The Breath of New Life

Today's Word of Wonder: Empower

The Scripture Spotlight for Today

"And with that he breathed on them and said, 'Receive the Holy Spirit.'"
— John 20:22 (NIV)

The Devotion: The Defining Breath

In the quiet, tense moments after the resurrection, the disciples were locked away, gripped by uncertainty and fear. They were still operating with human strength, limited perspective, and overwhelming anxiety. They were missing the one essential component for the enormous mission ahead.

Then, Jesus appears and does something profoundly symbolic: He breathed on them.

This gesture takes us immediately back to the very first book of the Bible, Genesis 2:7, where God breathed the breath of life into dust, creating mankind. Here, in John 20:22, Jesus performs the equivalent of a new creation. He breathes the Holy Spirit into His followers, initiating a new, empowered life built not on their own frail resolve, but on divine strength.

The Holy Spirit is not an afterthought; He is the Breath of God that enables us to live the abundant life Jesus promised. He transforms our worry into rest (Philippians 4:6-7), our fear into courage (Joshua 1:9), and our struggle into strength (Isaiah 40:31).

A WOW Moment is recognizing that you don't have to operate on your own limited supply of willpower. The same power that raised Christ from the dead—the very Breath of God—is available to Empower you for the mission of your day, whether that mission is forgiveness, courage, or simply getting out of bed with hope. Receive that Breath today.

Wonder Prompt (Actionable Reflection)

Think of the biggest challenge you are facing today that requires more than your natural strength.

• Take three slow, deep breaths.

• With each inhale, remind yourself: "I am receiving the Holy Spirit."
  
  
• With the final exhale, let go of the anxiety and declare: "I am empowered for this challenge." How does this physical and spiritual act change your next step?