I have not posted in a good while. It has been a long, hard winter around here, and I have been busy. I am, however, glad to be seeing signs of spring!

Lately, I have been thinking a great deal about how to strike a good balance between truth and facts. What do I mean? As I read and listen to the news, I learn of more and more unrest–wars, violence, disasters and catastrophes. Looking at the facts can easily bring overwhelming sadness and leave us with little hope. On the other hand, The Bible gives us a multitude of reasons for optimism. The question is whether or not the promises in scripture are true and whether or not we believe them.

So how do we remain on target when it comes to giving appropriate attention to current events and the trials we all face each day, while striving to maintain an attitude of hope and trust in God and the Lord?
The book of Proverbs teaches us that as a man thinks in his heart, so is he. It also tells us to keep (guard) our hearts with all diligence, because the issues of life proceed from them. We can do this by absorbing God’s words and truths. We learn about the events of the day primarily to enable us to become involved in partnering with God in bringing about positive change.

Our prayers are a vital part of this activity, but it will also involve other actions. Rather than dwelling on the course of this world, we seek God’s wisdom in responding to it. If we become overwhelmed by the evil, we are neutralized, thereby becoming ineffective in changing the negative tide. My thoughts turn again to the verses in Philippians which give us a beautiful set of steps to follow:

Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, 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.
Finally, brothers, 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 4:6-8 (NIV)