Navigating Negativity

We live in a world surrounded by negativity, as nothing positive seems to grace the news stations or social media. The influx of bad news can impact one’s outlook and daily living. As a result, we can find ourselves full of anxiety and distress. God never intended for us to live like this. As a God of peace, He desires for us to live in peace as well. He’s ready to help us in navigating negativity.

Reference Verses: Psalm 13

David experienced a great deal of ups and downs, but his downs were a doozy. His employer tried to kill him. His unborn child died after a period of fasting and mourning. One of his sons planned a coup against him to take his place as king. If all of that wasn’t enough, he left the Ark of the Covenant at Obed Edom’s house because one of his men died. All these were enough to drive anyone insane or to the point of collapse. However, David overcame and stood strong because he relied on God.

We have access to the same place of peace. God’s Word points us to the fountain of peace. We don’t need to carry around the cares of this world because God tells us we can cast everything on Him (1 Peter 5:7). Despite what we see or how we feel, anxiety has no place with us. God encourages us to make our requests known to Him through prayer and thanksgiving (Philippians 4:6-7). This isn’t an empty promise from God because He is peace and will guard our hearts and minds.

Navigating negativity is challenging but not impossible. The power lies within us to get the help we need because the God of peace stands ready when we call. Regular time in prayer and thanksgiving enables us to deal with the pressures of life. Giving God our cares reminds us that we’re not in the battle alone. Therefore, negativity doesn’t have to be our home. We can find peace when we rest in God’s hands.