Adjust the Focus: Choose Joy - Nanette M. Holloway

Sometimes we have to adjust the focus from the outside difficulties of the world that bombard the mind. Like COVID-19 numbers increasing. Rising heat indexes. Wild fires erupting worldwide. Unrest in the Middle East. And so much more. Then there’s the personal challenges we all face.

Adjusting the focus takes effort and time. Like when you look through binoculars. First you find the item you want to see close up. Then you fine tune the lenses to get a clear picture.

My dried crispy flowers and the grass crunching underfoot this morning reminded me to change focus to the blooms that flourish in the dry, hot weather: a joyful sunflower and blooms of the hearty buttercups.

All reminders of joy in the midst of a troubled world. Reminders that God hears our prayers for rain in due season, and help concerning COVID-19.

As my focus changed in the flower garden, my spirit rose to choose joy despite the challenges.

God is good. All the time.

Scripture for Today

“May the God of hope fill you all joy and peace as you trust in Him, so that you may overflow with hope by the Holy Spirit.” (Romans 15:13 NIV).

“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 your minds in Christ Jesus.” (Philippians 4:4-7 NIV).

Prayer for Today

Lord,

We lift up those who are among the many who are facing COVID-19 infections, and those who are on the front line caring for those affected. Help us to find effective treatments for this illness. Father, we ask for rain in due season to areas that are facing drought and higher than normal temperatures. Also for those who have lost homes or property due to wildfires. Please touch each of our lives who are experiencing difficult circumstances. Help us to choose your joy as our strength today. Hear our prayers, oh Lord. Amen.