BE RENEWED…December 11th
Now you cannot control whether or not the sun comes out. You cannot control the rain or the temperature, but what you can control is how you react to it. I find that most of my bad moods are completely within my control. If the weather is bad why does it have to make my mood suffer? If the boss is angry, why does that have to ruin my day? If the kids are not minding, why does that have to affect everything else in my life? You get the point.
So often we allow life to treat us like a pinball. I used to love pinball machines. You have no control over where that thing is going until you get it on a flipper and even then it could end up anywhere. Our moods are much like that. For some of us we can just let life lead us wherever and our moods follow. This can lead us to a life of extreme ups and downs and that is no way to live.
If you want more control over that then listen to what God says about it.
“Therefore, I urge you, brothers, in view of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to God–this is your spiritual act of worship. Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is–His good, pleasing and perfect will.” Romans 12:1-2
When we stop focusing on the problem and start focusing all our energy on the renewal of our minds then we don’t conform to the problems of the world. Instead, we strengthen our mind through prayer, God’s Word and worship. When we do this the world’s problems become something we overcome instead of something that overcomes us. Simply, I would rather focus on the One that can help me overcome my problems than the problem itself!
So next time you get in the dumps, don’t focus on the valleys, but concentrate on what God wants you to be. Stop your mind from being tossed around like a pinball and take control. Let your mind focus on the love of God, His strength, mercy and that He has your going in and coming out. Think about God’s will for your life and know that He wants your life to be something good, pleasing and perfect.
God loves you. Remember that always, even when the sun never seems to shine. When you do you will be amazed at how it will lift your spirit and mood.
Love you all,
Rev. Jim
