Finding the Color of Life
Family. Work. School. Bills. Politics. Life.
At times, these things pile up and can be overwhelming. Think about one thing that isn't going right. Then, all of a sudden here comes a mound of other "things" to consider. Before you know it, life has lost its color. Trust me, I know how easy it is to slip into a 'funk' when life has seemingly turned gray. What has always helped me get through these moments is reading what the Word of God says about it. Here are a few ways you can find the color of life.
Don't Worry, Be Happy (Matthew 6:25-34)
I love how Jesus takes our common concerns and compares them to birds and flowers. Who knew birds and flowers had needs? Seriously, think about it. Birds have to eat and they need shelter. Flowers also need certain things such as water and sunlight to survive. The lesson here is that birds and flowers don't need to ask for anything and they certainly don't worry. The birds chirp and flowers bloom; rain or shine. God takes care of them and you have to believe that He will take care of you too. You mean more to God than flowers and birds so no matter what you face, do not worry. God's got you; always has and always will.
Count Your Blessings (Psalm 21:6)
There was a song I used to hear sung a long time ago about counting your blessings...It went something like this:
Count your blessings, name them one by one; Count your blessings, see what God has done; Count your blessings, name them one by one; Count your many blessings, see what God has done.
While I don't recall the full song, the gist of it is to get us thinking about the blessings in life. If it were possible to list ALL of your blessings I would venture to say your perspective on life would change. Praise would soon begin to replace any sorrow you have been feeling when you think of what God has done. Take some time to reflect on your blessings. Remind yourself of the ways God has made and how He has never left your side. God wants to bestow endless blessings upon you. Each morning His mercies are new (Lamentations 3:22-23) and He has so much more in store for you.
Laugh (Proverbs 17:22)
When was the last time you let out a good hearty chuckle? I mean the kind that shows all teeth and gums, has you bent over backward and forwards, makes you shed happy tears, and eventually breathless. If you haven't lately, you should try it. The bible speaks of a merry heart working like medicine. Laughter promotes health and a longer lifespan. Hospitals bring in therapy dogs to give sick patients something to smile about. When someone is sad, the first thing we naturally want to do is give them a reason to smile. We'll crack a joke or do something silly just to relieve heartache. Studies show that laughter improves the heart, reduces depression and relieves pain. I know life can get very serious and some issues are no laughing matter. But if you can find a reason to smile and laugh it will not only benefit your soul it will restore color to your life.
Reflection
Remember that God never intended for you to live a life of gray. He created this beautiful world we live in and wants us to enjoy it. Who says you can't have heaven right here on earth? If you're feeling overwhelmed or simply have found yourself in a funk, pray this prayer;
Father,
I thank you for life and the many blessings you have given me. Right now, I am feeling overwhelmed with life. Open my eyes to see life the way you do. Replace any sorrow with an everlasting joy. Help me to always see the color of life even when things look gray. I thank you for hearing and answering my prayer.
In Jesus name, I pray
Amen
