Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you. Do not quench the Spirit. Do not despise the words of prophets, but test everything; hold fast to what is good;

-1 Thesselonians 5:16-21

It is impossible to know what is ahead. Sometimes we fear that change will mean loosing thing we love.  Sometimes we fear we’ll miss out on fun or opportunities.  But if we are focused on our fears, they multiply.  If we can be grateful for the present moment, it is easier to move forward into what God has in store.    [hear sermon audio]

This week, take some time to dive into these scriptures and questions during your devotion time.

Read:

• Ecclesiastes 12: 10-13
• Matthew 6: 19-25
• John 5: 5-9

Reflect:

• Journal about a future event or possibility you are anxious about.
  • Write a title at the top of the page.
  • Write the facts you know next 
  • Divide the next section of the page in half.  On one side write the three things you are most afraid of.  On the other, write three things you hope for.
  • Below write a prayer naming your hope to God and asking for discernment in the midst of fear.

Do:

• Gratitude Cards: Get a stack of index cards or post-it notes.  Each day, write on at least one card, something you are grateful for.  At the end of the week, go through all the cards, giving thanks to God for all the good things in your present.

Share:

• Write out one thing you hope for the future and share it in our Facebook group or on Twitter and Instagram (tag us @dpumc).