It is the Spirit who gives life; the flesh is no help at all. The words that I have spoken to you are spirit and life. John 6:63 ESV

I took a walk yesterday, on a tree-lined sunny path. No phone, no headphones.  I wanted to notice and savor God’s fall display.  I began running through ongoing concerns, such as Mike’s job, Mom’s health, Wes’ work ‘overwhelm’ and so on.  Familiar weariness set in. But, by grace, I recognized I had a choice. So, I switched to meditating on what is praiseworthy, true and beautiful.

As I walked, I thanked God for abundant trees still mostly bedecked with green leaves, prancing dogs and their masters, and a few after-work employees released from technological tasks. Then I turned to his word.

I recalled a teaching I had listened to this morning on how God took time to celebrate his work at creation. After each project, he fully examined his handiwork, evaluated it and declared it ‘good’! And then after all was done, he dedicated a longer time, called the 7th day, to reflect and enjoy his creation.

God called the dry land Earth, and the waters that were gathered together he called Seas. And God saw that it was good. Genesis 1:10 ESV

Good or ‘tob’ in the Hebrew means: beautiful, happiness-producing, excellent, rich and valuable.  

I’m not surprised that our creator and sustainer would create a good home for us. For all of God’s works are ‘tob’.  God himself is ‘tob’ among many other qualities.

As my mind settled on our beautiful beginning, I thought of how amazing it is that God SPOKE his works fully formed into being. His ‘construction’ phase of Planet Earth 1.0 totally kitted out our earthly home in mind-boggling ways.  I felt my wonder and awe over God’s power expand.

Suddenly an intruding thought brought me back to a current situation. My light spirit began leaking God’s buoyancy. I could actually feel the change in my mood. But by grace, I recognized the not-so-subtle intrusion of Satan’s attempt to draw me away from enjoying God. I declared ‘NO!’  I crave that refreshment that comes from meditating on God.

And back to ‘life’ I fled.

The sudden contrast between temporary wearying concerns and refreshing reflections on God and his word surprised me. The 30-second swerve away, devoid of God-consciousness, and the ease in refocusing my attention back on him encouraged me. That was a first, a happy initial and successful attempt to get back on the correct road. Pleased with this easy return, I resumed thinking about what is praiseworthy, true, good, excellent and beautiful. I felt invigorated once again.

I plan to exercise and develop my God-given power to shift my thoughts.