Breath Prayer

“Be still, and know that I am God.”

Psalm 46:10

Breath prayer comes from the desert tradition and the Jesus Prayer of the Eastern church: a single short sentence prayed with the rhythm of breathing. It is prayer for the days when longer words will not come.

1. Step 1

   Choose a name for God

   Whatever you most need him to be right now — Shepherd, Father, Lord Jesus, Prince of Peace.

   What name will you breathe in?

2. Step 2

   Choose one honest request

   Six words or fewer. 'Have mercy on me.' 'Hold me steady.' 'You are enough.'

   What will you breathe out?

3. Step 3

   Pray it slowly

   Inhale the name, exhale the request, for two or three minutes. Use the timer on the Prayer page.

   What did you notice as you prayed it?