ASSESSING THE PAST GOD’S WAY

Today’s New Covenant nugget is from Philippians 4:8, 11 (AMP)

Finally, believers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable and worthy of respect, whatever is right and confirmed by God’s Word, whatever is pure and wholesome, whatever is lovely and brings peace, whatever is admirable and of good repute; if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think continually on these things [center your mind on them, and implant them in your heart]. The things which you have learned and received and heard and seen in me, practice these things [in daily life], and the God [who is the source] of peace and well-being will be with you… for I have learned to be content [and self-sufficient through Christ, satisfied to the point where I am not disturbed or uneasy] regardless of my circumstances.

The bible says that you will prosper and be in health even as your soul prospers… (your soul is includes your mind and your thoughts). What we think about, how we think about things and how we process our thoughts determines in a large way how ‘content’, or how ‘satisfied’, or how much ‘at peace’ we are.

As 2019 is coming to a close, I find myself reflecting on the year – how did I do with my goals? – How did I handle myself in times of pressure? – Did I grow spiritually, and such…

Analysis, measuring and assessing your life can be good, and it can be bad, depending on HOW you do it. If your analysis leads to condemnation, disappointment, depression and frustration you are not measuring God’s way – If it leads to faith, hope, peace, joy and renewed resolve, then you have probably assessed things the scriptural way.

Assess everything in the light of Philippians 4:8, even your failures! In other words, when you think about a failure, let the Holy Spirit renew your mind on how He would have had you handle things – then, REPENT (Greek – change the way you think) and renew your mind… that process is a positive, and a much needed one. We do not ignore past failures, we turn our past failures into stepping-stones… we grow from them and we learn from them!

Another thing that I do in order to process things the Philippians 4:8 way, is, I process failure and mistakes in small doses. Even when handled the right way, too much focus on what you did wrong, or what you could, or should have done differently can lead to sadness, condemnation and frustration. I meditate on at least five things that I did right for every one thing that I did wrong. That process may limit how many mistakes that you can deal with, but in my opinion – rather deal with less and stay full of joy and peace, rather than correcting more and losing your joy and peace.

Maybe you have also been evaluating your life lately, if so, do it the Philippians 4:8 way and your evaluation will lead to life, peace, contentment and joy!

Join us at Amazing Love Church this morning at 10am if you are on island! - Blessings on you, Nick