Hi ,
The mood was different in church last Sunday.
Normally, the pastor's wife gets up to greet new visitors with a loud "Good morning, good morning, good morning!" And the people usually respond with a loud good morning in return.
But last Sunday, the response was much less enthusiastic than usual, and she commented that she felt in the spirit that people were drained and dry. And later, the pastor said that he also knew that people were worried and fearful about the economic crisis. He said he knew some people were even having trouble sleeping.
I saw on the news yesterday that visits to psychiatrists are increasing too. One doctor said he is seeing 10-15 new patients from people who are overwhelmed with anxiety.
I'm concerned too. But I praise God that I know the secret to holding on to my peace during tough times. I want to share it with you.
It's found in this segment of the Serenity Prayer:
God grant me the Serenity
To accept the things I cannot change
Courage to change the things I can
And the wisdom to know the difference.
Very few of us are in a position to change what's going on in the stock market. We cannot change what's going on in the mortgage industry. We cannot change what's happening with loans.
But here is what we can change: Our personal economy. We can change the way we manage our personal lives. We can change what we choose to focus on. We can ensure that we strengthen our physical, emotional, and spiritual resources during this crisis.
When times are darkest, this is the Christian's time to shine the brightest. We are anointed for such a time as this.
So take care of your physical health during this time. Eat well and exercise to help you manage stress. Take time during the day to breathe deeply and focus on the present moment, not on what may or may not happen in the future.
And for goodness sake, cut down on watching the news. News producers know that bad news increases ratings. And since increased ratings mean increased advertising money, they are only too happy to keep delivering bad news. Don't allow yourself to be a dumping ground for it.
If there are things you can do to cut down on your expenses, then do that. If you need to cut down on grocery spending, then do that. If you need to call your creditors to see if you can work out solutions on bills you are having trouble paying, then do that.
Focus all of your energy on the things you can change. And the things you cannot change...ask God in prayer to help you accept them and to restore peace to your mind and heart.
Here are some words to encourage you during this economic crisis. This encouragement comes straight from the word of God. However, the words in italics are mine, which were impressed upon me during my prayer time. I hope they bring you some comfort.
Take time today to meditate on this word and let God's spirit refresh and restore you so that you may be a source of light and comfort to a hurting world.
Psalm 23
The LORD is my shepherd; - The Lord takes care of me
I shall not want. - He supplies all my needs according to His riches and glory
He makes me to lie down in green pastures; - He grants me abundant prosperity
He leads me beside the still waters. - He gives me peace that surpasses all understanding
He restores my soul; - He calms and refreshes me
He leads me in the paths of righteousness - He teaches me to live rightly according to the Law of Love because I represent Him in the world
For His name's sake.
Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, - Though I go through trials
I will fear no evil; - I will not allow fear, worry, doubt, depression, and discouragement to rule my mind
For You are with me; - For God has promised never to leave me nor forsake me.
Your rod and Your staff, they comfort me. - He protects and strengthens me.
You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies; - His goodness towards me shall be displayed to the world
You anoint my head with oil; - I shall rejoice in the Holy Spirit
My cup runs over. - He has opened his good treasure for me
Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me - Goodness and mercy follows me all the days of my life because the Lord is good and merciful
All the days of my life;
And I will dwell in the house of the LORD - And I will abide in His love and have everlasting life.
Forever.
Please forward this message to everyone you know who needs to be encouraged today.
Be blessed in health, wealth, and wisdom,
Kimberly Floyd, C.W.C.
Certified Wellness Coach
Author of 'MoneyWise Weight Loss'
http://www.takebackyourtemple.com
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