By Alison Feinauer
Does your mind just ever wander? Ever go to those places of fear and you feel paralyzed? Are you afraid to look at the news and see one more restriction that’s been added? Or social media and see one more way you’re not measuring up? Or take one more look in the mirror and think if I could just get through one day of eating “right”? Or you look at the scale and think about the depression you’ll have if you step on it? These thoughts are strong and dangerous. Trust me, they’ve visited me much too often lately.
This morning I was reminded of this verse:
Be cheerful with joyous celebration in every season of life. Let joy overflow, for you are united with the Anointed One! Let gentleness be seen in every relationship, for our Lord is ever near. Don’t be pulled in different directions or worried about a thing. Be saturated in prayer throughout each day, offering your faith-filled requests before God with overflowing gratitude. Tell him every detail of your life, then God’s wonderful peace that transcends human understanding, will make the answers known to you through Jesus Christ. So keep your thoughts continually fixed on all that is authentic and real, honorable and admirable, beautiful and respectful, pure and holy, merciful and kind. And fasten your thoughts on every glorious work of God, praising him always. Follow the example of all that we have imparted to you and the God of peace will be with you in all things (Philippians 4:4-9 TPT).
Joyous celebration in EVERY Season? Even this one right now? Did I read that right?
Yes, and the verses that follow are so refreshing and grounding in the Truth. God knew that we’d be going through this right now, and he equipped us with these verses. Whatever season you are in, you are united with the Anointed One and when you lean on him, spend time with him, and make space for him. He will help you with the rest: gentleness, faith-filled, gratitude, peace… all of these promises are from Him.
Joy doesn’t mean giddy and happy. It’s a choice and a mindset, knowing that our God is faithful through all of this. He doesn’t change.
So next time one of these fears, lies or doubts creeps into your mind, pull this scripture out and saturate your mind and heart in it. Ask Jesus to help you find Cheer and Joy in every season. He can help with that. If He asks it of you, He will help you do it.
Father, help me be joy-filled, gentle, and grateful. Thank you for sending a Helper to remind me of this. Help me to fasten my thoughts on your glory and turn to you in all times and all seasons. I give you all my thoughts. Please help me to focus on the things that bring light and truth in my life. Thank you for the peace you promise. I love and trust you. In Jesus Name. Amen
