As life happens it is so easy to succumb to fear rather than believe what is true. Our mind plays tricks on us; it stores every experience we go through whether bad or good—T.G.I.F. Accumulated, unguarded thoughts create mindsets that are toxic; we unconsciously opt for a go to (thoughts we entertain when we feel threatened; a safe place that shuns us from hearing further); we unwittingly, automatically react based on influences (family, family order, financial status, education, environ, friends, etc.); or filters (fears, traumas, biases, expectations, desires, etc.).
Maturity takes time. Our Christian walk is a long journey. We encounter many tests. Difficult ones that require our resolve to trust the Truth. We need to continuously speak the truth of the gospel even to ourselves. For in it the righteousness of God is revealed from faith to faith, as it is written, “The righteous shall live by faith.”1
Our recent travel afforded much testing of our faith. Travelling with a sick companion is not a good idea; without His assurance, cancellation would have been the expensive recourse. God is not moved by our insecurities. He permits us to ask for further signs; yes, we may put out a fleece to appease everyone.2
A delayed flight is likewise unnerving when it inches too close to our scheduled connecting flight. Lessons that show we are not in control. Yet, through it all we keep witnessing God’s faithfulness! Every test is an opportunity to add immeasurable memories of His grace! Faith is the reality not fear.
Allow yourself to glean from someone whose top cover has turned gray and spare yourself from learning lessons the hard way. Practice your G.R.I.P. One, guard. Guard your thoughts. By the Holy Spirit who dwells in us, guard the good deposit entrusted to us.3 Two, rejoice. Enjoy the journey. Rejoice in the Lord always; . . .4 for the joy of the Lord is your strength.5 Three, ingest. Your words were found, and I ate them, and your words became to me a joy and the delight of my heart, for I am called by your name. O LORD, God of hosts.6 Four, pray. Pray without ceasing.7
May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, so that by the power of the Holy Spirit you may abound in hope.8
Notes:
1. Romans 1:17
2. Read Judges 6:36-40
3. 2 Timothy 1:14
4. Philippians 4:4
5. Nehemiah 8:10d
6. Jeremiah 15:16
7. 1 Thessalonians 5:17
8. Romans 15:13
