Tuesday,  June 17, 2014

By: Rachelle Hitt Bilbo

 

A Good Report

 

2 Timothy 1:7  For God has not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind.

 

Let's just be REALLY honest today.  While waiting for a doctor's report, a family member who is late to return home, or maybe results from a job interview, it is easy to imagine the worst possible scenarios.  That is in fact what most of us have been taught our entire lives through the old adage "Hope for the best, prepare for the worst."

 

I am of the mindset that there is no possible way to prepare for the worst.  Sure, when a storm is coming, we can take some precautions by moving possessions to higher ground and boarding windows, but when the WORST actually does happen, even those precautions are futile.

 

In those times of "waiting", we should not give our minds over to the worst scenario and be consumed by worry.  Easier said than done right?  It does take effort!  Today's verse says that God has given us all a "sound mind."

 

In the original Greek, the word "sound" means "disciplined." That means, we have to DISCIPLINE ourselves to focus on that "best case scenario." Jesus reminds us throughout scripture NOT to worry about what tomorrow may hold. Although it's easy to think those "worst" thoughts, we have to purpose in our hearts to think a DIFFERENT way.

 

God gives us some insight on how to change our thinking in Philippians 4:8, "Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, THINK ON THESE THINGS."

 

Does that mean that bad things will never happen? Unfortunately, it does not.  However, the Bible lets us know in Isaiah 41:10 that when the seemingly worst does happen, God is right by your side. "So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you..."

 

I challenge you today to focus on those things that are true, honest, just, pure, lovely and of a GOOD report!

 

Dear Lord, Forgive me for the times that I doubted You and chose to be consumed by fear.  That is NOT the spirit that You gave me.  Help me to discipline my mind to focus on and to EXPECT Your very BEST for my life.

 

I thank You Jesus for dying for me. I believe that You are Lord and that God raised You from the grave so that I can have eternal life. In the Name of Jesus I pray, Amen

 

Reflection: Are you trusting God for a good report even in your worst situations?