We live in a world that is full concerns, worries, and fears from the human side. Yet God, in His sovereignty has taught us in John 16:33 that in the midst of predictable and anticipated trials, we can be if good cheer, because of the incredible fact that He has overcome the world. What a wonderful reason!!!!
The age old question that often arises is simply "How?" God has clearly given definitive answer to us in this matter. He has taught us in Colossians to set our mind on things above, not on things of earth. In Psalms, we are instructed to meditate in His Word day and night. James teaches us that as we draw near to God, He draws near to us. Isaiah assures us that the believer has perfect peace to the extent that his mind is stayed on the Lord. So...we only need to practicalize those clear instructions and do so, on the basis of His Word, rather than on the basis of our fears or feelings.
Through the years, I've had 85 biopsies, 2 of which were malignant and required surgical intervention. There was always that waiting period prior to finding out the results of each biopsy. Often the time period from the new lumps and the wait on reports from former biopsies would overlap. I found that as I would focus on the problems, even to pray about them, they grew like weeds in my mind. So, when I would awaken in the night with fears, etc., I began to pray regarding the character and nature of God, as revealed to me in Scripture. I wrote them out and learned them in times of quietness, so I could draw upon them in the times of storm. As I memorized them, along with the attendant passages, I never got through rehearsing them all in praise to God, before falling back to peaceful sleep. We maintain a God-centered focus by meditation on His character and nature in times of difficulties.
The following list that God used in my own life is simply called "How To Maintain a God-centered Focus".
God 's Person Perfect Psalm 18:30
God's Purpose Conformity to Christ Romans 8:28-29
God's Plan Counsel of His will Ephesians 1:11
God's Promise Perpetual Presence Hebrews 13:5
God's Performance Faithfulness 1 Corinthians 12:9
God's Peace Focus dependent Isaiah 26:3
May God help you today to keep your mind stayed on/focused on Him!
(C) 1990 N.A.Collins (Limited copy permission for one file copy)
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