Breath
Breath life deep breathing exercises peace calm health Sandra Lee Christian counseling Loveland Fort Collins Windsor
As we continue to reflect on the Easter season, let's pause to recognize how breathing signifies the gift of life from God.
The act of breathing holds profound significance. From the very beginning, when God breathed life into Adam (Genesis 2:7), to the moments of Jesus' final breath on the cross (Luke 23:46), our breath is intertwined with the essence of existence.
In Psalm 150, we are reminded, "Let everything that has breath praise the Lord." This verse emphasizes the sacred connection between our breath and our praise to God.
In the New Testament, Jesus breathed the Holy Spirit onto his disciples, signifying a connection to God (John 20:21-22). This act highlights the intimate relationship between breath, life, and our connection to God.
Every breath is a sacred reminder of our connection to God and the gift of life He has given us. Jesus died for our sins, bridging the gap between us and God, offering forgiveness and eternal life. His resurrection signifies victory over death, ensuring hope and new life for all who believe. So let's breathe deeply, with gratitude for this precious gift, and find meaning in every inhale and exhale, knowing that each breath signifies life and death, just as it did for Jesus on the cross.
In my recent blog post, I discussed the importance of keeping our thoughts captive and using guided meditation as a tool for mental well-being. Guided meditation often incorporates deep breathing exercises, which help us focus our minds and center our thoughts.
While the Easter season may have passed, the message of renewal and hope it brings can still inspire us to cultivate practices that nurture our connection with God. So, as we journey forward, let's remember the gift of breath and the simple yet profound act of deep breathing, allowing it to guide us toward an ever-deepening relationship with our Creator.
May each breath remind us of the sacredness of life and the intimate connection we share with God.
Anxiety
Anxiety Worries Fears Faith Storm Sandra Lee Christian Counseling licensed therapist Loveland Fort Collins Windsor CO
Have you ever stopped to consider how worries and anxiety impact our physical and mental health? They go beyond affecting just our productivity and contentment. They can disrupt our sleep, cause gastrointestinal issues, raise stress levels, and even contribute to cardiovascular problems. From weakened immunity to feelings of depression and panic attacks, worries and anxiety can create an overall sense of dissatisfaction in our lives.
In Philippians 4, we're reminded of the power of trusting in God amidst our worries. Verse 6 urges us, 'Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.' This verse encourages us to bring our worries to God in prayer, trusting in His faithfulness to provide peace and comfort.
Similarly, in 2 Corinthians 10:5, we're instructed to 'take captive every thought to make it obedient to Christ.' I love the quote that says, “Don’t tell God how big your storm is, tell the storm how big your God is,” (Luke 8:22-25). It's a powerful reminder to shift our focus from our worries to the greatness of God, acknowledging His sovereignty over every situation.
To support our journey from worry to faith, consider incorporating practices like guided meditation. Resources like the Abide and Dwell apps offer guided meditations rooted in Scripture, providing a peaceful space to connect with God and find renewal in His presence.
Let's make a conscious effort to shift our focus from worry to faith, knowing that God is greater than our fears. Through prayer, gratitude, and trust in His promises, we can find peace amidst life's uncertainties.
#FaithOverFear #TrustInGod #Peace #Philippians4 #Prayer #Meditation #Anxiety #ChristianCounseling
Gratitude
Gratitude Happiness Therapy Christian Counseling Sandra Lee Loveland Fort Collins Windsor CO
As a licensed therapist and a Christian counselor, I love seeing how evidenced-based research aligns with what Scripture has been teaching us all along. Did you know that practicing gratitude can lead to greater happiness and well-being, regardless of the circumstances we may face? Research from the Journal of Personality and Social Psychology reveals that counting our blessings can significantly impact our overall happiness levels.
In 1 Thessalonians 5:18, we're reminded to "Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus." This verse underscores the importance of gratitude in our daily lives, regardless of the circumstances we face.
By focusing on the things we're thankful for, we can cultivate a positive mindset and experience greater joy. So let's take a moment today to reflect on our blessings and express gratitude for the abundance of goodness in our lives.
What are 5 things you're grateful for today? #Gratitude #Happiness #BiblicalWisdom #1Thessalonians518