In order to abide and be present with the Lord, we have to be still. Still with His word, still in prayer, still to listen. Some of my most profound and meaningful times with the Lord literally came from just being. Not striving or working to make something happen just simply resting, abiding and just being His. Being one with the One who knows all and has everything I need.
When I think about the word ‘abide’ I think of this constant connection.
When we are connected we just naturally grow. Like a tree planted. It’s not running around wondering what kind of tree it is. It’s firmly and deeply planted, connected and grows and bears fruit. Or for some trees, it goes and grows through different seasons where colors change and leaves fall and then bloom again.
This small strength practice is a way you can practice abiding. It will help you find strength all while being still, finding balance, connecting to your body and literally planting your body to abide in the posture and with God.
Stretch Practice and Healing Recipe:
Stretch Practice:
Stand in with both feet grounded with your hands by your side. Spread your toes, press your feet into the mat and firm your leg muscles. Raise your front hip points toward your lower ribs to gently lift in your lower belly.
Inhale deeply, lifting your chest, and exhale as you draw your shoulder blades down your back. Look straight ahead at a steady gazing spot.
Place your hands on your hips and raise your right foot high onto your left thigh or shin. Avoid making contact with the knee.
Press your right foot and left leg into each other.
Check that your pelvis is level and squared to the front.
When you feel steady, place your hands at the heart in prayer or stretch your arms overhead like branches reaching in praise
Hold for several breaths, then step back into Your standing posture that you began with and repeat on the other side.
As you move from side to side breathe in this truth
“Abide in Me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit of itself unless it abides in the vine, so neither can you unless you abide in Me.” John 15:14 (NKJV)
Healing Recipe:
Digestive Nut Smoothie
1 frozen banana
1 cup unsweetened almond milk
2 tablespoons peanut-only PB
2 dates
Small chunk of raw ginger
Cinnamon to your liking
Blend and enjoy with a thankful heart
Scripture taken from the New King James Version®. Copyright © 1982 by Thomas Nelson. Used by permission. All rights reserved.