Things to occupy our minds

 Philippians 4:8-9 

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. Whatever you have learned or received or heard from me, or seen in me—put it into practice. And the God of peace will be with you.

In the world that we live in, where information is at our finger tips, with a lot happening, particularly bad and depressing things, what does God have to say? He says we  should focus and keep our minds on what is noble, praiseworthy, lovely, right, pure, excellent. Our thoughts should be channeled on the positive things, no matter the storm. Storms will come and go, but we must never let the storm get inside us and take over our lives. This doesn't mean that we shouldn't recognize what's happening, but this means we must not dwell on the bad stuff. There's a saying that talks about the ship, that the water doesn't make it sink, it keeps it afloat, however, when the water gets inside the ship (when damaged), then that leads to big problems. Same with us, there could be bad things said about us, economy that is affecting us etc. those are just storms that we shouldn't let get inside and destroy us. Take it to the Lord!

Also, we are told that whatever we learn from the word of God, we must put it into practice. If God says the greatest commandment is to love Him with all of your heart, mind and soul, best you do that. If He says do good where it is within your power, then do so. The reward is that the peace of God will be with you. One that surpasses all understanding!