In times of crisis , its natural to focus too much on whatever the crisis is more than anything else. Whether it’s a personal dilemma or a pandemic like were currently living through. Staying informed and making wise decisions on that information is a good thing. The problem is that we can develop an unhealthy habit in our hearts where we meditate about trouble and forget God. When this happens, the crisis will loom bigger and bigger, and God will appear smaller and smaller. The outcome becomes anxiety, panic, fear and the like.
The solution is gratitude. To intentionally look for reasons to be thankful. This is not denying the reality of the situation, but rather finding those things which we can give thanks.
The first place to look is vertical.
Give thanks for who God is. Meditate on his holiness. Live in awe of his power. Remember his faithfulness. Worship his righteousness. Praise him for his justice. Thank him for his patience, his love, his mercy, and his grace.
After looking vertically, think of all the reasons you have to be thankful horizontally.
Things like the people in your life – the ability to stay connected through technology.
The home you have, grocery stores still open and the food they have.
Be thankful.
Psalm 27 is a Psalm of David. A Psalm of confidence in the LORD while at the same time a desperate plea for God’s divine presence in the midst of attack.
“One thing I have asked from the LORD, that I seek:
That I may dwell in the house of the LORD all the days of my life,
To behold the beauty of the LORD and to meditate in His temple.”
Be informed and make wise decision – but above all count your blessings!
“The LORD bless you, and
keep you;
The LORD make His face shine
on you,
And be gracious to you;
The LORD lift up His
countenance on you,
And give you His peace.”
Num. 6:24-26
Pastor Marc
Don Strobel says
Well said.