Breath In Our Lungs

Thus says the Lord GOD to these bones: Behold, I will cause breath to enter you, and you shall live.

As someone who lives in a state with more than ten thousand lakes, I should be well-versed in all things water. Unfortunately, I’m not the strongest swimmer. I still have to plug my nose when I jump into a lake.

Though I enjoy plunging into cool water on a scorching hot day, it’s in those moments of silent stillness when I’m submerged that I truly appreciate air or—more precisely—the lack of it. Because the longer I try to hold my breath under water, the more uncomfortable my body becomes. At that moment, something I usually take for granted becomes the most essential thing in the world, and I’m desperate to recover it. Breaking the water’s surface and gulping in oxygen is a sweet relief.

We don’t usually need to prompt our bodies to inhale oxygen and exhale carbon dioxide; our lungs function without a conscious reminder. We even describe circumstances as being “as natural as breathing” when they are effortless. Yet most of us can’t go very long without a breath unless we’ve had special training. It’s only the absence of air that reminds us how essential it is—not just for our well-being but for our very survival. It’s not an understatement to say that we can’t live without it.

Yet the air we inhale is also a good reminder of the God we serve. With a word, he breathed life into us. And even though it has become automatic, our bodies have never forgotten it. Many people look for miracles or wonders to remind them that God exists, yet refuse to notice the everyday miracle of our breath. You and I are miracles—walking around, living, and breathing—a symphony our body executes effortlessly.

Let’s use our breath to praise God. Let’s thank him for every inhale and exhale, every time our lungs fill. He alone gave us life and breath, and they are a remarkable reminder of our Creator.

Kristin

Today’s Act of Gratitude

Take five deep breaths, thanking God on every exhale.