Don't Sit In It

"Finally, brethren, whatever things are true, whatever things are noble, whatever things are just, whatever things are pure, whatever things are lovely, whatever things are of good report, if there is any virtue and if there is anything praiseworthy—meditate on these things. The things which you learned and received and heard and saw in me, these do, and the God of peace will be with you."

Philippians 4:8-9

One of the down sides to public transportation is that it tends to be a somewhat grimy experience. Even in the nicest of trains, planes and automobiles there's something about the fact that it is a shared space that has often left me feeling like I need a shower or hand sanitizer at the very least. Most times during my days on public transportation, I found myself going through a small ritual of examining seats carefully for the best of the worst and steering clear of any seat that seemed suspect because of moisture or a spot that didn't look quite right. And I wasn't alone. I'd watch as most riders would do the same--opting to stand over a long ride than sit in a mess.

When it comes to our outside environment, we are quick to draw reasonable boundaries that help us to stay out of germ's way. So it occurred to me that it's odd that we don't translate that same meticulous nature to our emotional and spiritual environments alike. There are times when we wallow in negativity and allow ourselves to be consumed by the mayhem of life. But the scripture advises us differently. We are to meditate on things that are true, noble, pure, lovely and just plain good. I realize that that is easier said than done. There are things in life that seem to plague our minds and bog us down. Perhaps it is the financial concerns on how you are going to make ends meet. Or maybe a relationship that has you consumed. But despite the fact that these things consume us, God is not consumed. He is concerned but not consumed. He hasn't forgotten about you in the midst of your trial. He knows the end already and is watching as time catches up with the blessings He has preordained.

Today, be encouraged to check around the seat of your life and refuse to ride in mess. Though concerns may come, cancel consumption. Though your nature may be to lose sleep, allow God to give you great rest and know that, if you let Him, the God of peace will be with you through it all.

Blessings,
PastorA