“Centering Prayer is a method of silent prayer that prepares us to receive the gift of contemplative prayer, prayer in which we experience God’s presence within us, closer than breathing, closer than thinking, closer than consciousness itself. This method of prayer is both a relationship with God and a discipline to foster that relationship,” centeringprayer.com.

“Draw near to God and he will draw near to you.  Cleans your hands, you sinners; and purify your hearts, you doubleminded,” James 4:8.

Centering or contemplative prayer is something I learned this past summer from, MM, a soft spoken, wise and compassionate Christian mentor to me.  She’s like my adopted Naomi, only nothing about her is bitter only peaceful.   I was sharing I have racing, negative and frantic thoughts when I wake up at my peri-menopausal 4:00 a.m.  Anxiety plagues me worst in the middle of the night.

She suggested this very simple prayer technique.  It works.

This prayer isn’t for libido specifically.  It helps tame anxiety and put you in the direct presence of peace from our Lord and Savior.  Overcoming our fears (which is the root cause of stress and anxiety, I believe) will allow our libido to come out of hiding.

Centerping Prayer Directions In a nutshell:

1. Choose a significant word that is sacred to you and helps you draw closer to God. (I choose to use the phrase, “Jesus Christ is my Lord and Savior.”  Other words or phrases could be:  Abba Father, Hope, Peace, Sustainer, Salvation, Mercy, Wonderful Counselor….etc.)
2. Assume a comfortable position. (Since I’m doing this in bed when I wake up at 4 a.m., I’m already comfortable.)
3. Relax your body starting at the top of your head and working down. Use body awareness to release tension from your muscles.  Be slack.
4. Release a deep breathe while thinking your word/phrase during the duration of your exhale. Or, if your phrase is longer, like mine, divide it in half.  I think, ‘Jesus Christ,’ while I exhale.  I think, ‘is my Lord and Savior,’ while I inhale.
5. Say your phrase or word a few times and then just remain silent in God’s presence. Repeat word/phrase when you feel like it.  Alternate between phrase and silence.

For me, profound peace has always followed this exercise.  Insight into my anxiety has occurred, too.  I am game to try any technique that helps me align with the will of God and to be in his powerful peace-filled presence, even if it is unusual.

Please see this link (LindsayBoyer.com) for more detailed instructions.  The audio at the bottom is very helpful and only about 3 minutes long.

I am thankful for the Forgiven Wife who has offered our Scripture Meditation and Positive Affirmation this week.

Scripture Meditation

“My soul clings to you; your right hand upholds me,” Psalm 63:8.

Positive Affirmation (action verb: Cling)

I cling to God. I cling to my husband as he clings to me. I cling to my husband’s heart for God. I cling to the knowledge that sexual intimacy will provide comfort and connection to us both when we are ready. I cling to the cycle of emotions for now, knowing that amidst the hurt and fury, there is compassion and deep love. I cling to God’s love for me. I cling to my resolve to fight at the side of my warrior husband as we overcome struggles and attain true intimacy.