Sometimes I feel discouraged. I mean, I AM discouraged with my need of the reminder to be thankful and gracious. Maybe you have this thing nailed for good. I don’t. I feel anxious about what people think about our decisions or lack thereof. I worry about timing of events that involve us or our family. I fret my people’s behaviors, appropriate or otherwise. I get butterflies about getting to the airport on time, and about hosting overnight guests, even though I enjoy both flying and hosting immensely. I routinely push down these fears with careful planning and not a little prayer.
Fortunately, I have Philippians 4:4-8 to remind me, over and over. The CSB rendering is delightful. How do I lose sight of this?
Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice! Let your graciousness be known to everyone. The Lord is near.
Don’t worry about anything, but in everything, through prayer and petition with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus.
Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable—if there is any moral excellence and if there is anything praiseworthy—dwell on these things.
Even though I believe that God is in control, I have to be reminded of it. It’s the dust-ness of us, no doubt. I’m so glad that God knows this about us and has provided a way for us, accordingly.
Stone House Scribblings 