Reading with Breathing

Sometimes, I read the Bible to study it, paying attention to who wrote each passage, who they were speaking to, what was going on historically and culturally, what the big ideas and themes are stuff like that. When I read the Bible during my quiet time, I often like to have my journal open in front of me so that I can write down verses that stick out to me. Then I can underline and circle words and phrases, or write down thoughts, questions, frustrations, and prayers. I find that writing helps me focus as I engage with the Bible and connect with God. But there are other times when I don’t use my journal. Lately, when I have felt weary and frustrated, I will read a passage (usually a psalm) slowly, one phrase at a time, in rhythm with deep breaths. This practice helps me settle myself, slow down, let the words sink in. Here’s an example. Psalm 23 starts with the words, “The Lord is my shepherd, I lack nothing.” So, I might close my eyes, open my hands so they’re facing palms-up and resting on my knees, and repeat the words in my head as I breathe slowly: (Inhale) The Lord is my shepherd, (Exhale) I lack nothing. Sometimes, I do a whole verse in one breath. But if a word or phrase sticks out to me, I might breathe with it slower or repeat it a couple times. For example: (Inhale) The Lord is (Exhale) my shepherd (Inhale) (Exhale) The Lord (Inhale) is (Exhale) my shepherd I might breathe through the whole psalm, or maybe just a verse or two. This slow practice has helped me calm and quiet myself, and re-center my heart and mind on God. When I spend time with God, I’m reminded of His goodness and love and that makes it a lot easier for me to trust Him. As God’s truth washes over me, He cleans off the ick that has gotten stuck to me as I’ve gone through life, and He “refreshes my soul” (Psalm 23:3). • Hannah Howe • How do you like to read the Bible? we meditate on your unfailing love. Psalm 48:9 (NIV)