“Forget the former things; do not dwell on the past. See, I am doing a new thing! Now it springs up; do you not perceive it?”
– Isaiah 43:18,19
![]() I once heard a psychologist say that depression is dwelling on the past and anxiety is dwelling on the future. What that means is that if we can be present in the present, we diminish both depression and anxiety in our lives. The new thing that God is doing always happens in the present! By letting go of what used to be and not focusing on the things that have already happened, you can diminish the power of depression over your mind and spirit. Likewise, by letting go of tomorrow and the things you need to do, the errands you need to run, or what you have on your calendar at work, you can see anxiety nearly disappear. Here’s the key to your best life: be present in the present. Be fully where you are at the moment and be present with the people you are with. There are others in your midst right now who love you and are glad you’re in their lives. Be present with them; don’t be in the past or the future. Focus on being where you are, and you will be able to let go of worry and find more joy in each day. A new thing is springing up right in front of you, if only you have eyes to perceive it! |
Prayer
God, thank you for the gift of the present. Help me to leave the past in the past and to not dwell on the future, so that I can perceive the new thing you are doing right before my eyes.
Reflection
Is it difficult for you to leave the past in the past or not to worry about the future? How might you practice being present in the present?
2 Responses
Thank you for continuing to talk about mental health!
Life is good, God is good, in every circumstance