“Set your mind on things above, not on things on the earth.”
Colossians 3:2
It's easy to get discouraged by the world around us. Our eyes and ears are constantly bombarded with news stories and images from around the world and most of them are negative. What we constantly see and hear and allow into our minds can affect our peace and shape our thinking. I've found the more I listen to politicians arguing, read newspaper articles, and view internet blogs, the more it can actually affect my mood that day!
It is important to know what's going on in the world around us, but Paul tell us we should not be putting all our attention and focus on these things. God is ultimately in control. When we see confusion on Earth, look to Heaven for clarity. When we feel cynical about life or people, turn our eyes upwards to the one who we can trust completely. When the media is filled with bad news, Jesus is the good news for the world.
Are you fed up reading negative stories and feeling discouraged and cynical about the world around you? Put the paper down, switch off the TV and close the laptop. Lift up your Bible, spend time with your Father, and feel refreshed and encouraged again.