Day ten

Peace is a battlefield. Day and night we have the choice to entertain thoughts of worry and fear, or to not. It is simply not easy to keep worrisome thoughts at bay in our minds; like swatting at a hundred noisy insects buzzing for our attention. Battling the habit of dwelling on fear filled thoughts, after our part of planning has been accomplished, can be exhausting.  
Especially when there is little else in our minds to dwell on. 
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. 
Philippians 4:8 
Paul gives us very sound advice in Philippians. What we choose to fill our minds with is as important, more important even, than protecting our thoughts from worry.  
This Book of the Law shall not depart from your mouth, but you shall meditate on it day and night, so that you may be careful to do according to all that is written in it. For then you will make your way prosperous, and then you will have good success. Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be frightened, and do not be dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.” 
Joshua 1:8-9 
Again, we see that what we choose to fill our minds with is crucial to the quality of our lives. How to combat fear? Focus of God’s word, who He says He is, and who He says we are. Then we do not need to be dismayed, because we will know in our minds and hearts who God is and be able to follow what He says. In place of fear will come peace, a battle won and fortified by the truth of who our heavenly Father is.  
Try picking a verse to memorize this week, to fill your mind with it. There are some good choices from week one of this devotional. You can write out the verse, journal the verse, paint the verse, or whatever you wish, knowing that each time you do you are filling your mind with what is good, true and lovely...winning the battle for peace.  
Father, I choose to fill my mind with Your word today. I give you my mind and pick up the responsibility of focusing on the truth in my mind today. That You that Your truth sets me free.