“I consider that our present sufferings are not worth comparing with the glory that will be revealed in us.” (Romans 8:18 NIV)

           In this scripture Paul reminds the believers that the difficulties and pain of this current life are insignificant when weighed against the incredible, glory that God will reveal to us.  

           Is this comforting?  That the trails and tribulations of this world will no longer weigh us down.  Yes and no.  Paul understands that suffering is real and happens all the time.  Each one of us has experienced it at some time or another.  What Paul does is encourages us to focus on God rather than temporary struggles.

           Think about it when we focus on God our eyes are upon God not our problems. The way we do this is to start each day being thankful for what we have.  Then praise God.  This helps us to learn to lean upon God during the good, the bad, and the ugliness of life.  

Thus, when you pray, try dedicating the first few minutes to thanking God for who He is and what He has done.  This shits your mindset toward God before you list your own worries.  Then be thankful, by being thankful you see the good things in your life. This also helps you to guard your mind by replacing your focus from your anxiety to God.  So, listening to Christian music, reading the Bible, prayer and meditation throughout the day.  When you do this, you make a mental shift from your own worries to entrusting your worries into God’s care.  

           Just by saying “Thank you Lord, You are my strength and hope.”  You are trusting God to see you through whatever you are going through, whether it is health issues, relationship problems, financial hardship, or even physical, emotional, or spiritual problems.  It is something for us to try!  You just might have a better day.  God Bless.  Amen.  

denise