Advent: Lovely Thoughts
“Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things. What you have learned and received and heard and seen in me—practice these things, and the God of peace will be with you.” Phil 4:8-9
Merry Christmas! Praise the Lord for His faithfulness! May your heart be filled with tidings of comfort and joy today! Christmas is here but I have been thinking a lot. Sometimes we run through different scenarios in our minds, even before they happen. Perhaps it's a cautionary exercise that protects us from the dangers of urban living. Or perhaps it's an exercise that keeps us bound by fear, doubt and self-sufficiency. I can't tell you how many times I have replayed a scenario in my mind. I will think about what happened, what would have happened if I had done ____ (fill in the blank), or about how I would have done things differently and got a better outcome. The mental volley often leads me to my own understanding and away from God.
Am I suggesting we be mindless robots? By no means! What I am suggesting for you this year is to think on those things that are true. Replay the truth of scripture and how the gospel is still just as powerful today as it was over 2000 years ago. Recall the lovely things in your life and give God honor for them. Do not let the worries of this life be the meditation of your heart. When you are tempted to wander down that path of negative self-talk or recall that painful incident, stop and ask yourself what is true? What is lovely? Is this pure? If not, then pray and pivot. Turn away and find something worthy of praise, think on these things and experience the God of peace. Leave room for enjoying the Savior today.
Let's talk about it:
What pure, lovely, excellent things has God done in your life? Begin to share those things with your children and your co-workers. Be a woman who is constantly reminding others of the grace and love of God as we await His coming this Advent season. #TUCWHopefortheholidays
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