Breath Prayer – Origins // Mark 10:47

Breath prayers are my current favorites. I found this approach to prayer works best for me in my daily coming and going life because I can simply lift them when the moment comes. It fits within the Apostle Paul’s encouragement to pray without ceasing (1 Thessalonians 5:17). It’s hard to do that with head bowed and eyes closed; especially while driving or doing something that requires attention. A breath prayer helps invite God’s powerful presence into a situation regardless of where you are or what you’re doing.

Today’s verse from Mark 10:47 is widely believed to be the first breath prayer, at least as we see in Scripture. The context is the blind man named Bartimaeus heard the commotion surrounding Jesus and he called out, “Jesus, Son of David, have mercy on me!” This is a direct declaration of faith regarding Jesus’ identity. Jesus asked the man what he wanted, and the reply was to see.

Breath prayers can be helpful for us to focus on the presence and power of God in the midst of life’s commotion. This is a perfectly acceptable prayer for you to lift to God when you need help. Give it as try!

I will share some of my favorite breath prayers over the next few days. The whole idea is to introduce a new and unique way to help you connect with God in any moment. I hope you find this helpful and allow it to shape your prayer life in a meaningful way.

Keep breathing!
~ Mark