Choosing Between Negativity and Hope: Taking Control of Your Thoughts

You are today where your thoughts have brought you: you will be tomorrow where your thoughts take you. ~ James Allen

Proverbs 23:7 says, "For as he thinketh in his heart, so is he."

Life can sometimes be extremely challenging. During such tough times, it's easy to concentrate on the most difficult or negative aspects of what's happening. This mindset can quickly lead to a downward spiral of negativity and depression. It can be tempting to start imagining the worst possible outcomes, catastrophizing. However, as a child of God, I don't have to live in a state of catastrophe. Romans 8:28 offers this promise - "And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love Him." With this knowledge, I can be confident that no matter how things appear now, good is on the way. And the good that comes from God surpasses anything I can imagine (Ephesians 3:20)

I may not always have control over the thoughts that enter my mind, but I can definitely decide if I will allow them to remain. I can decide whether to dwell in the darkness of negativity or embrace the light of hope.

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. ~ Philippians 4:8

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Here are some lovely things I've been focusing on today.

This is the highlight of our mornings - visiting the chickens to gather eggs, taking them weeds from the garden, and just hanging out.

Michael cut lots of lettuce this morning. We shared some with friends and will be enjoying lots of salad.

The kids helped me pull the red beets that were ready. I love seeing them enjoy the garden!

Pulling weeds and playing in the dirt.

We stole the dog's ball. She didn't seem to mind.

Today's Bible story

Our color this week is purple. We watched a video and did a worksheet.

Our shape of the week is the oval.

Other books and videos we enjoyed today.

"Three angelic lords - an emissary, a warrior, and a scribe - witness the breathtaking drama of Earth's creation unfold. Is this how the angels see us...?" (Quote from the description on Amazon)

This book has been fascinating so far.