Perspective, Again

In 2009 I wrote a post here titled “Perspective” about my anxiety at the time with the economy, the 2008 election, and all the bad things going on in the world - both real and perceived - and how the Lord helped me focus on Him instead of the fear. 

Who knew then how much worse it would get in the years to come? A major recession, the Covid pandemic, the wars in Ukraine and Israel. Donald Trump inciting the violent January 6 attack on the Capitol because he couldn’t accept that he lost the election.

This 2024 election weighs heavy on my heart as we face a choice between what seems to me like marxist liberalism vs. fascist conservatism and it leaves me feeling like - to use a colloquialism - we’re screwed either way. I am once again struggling with worry over politics, the economy, world affairs, and the moral decline of our country. But as I re-read that entry in 2009, I once again find my peace in God’s presence amidst the uncertainty, and find that the prayer I wrote then is just as applicable and empowering today with a few additions:

 Dear Lord, 

I bring you my shortcomings...

because Your Word says that in my weakness you are strong and I feel like such a wimp in these trying times. I have so many faults and shortcomings but when I look closer, I see they are by your design as behind each one is a strength waiting to develop as I surrender them to you.

I bring you my worship and praise...
because Your Word says you inhabit the praise of your people and when I worship You, I feel your presence. Today I praise your names Jehovah Jireh, because you are the Lord who provides, and Elohim Shomri, the Lord who protects me.

I bring you my prayer...
because Your Word says to tell you my hurts, fears, concerns, and needs so that I'm not anxious about anything. Help me take my anxious thoughts captive and leave them with You, knowing that nothing is happening that isn't passing through Your hands first. You are in control of all things including an election. Thank you for your provision and protection.

You spoke to me from Your Word…

"I have loved you with an everlasting love."
Jeremiah 31:3
"The eternal God is a dwelling place, and underneath are the everlasting arms."
Deuteronomy 33:27

“Do not put your trust in princes, in human beings, who cannot save.

When their spirit departs, they return to the ground; on that very day their plans come to nothing.

Blessed are those whose help is the God of Jacob, whose hope is in the Lord their God.

He is the Maker of heaven and earth, the sea, and everything in them. 

He remains faithful forever.”

Psalm 146:3-6

You whispered to me…

Don’t worry. I’ve got this.

What’s on Your Altar?

"Everybody has an altar. And every altar has a throne. So how do you know where and what you worship? It’s easy. You simply follow the trail of your time, your affection, your energy, your money, and your loyalty. At the end of that trail you’ll find a throne; and whatever, or whomever, is on that throne is what’s of highest value to you. On that throne is what you worship."   - Louie Giglio

What’s on your altar? It can be relationships, a job/career, or service to others. A hobby or travel to beautiful places can be great for mental health. Bible study, ministry, and intercessory prayer are definitely worthy of space. Even material collections that bring us joy might show up on the altar. 

But what about the throne? Any thing or person that becomes an obsession or a singular focus of our money, time, affection, loyalty, and energy threatens to take over the throne of our lives. It could be the pursuit of wealth or status above all else. Or the pursuit of youth and beauty. Maybe social media consumes our time and energy. Any number of addictions might battle for prominence. 

For some a presidential candidate sits on the throne as an object of messiah-like worship. Sadly, I have witnessed this a lot the past few years and more-so lately. 

I hope Jesus is on the throne of my altar. I think He mostly is, but it’s a battle with the many other things vying for a place as well. 

“For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.” - Matthew 6:21