Weekly Devotional by Jana Turpin
“I was talking to Courtney my daughter-in-law and telling her how anxious I have become lately. It is all the violence on the news. There is so much hate, wickedness, and evil on the news I don’t know how to breath at times. I feel overwhelmed and tremendous anxiety. So the next morning Courtney was reading her devotional and she texted me saying God wants you to see this! This was the topic of her devotional the morning after we talked:
DON’T WORRY ABOUT EVIL PEOPLE who prosper; don’t fret about their wicked schemes. In this day of instant communication, you have access to so much information and news that it’s easy to feel over whelmed. Not only do you hear about evil people and their wicked schemes, you also see the graphic details. This visual imagery has a powerful impact on your brain chemistry. A steady diet of such carnage can make you anxious and fearful.
I want you to pray about world events and pursue peace as you are able. However, it’s crucial to recognize what you can change and what you cannot. Fretting about things that are beyond your control will drain your energy and discourage you. Instead of this hurtful focus, endeavor to fix your thoughts on ME. I am with you and for you. Delight yourself in ME!
Remember that I am a God of justice and I know everything. Eventually I will right all wrongs. So be still in My Presence – trusting in Me with a steadfast heart while waiting for Me to act.
Be still in the presence of the Lord, and wait patiently for him to act. Don’t worry about evil people who prosper or fret about their wicked schemes. – Psalm 37:7 NIV
Therefore, holy brothers, who share in the heavenly calling, fix your thoughts on Jesus, the apostle and high priest who we confess. -Hebrews 3:1
Trust in the Lord and do good; dwell in the land and enjoy safe pasture. Delight yourself in the Lord and he will give you the desires of your heart. – Psalm 37:3-4
Source: Jesus Always Embracing Joy in his Presence by Sarah Young
Heavenly Father, You are in control of everything and You know all things. Thank You for Your Word and Your peace that You give us. Allow us to know what we can change and what we cannot. Time will come for the evil, liars and unjust people of this world to be held responsible for their actions. I ask Lord to give us the peace to know this and to enjoy all the good in this world instead of focusing on the bad. You are in control and our thoughts must be on You Jesus! Let us show love in our hearts and actions. We need to look at what Jesus did while on this earth – his actions are what we need to mirror. Jesus you are our peace, love and life. Continue to be with us….keep us safe, healthy and joyful in all we do. In Christ’s name, Amen.”