In our day of many negative news stories, we need a reminder of what we should dwell on. I’m not saying we should completely ignore the news. We need to be informed, but dwelling on the ugliness in our world will drag us down. Negativity can also push us to believe lies. We need discernment to think correctly.
God provides a way to keep our minds on what is true, honorable, just, pure, lovely and commendable. His word gives guidance for every situation. God did not give us details on how to handle every situation, but He gives the principles we need.
As we navigate the rough terrain of 2020, we need to seek God to keep our minds focused on what will bring peace. God’s peace. Philippians 4 gives good advice.
Dear Heavenly Father, thank You for providing truth and the principles we need to seek the truth. Please help us to think on the correct things.
I am thankful to see a little bit better news these days, although sadly much negativity is still circulating. The reality is that bad things will happen. We live in a sin cursed earth (read the book of Genesis to see the origins of that). However, even though we see ugly, hard things around us there are many blessings.
I have heard a saying, “Blessings come to those who notice.” There is Biblical truth in those words. We can get too focused on the negative and miss the positive. I’m not saying that we pretend the bad things never happen, but I think we need help to keep a proper perspective.
I love to tell stories – positive stories – stories of blessing. I have told several in my blog. God sent me some more this week. The picture behind Psalm 34:8 was sent to me by a friend who was thinking of me. #heartwarming! Another day I saw a friend at the grocery store. I had a big grin on my face as I waved through the window to get her attention. We talked for a few minutes. I was smiling for a while after our conversation (especially when she waved at me at the next store). That evening God painted the sky yellow, orange and pink as the sun was going down. I love the beauty of sunset. All of these happenings were hugs from God – blessings God sent my way.
I am still processing the negative things that God allowed in my life this week. He is using those to perfect me (James 1:2-4). However, I want to notice and claim God’s goodness to get me through each day. Blessings hold great power when we allow God to work.
Dear Heavenly Father, thank you for the blessing you send my way: friends who know and love You, all the beauty in Your creation. Please help me to keep a proper focus on the blessings in my life and encourage others to do the same. Please give me the strength to view the challenges correctly and not let them weigh me down.
Have you ever been anxious – silly question, right? We have all faced anxiety at some point or another. If you are living, you have opportunity for anxiety and stress. It is the reality no matter what.
I am so thankful that God provided a way to end my anxiety. As I pray with both thanksgiving and request, God will send His peace that provides protection. He never fails.
Dear Heavenly Father, thank you for sending peace when I come to You in praise and pleading. I ask for help now as I face the day to day challenges that You allow in my life.
The past several weeks have brought out the best and worst in people. While there are a lot of tough things going on, the worst thing we could do is despair and forget God’s goodness. As we come to Easter (starting with Palm Sunday tomorrow), we need to dwell on the truth of Who God is. God is a loving father, Who gave His only Son to save people who chose wrong over right (John 3:16). Look at the book of Romans – you will see all of us have sinned.
Palm Sunday is a reminder of people who praised and worshipped Jesus. Shortly before He gave His life to save us (John 10:18), he received praise and worship from those around Him. People laid down palm branches for the donkey He rode to walk on. This action was a sign of respect in the culture of that area and time.
Where is our respect and worship these days? A potentially tough question any time – maybe even more so now. I pray you know Who Jesus is and why worshiping Him is so important. If not, please ask. I would be happy to share the truth of Who God is with you.
Dear Heavenly Father, thank you that Jesus gave His life so willingly to save my soul. Thank you for providing every need – especially when I’m not aware. Please forgive me when I don’t pay attention to Your provision and help me to be more attentive. Oh Father, I want to share the hope – the sure hope – of Who You are and what You have done. Please guide me each day.
Pleading in Prayer 