Describe all the things you’re facing with the first three words that come to mind. Are they positive, encouraging, and purposeful words? Or are they negative, draining, and fearful? Sometimes you don’t realize how much of your thought-life is being sacrificed to the pain of what has happened, or to the fear of what might.
Break the hold pain and fear have over your heart and mind by shifting your focus to God’s healing and encouragement. Begin by reading a few verses from Psalms. Out loud.
“Death and hell surrounded me. The enemy was overwhelming, but God was my savior. He brought me to a safe place. He saved me because he delights in me” (Psalm 18:18-19).
“Why am I discouraged? Why is my heart so sad? I will put my hope in God, and praise him with all I am” (Psalm 42:11).
“You have turned my mourning into dancing. You have taken the humiliation I was wearing and clothed me with joy” (Psalm 30:11).
“You will show me the path to life. In your wonderful presence you restore and complete my joy” (Psalm 16:11).
Take a few deep breaths. Invite Jesus to speak to your heart. And just listen.
What three (or more) words do you hear in your heart now? How does he see you and your circumstances?
God wants you to learn how to recognize and receive his presence so that it saturates you, and displaces every thought that isn’t his. To become so aware of him, you’re the one who changes the atmosphere, not your circumstances.
Ask him what else he wants to show you, and who he wants to be for you today. Ask him to help you recognize him as that in his word, in every situation, and in every relationship. And do it again tomorrow.
Equip Your Spirit 