“Finally, brothers and sisters, 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” (Philippians 4:8-9).
Although we may be in what many, if not most, would consider challenging times, I think now more than ever we would benefit from pausing, taking a step back and letting our hearts and minds be reminded of some very important things.
Like all situations, we have an opportunity to choose how we will respond in any given situation. We have been given decision-making abilities and the opportunity to choose how we will conduct ourselves and what we will choose to believe and hold onto to get us through.
Like with anything of importance, we do best when we have the proper outlook and tools at our disposal. So, I’m asking you in these challenging times to rise to the challenge, grab your paper and a pen, and be prepared to exercise your mind and heart as we dig deep and remember.
First Challenge:
- Make a list of all the blessings you have today.
Think of everything you have that is a blessing in your life and write it down. And, as you write, never forget that all good things come from God. Without Him, we would have nothing. He is our source for everything, and we’re only blessed because of what He’s done on our behalf.
This is your “Thankful List.”
Second Challenge:
- Make a list of all the ways God has seen you through in your life.
Think of all God’s done for you and all the prayers in the past that you’ve seen answered.
This is your “Answered Prayer List.”
Third Challenge:
- Your final challenge is to make a list of all the wonderful things that are waiting for you when you are eternally home in Heaven with the Savior forever!
God’s Word shares so many wonderful promises and paints a picture so beautiful that our minds can’t comprehend all that truly awaits us.
This is your “Bright Future List.”
Once you’ve made your lists, look them over and be encouraged! Keep them someplace where you can look at them often. Let these lists be reminders that God has never left you or forsaken you. He has been and will forever be faithful to you.
Remember, no matter what you go through, God wants you to be positive. He wants you to be at peace and to place your total trust in Him. He holds you in His hands and has never let you go. He wants you to be joyful, thankful, and trusting. He wants to refine you so that you will be more like Him. He desires that you have rest and refreshment. And, He continually wants you to remember His promises, His answered prayer in your life, and all He’s done for you.
I hope you’ll take the challenge and make your three lists!
Before concluding, I wanted to share something written several months ago. I hope it brings encouragement and lifts your heart today.
Praying you all are well and safe and that God will bring peace to all our hearts so we can continue shining for Him through all our circumstances.
My Anchor :: By Holly Spate
Heavenly Father,
You are the anchor of my soul
You hold my days, each planned and known
The breath of life You wash me new
When storms start raging, I’ll cling to You.
When the winds in life get ever stronger
And the waves roar louder still
I’ll remember all Your promises
And hold tightly to Your will.
When I can’t see past the darkness
I’ll let You be my eyes and hold me tight
Resting safely in Your presence
Through the darkest of the night.
And if confusion starts to settle
Or my faith begins to fade
I commit to cling ever closer
Holding tight the anchor that saves.
I’ll claim Your precious promises
Taking rest in Your perfect peace
For Your love it never falters
But forever rescues me.
You are my safe harbor
My friend on stormy seas
The One I trust and cling to
My life, my everything.
My Savior, God Almighty
Redeemer, King of Kings
My forever constant
The One who anchors me.