Virus Programs for Our Hearts

         Finally, brothers, 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  NIV

Ann Voskamp’s new book, One Thousand Gifts, is re-charging my life. Even though I often write about the giving of thanks, my heart grows selfish. Ann’s words speak directly to my aching heart so I am pondering again the sweet peace that comes when a life is lived in gratefulness, thanksgiving, appreciation, and adoration.

Days get long and tedious and sometimes I don't stay in a spirit of thanksgiving. Ann writes a list—with  a pen in her hand onto paper—things for which she is thankful. As I click these letters on my keyboard, I remember the horrible week my world fell apart because my computer crashed and died.

I had been careless. I forgot to protect my documents with an updated virus program that runs in the background, always on guard, always watching, searching, warning, protecting.

It always surprises me how easily I get careless with my very human brain and then I am surprised how quickly my thinking becomes corrupted.

My little world sails along in its quiet, comfort zone. All is well. And I drift. I forget to back up my memory with God’s Words. I forget to run the defrag program with prayer. I forget to empty the temporary files that hold worry and fear and doubt. I forget to simply be still and know and hear. And give thanks.

When God created the amazing human mind, He provided choice but He also armed us, His children He loves so dearly, with scripture and detailed instructions for worship, prayer, study. God gave us sure ways to protect our minds. And Jesus Himself set the example for giving thanks—in all things, at all times, no matter what.

Dear holy Father, help me remain vigilant and think on things that keep my mind focused on You. Help me to learn to live in thanksgiving.

Search for praiseworthy things with me this week and let's think about them!

Liz