Vol. 21 No. 36 | September 9, 2019
It’s one of those days when thoughts and emotions move faster through my mind than I can process. Ever had a day or night like that, when you can’t sleep or focus?
I think of an opportunity that looks and sounds good, and at the same time, I can’t help but think of all the drawbacks and negatives that might come with it. I think about decisions I need to make and wrestle with the advantages and disadvantages of each.
I think of people in my life, some experiencing exciting life-changing events, others, devastating ones.
I think about all the people reeling from the devastating effects of Hurricane Dorian, or a random shooting, or serious illness, while others are anticipating the change of seasons, or listening to the ocean waves or enjoying a visit with friends and family.
As I try to sort through all of life’s complicated contradictions, the Lord reminds me of these words.
Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice! Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near. Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. (Philippians 4:4-7, NIV)
I find these truths (which all just happen to start with “r”) help me find some peace in the midst of all the chaos.
Rejoice. Rejoice. Rejoice. And rejoice again. Of course, there are many things you can be sad about. But there are countless more you can be grateful for. You’re safe, you have people who love you and you’re breathing, so rejoice.
Remember. The Lord is near. He is with us and will not leave us alone. He protects and empowers us. With that, you can relax and let your peace and gentleness be felt and enjoyed by all. That’s another reason to rejoice.
Relinquish. Relinquish your desire to control the world. Deciding how everything is going to go and what everyone should do isn’t your responsibility. So relax. God’s on top of it He’s got your back.
Relish. Relish in the peace that comes from rejoicing, remembering, and relinquishing control.
You have four tasks this week: Rejoice. Remember. Relinquish. Relish.
When you do those four things, I am confident that all those troubled thoughts and emotions colliding with each other in your brain will settle down, and some will even disappear. Let me know how it goes.
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Tom Norvell’s Coaching & Counseling
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