Pause for Renewal & a Steadfast Mind
As we wrap up the first portion of the year, it is of upmost importance to pause and exhale. Have these past few months been a whirlwind for you? Maybe it has slowly moved along, or somewhere in between. As the year moves forward, it is easy to get caught up in the routine, the newly added responsibilities , or calendar events that fill your day.
In the midst of the hurried pace, how is your mind & heart doing? Are you grasping for a moment to think or a settled feeling of peace? The cultural pace of ‘hurry’ doesn’t make time for the ‘pause’. However, I encourage us to be intentional & take a step toward renewal. You may wonder what this looks like. Let’s start with reflecting on God’s Word together.
Meditate on Scripture
Romans 12:2 — Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—His good, pleasing and perfect will.
Isaiah 26:3 — You will keep in perfect peace those whose minds are steadfast, because they trust in You.
John 14:27 — Peace I leave with you, My peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.
Philippians 4:6-7 — Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything with prayer & petition let your requests be known to God. And the peace of God which transcends all understanding will guard your heart & mind in Christ Jesus.
Philippians 4:8 — 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.
Psalms 46:10 — Be still and know that I am God.
After reading these scriptures, what words or concepts jump out to you? Did you notice the theme in the scriptures?
At this point in the year, we can easily find ourselves grumbling, tired, or distracted from the goals & inspirations we set our hearts toward at the beginning of the year. It is common to see discouragement and sometimes a jaded mindset as a result of circumstances that bombard our mind. Running a race requires strategy involving a time of effort and refreshment.
Reflective Questions
Are we trusting and focusing our mental energy toward Christ?
Are we placing our thoughts and concerns toward Christ while believing that He will wrap us in peace?
Are we choosing to think on upright thoughts and intentionally laying aside destructive thinking?
If you answered no to any of these, take a moment to reflect on how your mind, body, and spirit has felt during this first portion of the year & what you need from Christ today. Personally, I know I need to be reminded of these truths. Christ offers us a glass of refreshing water: a gentle nudge that encourages us to direct our attention on Him.
You are a Child of God & are worthy of care.
This week, consider your thoughts both those you dwell upon and act upon. Do they feel healthy for your being or are they pulling you down?
The challenge is that we cannot always control the circumstances that surround us. Although, we have the courage to choose our thoughts and the strength in Christ to take captive those that aren’t in alignment with His fruits.
While it isn’t easy, will you join me in centering our minds & hearts on Christ as we walk into the second quarter of this year? You are worth the life that is given to you.
Breath Prayer
Inhale: You will keep me in Peace — Exhale: As I trust in You
Inhale: As I set my mind on You — Exhale: You will provide me peace
Prayer
Jesus, thank you for your continual grace and compassion. You remind me to set my mind upon you because you love me. Thank you for helping me to remember to pause and refresh my steps. I know that I can live in peace as I walk hand-in-hand with You. Father, provide me forgiveness when I stumble and remind me of your renewal when I rise up again. In Your Name, Amen.
