Focusing on trouble tends to cause worry-filled thoughts and words. As this focus becomes pervasive, the atmosphere becomes heavy. The body overflows with unnecessary flight/fight adrenaline, and healing rest becomes elusive.
A Moldova memory reminds me of a focus choice that significantly changed the atmosphere. On this mission trip, my friend and I sat at the bedside of a special needs young boy along with his mom, our interpreter, and the mission leader.
The conversation turned heavy when the mom brought up the recent suicide of an acquaintance. She wasn’t letting it go, and the boy’s face darkened with anxiety.
My friend sensed this boy needed a more hopeful focus to promote his healing. She leaned over to me and quietly suggested, “Sing something.” And so I did as the interpreter translated this song to Russian-
Turn your eyes upon Jesus, look full in His wonderful face,
And the things of earth will grow strangely dim in the light of His glory and grace.
The atmosphere immediately became more hopeful as we all felt the tension release. The focus changed to Jesus presence and smiles came to our faces. Every dark thought or situation is an opportunity to invite our Creator to enter with His powerful and transforming hope with solutions.
Corrie Ten Boom said, “Worry doesn’t empty tomorrow of its sorrow; it empties today of its strength.” When Jesus’ words fill my thoughts and focus, my atmosphere fills with light and life, the adrenaline slows, thinking becomes wiser, and physical health becomes stronger.
I need to be intentional about monitoring my thoughts and asking God for help. The Bible speaks of God’s help in all situations. If I choose to believe His promises, the mountains get smaller as I wait for His answers with a thankful heart.
You will keep in perfect peace all who trust in you, whose thoughts are fixed on you! Trust in the LORD always, for the LORD GOD is the eternal Rock. (NLT: Isaiah 26: 3 – 4)