Our mind is a powerful force. Now I don't mean that in a new age, mystical way, I mean that because the Bible says so, because God says so. He created you and me, He should know.

Philippians 4:8 instructs, "Whatever things are true, whatever things are noble, whatever things are just, whatever things are pure, whatever things are lovely, whatever things are of good report, if there is any virtue and if there is anything praiseworthy—meditate on these things."

Why do you think we would be instructed to think and even take it a step further and meditate on positive things? Well, I have a few people in my life who are glued to the news channels. I feel so sorry for them because their mind is continually fixated on all that is negative. Their hearts are consumed with fear. Mine would be too if I continually fed it bad news. Our minds are much like our bodies, fill it with all that is bad for us and we will become sick.

We are to renew our minds daily with anything praiseworthy, not with continual bad news. That does not mean one cannot listen to the news, but we are not to be consumed with this Covid, riot ridden, economically depressed world.

Colossians 3:2 encourages to "Set your mind on things above, not on things on the earth."

Based on this scripture I encourage you to turn off the TV, iPad, iWatch, iPhone, computer, and go for a walk in nature. Ask God to fill your mind with things above. What does this mean? I can tell you what I heard when I did this very thing, but God is creative so be open to whatever He reveals and share in the comments a little piece of your story.

• I was reminded to be thankful for all the blessings I have...enough food, clean water, a home, health, friends, family that love me, a country at peace, freedom of speech and worship and the list goes on.
• I was reminded to think big picture. This world is not my home, I'm just a passing through. I could feel a smile spread across my face and into the very marrow of my being when I thought of meeting Jesus. Wow! I can't wait. And what about seeing all those who have gone before me. How interesting it will be to have a sit down with my favorite Bible character Joseph or see my sweet grandmother who prayed for me.
• I was encouraged as I thought about things above to reflect upon my life, keep short accounts and ask God to reveal areas that need attention, or need His forgiveness, or need more love.

I came back from my walk, refreshed, renewed and ready to spread the good news of the gospel of Christ which is the best news ever. I scheduled time through the month of August for one on one with both old and new friends in my back yard. I look forward to the God conversations the Holy Spirit will orchestrate and just loving on my friends.