Are you dragged down by bad news? Tired of Coronavirus? Tired of political lies and shenanigans? Tired of murders, riots, and racism? Pretty much sick and tired of it all?
Well, I’ve got some good news! There is something we can do to bring our minds out of the depression brought on by the problems of the world.
While Paul languished in a Roman prison and the Philippian church was enduring severe persecution, Paul encouraged the Philippians to rejoice and be glad. He said,
“Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things.” Philippians 4:8 NIV
In other words, don’t think about all the problems we face. Instead, think about things to be glad about.
We can let our minds be dominated by bad news or we can follow Paul’s admonition and set our minds on all things praiseworthy, lovely and true. The Philippians had good reason to be depressed and discouraged, but Paul told them that there was something else they could do. And that’s what we need to do today!
Make a decision to rejoice and be glad. Make a decision to think about what is noble, pure, and admirable. Avoid negative Facebook rants and don’t obsess on the news. I want to be informed, but I don’t want to watch the same news more than once.
Paul knew the Philippians would be worried about him. Roman prisons were horrific! Historians describe Rome’s Mamertine Prison as a former cistern – a dungeon in a well that was a dozen feet below ground. It was small, dark, dank, and stone-cold. (Jeremiah Study Bible)
But Paul said this:
“Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice! 5 Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near. 6 Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. 7 And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” Philippians 4:4-7 NIV
It they could experience the peace that passes understanding then, so can we today. God has made that provision for His children. Jesus said,
“Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.” John 14:27 NIV
“Do not let your hearts be troubled. You believe in God; believe also in me.” John 14:1 NIV
What are you thankful for today? Make a list of all the beautiful people you know and write down at least one thing that makes them special. Watch your mood change as you obey God’s Word and trust Him to give you the peace we so desperately need.
With Love,
Cindy
This Is My Journey Unscripted.
Do you want to become a Christian? Click this link to learn more: Who Is Jesus?
realchristianwomen.blog
It is important to be intentional with what we are consuming at the moment. Otherwise it really drags us down.
There is so much good we can focus on. Thanks for sharing Cindy.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thank you, Perth. Yes, in spite of it all there is a lot to be thankful for. Blessings, my friend!
LikeLiked by 1 person
What a lovely blessed post! It is no wonder Philippians is called the most uplifting book of the Bible. God bless you sister.
LikeLiked by 2 people
Thank you for your encouragement. Blessings, HTH!
LikeLike
Wonderful post Cindy! We definitely need to focus more on the positive things around us and we will find the peace we need in our Saviour. You said it right, thanks!
LikeLiked by 2 people
Amen! Blessings, Steve!
LikeLiked by 1 person
GREAT advice for this day and age, Cindy. And if Paul can do it, so can we! Thank you for this word today!
LikeLiked by 2 people
Thank you. Blessings, Patty!
LikeLiked by 1 person
Amen! So well said, Cindy!
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thank you. Blessings, Mrs Mariposa!
LikeLiked by 1 person