Yesterday we talked about remaining cheerful and hopeful in the midst of desperate circumstances.
But what do we do when we lose focus on God's promises? And our minds are tempted to dwell on our sufferings, and then desperation starts to creep in?
We can turn to the Apostle Paul for encouragement.
In Philippians 4, Paul tells us to make our requests known to God by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving...
...and he directs us to focus on those things worthy of praise.
"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" (Phil 4:8).
When you are struggling to find hope, it is very difficult to simply stop thinking about what is troubling you.
So seek to focus your attention on these things Paul lists.
Try writing down what they look like in your life.
Then bring them before you Father in prayer...
Call out to Him, give thanks for who He is... and for adopting you... and ask Him to help you focus on all those things worthy of praise.
This is God's way for you to put away the worries seeking to consume you... and instead be refreshed by dwelling on what is good.
Brian Burridge
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