Conversations with God

Hello God, it’s me, Mara:

You know, Lord, each and every one of us folks could tell of a single item that holds importance and joy that he or she would never part with. ‘Patty’ told us of a fifty-year-old recipe card that was in her mom’s handwriting. Another gal shared that her lovely pink tea-cups, long ago, were her grandma’s favorite teacups.

Other folks may value treasured memories - a compliment that encouraged them, a grandchild’s giggle, or even a special insight they had gleaned for Scripture.

What we often keep stashed aways in our hearts, though, are things that have brought us great unhappiness: Anxiety – hidden, but easily retrieved. Anger – below the surface, but ready to strike. Resentment – silently corroding the core of our thoughts.

‘Cindy’ reminded us how Paul addressed a more positive way to “think” when he wrote his letter to the church in Philippe. He encouraged the people of the church to always rejoice, to be gentle, and to bring everything to God in Prayer. Reading part of what he wrote “Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice.” Philippians 4:4. We should take a moment to read all of Philippians 4:4-9.

Paul’s uplifting words on what to think about helps us see that it is possible to push out dark thoughts and allow the peace of God to guard our hearts and minds in Christ Jesus. It’s when the thoughts that fill up our minds are true, noble, right, pure, lovely, admirable, and praiseworthy that we keep His peace in our hearts.

‘Cindy’ reminded us that when unwelcome thoughts have stubbornly taken residence in our minds and heart, we should take a moment and ask You, Father God, to guide our thoughts, this day, asking You to fill our minds with good things, as You hold our hearts and life in Your Care. Thank You, dear Father!

Love, Mara