Find a comfortable place to sit or lie down and take a few deep breaths in for a count of seven . Hold the breath for a count of five , now slowly exhale for a count of seven . Now that you're familiar with our muscle relaxation exercise , let's perform muscle relaxation by simply tensing each muscle group for three seconds and then releasing the muscle .
Remember , don't hold your breath for this portion of the meditation . Begin with the calves, lightly tense the calf muscles for a count of three and relax . Moving forward to the hamstrings , quads and glutes, lightly tense for three seconds and release . Moving to the chest and back areas, lightly tense for three seconds and release .
Finally , moving to the arms and shoulders , lightly tense these muscle groups for three seconds and release . Before we come before the Lord in prayer and meditation, let's remember to enter into his courts with praise and thanksgiving .
Just as kings , judges and even presidents are honored in their royal courts , we must approach the throne of God with humility and reverence . Take a moment to lift up your voice in praise and sing a song of adoration and thanksgiving to our Heavenly Father , who is worthy of all honor and glory .
As you begin this meditation , reflect on the words of 1 Corinthians , chapter 12 , which reminds us that we are each uniquely gifted by God for a specific purpose in the body of Christ . Consider how your own gifts and talents are meant to be used to build up the church and spread the love of Christ to the world .
Close your eyes and imagine yourself standing before God , feeling His love and grace surrounding you . Thank Him for creating you with a specific purpose in mind and ask Him to reveal that purpose to you through His Holy Spirit .
As you meditate on your purpose in Christ , consider how your gifts and talents can be used to serve others in the church and bring glory to God . Are you a natural encourager , someone with a heart for the lost , a gifted teacher , a compassionate listener ?
Whatever your gifts may be , know that they are valuable and necessary for the body of Christ to function as it should . Take a moment to pray and ask God to show you how you can use your gifts for his kingdom . Ask him to guide you in using your talents to bring hope , healing and reconciliation to a world in need of his love .
As you continue to meditate , remember that your purpose in Christ is not just about what you do , but also about who you are in him . You are a beloved child of God , chosen and set apart for a life of purpose and meaning with eternal ramifications .
Allow this truth to sink deep into your heart and soul , filling you with confidence and peace in knowing that you are exactly where God wants you to be .
Take a few more deep breaths and open your eyes , carrying with you a renewed sense of purpose and identity in Christ , knowing that you are a vital part of the body of Christ , uniquely gifted and called to make a difference in the world for His glory , amen .