Thinking about all the right things can be hard especially when we're worried about things like the health and needs of a loved one, if we'll have enough money to make ends meet or even be able to find the things we need. But God's word instructs us on how to do that in Philippians 4:6-9 'Do not fret or have any anxiety about anything, but in every circumstance and in everything, by prayer and petition (definite requests), with thanksgiving, continue to make your wants known to God. And God's peace [shall be yours, that tranquil state of a soul assured of its salvation through Christ, and so fearing nothing from God and being content with its earthly lot of whatever sort that is, that peace] which transcends all understanding shall garrison and mount guard over your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus. For the rest, brethren, whatever is true, whatever is worthy of reverence and is honorable and seemly, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely and lovable, whatever is kind and winsome and gracious, if there is any virtue and excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think on and weigh and take account of these things [fix your minds on them]. Practice what you have learned and received and heard and seen in me, and model your way of living on it, and the God of peace (of untroubled, undisturbed well-being) will be with you.' When all is said and done it is much easier to hear or read God's instructions for us then it is to put them into practice with practice being the operative word. Practice. Practice. Practice. Keep bringing your thoughts back to love, joy, peace, and a place of tranquility one thought at a time. You don't have a deadline, you're not given a time frame to master controlling your mind, just remember it's for your benefit.
With all of this extra time on our hands we can also do things we've been putting off whether it's cleaning out the garage, organizing the closet, practicing a new song, doing a Bible study, or starting a new hobby. Personally I've got things I wanted to do and never had the time. But first I'm planning on starting a small garden so I'll have my own supply of healthy veggies that are so necessary and important to our immune system. This is a good time to get on that immune healthy diet by incorporating more veggies into it. I love this time of year because I love vegetables.
I plan to soon get started on a Bible study that I've been wanting to do of Hebrews 11. I've been wanting to dissect it and study the life of each historical person mentioned. We can learn so much from the lives and actions of others. These particular people are being mentioned for their great faith which is something we need at a time like this. Whether the precautions taken are an over reaction or not enough during a pandemic we can find peace, hope, and joy in our heavenly Father and his word, the Holy Bible. God, his Holy Spirit, and his Word have been bringing me peace and encouragement since I was a little girl and it will you also. God bless each and everyone. Keep your mind on the riches of God's grace and remember his unconditional love for you.
Lisa C
