Finding peace

It is a difficult thing to find peace in a world that worships strife. While I understand that fear and strife sells, and why media outlets and advertisers on media outlets love stories that appeal to the most base side of humanity, I still fail to see why we (as a people) are so devoted to giving airtime and headspace to things and people that rob us of joy and contribute to the chaos of life rather than affording much needed moments of peace to each of us.

Oftentimes we tend to direct our focus to the things that distract us rather than the desires of our hearts. 
When trail riding, you don't focus on the trees, rocks, or obstacles - you focus on the trail. When motorcycle riding the winding roads of the Ozarks, you don't watch the ditches or shoulder drops - you keep your focus on your lane of the road ahead of you. 
Fear keeps our focus on what can go wrong. Peace and confidence (and often success) come from focusing on the task at hand.

Today's meditative verses come from Paul's letter to the Philippians. In his closing he reminds them to keep their thoughts on gratitude, God, and good, honorable things. 
He writes:

Rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say, rejoice. Let your reasonableness be known to everyone. The Lord is at hand; do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your minds and your hearts in Christ Jesus.

Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things. What you have learned and received and heard and seen in me -- practice these things, and the God of peace will be with you.

May your thoughts bring you peace on this day.
Guard your thoughts. Focus on what is good and honorable and worthy of your time.
And rejoice!

John