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Blessed are your eyes, for they see, and your ears, for they hear (Matthew 13:16, ESV).
I read a sermon once with this quote, “Stop seeking mental health in the mirror of self-analysis, but instead drink in the remedies of God in nature.”
Not to demean counseling, but too many of us spend time in over-active introspections that lead to self-condemnation, guilt, and depression. Psalm 19:1 teaches that creation reveals the glory of God, and the sky proclaims His handiwork.
Why don’t we focus on creation here and now and the good that we see? Certainly, our joy would grow with this new creation mindfulness.
Let’s pray the following to be mindful of God’s greatness. . .
- For our eyes to be opened by seeing the little things that God does for us.
- To daily look to the heavens and let our thoughts contemplate the grandeur and mysteries of God.
- To regularly proclaim that God created and controls the universe and every aspect of our lives.
- To realize that God is good and great and works all things to His glory (not ours!)
- For insight into the fact that we are wonderfully made for a purpose.
- To become like children and live this quote by Lewis Carroll, “A child of pure unclouded brow, and dreaming eyes of wonder.”
- To live “just now” and know that “just now” is all we have.
- Knowing that every stroke in the painting of our lives — even the darkest hues — is painted by a MASTER who calls Himself the Alpha and Omega.
- Realize that this is the day that the Lord has made!
- To not undermine our uniqueness by comparing ourselves to others.
In my life, introspection kick-starts when I compare myself to others. Why can’t I preach, write, or have a large church like others? Comparison robs me of joy, creating a cloud of discouragement that could last for days.
Years back, I read this helpful comment by Bill Johnson about the “cloud” in his life.
I came to understand that the cloud wasn’t just over my head; it was inside it. I mistakenly thought that focusing on my lack and comparing myself to others was a posture of humility. In fact, it was the opposite. Instead of focusing on God’s greatness in my life, I was focusing on myself. I was actually agreeing with the enemy by making my own problems bigger than God’s promises. And my agreement invited that cloud of oppression to hover over me.
No matter what the cause of our inner turmoil is, mindfulness gives us a new perspective. In creation — nature, time, relationships, art, morals, and love — we find examples of God’s works. We see something bigger, something creative, and something sustaining.
Our Creation Mindfulness allows His light to dispel our darkness!