Changing Your Perspective – Beloved Women – April 20, 2020
READ: “Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things. What you have learned and received and heard and seen in me—practice these things, and the God of peace will be with you.”
(Philippians 4:8-9 ESV)
TODAY’S ENCOURAGEMENT: Shootings. Wars. Natural disasters. Illnesses. Injustice. Fear. Hatred. “The whole creation has been groaning together…” (Romans 8:22a).
The constant barrage of all the things wrong in this broken world, is enough to evoke hopelessness in the hearts of many.
What do we do when there seems to be no end to evil and suffering? How do we handle when the problems are plenty, but the solutions seem to be so few? What happens when our fears seem to choke the life out of everything we love?
We change our perspective. We adjust our gaze. We seek out those things around us that are true, honorable, just, pure, lovely, commendable, excellent, and praiseworthy.
However, if (or when) we happen to be in a season, like Paul, who penned this letter while in prison, and those “things” are hard to find, we pursue the Peace-giver, the ONE who embodies them all. “Looking to Jesus, the founder and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross…” (Hebrews 12:2).
PRAY: God, sometimes it is so hard to focus on the positive things in the world, because the hardships are so loud. I need hope and peace. Only You can grant that. Lord, adjust my gaze so that I will remember that You are much bigger than any problem I see. Thank You. In Jesus’ Name, I pray, Amen.
REFLECT: What is burdening you right now? What is breaking your heart or causing you angst? Surrender it to the Lord and ask that His peace that surpasses understanding will guard your heart and mind in Him. (Philippians 4:6-7)
SHARE: We pursue the Peace-giver, the ONE who embodies them all.
CONNECT: Find more encouragement from Kim Gillespie on Instagram @kimgillespie03.
MORE BELOVED: If you like the Beloved Women Daily Devotional you will love the Beloved Women’s Conference. This a one-day event is filled with speakers, entertainment, breakout sessions and more to refresh, refuel, and empower women like us to find rest for our souls, peace for our minds, and hope for the journey. Our mission is to replenish the women who do so much for their families and communities so they can continue to build better futures for themselves and those they love and serve. If you’re ready to energize your relationship with God learn more and get your tickets before they sell out at https://www.belovedconference.org.
© 2020 by Kim Gillespie. All rights reserved.
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