"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." Philippians 4:8 (ESV)
There is war between Ukraine and Russia.
The Queen of England has died and a new King named.
Violence is becoming more rampant as the criminals find that they won't be punished.
Inflation continues to rise and the national deficit continues to increase.
As companies worry about recessions, some are beginning to lay off employees and halt hiring.
All this and more. Such is the state of the world and nation. We find that it is difficult to concentrate on the good things in life when we are constantly bombarded with news that things seem to be getting worse. Five minutes of the local news can make your head swim as you work to take in the evil that seems to be prevailing. Worry filled, sleepless nights occur more often as we wonder how to make ends meet and how to keep our children safe.
Is peace to be found anywhere at all?
God, through His Word, has told us that the condition of the world we live in will grow worse as the time of the second coming of Jesus draws nearer. John 16:33 tells us, "...In the world you will have tribulation. But take heart; I have overcome the world."
Notice that He doesn't say he WILL overcome the world, but that he HAS overcome the world. The book of Revelation tells us how the battle between good and evil will end. This is a war where there is no doubt of the outcome. Jesus wins!
We have to keep in mind that where we are now is not where we will be eternally. If we have repented of our sins and received Jesus into our lives as our Savior and Lord, then we have the promise of eternity with Him, where there is no war, inflation, death, sadness or difficulties of any kind.
I think that is why today's verse tells us where our focus should be. "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."
Jesus is all these things. Our focus should remain on Him and our trust be placed in Him because He has already overcome all the troubles we face. With earthly eyes it is impossible to see how He will get us through it all but He has promised to do so and because He is Truth, we can have faith that He will do as He has said.
Fear not. Concentrate on Him and peace will follow. God bless.
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