January 27 Truly Focused Isaiah 26:3
Good morning from Pastor Glen Brock, Baptist Tabernacle Church, Wendell, North Carolina… “Thou wilt keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on thee: because he trusteth in thee.” (Isaiah 26:3)
Over the past year, with its chaos and upheaval and demonstrations of hatred and evil, I have been challenged to stay focused on what is real and eternal. In the midst of political and radical changes in our national resolve, I have found myself caught up in the craziness of a popular movement of secular and temporal thoughts and goals. How am I to react to anti-Christian, anti-American rhetoric that is absolutely opposed to my convictions, my thoughts and my Christian values? How easy it is to lose focus on what is real and just and edifying to our Savior! Yesterday, the local TV station, reported that COVID19 and its issues, have caused a spike in mental health issues. Really? Extreme changes to our way of life and isolation and distance and all of the negative (both real and created) that has been reported and experienced,; no wonder that folks are experiencing some levels of depression and mental health issues! Folks, I thank God for His power and presence in my life and the provision for peace! God has promised that, when we are focused on the correct things and when we are committed to His will, then, we are going to experience “Perfect Peace,” regardless of the circumstances! For almost a year, I have ended each daily devotional, with the admonition to “STAY STRONG, STAY FOCUSED!” Our survival requires True Focus on what is real and just and edifying to God! The words of a beautiful old hymn (My heart is fixed, O God on Thee), provides the encouragement that we need to, not only survive, but to thrive! “ My heart is fixed O God on Thee, No more my feet shall go astray; I caught a glimpse of Calvary, And now I walk with Christ today. My heart is fixed O! God on Thee, My eyes are now on things above, From worldly yokes, Praise God I’m free, I’m running o’er with joy and love. One time I wandered far away, I did not heed the Shepherd’s voice; My heart on God is fixed today, For He is my eternal choice. My heart is fixed my face is set, Upon the prize that lies before; All other claims I will reject, My heart is fixed forevermore. No longer tossed upon the waves, Of sin and doubt but now I sail; Within the life boat, Jesus saves, No storms against me shall prevail.” Stay Strong, Stay Focused…THE BEST IS YET TO BE!!
**Please Pray for our Leaders, whether you agree with them, or not. Today, yet another example, of the death of Common Sense, as we witness the Impeachment trial beginning for a President, that is no longer in office. It is extremely difficult to live IN this world, and NOT be OF this world. **