Blessings

Have you noticed how much what we choose to focus on can change how we are feeling? Even when things are going bad for us, or we see things go on around us that cause us concern, we can find good things to focus on instead. We all have blessings around us every day. But when we focus on the negative, it can cause us to spiral downward. I know I’m guilty of this. When I focus on what’s wrong, I forget to focus on many of the things that God has blessed us with. Take a moment to take stock: we have a place to live and people who love us. We have things to do that bring meaning to our life. We have things that bring us enjoyment and a sense of satisfaction.

I need to remember more often the words of the Apostle Paul:

Therefore we do not lose heart. Though outwardly we are wasting away, yet inwardly we are being renewed day by day. For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all. So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen, since what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal. (2 Corinthians 4:16-18, NIV)

We can choose to fix our eyes on the temporary troubles, or on the eternal glory we are achieving because of Jesus.

I will be in the office all week and even at coffee Friday, but I will be taking vacation starting Saturday. Paul Walles is going to be preaching Sunday on Isaiah 40. He always brings an important message to us.

If I don’t see you this week, I’ll see you when I get back.

God bless, Brian

Scriptures for next Sunday

Isaiah 40:1-17—Why do you think this passage was connected to the ministry of John the Baptist?

Matthew 3:1-12—What do you think was important about John the Baptist’s ministry? Isaiah 40:18-31—How does the promise here relate to your Christian walk? 2 Corinthians 12:1-10—What does this passage teach us about strength?