An Exercise In Practicing the Presence of God {Thursday Therapy}
Ever have ugly moments in your life that dictate your inner dialogue, emotions, and, heaven help you, your reactions? Good. You're normal.So what does a nice, mature Christian do in such ugly moments?
Practicing the Presence of God
First of all, admit that you are having a ugly moment (or hour, or day, or month). You're human. It's part of the package. Have a good cry if it will make you feel better.Next, observe your inner life. What are you thinking and feeling? Don't get too introspective—just be an observer for a few minutes.How would you label your actions? You know—your outer life—the one people have to live with—your sad, lonely, withdrawn, anxious, bitchy, freaked-out, or moody life?Now, set that all mentally aside and focus on one thing: the God who created you loves you. This is the God who IS love. Absolute Love. The God who will overwhelm you with LOVE the moment you come face to face with him in Heaven.Because that's WHO HE IS—Love. He's the One who surrounds you with Himself right now, even if you can't feel him. He's got you covered. You're saturated in love. He is not going to let you go. Trust me.Take a deep, slow breath in. And then exhale. Repeat several times. As you breathe in, think of yourself as breathing in Love. Tell yourself that you are loved by Love (God IS Love). Picture yourself filling up, surrounded by, and supported by Love.When you exhale, the ugly leaves. It doesn't like to be where Love lives.Rest. Breath. Keep focused on Love. Rest. Breath. Don't focus on the ugly. Rest. Breath.Rinse and repeat for 15 minutes.Allow yourself to be loved by the the One who IS Love. This is practicing the presence of God. It's a great exercise for when the world seems out of control. Really.Ready for more? See How to Let God Love You and How Calming Prayer Can Reduce Stress and Anxiety.Take a few moments each day to practice the presence of God by doing this exercise. Even if there is no ugly in your life right now. Someday there will be. And you'll be prepared. Because you know how to rest in the lap of the God who IS Love.Have a great weekend, Susan"Jesus likes it when we share." -Adelaide, age 3: Pass this along to everybody and their brother. OK, maybe not everybody's brother, but you know . . . all of your friends would be nice.Sponsor: