- Dayan
- November 30, 2024
Monthly Devotion: Finding Joy In Every Moment - November 2024
Passage:
“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
Devotion:
It was Monday morning, my day off from work, but I decided to work anyway since I am preparing for a Young Life-themed club that will be happening in two weeks. I purposely started my day by listening to a podcast to get some ideas and inspiration for the club talk I’m going to give. The podcast was moving and powerful, and it set my mood positively. I was energized and ready for a long day.
During the day, things went just as I thought they would. I went to the schools to talk with their principals and invited some students to attend the club. I visited a newly opened store and had frozen yogurt. I stayed there for a bit to enjoy my food and their air-conditioned space. As I was about to resume my work for the day, a few things came up that I wasn’t expecting, and I just said to myself, “Samoka uy, dangaga nimo! (You’re so clumsy!)” Then the rain started pouring, and I didn’t bring an umbrella with me. I started hating my day, and my mood just dropped. I stayed at the store for a bit, hoping the rain would stop. Long story short, I wasn’t able to finish what I had planned for the day and went home feeling disappointed.
Have you ever experienced having a very nice day, but then getting angry and just thinking that your entire day was a waste? I feel like this happens to me quite often.
Philippians 4:8 says, “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.”
This verse is a powerful reminder of how my thoughts influence my perspective and actions. It encourages me to fix my mind on things that reflect God’s character—truth, nobility, righteousness, purity, loveliness, admirability, and praiseworthiness. This verse also guides me to redirect my thoughts whenever I face frustrations and discouragements. Holding on to what is true helps me trust in God’s promises. Thinking about what is pure and lovely reminds me to avoid negativity and appreciate the beauty in simple moments, like enjoying my frozen yogurt and the cold breeze from the pouring rain. Lastly, reflecting on what is admirable and praiseworthy reminds me to be grateful for God’s unending goodness.
I believe that if we consistently choose to think about these things daily, it allows us to see how God works in our lives. Even in frustrating moments or situations beyond our control, our day isn't entirely a waste. By focusing on what went well, we can end the day with gratitude and faithfulness. This is both a challenge and an invitation for us to transform our thoughts and keep our hearts in tune with God’s peace, even when things don’t go as planned.
Prayer:
Lord, I thank You for Your Word that reminds me of Your truth. Forgive me for the times I’ve allowed my negative thoughts and actions to define me. Father in heaven, help me focus my thoughts on what is true, noble, right, pure, lovely, admirable, excellent, and praiseworthy. Teach me, Lord, to always see the goodness in even the simplest things happening in my life. Help me to trust You in all situations, even when things don’t go as planned. Lord, renew my heart and mind. Guide us to live in gratitude and peace. Strengthen me to face each day with hope and to walk faithfully in all Your ways.
In Jesus’ name, I pray. Amen.
