Live An Aware Life!
"And we know that all things work together for
good to those who love God, to those who
are the called according to His purpose."
Romans 8:28
The centuries-old idea of mindfulness found a place in Western
therapeutic practices in the twentieth century as a way to reduce
effects of stress, depression, and anxiety. The idea is practicing
awareness. It creates moments where a person focuses solely
on the present. This concept is not new for the Christian. We're
taught to live each day in continual awareness that God is with
us and working in our life.
Awareness is behind the idea of Romans 8:28, that God is always
at work to accomplish His purposes. This lengthy story of Joseph
and his brothers contains many moments where the brothers would
have benefitted from stopping and asking, “What's God doing in
this
situation? What's He showing us? Let’s pause and seek Him before
going forward.” Twice Joseph spoke the principle of Romans 8:28.
The brothers acted wrongly toward Joseph, yes. But God used it for
good in all their lives—ultimately it resulted in the preservation of
Jacob’s family (Genesis 45:5-7; 50:19-21).
Live an aware life today. Instead of responding
impulsively or reacting intuitively, go more
slowly and see what God may be saying.
"It is a sin as much to quarrel with God’s
providence as to deny his providence."
Thomas Watson
