lasting value

 Saturday, October 14, 2023 (5:55 a.m.)

Holy God,

Thank You. Thank You. Thank You.

You provide us choices. Where to put our focus. How to use (or store) our resources. Thank You Father.

You alone are good. Gracious. Glorious. Great (Psalm 145:5-8). I am grateful to be reminded of all the potential joy there is to be found in You.

Thank You for colorful reminders of Your presence here with us. The morning sky. Tropical orange hibiscus blooming in our yard. Various shades of green. Each bringing a smile to both my face and inner being.

Here I am, again reading the apostle Paul’s words to the Philippian believers. Reminding them to “Always be full of joy in the Lord; I say it again, rejoice!” (Philippians 4:4).

The Life Recovery Bible comment for this section (4:4-9) declares the importance of recognizing You as being “at work and always in control” of every situation. How often we forget this vital truth.

We are to ‘not worry about anything; instead, pray about everything. Tell You what we need, and thank You for all You have done’ (v. 6). You have done so very much Dear Lord. And we truly are grateful.

‘Then we will experience Your peace, which exceeds anything we can understand. Your peace will guard our hearts and minds as we live in Christ’ (7). Thank You Father for the joy that truly is found as we intentionally focus on all You provide.

Quoting Illustrated Bible Handbook concerning “Chapter 4. Joy in the Lord A Plea for Perspective; 4:2-9… In Christ we have release from anxiety, for we can express every need to God and experience peace (5-7). In Christ we can concentrate our attention on the true, noble, right, pure, lovely, admirable, and praiseworthy (8). In Christ we can put godly living into practice, and have the assurance that the God whose presence means inner peace will be with us (9).”

Father, it’s all so hopeful. And True! I want to live as though I truly believe and trust all You have promised us.

You allow us to choose where we place our perspective on life. Seeking and finding the constant source of joy You both promise and provide.

Thank You, thank You Lord. It’s The Living Bible speaking to me with words easy enough for me to understand. “… Fix your thoughts on what is true and good and right. Think about things that are pure and lovely and dwell on the fine, good things in others. Think about all You can praise God for and be glad about” (8).

This morning I am especially glad to have such ready access to Your Word. Your reminders. Your promises.

Back to The Life Recovery Bible comment. Beginning by declaring, “True happiness can be found in every situation of life…” Oftentimes we must search for it longer and harder than at others.

We are reminded that “…we can act calmly in pain and difficulty. Peace and joy come when we focus on those things that provide lasting value to our life.”

Thank You Father for providing so many ways for us to be mindful of Your Truth. Your promises. Your will. Your way. 

Continue Your work in us. Using us as You know is best. We love, need, trust and want You. Thank You. Praise You. Amen.

(564 words ~ 7:55 a.m.)