message of light for Jesus. When we constantly ignore God's light we become less able to perceive it. When we feel convicted by the spirit, and we listen, the sentence is served not by shame but by a broken heart and a contrite spirit. We can reach a place when our ego is surrendered to gain the peace of God. Consider who would win in a contest, the conviction of the Holy Spirit, or you? God's desire to purify our hearts will ultimately bring us more happiness and peace than anything else in this life. When we can bow before him and feel the deep paradox of our eternal need for him while also feeling complete in Him. Meditation of Prayer: Pray as directed by the Spirit. Pray now regarding the beatitude that is resonating with you. Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm: I invite you to sit in silence with a heart of gratitude for his ability to forgive us. Meditate and Visualize Positive Change in Your Life: What insights did you gain during these moments? What thing will change in your life after this moment? Use you imagination to fully visualize what that change will look at. Image one very concrete change you will make in your life. What new action will you take. Visualize yourself now doing this new action. Make it as vivid as possible with as much detail. Visualize blessing someone else: Now visualize someone or a group of people who need this message. Imagine what their face would look like as they receive this scripture in their hearts. Imagine how you can share it with them. Conclusion: Print and use this scripture. I release a new episode of this every Sunday morning at 1AM Mountain time in the US. You can get more information about my podcast by visiting my website ChristianMeditationPodcast.com. After hearing the blessings many of you have been experiencing this podcast, I feel it is a good idea to offer an opportunity for you to support that option financially I have a Patreon page setup to accept donations at Patreon.com/christianmeditationpodcast. In this way you can help support this cause of bringing peace. May you experience His peace in your life as you make these changes is my prayer in Jesus name. Amen. FIND ME ON: iTunes Facebook ChristianMeditationPodcast.com Youtube Twitter Pintrist

Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation: As you start to relax, resist the urge to force yourself to relax. Many times this is not successful. Instead focus on living in this moment that you have right now. Notice your body. As you pay attention to your breathing you are in a place to notice the work of God in bringing your heart peace. As Moses said to the people of Israel when they were stuck between the Red Sea and the Pharaoh's armies: "Fear ye not, stand still, and see the salvation of the Lord." Hear this message right now. Fear ye not. Stand Still and see the Salvation of the Lord." Allow your breathing to expand. Allow it to slow down. As you do, you feel your body slowly unwind. Allow you breathing to go all the way down into your belly. You feel your muscles unflexing. Your shoulders start drooping . As you go throughout the rest of this meditation you will continue to notice your breathing slow and become deeper. If you notice your breathing starting to speed, notice it and allow it to become deeper. This scripture is a powerful one. In this story Jesus teaches how important it is to serve each other and specifically those who are oppressed, those who are powerless, those who most need it. Allow your heart to remain open as you commit to allow the words of God to reach the deepest part of your heart. My show notes are normally much more descriptive. Bible verse for meditation: This scripture is in the gospel of Matthew 25:34-40 34 Then shall the King say unto them on his right hand, Come, ye blessed of my Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world:35 For I was an hungred, and ye gave me meat: I was thirsty, and ye gave me drink: I was a stranger, and ye took me in:36 Naked, and ye clothed me: I was sick, and ye visited me: I was in prison, and ye came unto me.37 Then shall the righteous answer him, saying, Lord, when saw we thee an hungred, and fed thee? or thirsty, and gave thee drink?38 When saw we thee a stranger, and took thee in? or naked, and clothed thee?39 Or when saw we thee sick, or in prison, and came unto thee?40 And the King shall answer and say unto them, Verily I say unto you, Inasmuch as ye have done it unto one of the least of these my brethren, ye have done it unto me. Meditation on scripture / bible verse meditation: Meditation of Prayer: Pray as directed by the Spirit. Pray now regarding the beatitude that is resonating with you. Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm: I invite you to sit in silence and wait on the Lord. Meditate and Visualize Positive Change in Your Life: What insights did you gain during these moments? What thing will change in your life after this moment? Use you imagination to fully visualize what that change will look at. Image one very concrete change you will make in your life. What new action will you take. Visualize yourself now doing this new action. Make it as vivid as possible with as much detail. Visualize blessing someone else: Now visualize someone or a group of people who need this message. Imagine what their face would look like as they receive this scripture in their hearts. Imagine how you can share it with them. Conclusion: Print and use this scripture. I release a new episode of this every Sunday morning at 1AM Mountain time in the US. You can get more information about my podcast by visiting my website ChristianMeditationPodcast.com. After hearing the blessings many of you have been experiencing this podcast, I feel it is a good idea to offer an opportunity for you to support that option financially I have a Patreon page setup to accept donations at Patreon.com/christianmeditationpodcast. In this way you can help support this cause of bringing peace. May you experience His peace in your life as you make these changes is my prayer in Jesus name. Amen. FIND ME ON: iTunes Facebook ChristianMeditationPodcast.com Youtube Twitter Pintrist

023 I Have Engraved You on the Palms of My Hands - A Guided Christian Meditation Podcast on Isaiah 49:14-16 As a Hospice chaplain and having worked as an ICU chaplain in a busy hospital, my purpose in making this podcast is to help you find more peace in your life and to be more open to be changed by the Spirit of God. Outline: Relaxation, Reading, Meditation, Prayer, Contemplation, Visualization Intro: We will begin with some deep breathing in order to remove distractions so that we can focus completely on God's word. Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation: As we begin, look down at your hands. Pick one and stare at it. If you can't do this, visualize it or look at some other part of your body. Notice the creases in your hands. Try and notice every contour. When I look at my hands I notice small hairs, pores, and many scars. As you do this let your whole focus rest on what you are seeing. Perhaps you run your fingers along the palms of your hands. As you do this breathe deeply. Allow all your focus gently rest upon your hands. The imagery of our hands reminds us what we have done. These hands of yours have been with you your whole life. When you have held a baby, or touched the grass and dirt. When you have worshiped and sinned. This is part of your existence on earth. Perhaps you have lost the ability to fully use your hands or the experience discomfort. Perhaps you never think about them. Our relationship to our body is very complex and confusing at times. Take this time to breathe deeply and allow all your muscles relax. Don't run from feelings that come but just let them be without fighting it. Open your heart to the word of God in the Bible. I'm breaking tradition a little here. As you continue to relax close your eyes and keep breathing deeply. One of my new friends who has reached out to me via my website ChristianMeditationPodcast.com send me this message while we were talking about some hard things going on in his life. He brought up this scripture. Bible verse for meditation: This scripture is in the gospel of Isaiah 49:1-6 1Hear me, coastlands,listen, distant peoples.Before birth the LORD called me,from my mother's womb he gave me my name.2He made my mouth like a sharp-edged sword,concealed me, shielded by his hand.He made me a sharpened arrow,in his quiver he hid me.3He said to me, You are my servant,in you, Israel, I show my glory.4Though I thought I had toiled in vain,for nothing and for naught spent my strength,Yet my right is with the LORD,my recompense is with my God. 5For now the LORD has spokenwho formed me as his servant from the womb,That Jacob may be brought back to himand Israel gathered to him;I am honored in the sight of the LORD,and my God is now my strength!6It is too little, he says, for you to be my servant,to raise up the tribes of Jacob,and restore the survivors of Israel;I will make you a light to the nations,that my salvation may reach to the ends of the earth At times we can feel dejected. We can feel overcome. Deeply in need of the peace of the LORD. Later in the same scripture we find this profound scripture. Keep your heart open as you receive this scripture. Notice what word or thought your attention rests upon. Isaiah 49:14-16 Catholic Bible (NABRE) 14But Zion said, "The LORD has forsaken me;my Lord has forgotten me." 15Can a mother forget her infant,be without tenderness for the child of her womb?Even should she forget,I will never forget you. 16See, upon the palms of my hands I have engraved you; your walls are ever before me. Look for similarities and differences in this reading. ESV 14 But Zion said, "The LORD has forsaken me;my Lord has forgotten me."15 "Can a woman forget her nursing child,that she should have no compassion on the son of her womb?Even these may forget,yet I will not forget you.16 Behold, I have engraved you on the palms of my hands;your walls are continually before me. Meditation on scripture / bible verse meditation: Take another deep breath as you ponder what this scripture means. What stuck out to you as you focused on the scripture? Continue breathing deeply and pondering as I share some thoughts. When I first started the podcast I started very exegetical and technical. Since there are many more people much smarter than me and the main goal of this podcast is to align ourselves with the spirit of peace my focus has turned to application. Part of me wants to talk about how Isaiah 49 forms one of the other servant songs. Similarl to Isiah 53 covered in episode 9. I'll place my focus on this follow on scripture. At times we find ourselves feeling as though we have sinned before God and are no more worthy to be called his sons and daughters. At times we feel thrown off, neglected, or worse… rebellious. This scripture is a calm reminder of the care of God. I've held my own children with the overwhelming love of a father. As they have rested helplessly in my arms as they weep I have felt profound love for them. The love of a mother is even more uni

Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation: As we begin, focus your attention on the idea of a blessing? Bring all of your focus to this word as your breathing slowly begins to expand. Feel the gentle breath enter your body as you imagine this idea of a blessing. Allow your breath to go all the way down to your stomach. Count your breath out. As you breathe in count to 5 slowly, then gently pause for a moment, then allow the air in you to gently rush out. Each breath you take is a blessing. Each breath you take is a miracle. Gently allow each new breath to come into your lungs for 5 seconds, the rest in your belly, then escape harmlessly. As you continue breathing, you feel the tension leave your body. All the tension leaves you slowly. Its is as though it is as ice that is melting and flows out of you. If you mind ever wanders, bring it back to this idea of a blessing. You feel a blessing rushing in you with each breath of fresh air being pulled into your lungs. As you continue to breath, you feel a gentle contentment with your life in this moment. These breaths are cleansing you from the inside and allowing you to focus all your attention. As I begin to read this scripture keep breathing deeply. This message will continue to speak peace to your heart and show you the many ways which we will be blessed. Keep your heart and mind open as you hear this message from God found in His scripture, the Bible. Place all of your focus on the scripture, allowing God to send you a message. This scripture is the beginning of Jesus sermon on the mount. Bible verse for meditation: This scripture is in the gospel of Matthew 5:2-12 2 And he opened his mouth and taught them, saying:3 "Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.4 "Blessed are those who mourn, for they shall be comforted.5 "Blessed are the meek, for they shall inherit the earth.6 "Blessed are those who hunger and thirsty for righteousness, for they shall be satisfied.7 "Blessed are the merciful, for they shall receive mercy.8 "Blessed are the pure in heart, for they shall see God.9 "Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called sons of God. 10 "Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness' sake, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.11 "Blessed are you when others revile you and persecute you and utter all kinds of evil against you falsely on my account. 12 Rejoice and be glad, for your reward is great in heaven, for so they persecuted the prophets who were before you. Meditation on scripture / bible verse meditation: Take another deep breath as you ponder what this scripture means. What stuck out to you as you focused on the scripture? The Sermon on the Mount and comprises Matthew 5-7. This first section is referred to as the Beatitudes Early texts of it did not have chapters and verses. As a result ancient readers would refer to a text by its first line. In this way the Sermon on the Mount was referred to as "Blessed are the poor." As a reference to this, early Christians did not call themselves Christians but they called themselves "The Poor." among other names. When I read the sermon on the mount, I am impressed that these could refer to other people and to myself in the future. In my line of work as a chaplain I think of those that mourn as being other people who I am ministering to. On the other hand I strive to be a peacemaker. How are these admonitions affecting you? Which are you latching onto? Take a deep breath and let this direction from Jesus, influence your heart. Listen to these brief references. Poor, mourn, meek, hunger, merciful, pure in heart, peacemakers, persecuted. Which one of these speaks to you, either as you are, or as you would like to be? Hold this thought in your mind as we pray. Meditation of Prayer: Pray as directed by the Spirit. Pray now regarding the beatitude that is resonating with you. Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm: I invite you to sit in silence and wait on the Lord. Meditate and Visualize Positive Change in Your Life: What insights did you gain during these moments? What thing will change in your life after this moment? Use you imagination to fully visualize what that change will look at. Image one very concrete change you will make in your life. What new action will you take. Visualize yourself now doing this new action. Make it as vivid as possible with as much detail. Visualize blessing someone else: Now visualize someone or a group of people who need this message. Imagine what their face would look like as they receive this scripture in their hearts. Imagine how you can share it with them. Conclusion: Print and use this scripture. I release a new episode of this every Sunday morning at 1AM Mountain time in the US. You can get more information about my podcast by visiting my website ChristianMeditationPodcast.com. After hearing the blessings many of you have been experiencing this podcast, I feel it is a good idea to offer an opportunity for you to support that option f

Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation: As part of the meditation we will begin by starting with a relaxation. A powerful way to do that is to really connect with you body in some way. For this focusing and relaxing exercise I want you to pay close attention to your heart. Try and see if you can feel your heart beating. Notice it right now. Realize how you have almost never though about the beating of your heart for any extended period of time. Notice the impact of your breathing on your heart. As you pay attention to it as you relax your muscles you start to feel it beat more slowly. Allow every muscle in your body relax. Imagine that you even relax your heart. As you continue breathing, you notice your breathing slow. You feel your heart become lighter. Allow your attention to move from your physical heart to your metaphoric heart. Imagine where in your body you feel emotion. Can you place it? Where does the feeling of calm sit inside of your body? Where does the feeling of love sit inside of you? Pay attention to this place in you as you hear this reading from the Bible. Bible verse for meditation: This scripture is in the gospel of Luke 24:31-33 KJV 31 And their eyes were opened, and they knew him; and he vanished out of their sight.32 And they said one to another, Did not our heart burn within us, while he talked with us by the way, and while he opened to us the scriptures?33 And they rose up the same hour, and returned to Jerusalem, and found the eleven gathered together, and them that were with them, NIV 31 Then their eyes were opened and they recognized him, and he disappeared from their sight. 32 They asked each other, "Were not our hearts burning within us while he talked with us on the road and opened the Scriptures to us?"33 They got up and returned at once to Jerusalem. There they found the Eleven and those with them, assembled together Meditation on scripture / bible verse meditation: What does this scripture mean to you? What stuck out to you as you focused on the scripture? This of a time when you may have felt something in connection to your faith. Recently I was meeting with a woman whose husband was dying. As I talked with her I asked her what she thought would happen in the afterlife. She talked about how she wasn't sure if she was a Christian. She referred to the fact that she had heard people refer to people hearing the voice of God or seeing him walking beside them. What resulted was a conversation that was a blessing to both her and me. She grew up being told many things about what God would do if she professed her faith. Instead of discussing this directly my chaplain instinct was to provide her with evidence in her own context that God may already have answered her question. After talking for a little while I mentioned the above scripture. We both felt God's spirit of peace and calm. The spirit of God washed over us both. If you have been listening to these podcasts and you are not sure where your faith is at, consider this. As you have been listening to these episodes and you have felt peace… did not your heart burn within you? Did not your heart burn within you? Meditation of Prayer: Pray as directed by the Spirit. Let your heart remain open as you pray. Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm: I invite you to sit in silence and wait on the Lord. Meditate and Visualize Positive Change in Your Life: What insights did you gain during these moments? What thing will change in your life after this moment? Use you imagination to fully visualize what that change will look at. Image one very concrete change you will make in your life. What new action will you take. Visualize yourself now doing this new action. Make it as vivid as possible with as much detail. Visualize blessing someone else: Now visualize someone or a group of people who need this message. Imagine what their face would look like as they receive this scripture in their hearts. Imagine how you can share it with them. Conclusion: Print and use this scripture. I release a new episode of this every Sunday morning at 1AM Mountain time in the US. You can get more information about my podcast by visiting my website ChristianMeditationPodcast.com. I have been getting more feedback through my website contact form. I very much appreciate to hear your inspiriational and sad stories of how this podcast is experiencing you. This experience has helped me to change the way I think about this podcast. For all of you that I have talked to via email, I am grateful for your encouragement. So many of you have given me so much strength. In no uncertain terms you have told me to keep going no matter what. This has helped me understand the value that is being added to the world by the simple action of me recording into a microphone in my home. I am not shy about the blessing that this podcast is. If you share that same feeling, share it on social media. Also I'm in the planning stages to developing an iOS and Android app for this podcast to