Be Blessed, not Stressed

(as written on Feb. 29, 2020 )

Well, it’s Feb. 29, 2020 (Leap Day) and it’s 2:20 in the morning. I cried. Not a lot, but just a few tears caressing my cheek. Why? In short, stress. I’m feeling the stress of everything. The sicknesses (of cancer, and oh, did I mention, I have Sarcoidosis, too), trying to provide for myself financially, the depression. Just everything! Right now, I’m listening to some worship music. And typing this. Gotta get my mind off of these worries. It’s important to keep a positive outlook when you’re going through tests and trials. In fact, Philippians 4:8 says to “...think on these things.”

There's a reason why the Apostle Paul left us this particular word. What you think on, meditate on, can make a big difference in your life. It'll make or break you. Let's look at this passage:

"Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest,

whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are

lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be

any praise, think on these things."

~ Philippians 4:8 KJV (public domain)

My brothers and sisters, there are a lot of false doctrines being taught today. These teachings are derived from man's beliefs; man's interpretation of truth. I'm reminded of the question Pontius Pilate asked of Jesus while Pilate interrogated him. Pilate asked "What is truth?" (John 18:38). That, my friends, seems to be the question that today's society is asking. What is truth? A simple, yet viable question indeed. It is unfortunate that many are creating their own truth, rather than adhering to the word of God, the very source of truth! We know truth when we know what God's word says regarding truth.

Whatsoever things are honest....ooo wee! Honesty. People really want, really need honesty. Even God Himself hates a lying tongue (Proverbs 12:22). Lies bring about so much heartache. You feel betrayed. You feel injured. Lies, in the end, always hurt. God desires us to be honest with one another, but not injurious. Always exhibit the love of God. More importantly, God desires us to be honest with Him! What are your needs? What do you desire? Have a specific dream or vision for your life? What about your family? Friends? Do you have a ministry? Tell God about it. Be honest. Believe me, He can handle whatever you dish out to Him!

Whatsoever things are pure.....free of any contamination (as defined through Oxford Languages). Contamination occurs when a foreign object or influence is introduced. (This is strictly my understanding of the word contamination) Nobody wants something that's been contaminated! Even as we go about our daily lives, we have to be extra careful when we engage in social activities. Covid-19 has heightened our awareness of the possibilities for contamination. We are careful to wash our hands frequently, wear facial masks, and practice social distancing. In short, we crave purity. So it is with God, the Father. He seeks clean hands and a pure heart (Psalm 24:4). Nothing contaminated. Nothing mixed with outside influences.

Whatsoever things are lovely. I love beautiful things. How about you? The beauty of a picturesque sunrise. The glory of nature as it unfolds itself little by little, day-by-day. The joy of children's laughter brings a quick smile to my face. Things that are lovely. Lovely things are appealing. They attract your attention. Again, the Apostle Paul gives instruction concerning things that one would find lovely, attractive.

Whatsoever things are of good report......You can turn on the television, open up your newspaper, or browse your social media and you will find plenty of bad news. Aren't you tired of the negativity? Well I have some GOOD NEWS for you today! The good news, the good report is that God is STILL in control!! With everything that's happening in the world today, it's so reassuring to know that there is a limit to this madness. Nothing, and I mean nothing, is beyond the control of God. So, as you meditate on the word of God today, decide for yourself whose report you will believe. Will it be the news reports? The opinion of men? Or will you step out in faith and trust in the Word of God?

"If there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things."

Be Blessed and not Stressed!

Zelphia D. (Zel)

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