¹²So then, brothers and sisters, we are debtors, not to the flesh, to live according to the flesh — ¹³for if you live according to the flesh, you will die; but if by the Spirit you put to death the deeds of the body, you will live.¹⁴For all who are led by the Spirit of God are children of God. ¹⁵For you did not receive a spirit of slavery to fall back into fear, but you have received a spirit of adoption. When we cry, “Abba! Father!” ¹⁶it is that very Spirit bearing witness with our spirit that we are children of God, ¹⁷and if children, then heirs, heirs of God and joint heirs with Christ — if, in fact, we suffer with him so that we may also be glorified with him.

• Light a candle to remember Christ’s presence with you.
• Sit five to fifteen minutes in silent meditation paying close attention to the deep breath.
• As you inhale, embrace the spirit of adoption.
• As you exhale, let go of the spirit of slavery.
• Continue to breathe deeply as you become open and free.
• As you become free, rest in the arms of Abba! Father!
• Share any of your suffering with the one who suffered for you.
• Share any of your joy with the one who made you with joy.
• Ask Abba how the Spirit will lead you today.
• Sit and listen.
• Listen for God’s message for you.
• Give thanks to God for this time in prayer and for any new insights you have received.
• Share as you feel led in the reply box below.