The Sound of Music is such an iconic movie. For many, the scene that first comes to mind is when Maria comforts the children during the rainstorm and sings “My Favorite Things”. While not entirely historically accurate, the movie rendering of the von Trapp family and their musical journey has encouraged generations with a message of hope, love and perseverance.
The idea of focusing on the positive in the midst of fear or turmoil is not just common sense, but Biblical as well. Philippians 4:8 reads: “Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things.”
That is not always an easy task. When things get rough, choosing to focus on the lovely is a struggle. These last two weeks have been very challenging for me. Between some high stress situations and a daughter’s repeated sickness, I’ve often been in tears, fighting against depression. Thankfully, my cloud has lifted and I’m much more at peace. I know that several people have been praying for me and I’m very thankful for that.
Looking back over the last few years, it has occurred to me that issues that were once a huge stress or problem, have now become blessings. For example, two different skin cancers were removed, and though I don’t like the scars or scraggly hairs left behind, they are evidence of a problem solved. The cancer was caught and eliminated. I could choose to see them as ugly (and sometimes I do) but when I’m in a more gratitude oriented mindset, I see them as answered prayers and a sign of God’s provision.
Today, be encouraged to think on your favorite things (blessings), whether they are raindrops on roses or scars on your toes(es). When the dog bites, when the bee stings, when you’re feeling bad–remember to choose to think on the good, and enlist some trusted friends to pray for you.
