The Eastern New Mexico News - Serving Clovis, Portales and the Surrounding Communities

PNT religion columnist

Do you ever engage in negative self talk? Do you allow anxious situations to dominate?

Such actions have a detrimental effect upon your body. It puts an added stress on your system too. If left unchecked something will eventually give way.

It takes a real concentrated effort to change a thought pattern. It takes diligence and perseverance but it is so worth it.

We can read about David in the Old Testament. Enemies surrounded him on every side. Yet David encouraged himself in the Lord. He reminded himself that God was for him and was on his side.

David looked beyond his present circumstances. He focused on the answer not the problem. He turned to the only One who could give him victory.

Psalms in the Bible give us many verses of encouragement. Turn to them the next time problems seem overwhelming. Rejoice with David and thrill to his assurance of his Creator.

Let’s stop those nagging, negative thoughts by persisting in positive affirmations.

Affirm that all is well. Tell yourself, “I’m healthy. I’m happy. I am wonderfully made!”

Read: “My God will use his wonderful riches in Christ Jesus to give you everything you need” (Philippians 4:19, NCV).

“One thing I ask of the LORD, this is what I seek: that I may dwell in the house of the LORD all the days of my life, to gaze upon the beauty of the LORD and to seek him in his temple” (Psalm 27:4, NIV).

“No weapon that is formed against thee shall prosper; …” (Isaiah 54:17, KJV).

If you falter, start all over. Be persistent. It is worth all the time and effort it takes.

You will be speaking life to your mind and body

Remember all the hard places the Lord has brought you through. He will be faithful to do it again!

I love the 11th chapter of Hebrews. It is the “Great Hall of Faith Believers.”

I thrill to other stories of faith such as Joseph’s statement to his brothers. They meant it for evil but God meant it for good.

I admire Esther’s faith when she agreed to put her life on the line for her people.

She said, “If I perish, I perish!”

Many giant heroes all encouraged themselves in the Lord.

We can too!

Let’s encourage ourselvesin the Lord today.

Portales resident Joan Clayton is a retired teacher and published author. Her e-mail address is: [email protected]