A Spiritual Tonic For Anxiety
Philippians 4
KJV
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.
After rereading the above verses I came to realise how relevant and appropriate they are to banish anxiety and put the mind to rest.
Just read it again this time slowly and thoughtfully ;
Philippians 4:8
NIV
[8] 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.
It is all about the state of the mind, what images /pictures events etc we feed it Paul says feed the mind with things that are “ noble, pure, lovely, admirable, excellent”. In short, be a positive thinker. Admire, adore and appreciate beauty when you see it.
What we think affects our mood which in turn affects our outlook every day, so feed your eyes with lovely, admirable, noble things!
Listen to what is true not falsehood. As much as is possible avoid rumours and gossip they poison, bias and prejudice the mind! They influence your choice of actions and friends wrongly, so avoid them.
Many relationships have been broken, some, unfortunately beyond repair because of these negative behaviors!
The passage also seems to prescribe and encourage sightseeing as an antidote to anxiety Feed the eyes with nature’s beauty. Go to the beach, stand and watch the waves as they roll by
What about a trip to Shai Hills, stand to feel the breeze and the fresh air! Or aburi. One songwriter did, read how he puts his experience
Oh Lord, my God When I, in awesome wonder Consider all the worlds Thy hands have made I see the stars, I hear the rolling thunder Thy power throughout the universe displayed
Then sings my soul, my Savior God to Thee How great Thou art, how great Thou art Then sings my soul, my Savior God to Thee How great Thou art, how great Thou art
Yes, nature has the solution to our anxieties, worries etc. It is for our sakes that the Father created all these. Oh, what a loss that we’ve failed to recognize and appreciate this loving gift!
Think again, for you are missing something great, free and valuable! I have resolved to enjoy these while time shall last.
Join me if you can! Reset your life!