The Sacred Practice of Paying Attention
Taylor Joy Murray
“Let the one who is wise heed these things and ponder the loving deeds of the LORD.” Psalm 107:43 (NIV)
“May God himself, the God of peace, sanctify you through and through. May your whole spirit, soul and body be kept blameless at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ.” 1 Thessalonians 5:23 (NIV)
Lord, when my mind is filled with negative thoughts, help me remember what is true: I have the mind of Christ (1 Corinthians 2:16). May my thoughts align with Your thoughts. Help me to put on Your humility and compassion toward myself and others. Remind me I have perfect peace (Isaiah 26:3). I trust that if my mind remains on You, You will help me remain in perfect peace. Even when chaos surrounds me, I know You are close to me because Your Spirit lives within me. I choose today to set my mind on things above (Colossians 3:2). What I fixate on will influence the way I see myself, others, and my circumstances. I choose today to meditate on Your Word and trust that it is the best place for me to find comfort and rest. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
“He heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds.” Psalm 147:3 (NIV)
“Now I want you to know, brothers and sisters, that what has happened to me has actually advanced the gospel …” Philippians 1:12 (CSB)
“O death, where is your victory? O death, where is your sting?” 1 Corinthians 15:55 (ESV)
“I am able to do all things through him who strengthens me.” Philippians 4:13 (CSB)
“I am poured out like water, and all my bones are disjointed; my heart is like wax, melting within me.” Psalm 22:14 (CSB)
“‘Leave her alone,’ Jesus replied. ‘It was intended that she should save this perfume for the day of my burial.’” John 12:7 (NIV)
God, You are always so faithful. I believe You will do what You say You will, even when I don’t understand the circumstances around me. I know You are still at work in my life. When I’m faithless, give me faith in You. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
“Be strong and courageous; don’t be terrified or afraid of them. For the LORD your God is the one who will go with you; he will not leave you or abandon you.” Deuteronomy 31:6 (CSB)
“Let the one who is wise heed these things and ponder the loving deeds of the LORD.” Psalm 107:43 (NIV)
Heavenly Father, we thank You for the gift of the Holy Spirit, poured out with love and power on Pentecost. Fill our hearts anew with Your presence, guiding us in truth, courage, and compassion...
“and I will ask the Father, and he will give you another comforting Counselor like me, the Spirit of Truth, to be with you forever.” John 14:16 (CJB)
“In my distress I called to the LORD; I cried to my God for help. From his temple he heard my voice; my cry came before him, into his ears.” Psalm 18:6 (NIV)