FOCUS ON JESUS

By Heidi Lum, Session Elder

“You will keep in perfect peace those whose mind is stayed on You, because they trust in You. Trust in the Lord forever, for the Lord God is an everlasting rock.” - Isaiah 26:3-4

My family and I recently adopted two rescue dogs, one as a COVID graduation present for our youngest son, and one who came to us quite by accident. I’ve never had a dog before, so this is a completely new experience for me. I love watching the dogs. They can be rambunctious and playful and they make me laugh, and they can also be at perfect peace with the world—when they are in my lap, in the room with me, or looking at me. (They’ve decided they’re primarily my doggies!) Their adoring looks and excitement when I walk into the room reminds me of what our relationship with the Lord is like.

I love when the Lord is in the room, and at the same time I feel at peace. My doggies remind me when I feel anxious about my responsibilities or what’s happening in the world, that I need only look to Jesus, and my mind is slowed down and kept at peace. I am reminded that "God is [my] refuge and strength, [my] very present help in times of trouble. Therefore [I] will not fear…”                          Psalm 46:1 (ESV) 

When I looked at my doggies during the recent fireworks, they were fine as long as I didn’t leave them and they could keep their eyes and paws on me. Their focus was everything. May we, likewise, always keep our eyes focused on the Lord!

Prayer: Lord, may my eyes always be on You, who gives me peace, comfort, and perspective, even when the world around me seems difficult, full of pain, and turned upside down. You are my rock. You console me, You rescue me when I feel overwhelmed, and You give me solid ground to stand on. Thank You that I need only to look to You, and You give me peace. You are a very present help in trouble, and I can rest in You. Thank You for this amazing blessing! In Jesus’ mighty name, Amen.

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