Day 17 - Issue 27
Psalm 125:1 NLT
'Those who trust in the Lord are as secure as Mount Zion; they will not be defeated but will endure forever.'
One of the amazing things living is Seattle was to note that no matter what the weather, the mountains endured. Obscured from view they may have been, yet there was never any threat to their existence. It’s the same with Mount Zion, a picture of God’s enduring presence and reality (Hebrews 12:22). Often in my sadness I become the personification of that passing mood. It shapes my perception of myself and triggers thoughts of depression and anxiety. I exchange my safety in God (1 Peter 2:6) for a passing weather system that obscures God for a moment. I need to remember I am secure on Mount Zion.
I am too easily provoked to react to my feelings in situations. I act first, think second. A thought is initiated and my mind is consumed with it. This thought in turn generates a lot of emotion, driving my feelings down. Now I’m subject to my emotions. Such feelings produce unhelpful actions with unhealthy results.
When something like fear triggers personal insecurity and anxiety that challenge my attempts at faithfulness, it’s as if my Christian commitment is mocked by the feelings that consume me. I now say and do things that are contrary to my express desire to obey God. I’ve lost my footing on Mount Zion, source of my true identity and security. All this can be transfigured if only I can change my reaction to the initial trigger. I can break this cycle of negativity and wait for the weather to pass, as it most surely will. I must consistently acknowledge that my thoughts and feelings little resemble all God sees in me and has for me. The weather may last quite some time, yet Mount Zion cannot be shaken, nor will I.
QUESTION: What triggers sadness for you?
PRAYER: Thank you, Father, that when I placed my faith in your Son, you gave me your Spirit to dwell within me.
