March 2: Insight Post by Kim Feld
Monday Insight Post
by Kim Feld
I know I have much to celebrate, but at times I’m reminded that my mindset can be one of scarcity rather than abundance. When I choose (and it is a choice, even though I’d like to think it isn’t) to dwell on the negatives and annoyances instead of all the blessings in my life, I miss the joy that should be my mainstay. I’m not talking about living in some kind of fantasy where everything is unicorns and butterflies. I’m referring to the recognition of how much God has blessed me with, even in the midst of trials and hard times.
Our Bible Reading Plan guide this week defines celebration as “the practice of rejoicing in who God is and what He has done.” These things do not change, even when everything may be falling apart around me, God is still God, and His works remain. I can celebrate that the Creator of the Universe pursued me, even when I was far from Him; He still loved me. Take a look:
10For since our friendship with God was restored by the death of his Son while we were still his enemies, we will certainly be saved through the life of his Son. Romans 5:10 (NLT)
Easter gives us an incredible opportunity to celebrate Jesus’ death and resurrection. The darkness of Good Friday makes way for the brightness of Easter. Jesus’ death has given life to me and all those who claim His name.
Psalm 23 tells me that Jesus gives me all I need. He gives me rest, renews my strength, and guides me, even when I am going through really difficult things. His presence is a gift and is worth celebrating.
Take a look at this quote from Richard Foster’s book, Celebration of Discipline.
“If we think we will have joy only by praying and singing psalms, we will be disillusioned. But if we fill our lives with simple good things and constantly thank God for them, we will be joyful, that is, full of joy. And what about our problems? When we determine to dwell on the good and excellent things in life, we will be so full of those things that they will tend to swallow our problems.”
I think there’s a correlation between thankfulness and joy. If I am in a constant state of thankfulness to God, I can find much to celebrate. I know how hard it can be to focus on good things when life seems anything but good, but our God, who knows us better than anyone, has told us that there’s power in where we choose to fix our minds.
8And now, dear brothers and sisters, one final thing. Fix your thoughts on what is true, and honorable, and right, and pure, and lovely, and admirable. Think about things that are excellent and worthy of praise.9Keep putting into practice all you learned and received from me—everything you heard from me and saw me doing. Then the God of peace will be with you. Philippians 4:8-9 (NLT)
Where are you fixing your mind today?
Kim Feld
Executive Director of Education and Outreach
New Hope Church
Lorton, Virginia
www.newhope.org