Life Is 10% What Happens to You and 90% How You React by Charles R. Swindoll

Author:Charles R. Swindoll
Language: eng
Format: epub
Publisher: Thomas Nelson
Published: 2022-11-10T00:00:00+00:00

RESTORING CONTENTMENT

How do we correct our perspective? How do we possess the ability to understand what’s important and what isn’t? We change our attitudes. This means rejoicing in what we have, not lamenting what we don’t have. And once we’ve changed our attitudes, we change our actions accordingly. How? I’ve learned three simple exercises that help me stay drama-free and content with what God has given me. Let me share these with you.

First, nourish your mind with healthy thoughts. Just as our bodies need quality food to stay strong, our minds need quality input if we hope to have attitudes and actions that bear fruit of joy and contentment. Consider Paul’s words:

Finally, brethren, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is of good repute, if there is any excellence and if anything worthy of praise, dwell on these things.

PHILIPPIANS 4:8

No matter what you’re dealing with or how bad things seem to be or why God may be permitting them, deliberately letting your mind dwell on positive, uplifting thoughts will enable you not only to survive but to thrive. I frequently quote those words from Philippians 4:8 to myself. I say things like, “Okay, Chuck, it’s time to let your mind dwell on better things.” And then I go over the list and replace a worry with something far more honorable or pure or lovely, something worthy of praise. It never fails; the pressure I was feeling begins to fade and the peace I was missing begins to emerge.

Second, focus your attention on encouraging models. This world is chock-full of bad examples—celebrities in movies, music, or social media saying, “Be like me!” . . . “Like the things I like!” . . . “Do the things I do!” The last decade has seen the rise of online influencers whose only claim to fame is being famous online as influencers. Much of the time, these heroes of hype inspire a host of copy-cat accounts. Clearly, in the twenty-first century, we need better heroes. Consider Paul’s approach:

The things you have learned and received and heard and seen in me, practice these things.

PHILIPPIANS 4:9

In the Philippians’ case, Paul was their model. From his example, there were things to be learned, received, heard, and seen. He provided a wonderful demonstration of encouragement.

In your case and mine, it will help to focus our attention on someone we know and/or admire—someone whose attitude and actions are worth imitating. That life, that encouraging model, will give us a boost and a quick charge when our encouragement batteries start to flash red.

Third, find “the God of Peace” in every circumstance. Even if we’re smothered by discouraging thoughts, even if we’re drowning in disturbing images, even if we’re disappointed by the failure of mentors . . . God can see us through. As the source of peace amid the storm and confidence despite anxiety, He can navigate us through the troubled waters. As the helmsman of our hearts, He wants to see us through.

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