What’s it like when we can’t breathe? We panic. We flail. We make poor decisions out of desperation. We feel alone, woefully inadequate. Certainly, our God meets us at times such as these. He tells not to fear. He assures us He will not abandon us but be present with us. He offers His help, reminding us that we are weak but He is mighty. 

“…how much more will your heavenly Father give the Holy Spirit to those who ask Him!” (Luke 11:13, NKJV)

You might hear it in family squabbles. Criticism starts. Tempers flare. Civility vanishes. Frustration mounts. Finally, thoroughly exasperated someone blurts out, “I need to get some air,” and storms out the front door. In television drama that’s when an ally heads out to sidle up to the friend while she puffs away on a cigarette. 

That’s a curious expression, isn’t it – “Get some air”? I mean, there’s already plenty of air in the room they were in. No one was gasping. Everyone was breathing just fine, a little heavily perhaps from all the commotion, but finding all the oxygen they needed. 

Getting some air has to do with finding some space. They need to get away from all the drama. They need to slow their breathing and settle down. 

There are times we can experience that. We feel like we’re being ganged up on, maybe backed into a corner. The pressures of parenthood close in on us.

Read More