It's been a while since I wrote in my blog, but life has been hectic. Lots of events, travel, and get-togethers in the past few months, and I have surely missed writing.
The one thing I have held onto during this busy phase is my letters to God. Writing to God is my safety net, my true confession each day, where I ask God to lead the way, not me.
One of my journal exercises this morning was based on Philippians 4:6-7 and Psalm 23.
"Don't worry about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God." Philippians 4:6
It is a simple statement. Many of us say it, but how many really go through life acting like this? Only a few. I talk to people daily who spend their time worrying or feeling anxious. Often, the holidays make it even more prominent.
But the scripture goes on. It gives us even better advice:
"And the peace of God which transcends all understanding will guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus." Philippians 4:7
How many of us really take the time to present our requests to God, turn over each situation, and go on with our day? "Peace of God transcends all understanding" doesn't mean we won't be sad, frustrated, or confused. It means we can have complete and utter confidence that God is in control and will work all things for good. We need to give all our worries to God; He WILL handle them!
What happens once you have given God all of your worries? You need to fill your mind with something else. We need to meditate.
Many people say, "I don't know how to meditate." But they do. They do it every day when they worry! Meditating is focusing on one thought over and over. When you worry, you meditate.
Instead of focusing on your worries, focus on a small portion of scripture. Maybe what's written above, or try Psalm 23:
"The Lord is my shepherd; I lack nothing. He makes me lie down in green pastures; He leads me beside quiet waters; he restores my soul. He guides me in paths of righteousness for His name's sake. Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me.
You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies. You anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows. Surely goodness and love will follow me all the days of my life, and I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever."
In my study, I broke down Psalm 23 in my own words. How I interpret it:
The Lord is my shepherd, my GPS. When I need to, He lays me on my back. He shows me the way to peace. He refreshes my soul - I feel or imagine the water filling me like I feel the relief when I am super thirsty. He guides me where I am supposed to go to do HIS will! Even in tough times, I have no fear, as He is always with me and has a plan. He prepares anything I need when faced with enemies. Goodness, love, and peace follow me all my days until I live eternal life in Heaven.
As you head into the next few weeks of family events and time with friends, remember, HE IS THE REASON FOR THE SEASON. Don't put God on the back burner, and try to handle everything on your own. He is your staff and your rod. You can lean on HIM! He has a plan greater than our own that we can be sure of.
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