Finally, brothers and sisters, 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 3:8

The Bible’s most common command is do not worry or do not be afraid. In the word of God, the most common thing that is said is do not be anxious, do not be worried, or do not be afraid. Worry, more than anything, will suffocate your spiritual life. It will cut you off from intimacy with God and others. Whereas faith, trust, rest, and slowness will allow you to grow deeper in your faith with God. Focus on what’s good in your life. That will give you the hope and the confidence to not be anxious and to not be suffocating. Do you ever feel strangled by worry or anxiety? Stop it! Relax and focus on what’s lovely, praiseworthy, noble, true, and good, and watch as you change your thoughts as your whole world begins to change.

PRAYER: Dear Lord, thank you for your love. Today I pray that I focus on the lovely things in my life. Amen.

REFLECTION: What lovely things do I daily overlook in my life?