“What you focus on you will find.” Today, I’m reminded of a quote that I have heard often. In other words, if I focus on the negative, I will experience unpleasant things throughout my day. But, if I focus on what is positive and look for God’s hand moving all around me, that is absolutely what I will find!
I know that even in the difficult moments of life, I can still have peace and joy. Focusing on — and finding — peaceful and joyful moments is important! That’s why I try to make a practice of rejoicing, praying, and having a heart of gratitude — even when things do not go as planned.
My Experiences as an Empty Nester
My husband John and I are now empty nesters as each of our kids have embarked on their own journeys. I have noticed it is hard NOT to be concerned or afraid of their decisions.
In my own life, I find myself concerned for their every day protection, for their dreams, and for things to work out just as they have hoped.
Can you relate?
- Do your plans ever get disrupted? Where do you find yourself turning? Are you focusing on — and finding — peace?
- Are your kids leaving your nest or embarking on new seasons of their life? Do you have big dreams for them?
An Email of Encouragement
I recently read an encouraging email from Alisa Keeton, founder and CEO of Revelation Wellness. Her email sparked several questions for myself.
There are many circumstances in my children’s lives that are growing and shaping them into the people God has created them to be. Am I being intentional with practicing rejoicing, praying, and giving thanks for these circumstances?
In Alisa’s email, she defined these three practices like this:
- Rejoicing means remembering it is all grace.
- Praying means talking to God about what’s hard.
- Thankfulness means thanking Him for what I do have.
The true, biblical definition of rejoicing goes beyond it being just an emotion. Rejoicing is a deeper state of joy. And this joy is rooted in God, in our relationship with Him, and the awareness of His love.
My Own Story of Rejoicing, Praying, and Giving Thanks
The night my oldest son told us he was moving to China, I began a journey of learning and growing. I was not only learning to trust the Lord, I was also learning to rejoice in a new way.
My heart was sad, scared, and if I’m honest, disappointed. I wanted him close so I could see him often, hug him, have family celebrations with him, have assurance he was doing well and on the right path, all the things a mother’s heart longs for. He would miss out on so much with our family and we would miss out on so much of his life.
While all of this is true, the Lord also taught me to surrender Michael to Him through prayer. I talked to God about the struggle and my fears.
I knew I had a choice to make:
- I could focus on Michael being far away. I could dwell on missing out on much of his life and him missing out on ours.
- Or, I could focus on God and embrace the truth that God is writing Michael’s story. God holds my son in the palm of His hand! God is protecting Michael while guiding and directing his path.
While it hasn’t been easy, I have learned to rejoice and be thankful in the small things! Some of these include:
- Hearing his voice on the other end of the phone line as he shares stories
- FaceTime calls
- Learning about the experiences he’s having
- Receiving photos and videos
- Making the most of when we get to visit together
- Hearing how he’s thriving in community
I can’t help but to rejoice in all of this! Even through the troubles, my heart is anchored in peace, joy, and thankfulness.
Bible Verses and Breath Prayer
There are many ways to connect to God through prayer. One way that I enjoy praying is through the practice of breath prayer! I combine deep breathing with prayer. It calms my anxious heart and mind and connects me to the heart of God.
Whatever I am concerned about — my children’s situations, the decisions they face, my own insecurities, my capabilities — I have found that praying through and meditating on Scripture connects me to God’s heart and reminds me who I am in Him.
Be encouraged with these Scriptures. And, use this breath prayer to center yourself on the goodness of God.
Bible Verses:
“Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice!” (Philippians 4:4)
“The Lord appeared to us in the past, saying: ‘I have loved you with an everlasting love; I have drawn you with unfailing kindness.’” (Jeremiah 31:3)
“Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.” (1 Thessalonians 5:16-17)
Breath Prayer:
Inhale: Rejoice
Exhale: In the Lord, always