Ezekiel 37:5 NLT “This is what the Sovereign LORD says: Look! I am going to put breath into you and make you live again!”
“Breath of God” is a common term in the Bible and churches. It is often used to show the essence of the Holy Spirit. The original Greek word for Breath is also translated as wind or spirit. We first see an example of the breath of God in Genesis 2:7 “Then the Lord God formed a man from the dust of the ground and breathed into his nostrils the breath of life, and the man became a living being.” Later on in the Old Testament, we see God instruct Ezekiel to prophesy over the dead bones in the wilderness, and He will breathe life into them again. In John 20 we get another vivid demonstration: 21 Again Jesus said, “Peace be with you! As the Father has sent me, I am sending you.” 22 And with that, he breathed on them and said, “Receive the Holy Spirit.” As I researched, I found God’s breath can bring life or death. He can also empower, enlighten and regenerate with just one breath.
Recently, my pastor gave a different perspective on this subject that I had not considered. Since the Holy Spirit dwells within us, once we accept Christ, then the breath of God still fills our lungs. We use that air to offer praise and worship back to our Father in heaven. This thought provides me with a beautiful picture of God’s circle of life. He breaths life into me and I breathe worship and praise back to Him. I loved the imagery.
After a few days on reflecting on these words, I started to think more about how else I use the Holy breath within my lungs. One minute, I offer God’s words of encouragement to a friend in need, and with the next breath, I curse the guy that cut me off in traffic. I sing hymns at church to glorify God, and then I yell at my husband for something insignificant. I must grieve God with all my improper use of His breath within my lungs. Just like God uses His breath to give life, to empower people and to comfort people, we are called to do the same. I think it is time for me to reexamine my words before I speak them to make sure they follow the example set for us in the Bible.
Blessings,
Yvonne with Orphan Relief Effort
Matthew 28:19 “Therefore, GO and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit.”
