Collab

“Now since we have chosen to walk with the Spirit, let’s keep each step in perfect sync with God’s Spirit.” (Galatians 5:25 VOICE)

These days, musicians collab (collaborate) online to create wonderful compilations. Songwriters, instrumentalists, vocalists, videographers--all work together from different parts of the globe, and the results are amazing. Collabs can happen between two or more artists who are open to putting their egos aside.  Once they commit to working on a project, there is a consistent flow of communication. Snippets of work are sent back and forth for consultation. The musicians listen to each other’s contributions and feedback. They make additions and adjustments so that every part syncs perfectly. 

When you choose to walk with the Spirit, you have the opportunity to collab with God. This commitment requires you to put your ego aside. Only then can you learn to consult the Lord on everything.  The most important part of a collab is consistency. Your life is no longer your own solo project. Present every thought, emotion, attitude, task, and trial to God. Seek constant guidance. Be continually receptive to feedback. Make faithful changes until every aspect of life can be in perfect sync with God’s Spirit. 

Today's Challenge

“Refuse to worry about tomorrow, but deal with each challenge that comes your way, one day at a time. Tomorrow will take care of itself.” (Matthew 6:34 TPT)

I play Words with Friends, an online game similar to Scrabble. On each turn, a player gets a set of letters to make words and score points. I have a habit of formulating my next possible move as soon as my turn is over. This is a waste of time, because I never know what opportunities are going to be open on the board until my opponent has played. Sometimes, days go by before my turn comes up again, and I can’t remember the moves I had planned anyway!

A similar thing happens as I go about each day. My mind is constantly thinking about the future--worrying, planning, obsessing. This is a waste of time and energy. I don’t know what doors will open and what doors may close tomorrow. Opportunities that I cannot foresee may come up. Disasters that I cannot imagine may completely change my options. 

Anxious thoughts prevent us from appreciating the present. Future suffering may be packaged differently than we imagine, so trying to figure out how to deal with it now is pointless. Worry stunts interior growth, so refuse to indulge in it. Do not be consumed by it.  Deal with each challenge that comes your way, one day at a time. 

Peculiar Treasures

“But you are the ones chosen by God, chosen for the high calling of priestly work, chosen to be a holy people, God’s instruments to do his work and speak out for him, to tell others of the night-and-day difference he made for you—from nothing to something, from rejected to accepted.” (1 Peter 2:9-10 MSG)

My kitchen is filled with pots, pans, utensils, dishes, glasses, and all sorts of gadgets that I use to prepare food. Out of the myriad of tools, I have a few favorites: the little, sharp knife that fits in my hand perfectly, the big, blue pot that brings me joy every time I use it, and my unassuming colander that is useful in so many ways. None of these items are expensive, but they are precious to me. If anyone else came into my kitchen, they would not understand why I would cherish these tools over the others. They are peculiar treasures, and it is their uniqueness that I cherish. 

Each of us is a peculiar treasure that God values and appreciates. We are selected because of our weirdness. The world may not understand the purpose behind our uniqueness.  People may not appreciate our unusual attributes. We might not recognize our own worth without the affirmation of those around us. 

Yet, deep within us the Spirit whispers...You are chosen for a higher calling. You are God’s instruments to do His work and speak out for Him, to tell others of the difference He made for you—from nothing to something, from rejected to accepted. 

Thanksgiving Songs

“I burst out in songs of thanksgiving.” (Psalm 28:7 NLT)

Have you noticed how there are tons of Christmas songs but very few songs dedicated to the Thanksgiving holiday? When I remember God’s blessings, I want to burst out in songs of thanksgiving! Here are a few playlists of Thanksgiving songs for this holiday: 

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XtwIT8JjddM&list=PL7tIT5NwSJ-ABUfyuzKIdQZqsRm2hcOQ7

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6v4UQc4z0LA

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=imK0j7eBJsc&list=PLDcNxsEvjaurfSdRyPvkeuIs8U5BQ2AxK

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CITjo9QsHaM&list=PL3AnFbchhnZRpg2vQXACn5cGoXEiQ41WX&index=1

HAPPY THANKSGIVING!! 

Gratitude in Adversity

“Be thankful in all circumstances...” (1 Thessalonians 5:18 NLT)

It is easy to feel thankful for good things, but how can I bring myself to feel grateful in adversity? 

If I were to list all the negative circumstances that I have had to deal with, it would be depressing. If I were to remember all the suffering and injustice in this world, it would be overwhelmingly sad.  If I were to dwell on my helplessness to effect change, I would become dispirited. 

I am a realist. Thus, I acknowledge both the positive and the negative in my life.  I am unable to feel thankful for pain, but adversity brings me closer to God’s presence. Gratitude helps me to focus more on the good while surrendering that which is beyond my power to God. Trust and thankfulness are the support beams of my faith. Without these, I would crumble beneath the weight of discouragement. Thus, whether I ‘feel’ it or not, I whisper the following prayer: 

Lord, I thank you for all circumstances, even when I don’t understand Your will. I trust You to help me. 

 

Gratitude Lists

“At each and every sunrise we will be thanking you for your kindness and your love. As the sun sets and all through the night, we will keep proclaiming, ‘You are so faithful!’” (Psalm 92:2 TPT)

Thanksgiving has always been one of my favorite holidays. I like to start my preparation a week in advance. I make a banner with a list of things I am thankful for each year. The first few are usually obvious: health, family, love, friends, home, etc.  Once I start remembering, new categories that I had overlooked pop up continuously:

Natural wonders: oxygen, aquifers, rivers, lakes, edible plants, companionable animals, majestic mountains, oceans, birds, etc.

Functioning body parts and internal organs: heart, brain, blood vessels, spleen, pancreas, liver, intestines, muscles, ligaments, joints, bones, eyes, ears, senses of smell and taste, neurons, endocrine glands, hormones, lungs, etc. 

Utilities and services: Electricity, gas, water, phones, internet, trash pickup, snow removal, hospitals, pharmacies, grocery stores, mail services, etc.

Appliances and conveniences: Fridge, oven, stove, washer and dryer, indoor plumbing, sinks and faucets, hot and cold water, microwaves, pressure cookers, electric kettles, mixers, coffee maker, etc. 

Luxuries: books, music, beds, warm clothes, medical insurance, plenty of food, cars, garage, private bathrooms, running shoes, television, cell phones, laptops, headphones, etc.

Intangibles: time, energy, faith, trust, privacy, silence, safety, stability, abilities, opportunities, choices, intelligence, etc.

Lord, thank you for everything. I am overwhelmed by all the blessings. I realize how much I take for granted. Your constant presence and unfailing love surround me, but I don’t always acknowledge this. Remind me to be grateful every day and every night. 

Clear Vision

“Open my eyes so I can see what you show me of your miracle-wonders.” (Psalm 119:18 MSG)

Smudges on reading glasses can lead to blurry vision. The normal handling of glasses leaves oils, fingerprints, and lint on the lenses. In order to combat this, I have developed a rather elaborate ritual of cleaning my glasses. First, I wash them with soap and warm water. Then, I dry them with a lint-free cloth. I hold my glasses up to the light to see if they are clean. If not, I keep wiping until the lenses are clear. This process has to be repeated daily. 

Clarity requires consistent effort and time. 

My mind gets clouded even more rapidly than my glasses. Daily situations add clutter which makes me feel scattered and drained. In order to combat this, I have to take time to contemplate, write, and sort through my thoughts. I lift up my spirit to the light and pray for Divine clarity. I ask the Lord to open my eyes so I can see His miracle-wonders. I repeat this process daily. 

Remodeling Schedule

“May he work perfection into every part of you, giving you all that you need to fulfill your destiny. And may he express through you all that is excellent and pleasing to him.” (Hebrews 13:21 TPT)

As I mentioned in the previous post, I often try to figure out my motivations before I attempt to make changes in my life. Once this step is done, I take an inventory of my resources. I anticipate possible friction that I may encounter. Then, I take all of these thoughts to God. I lay the whole mess at His feet and ask Him to equip me with whatever is needed to do His will. 

I wait...

I am not a patient person; thus, long waits feel tiresome to me. I remind the Lord that I am not seeking to be perfect. I would be fine with some quick, mediocre directions.  Yet, I am learning that God’s plans and timing are different from mine. There is much to demolish and remodel before He can express all that is excellent and pleasing through me.

Lord, equip me with everything I need to fulfill Your purpose. Teach me how to use and maintain all these tools. Demolish any strongholds that do not fit your standards. Express through me all that is excellent and pleasing to You. Grant me the patience to wait attentively, expectantly, and trustingly. 

Why Change?

“Does this sound as if I am trying to win human approval? No indeed! What I want is God's approval!” (Galatians 1:10 GNT)

Before I attempt to change the way I do things, I always sit with the following questions: Why change? What is my motivation? How will this impact other parts of my life? Is the cost in time, energy, or stress worth the impact? Am I willing to pay the cost? 

Change is difficult. Unless the reasons behind my desire to change are worked out ahead of time, I often give up as soon as things get uncomfortable. Whether it is cosmetic adjustments to my hair to make myself appear youthful or behavior modifications in the way I consume media or food, I have to consider my core motivations. Many of my default habits are based on what has worked reasonably well in the past. They are pleasurable in some way. Either they feel good physically, or they gain approval from those around me. On the other hand, countercultural choices invite pushback. It makes others uncomfortable. The social cost can be high. Even small changes can have wide implications on how you fit in with those around you.  

Why change? What is my motivation? I want to be an authentic person. I want to mature thoughtfully. I want to expend more energy on my interior than on my exterior. I want to be better than I used to be--stronger, braver, sturdier. I want to be more resilient, more steadfast in my convictions. Most of all, I want to be less addicted to human approval and more dependent on God’s approval. 

(Continued in next post) 

Undistracted Living

“I’m saying this for your benefit, not to restrict you. I’m showing you how to live a noble life of devotion to the Lord without being distracted by other things.” (1 Corinthians 7:35 GWT)

Obstacle course racing is much more difficult than pure running. It takes much more concentration and grit to plow through the barriers. Each obstacle requires a different approach. Every time an athlete pushes through a challenge, it is a small victory. 

Distractions are hurdles on the noble path. 

Every day is an obstacle course of distractions for me. Phone notifications, media, food, background noise, intrusive thoughts--the hurdles keep coming one after another. Trying to stay focused on any one task is tiring. It’s almost as if I have lost the ability to concentrate for any length of time. I am attempting to retrain my concentration. I may not be able to avoid all distractions, but I am learning to manage them one at a time. I approach each of these obstacles strategically. I notice the cues that trigger my inattention and how I reward myself with diversions. I try to push through the temptation...or at least delay gratification. I silently celebrate each small victory.  Every time I overcome distractions, I move one step forward on the noble path. 

 

Seeking Depth

“Don’t live carelessly, unthinkingly.” (Ephesians 5:17a MSG)

Back when airlines included check-in luggage as part of the fare, I used to pack multiple suitcases when going on trips. I stuffed everything I could think of into my baggage: multiple outfits, shoes, accessories, curling irons, cosmetics, etc. I wasn’t sure if I would need all of these things, but I liked having lots of options. If my luggage got misplaced by the airlines, if it didn’t arrive with me when I got to my destination--that would be enough to ruin my vacation. 

During the first few months of the pandemic, many aspects of my lifestyle were put on indefinite hold. My daily routines, social gatherings, vacations, running races, all were canceled with no end in sight. It felt like I had suddenly arrived at a new, unfamiliar place with no luggage. I was sad, mad, bored, irritated, and restless. With all of the diversions and shallow busyness shuttered, I had to make do with minimal options. The limitations imposed by quarantine forced me to examine decades of choices and habits: 

What did I want? 

What is truly fulfilling? 

What mattered? 

Was I expending energy wisely?

As I started paying more attention, I realized that there were hidden costs to living unthinkingly. I had spent decades following standards without questioning them. Here was an opportunity to start fresh, to leave the shallows of conformity and live deeply. I challenged my previous beliefs. I asked myself the following question about every habit: Is this helping me to become the person I want to be? I was shocked at how addicted I was to entertainment. I craved instant gratification and numbness. It took months to wean myself off of careless living. When the rest of the world decided it was ready to resume the old normal, I held myself back voluntarily. Like a newly sober addict, I opted out. I immersed myself into the depth. I am not going back to the shallows.

 

Living in the Shallows

“How long will you wander around, you unfaithful people?” (Jeremiah 31:22 VOICE)

Before the pandemic, my favorite place to eat was a local Chinese buffet restaurant. I would flit through the sections picking up a bit of this and that until my plate was full. After I finished my first plate, I would go back for more. I rarely thought about what I was eating or how much I was consuming. Thinking too deeply would ruin the fun. A few hours later, I would regret my choices. Bloated, parched, and tired from mindless excess, I would tell myself I would be more careful next time. But the memory would fade, and I would go back to the same bad habits. 

Before the pandemic, I did a lot of things unthinkingly, carelessly. My thoughts and actions were adapted from the culture around me. I just did things without examining my motives, priorities, or purpose. Thinking too deeply would ruin the fun. Even when I was aware of the impact of my behavior, I rarely thought beyond my comfort. Bloated, dissatisfied, and exhausted from mindless excess, I would tell myself I would change. Yet, after decades of being swept along by the ways of the world, shallow living became my default setting. 

(Continued in next post)

Abandonment

“Take a look around and see—to the right, to the left—no one is there who cares for me. There’s no way out of here; no one cares about the state of my soul.” (Psalm 142:4 VOICE)

I know all the dogs in our neighborhood circle. When I see a strange dog running loose, I try to figure out if it is lost or abandoned. Most of the time, the dogs have just wandered away from adjoining neighborhoods. However, there are times when someone will dump an unwanted pet and drive away. 

How can you tell if a dog is lost or abandoned? A dog that is recently lost seems trusting and secure. It might be dirty from being outside, but you can tell this is just temporary. An abandoned dog looks forlorn and insecure. It has usually been neglected for a while. The damage is usually deeper than superficial dirt.

Unlike dogs, most human adults are able to care for themselves. The cosmetics and fashion industries have convinced consumers that self-care is about maintaining external appearances. This is a facade. True self-care is more than skin-deep; it is soul-deep. When I meet strangers, I look for signs of internal care, not external appearance. I try to figure out the state of their soul. I am deeply saddened when I encounter those who have abandoned themselves.

What does self-abandonment look like? Here are a few signs:

--not showing up for yourself

--not committed to yourself

--being disloyal and dishonest 

--leaving yourself unprotected

--accepting lies and allowing yourself to be manipulated

--not trusting your instincts

--not honoring who you are

--imagining that your worth is based on externals

Even if no one else notices or values you, do not abandon yourself. Show up, stand up, and speak up for yourself. Stay committed to your well-being. Be loyal and honest at all times. Protect and honor your inner being. Nourish and care for your soul. Constantly remind yourself that you are worthy and loved by God. Be secure in this knowing. 

Developing Endurance

“For you know that when your faith is tested, your endurance has a chance to grow. So let it grow, for when your endurance is fully developed, you will be perfect and complete, needing nothing.” (James 1:3-4 NLT)

In my opinion, there are three types of runners: the non-runners who think voluntary exertion is bizarre, the fair-weather runners who will run under ideal conditions, and finally, the endurance runners who will show up and push themselves no matter what. 

Endurance is defined as the ability or strength to continue or last, especially despite fatigue, stress, or other adverse conditions. Endurance athletes are accustomed to stretching their bodies and minds beyond their comfort zones. They keep going for miles and miles, despite pain and exhaustion. They adapt themselves to being outdoors in severe weather conditions. Consistently pushing themselves to do hard things allows them to develop physical endurance and mental resilience. 

The same principle applies to developing enduring faith. All of us experience adversity at some point in life, but how we handle suffering varies. For some, faith is a foreign concept. Then there are those who embrace faith when all is going well or for social support but give up when things get hard. Finally, there are those for whom faith is an integral part of their lives. They see suffering as a training ground to practice faith. 

When conditions are hard and we are in the midst of pain, our trust in God is stretched to the limit. Faith is no longer comfortable or convenient. We are pushed beyond the threshold of our personal power, of all that is within our control, and we have to rely on God completely. This is what develops endurance. When our faith is stretched, our perseverance grows. Enduring trust makes us perfect and complete, needing nothing more. 

 

Purposeful Steps

“You direct me on a path that leads to a beautiful life. As I walk with You, the pleasures are never-ending, and I know true joy and contentment.” (Acts 2:28 VOICE)

On my daily training runs around my neighborhood, I sometimes take short detours to talk with neighbors or check the mailbox. However, during a race I am conscious about every step I take. At aid stations, I pick up the water and keep running. I don’t get distracted by whatever is happening on the sidelines. Every step, however slow, is in the right direction--never backwards, never sideways. 

The way I move through my daily life is more like a training run than a race. I routinely get side-tracked by diversions. My mind strays first; then my body follows. My days are always busy but not always purposeful. Changing this pattern requires concentration and discipline. 

I am practicing taking tiny, purposeful steps in the right direction. In order to be disciplined, I have to consistently review what matters. This reduces the distraction detours. Visualizing God by my side also helps me to stay on track. I turn my mental chatter into a dialogue with the Lord. I tell Him whatever pops up in my head. I confess my attitude problems. I ask questions. I listen for directions. I remind myself of God’s attributes. I praise and thank Him continually. The more I walk with the Lord, the more conscious I become of His presence, the more I experience peace, joy, and contentment. 

 

The Path of Shalom

“He will illuminate the path that leads to the way of peace.” (Luke 1:79b TPT)

At our local park, there are paved pathways for non-motorized activities. On a nice day, these trails can get crowded with runners, walkers, cyclists, etc. One way to avoid the crowds and have a peaceful run is to find rarely used trails. Off the main paved walkways, look for areas in the grass that are slightly more worn than their surroundings. These narrow tracks usually connect to hidden trails. 

In life we make choices that lead us down different tracks. The popular ways are usually paved and crowded. Most of us choose these convivial paths of certainty and companionship. Paths of peace are always subtle and secluded. They branch off from the main thoroughfare and connect to hidden trails. This is not an easy or stress-free way. Peace comes, not at the end of the trail, but with every step you take on this path. 

Shalom is the Hebrew word for peace and wholeness. The concept encompasses more than the absence of conflict or turmoil. Shalom is a condition of emotional stability based on trust in God. Jesus has already blazed the trail of peace that transcends circumstances. His steps illuminate the way for us.  He showed us how to live and walk down the path of shalom. 

 

The Blessing

“May the Lord bless you and take care of you. May the Lord be kind and gracious to you. May the Lord look on you with favor and give you peace.” (Numbers 6:25-26 GNT)

The above verses are part of the Aaronic Blessing. This prayer has been used as a benediction since the time of Moses. In 2020, as the pandemic raged across the world, these verses were made into a song that became a viral sensation. Virtual choirs joined together from all over the world, combining their voices and instruments to sing blessings over cities, nations, and continents. The blessings flowed out and covered the earth--from America to Zimbabwe, from living rooms and balconies, in languages ranging from Arabic to  Zulu. People from diverse nationalities, ages, and races recorded themselves singing this benediction. The images of distinctly different people blending their voices in unity uplifted and inspired others. The videos were shared and viewed millions of times, spreading joy and peace in a time of uncertainty and suffering. 

I like to spread blessings whenever possible. Since I am not a good singer, I simply pray these words in my head. Instead of a virtual choir, I become part of a supernatural choir of inaudible praise. Perhaps you would like to join me? You don’t need any recording equipment or talent. As you go about your day, fill your mind with prayers of blessing for all of creation. 

The Lord bless you

And keep you

Make His face shine upon you

And be gracious to you

The Lord turn His

Face toward you

And give you peace

Amen, amen, amen

May His favor be upon you

And a thousand generations

And Your family and your children

And their children, and their children

May His presence go before you

And behind you, and beside you

All around you, and within you

He is with you, He is with you

In the morning, in the evening

In your coming, and your going

In your weeping, and rejoicing

He is for you, He is for you

Amen, amen, amen

(Lyrics by Codey Carnes and Kari Jobe)

Seasonal Perspectives

“Everything seems to go wrong when you feel weak and depressed. But when you choose to be cheerful, every day will bring you more and more joy and fullness.” (Proverbs 15:15 TPT)

In the summer, the sun rises early and sets late. There is no shortage of light-filled hours during this season. During these months, I wear dark sunglasses that shield my eyes against the sun’s bright glare. As winter approaches, and daylight becomes limited, I switch to yellow-tinted sunglasses. These provide enhanced contrast sensitivity when everything looks gray outside. Yellow lenses are also known to have positive effects on mood, as well as improve mental clarity.  I am intentional about making this switch as the seasons change. 

I have noticed other shifts in my perspective as I move through different seasons of life. Things that were important a few years ago no longer matter to me. In contrast, some things that appeared trivial now have great significance. When I am in a good mood, all seems well with the world. When I am sad, everything looks gloomy. Seasonal perspectives influence my emotions and my outlook. Thus, I have to be intentional about switching the lens through which I view everything. A filter of gratitude enhances contrast. It helps me remember all that is good and not take anything for granted.  I may not be able to change all that is wrong in this world, but I can choose my attitude and response. Looking at circumstances through the lens of spiritual awareness also brings clarity. Everything that is visible and invisible is a manifestation of Divinity and created for God’s purpose.

Power Source

“That’s why I work and struggle so hard, depending on Christ’s mighty power that works within me.” (Colossians 1:29 NLT)

A few years ago, I visited the Pinecreek Grist Mill. This historic water mill served local farmers in the 1800’s. Water mills use the power of flowing rivers to turn a large wheel which can operate millstones that can be used to grind grain into flour. Prior to my visit, I had only seen pictures of water mills--with their huge wooden wheels on the outside of weathered buildings. The Pinecreek Grist Mill was different than I expected. Due to the cold winters in Iowa, the water wheel has always been located inside the building. I could imagine the laborers doing business on the main floor of the mill, while the  giant wheel turned underneath the building. Although it was out of sight, I am sure the millers knew that their work was dependent on the mighty power of the river. 

I was reminded of this old water mill when I read the above verse from Colossians. Just like the industrious millers who worked at the Pinecreek Grist Mill centuries ago, I labor and struggle daily. There is much to be done, and I am not that strong or able. When I am exhausted and overwhelmed--it is easy to forget that all the visible work I do is actually powered by an invisible force within me. I am dependent on Christ’s mighty power. As long as I remain connected to the flow of the Divine Spirit within me, all that needs to be done will get done.

Social Fabrications

“If we live in the light, we have fellowship with each other.” (1 John 1:7a ERV)

Have you noticed how junk food leaves you craving more while healthy food rarely does? Foods that are bad for you are often higher in calories and induce overeating. It’s a double whammy of setbacks. 

I can eat a bowl of potato chips and still feel unsatisfied, while a plain baked potato makes me feel full. Of course, the latter is boring compared to the former--which points to the fact that I am looking for amusement in my food, not nourishment. 

Certain social groups can have a similar, double whammy effect. The fellowship feels pleasurable, but unsatisfying. They drain resources of time, energy, and authenticity--but leave you craving something more. Gatherings of relatives, friends, coworkers, congregations, sporting events, concerts, political rallies, etc., can be exciting. Group settings allow you to believe that you have things in common with others, that you are not weird, that you are not alone.  These social fabrications can be amusing, but rarely nurturing. 

Authentic communion is fulfilling. The connection is organic, open, loving, joyful, and accepting.There is nothing artificial about it--no dark motives, no pretense, no fake pleasantries, no hierarchies, no snide put-downs, no showing off, no ego-stroking, no spectacle, no mind games, no power struggles. True fellowship is also rare, because it requires commitment and consistency. This is hard to swallow for those who are accustomed to a steady diet of superficial, social fabrications. Sincere connections enable us to glimpse intangible realities. When we live in the light of authenticity, we realize that everything and everyone is unified in God. 

Following in Trust

“Teach me how to live, O LORD. Lead me along the right path.” (Psalm 27:11 NLT)

My husband and I occasionally run with a friend named John. He joins us on early morning training runs. Our routes are often unfamiliar to him. My husband and I are detailed planners. We plan out each route, times, gear, hydration, and fuel like Navy Seals on a special operation. When John shows up to run with us, I always ask him if he wants to know where we are going. His answer is always the same: “No, I’ll just follow you.” I’m not sure if he is confident in our planning skills or in his own ability to fend for himself no matter where we take him!

On the journey of life, I would like to follow the Lord with confident trust. I want to focus on Jesus who leads the way. I  do not want to worry about the route, the darkness, how long it will take, or what I might need on the trail. I want to rely on the Lord completely for guidance. 

Lord, teach me how to live, lead me along the right path. Protect me from danger. Let me be aware of Your presence at all times. Converse with me and stay close. Be patient with me when I am slow. Do not leave me behind. Train me to be confident in You. 

Intrusive Thoughts

“Above all, be careful what you think because your thoughts control your life.” (Proverbs 4:23 ERV)

I’m thinking about getting some security cameras for my home. After some research, I am astonished at all the varieties and features that are currently available with these systems--indoor, outdoor, wired, wireless, infrared night vision, motion detectors, online data storage, high resolution video, professional monitoring services--all to guard your home against intruders! Thus far, I have been hesitant to purchase and install security cameras because of their cost and maintenance. Since we live in a rural area where the most common intruders are racoons and cats, I am unsure that it is even necessary. 

Unlike my neighborhood, my mind is vulnerable to intruders. Bothersome worries that steal my joy and peace arrive at my door frequently. The motion sensors of my mind see them coming. I know they are harmful, yet I open the door and let them in. Even worse, I dwell with these negative thoughts. These squatters leave behind a mess of agitation and anxiety that is difficult to clean up. My go-to routine to escape intrusive thoughts is distraction. This is not a good solution. It is equivalent to leaving my home unattended when I see someone sneaking in. I don’t think I can protect my heart on my own. I need a Higher Power to monitor my  thoughts. 

After some reading and contemplation, I have been practicing a few techniques. I would like to share these security tips: 

When you detect an invasive notion, zoom in. Concentrate on what matters. Be aware of what needs protecting. Carefully screen the thoughts that you let in. Intrusive concerns can take control of your life. If you are unable to guard your heart on your own, call for help. Ask God to monitor your thoughts and manage your mind.

“God, I invite your searching gaze into my heart. Examine me through and through; find out everything that may be hidden within me. Put me to the test and sift through all my anxious cares.” (Psalm 139:23 TPT)