Photo by Jeremy Bishop on Unsplash
As a child, I struggled to breathe, battling croup as an infant and a near-fatal case of bronchitis at nine. It’s easy to forget how miraculous each breath is, especially when it once felt so fragile. So take a deep, refreshing inhale and remind yourself how amazing it is—just to breathe. Life is sustained by the steady rhythm of breathing, a simple yet profound reminder of God’s constant presence. Having once fought for every breath as a child, I see now each inhale as a gift—a moment where God’s Spirit sustains body and soul. From the first breath He gave humanity to now, every breath is a reminder that we are alive with purpose, carried by His presence.
“Let everything that has breath praise the Lord!” (Psalm 150:6 ESV).
Every living thing has oxygen in common with every other living thing. Breath is a symbol of life and the vitality of the Spirit. With each breath, God is actively working to sustain you. When overwhelm overtakes you, remember that the breath that gave life to Adam is the breath within you.
And when he had said this, he breathed on them and said to them, ‘Receive the Holy Spirit.’ (John 20:22 ESV)
Jesus breathed the Holy Spirit into His disciples. It was moment of transformation and empowerment. Like breathing, the Holy Spirit is essential to our spiritual lives. Each breath you take can be a reminder of this deeper reality—God’s presence in you. The Spirit working in you is an example of the sustaining power and connection we have with God. Your inhale is not just for the body but for the soul. It’s a reminder that you are not alone
Spiritual Move: Contemplation—Take time for stillness and mindfulness, just as you are when you breathe. In that stillness, focus on the moment and reflect on the Spirit. May each breath remind you of His encouragement, power, and the life He’s given you.
Try this Move: Pause for a few moments of intentional breathing. With each inhale, invite the Sprit; a moment of life and peace. With each exhale, surrender your anxieties to God. Journal Prompt: How does recognizing God’s breath in you change your perspective? Where do you need to invite the Spirit more completely into your circumstances?