I’m standing, looking at the chaos around me and feeling a bit shell-shocked.
I’m watching friends, many friends, who right now are in major distress.
I have friends who are on the verge of divorce; friends who have lost jobs and are scared at the future’s outlook; friends who have had a miscarriage; friends who are trying to mend their marriage after infidelity and friends reeling as their divorce becomes final.
All these events are very real and very recent.
I’m reeling just reading the list, at a complete loss for words and I’m only a spectator to these events.
But something has become very clear to me.
The difference between those who survive and those who thrive despite the hardship, will rest upon one thing.
Focus.
During these difficult times we have a choice. We can focus on the problem, how it is affecting us and the overwhelming enormity of it all and survive. Or, we can focus on God, how his strength helps us to walk through the situation and rest in His peace, knowing we serve a God who is bigger than any problem we face and thrive.
Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice! Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near. Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things. Whatever you have learned or received or heard from me, or seen in me—put it into practice. And the God of peace will be with you. . . . I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want. I can do everything through him who gives me strength. Philippians 4: 4-9, 12-13
It’s all about our focus.
It’s about turning our focus off of our lack, ourselves and our problems. It’s about focusing our lives, our minds and our hearts on Him, so that we can walk in His peace, His strength and His abundance.
This is where we move from surviving to thriving in any situation.
Focusing on Him,
Barb
image via Pinterest
thankyou for this post! It encourages me deep in my soul!
Thanks so much Amanda! I am so glad you were encouraged! 🙂