When you focus on what you don’t have or on situations that displease you, your mind also becomes darkened – #JesusCalling.
Rather, offer “the sacrifice of thanksgiving and call upon the name of the Lord” –
Psalm 116:17 (NKJV). 
‘A life of praise & thankfulness becomes a life filled w/miracles. Instead of trying to be in control (I so struggle w/this!), focus on Me & what I am doing.’ – Jesus Calling, by Sarah Young
Revelation 19:3-6 “Hallelujah! For our Lord God Almighty reigns.”
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“I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well. My frame was not hidden from you when I was made in the secret place. When I was woven together in the depths of the earth, your eyes saw my unformed body. All the days ordained for me were written in your book before one of them came to be” (Psalm 139:14–16).
This verse suggests that I should not be complaining, moaning and groaning about the non-working or poor-working parts of my body. Since I am fearfully & wonderfully made (Scripture says so) and God’s works are wonderful, then my body is as it’s supposed to be.
Every day has been pre-arranged. God is aware of the exact state of my body today, yesterday, and tomorrow.
“Though the process of aging continues, inwardly you grow stronger with the passing years. Those who live close to Me develop an inner aliveness that makes them seem youthful in spite of their years,” Jesus Calling by Sarah Young.
I must trust that He knows what He’s doing & all is going according to plan.
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Do I always rejoice? Am I continually thankful for what comes my way — always? That’s easy to answer: No! Should I be? Yes! The Apostle Paul, inspired by God, writes in the book of Philippians that I should be content in whatever life circumstances come my way.
I tend to be more on the side of: why me? Why now of all times — haven’t I got enough on my agenda already? Sarah Young, who wrote Jesus Calling, says this “Bring your moments to Me, and I will fill them with vibrant Joy. Now is the time to rejoice in My Presence!”
It doesn’t say to rejoice as soon as my body heals, or when I get a job, a newer car or house. Or when my child isn’t in trouble at school. “Celebrate God all day, every day. I mean, revel in him! (The Message)
There are no options in that clear statement. All day and every day. Even the ones that stink and reek of loneliness, heartache, pain, or even boredom.
What should I do instead of wallowing in self-pity? I do have healthy alternatives that I can consciously focus on such as:
Result: the God of peace will be with you (Philippians 4:4). And isn’t that what we all long and hope for in this world … internal peace and contentment with God.
Dear God, thank you for the reminder that you care enough to be there when I need you most. You are always near to me and close enough to answer my prayers. You are real. My fantasies are unreal and futile. Focus my thoughts and energy on constructive positives. I rejoice in the countless blessings you’ve given. You are all I really need. You offer Life, Joy, Peace and Contentment. No one or nothing else can fully satisfy!
Do you feel like your world is upside down? That you don’t have a grasp on reality? Do you find yourself fantasizing about how your life could be more perfect or happy?
“Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice. Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near. Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds” — Philippians 4:4–7.
“Your part is to live close to Me, open to all that I am doing in you … Just keep focusing on Me as we walk through this day together. Enjoy My Presence, which permeates you with Love, Joy, and Peace” – Jesus Calling, by Sarah Young.
Crumbly, old stairway (Iowa)
The challenge continually before you is to trust Me and search for My way through each day. Do not blindly follow your habitual route, or you will miss what I have prepared for you — Jesus Calling, by Sarah Young.
Let’s face it — we are creatures of habit. If it worked for us last time and the time before, why mess with the program? Why? Because maybe … just maybe … things could be better.
Sarah Young shares a few valid reasons to ignore status quo:
1. Trust God. Why wouldn’t I trust him? He created me, sustains me and wants only the best for me.
2. Search for God’s way continually. Not just once and say it’s done, but again and again throughout the day. Here’s the definition for search: to make a thorough examination of, look over carefully in order to find something. To come to know, to learn.
3. Expect blessings and surprises! God loves to love us and give us the desires of our heart if we ask with the proper motives.
Dear God, forgive me for rushing into today without praying to you and asking what you have in mind for me. I intentionally seek your wisdom and your way. You know what’s best for me. Thank you for what you’re going to do.
“For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways, declares the Lord. As the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways and my thoughts than your thoughts” — Isaiah 55:8–9.
Do you feel you’ve got your life under control? Do you blindly go through your day without considering what God would have you do and say?