He is my strength and my shield.

He is my strength and my shield.

He is my strength and my shield.

I often find it difficult to keep my thoughts and my attention stayed on the Lord. I was discussing with a friend practical ways to counter worry, negative thoughts, and ruminating on that which is unhelpful.

We discussed getting away from our normal routine, listening to worship music, and our continued journey through devotionals and Bible studies. All beneficial. All will continue to be sources of encouragement and support.

Yet, I continued to wonder how to capture my thoughts and, in the moment, turn them from fretting to faith.

For a follower of Christ, the answer should be obvious. But sometimes we get so stuck in the hamster wheel of worry that we do not see what is right in front of us.

The gift of God’s Word is immeasurable in these moments of decision.

The gift of God’s Word is immeasurable in these moments of decision.

Last evening as I read the Jesus Calling daily devotional, this scripture verse was the focus:
The Lord is my strength and shield.
 I trust him with all my heart.
He helps me, and my heart is filled with joy.
I burst out in songs of thanksgiving.
// Psalm 28:7 NLT

These were the words I needed yesterday, and as I woke up today to start a new week.

This morning…

As I got out of bed and readied myself for the day, I continued to repeat this promise – He is my strength and my shield.

Throughout this day…

As I sense my ruminations become unhelpful, I will remind myself – I trust him with all my heart.

As negatives thoughts infiltrate, I will redirect myself – He helps me, and my heart is filled with joy.

As worries lead me astray, I will worship and give thanks – I burst out in songs of thanksgiving.

Honestly, I must do this. Because reliance on Him is my assurance in this life.

“When we listen to Jesus, we realize that getting a handle on our worries requires our choice and God’s grace. Our worries are eased by a deep confidence in God. Even though concerns remain, the obsessive, anxious, desperate feelings are undermined by a real faith and hope in the Lord.”
– Daily Bread

---

Check out this helpful article about Worry // https://odb.org/how-can-we-put-our-worries-to-work-for-us/