Learn about the natural rhythm of inhaling God's spiritual breath and exhaling prayer and worship in our daily lives.
Talking Points:
- Proper breathing is key to singing, long-distance running, marksmanship, childbirth, and so many other activities. The average human breathes 673,000,000 times in his or her life.
- Jesus tells us that though we might be alive physically, nobody can come to spiritual life unless they are born of the Spirit. The greek word “pneuma” – or spirit – is also translated as breath. John 3:1-8
- John Wesley used the term “spiritual respiration” to describe the works of grace that God breathes into us, then we exhale God’s goodness and grace in our lives. The rhythm of spiritual respiration is the key to the Christian life. James 2:26
Discussion:
- Initial reactions to this topic? What jumped out at you?
- Share a time you were completely out of breath or had a hard time breathing. What risks come from not breathing well?
- Read Genesis 2:7. What’s the significance of God breathing life into man? How does this relate to John Wesley’s idea of “Spiritual Respiration”?
- Read John 3:1-8. Why do you think Jesus used the idea of being born again? What does Jesus mean when he tells Nicodemus that “Spirit gives birth to spirit”?
- Read James 2:26. How does this verse relate to “spiritual respiration”? What are some “deeds” that should be evident in your life as a Christian?
- Is there a step you need to take based on today’s topic?
