A little inhale……. hold your breath…. and exhale

Again.
Inhale… this time, hold your breath on 3 counts, tighten your stomach.
Then, exhale as loud as you can

One last time.
Take in as much air as you can. Close your eyes and inhale…. make sure your stomach is tightened. Count 5 this time.

To exhale, use your mouth.

Relax all your muscles.

No, this is not a yoga lesson. Rather, a lesson on gratitude and the habit of thanksgiving.

Reading the story of the Israelite and how they murmured at every point. It did not matter that they had just witnessed a miracle two minutes ago; once they were faced with slight discomfort, they complained and made God look like a bad guy.
I used to judge them and wonder why a person would complain after witnessing the Red Sea split into two and the chariot of Pharaoh drown.

Why would you complain despite knowing you are chosen by God among other nations?
Why would you complain right after God fed you?
Why would you create an idol, seeing the miracles that God had performed in the wilderness?
Why would you want to replace such a God with inanimate objects?

Why would you shift your focus away from a God that keeps chasing after you despite your flaws?

As I reflect on these, I repented. Why would I judge them when I am just like them?
This year has been one of my toughest but best years yet, but why do I still complain?
I caught myself today complaining, and I immediately repented.

Thanksgiving is a choice and a discipline.

Thanksgiving is a commandment.

When our heart is in despair, or when it is full of joy, our mouth should constantly be full of thanksgiving. This is not because of the current situation. However, it should be our heart disposition. For who He is, for what He has done, for his faithfulness in the past. For the confidence that we have because, through it all, he loves us and has chosen us in him. (Ephesians 1:5)

Again, inhale deeply and as you exhale whisper “Thank you, Jesus.”

You can do that five times.

Enjoy the rest of your day