The first time I remember strength training for football I was in the 3rd grade. I had just started my 14 year football career, playing for the Sagemont Cowboys. Our coach was teaching us proper form for push-ups. The only thing I remember him telling me was, "Cagle, don't forget to breathe!" I didn't realize it, but I was focusing so hard on doing something new, something hard, that I failed to breathe.

While breathing may seem obvious, you'd be surprised how often people forget to breathe properly when doing something difficult. And yet, the body needs oxygen for muscles to function well. Getting stronger isn't just about proper lifting. It's also about proper breathing.

I've been thinking about the advice my little league coach gave me as I've encountered all the new and difficult things Covid-19 is bringing our way. In addition to all the necessary adjustments we are making to ensure fewer people get the virus, we are also adjusting to new schedules, new work environments, and isolation. Don't forget to breathe.

Our Psalm for this week happens to be the 23rd Psalm. While we do not know exactly when David wrote this song, we do know he experienced many trials and his life was threatened a number of times. Even if he wrote this song as a child tending sheep as some have suggested, I imagine that he regularly sang the song when he experienced the valley of the shadow of death as an adult.

I encourage you to try a breathing exercise as you read and meditate on this Psalm. Breathe in as you prayerfully read the first part of each verse. Breathe out as you prayerfully read the second part. Continue breathing in this slow and methodical manner as you invite the Spirit to search you, to comfort you, to lie you down in green pastures, and to restore your soul.

Remember, God is with you, every step of the way. We, too, are with you. If you'd like people to pray with you and for you, please email us at prayer@ecclesiaclearlake.org. If you or somebody you know needs some extra care, you can reach out to any of our elders or you can email our pastors at pastor@ecclesiaclearlake.org.

Sincerely,
Pastor Coby