Dwell on the Word

Dwell On The Word
By Lori Ennis
“Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable–if anything is excellent or praiseworthy–think about such things.” Philippians 4:8

I have a tendency to be a bit on the anxious side. We all have our thorns, and letting my mind run to the worst-case scenario is one of mine. I give myself grace in knowing that often it’s our life experiences that shape that mentality. When the shoe seems to drop more often than not, it’s hard to not sort of…well, anticipate it. I’ve had a few shoes drop. As well as a few bricks in the face.

Cue pretty regular anxiety.
I think it’s safe to say that the last couple of years have been different than many of us have seen in our lifetimes. The things we’re watching play out in the world are the things we can hardly wrap our minds around. It’s nerve-wracking to turn on the news and see what NEW thing we never anticipated pops up.

Cue even MORE anxiety.
But also cue dwelling on His Word. 
You see, the Bible isn’t just our book of instructions for how to live holy lives and honor God. Obviously, it’s that, but it’s so much more. As Pastor Todd told us last weekend, it’s living and active! (Heb. 4:12)

None of what is happening or has happened or will happen in days to come is a surprise to God. His Word is not just the foundation for what we as His children believe and abide by, but a safe place to dwell and find refuge in. When our anxiety or worries about what is going on around us get great, He tells us not to be anxious, but instead focus on what is true and noble and right…pure and lovely and admirable and praiseworthy.

It may be hard to focus on pure and lovely things as you watch your checking account get slimmer and slimmer or people literally leaving their homes in war-torn regions when they were attending ballet recitals and taking ski trips just a few weeks ago. You may feel depressed and find mustering up something lovely hard.

So read His word. Read about how He loves you and me so. Read about those who mourned and cried out to Him and how He holds every tear. Meditate on His promise to wipe them all away and be with you in all circumstances. Soak in His sacrifice for you and hide His word in your heart as the treasure that King Solomon tells us it is.

Turn the dwelling on the circumstances in our lives (and the lives of others) to dwelling on His Word, and find in Him the peace your heart is searching for.