Shifting Winds

The older I get I am certain that valuable insight can be revealed in a variety of sources. Thomas S. Monson, sixteenth president of the Church of Jesus Christ of the Latter Day Saints (Mormons), made this profound insight. “We can’t direct the wind, but we can adjust the sails. For maximum happiness, peace, and contentment, may we choose a positive attitude.”

What are you like when things don’t quite go as you planned? Does your disposition remain optimistic, or does it suddenly take a downward turn (in challenging times)? As always, the scripture provides imperative wisdom for anyone willing to realize it.

1.  Be true to who God wishes you to be. Let Him put you where He wants you in His timing. Trust His wisdom. (I Peter 5:6)

2.  Instead of worrying about problems; go to God in prayer instead. (Philippians 4:6)

3.  Meditating on the right things in life can make all difference in what comes out of you in actions and the day you experience. God is good all the time. (Psalm 27:13, 34:8, 118:24, Philippians 4:8)

4.  Overwhelm (and bless) those you do not like with kindness (instead of using hatred). (Ephesians 4:31-32, I Peter 3:9)

5.  The Almighty knows you intimately, and He does not want you to be confused by anything pertaining to Him. His way is not difficult. (Matthew 11:29, Luke 12:7, 1 Corinthians 14:33)

6.  The Heavenly Father wants you to strengthen your faith, rejoice in Him, encourage others, and replace complaining with trusting His will instead. (Hebrews 11:6, 1 Thessalonians 5:16, Ephesians 4:29, Philippians 2:14)

7.  The most important medicine you can take for your health is to purposely take a cheerful outlook on life, seek the Almighty, and relax in His strength. (Proverbs 15:13, 17:22, Matthew 6:33, 11:28-30)

8.  Try whispering instead of yelling during an argument. See how quickly the disagreement fizzles out. (Proverbs 15:1)

9.  What comes out of your mouth can make (or break) the true you. It can be emotional life or death. You will be known by your actions, or often times hurt by your own words. (Proverbs 18:21, Matthew 12:33, 15:11, James 3:5)

10.     You can accomplish more than you expected with a little faith in God. (Mark 11:22-25)

11.     You have Someone (your Heavenly Father) that is available for free counseling (and real peace) anytime you need it (24/7). He is your true source of power. (Psalm 20:7, John 14:27, Hebrews 13:5-6)