Devotionals

Changing Focus

by Jennifer Woodley 
06/06/21
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“Finally beloved, whatever is true, whatever is honourable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is pleasing, whatever is commendable….. think about these things.” Philippians 4:8 (NRSV)

I recently sat with a group of believers who were mourning the atrocities and political corruption being practiced by our government corporations and educational institutions. According to their recount, lawlessness raged and sin abounded in every corner of our society. Their conversation spiralled down into a deep, dark hole of despair and discouragement. We are not unwise, yes the enemy is at work in these final days, but so is Christ. He is sovereign over all and will have the final say!

There is a reason why Paul exhorts us to follow the command in Philippians 4:8. Dwelling upon what the enemy is up to brings desolation and despair. We need to feed our mind with the things that God is up to. Where do we see Him at work, where is His grace flowing through our lives, His beauty evident around us, and signs of His Kingdom coming to earth and His will being done? On such things our spirit is consoled and our words will offer encouragement to others and praise to our mighty Father.

We desperately need to change our focus to that which is hopeful and commendable, good and honouring to God, not Satan. It takes intention to focus on and talk about such things. Perhaps that is why Paul commands us over and over again to gird up the lions of our mind and bring every thought captive to the will of Jesus, so that we will have the hopeful, trusting and encouraging mind of Christ.