Reading: Psalms 94 – 99; Philippians 4:4-8

Scripture

Unless the Lord had given me help, I would soon have dwelt in the silence of death. When I said, “My foot is slipping,” your love, O Lord, supported me. When anxiety was great within me, your consolation brought joy to my soul. Psalm 94:17-20 (NIV)

Observations

God is my help. Whenever I get that uncomfortable feeling that things in my life are getting out of control, that the weight of my responsibilities is too much to bear, it is God who supports me. His love is never overwhelmed. If I can just be filled to the measure with that love, there simply won't be room for anxiety. Paul gives some great advice on how to do this in Philippians 4:

Always be full of joy in the Lord. I say it again—rejoice! Let everyone see that you are considerate in all you do. Remember, the Lord is coming soon.

Don’t worry about anything; instead, pray about everything. Tell God what you need, and thank him for all he has done. Then you will experience God’s peace, which exceeds anything we can understand. His peace will guard your hearts and minds as you live in Christ Jesus.

And now, dear brothers and sisters, one final thing. Fix your thoughts on what is true, and honourable, and right, and pure, and lovely, and admirable. Think about things that are excellent and worthy of praise. Philippians 4:4-9 (NLT)

Application

My heart and my mind are like rooms which can be filled with either darkness or light. Pressures and worries bring darkness. The solution? Add light, and the darkness will be dispelled! How can I add light?

• I can be joyful! This means focusing on and celebrating the good.
• I can pray about everything and talk to God about what I need.
• I can be thankful! Once again, this means focusing on the good.
• I can consciously fill my mind with good stuff, and not allow lies or negativity a look in. Chewing on God's Word is a great way to do this.

Prayer

What a helpful book your Word is, Lord! Thank you for your love. Please help me to fill my mind with what is true and good, to always be thankful and to live a life characterised by joy.