I have never heard such bad news before in my lifetime. Bad news tries its ugly best to disturb our peace. Disappointments and heartaches do come. Struggles and conflicts come unexpected. Disappointments and heartaches do come in this journey of life. A daily diet of bad news brings depression and despair. I temporarily forget this planet is not our permanent home.

            The Good News” is seldom told in the media and that blinds the beauty and blessings in life.

            The apostle Paul, under the inspiration of the Holy Spirit, tells us in Philippians 4:8 what to think about, “Finally brothers, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable…if anything is excellent or praise worthy, think about such things.” (NIV).

            We are told in Romans 12:2 to be transformed by the renewing of our minds.

We gain the right perspective by focusing on the Lord.  God is not surprised by anything. We may not see the immediate results of our prayers but rest assured they are there. Wickedness catches up in time and pays the price.

            The only way to peace is our trust in the “Prince of Peace.”  God is merciful. He restores the repentant sinner.

            Aren’t we humans strange creatures? We work and fret always driving ourselves striving to make it on our own. When we finally realize our dependence is on God we then can let go. There is nothing in this world like His peace. “Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.” (NIV).

            The world seems to continually take pot shots. Besides of political adversity even the little things seem to break the final straw. The battery goes out on our car, the pickup has a flat and your husband broke a tooth while eating out and no one can find it. Bills pile up and we worry.

            Believe me, through all of these things we are more than conquerors. “No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us “ (Romans 8:37 (NIV).

            I must say it again. We always have many more blessings than problems. We are rich in family, friends and most of all, Jesus.

            Life is precious and it is beautiful. Despite the daily bombardment of bad news, the sky is still blue and mockingbirds still sing. By the way, have you ever noticed that mockingbirds sing through life whatever happens? They never seem to lose their song, even when hungry cats appear. We can learn a valuable lesson from our feathered friends with their little birdbrains.

            I am thankful to live in a wonderful place filled with loving, caring people. I am thankful for a God who will never leave or forsake His children. “He has loved with an everlasting love” (Jeremiah 31:3 NIV).

            God never forsakes his children. Let’s through away our anxiety and trust the Lord.

            Let’s wake up each morning and say these words out loud:

            “I can do all things through Christ who strengtheneth me.” (Philippians 4:13)

            “My God shall supply all my needs according to his riches in glory by Christ Jesus.” (”Philippians 4:19)

            “…the  joy of the Lord is my strength.” (Nehemiah 8:10)

            “…let the weak say they’re strong.” (Joel 3:10)

            “I dwell in the secret place and abide under the shadow of the Almighty.” (Psalm 91:1)

            The next time you hear disturbing news, remember,

            God is still in control!