“Centered praying leads to Christ-centered living and generous loving.”
Thoughts from daily Bible reading for today – March 31, 2025
You will keep in perfect peace those whose minds are steadfast, because they trust in you. Isaiah 26:3
Centering prayer is a well-established practice focusing on the Father, Son, and Spirit with undistracted intimacy. Occasionally, I begin my day with centering prayer, but I aspire to make this my primary experience with the Lord every morning. This routine of silent prayer starts for me with a cup of coffee as I sit in my prayer chair, close my eyes, and turn to my Savior and Lord Jesus for His love and affection. When my mind roams, I refocus using a calming word like love, joy, or gratitude. Re-centering calms my heart and allows my mind to be renewed by grace and truth. Ten to twenty minutes is adequate to invite the Holy Spirit’s presence. I set an alarm to resist the temptation of checking my watch and, by faith, wait in the embrace of perfect Love.
Peace and trust are the fruits of a steadfast mind on our Savior, Jesus Christ. Peace arises from focusing on the face of Jesus, which brings calm. It is a face of love that warms the heart, a face of wisdom that renews the mind, a face of hope that energizes resolve, and a face of forgiveness that offers healing and hope. When we behold Jesus, we are in the presence of the Prince of Peace. Trust is another fruit of a mind that is steadfast in God. A steadfast mind focused on the Lord experiences deep trust and unshakable faith. When we center our thoughts on Him, fear diminishes, worry weakens, and faith grows stronger. Centering prayer bears healthy fruit.
How do you overcome distractions during centering prayer? Overcoming distractions in centering prayer isn’t about fighting your wandering thoughts—it’s about gently refocusing on God. Picture your mind as a lake. When distractions arise, they’re like ripples on the water. Instead of chasing them, allow them to settle and return to stillness. One way to stay centered is by using a sacred word or phrase like “Jesus” or “Peace.” When distractions come, quietly repeat it to bring your focus back. Light a candle to remind you of Jesus Christ, who illuminates love. Silence may feel uncomfortable at first, but don’t rush it. Instead of battling your thoughts, surrender them to God. He’s not desiring perfect focus—just your humble heart. Keep showing up and breathing in His presence; over time, distractions will fade, leaving only His peace.
Centering prayer places Christ at the center of your life. When Jesus is at the core, decision-making becomes simpler as the Holy Spirit lovingly guides your choices. Christ-centered living means putting Jesus at the heart of everything—your thoughts, decisions, relationships, and daily actions. It’s not just about believing in Him but also living for Him. Start your day with centered prayer, seeking His wisdom before making choices and trusting His plan even when life feels uncertain. Carry on with centered prayers throughout the day, loving others as Jesus did, showing kindness in tough times, and forgiving because He first forgave you. Christ-centered living isn’t about perfection—it’s about alignment. It’s about keeping your heart focused on Him when distractions arise, choosing faith over fear, and surrender over control. When centered in prayer, Jesus stays at the core; peace replaces anxiety, purpose overcomes confusion, and joy becomes unshakable. Centered praying leads to Christ-centered living and generous loving.
Prayer
Lord, help me quiet my mind and center my heart on You. Remove distractions, deepen my focus, and draw me into Your presence. Let my prayer be still, surrendered, and filled with peace. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Application
Consider a ten-minute, 30-day challenge in Centering Prayer.
Related Reading
I Kings 19:12; Psalm 46:10; Romans 8:26; Philippians 4:6-7
Worship Resource
Gateway Worship feat. Jessie Harris: The More I Seek You
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