Pastor Craig posted a video of encouragement on social media for anyone finding themselves discouraged or battling anxious thoughts in light of recent events. Check out his short video below to discover what he learned during his 14-day quarantine and how he’s renewing his mind with truth. We hope it encourages you!
@craiggroeschel
Highlights from Pastor Craig’s video:
- We were not created to do life alone.
- No matter what you’re going through, most of life’s battles are won or lost in the mind.
- When I feel alone or discouraged, I redirect my mind toward truth.
- If you find yourself quarantined or discouraged, try to remember to think on things that are pure, lovely, and excellent. (For more on that, check out Pastor Craig’s daily affirmations.)
- Instead of focusing on what you don’t have, focus on what you do have. For example, I think about all the blessings I have.
- You have the presence of God. You have the power of His Word. You have His Holy Spirit dwelling within you.
- Your life is moving in the direction of your strongest thoughts. If you don’t like where your life is going, change the way you’re thinking.
Pastor Amy Groeschel also posted some thoughts from her time with God. We think her prayer will encourage anyone struggling or battling anxious thoughts. Here’s what she wrote:
I thought I would share some of my journaling while Craig’s been self-quarantined. It’s been more of a challenge for me than I’d imagined. Writing down my thoughts and emotions really helped. I hope this will be an encouragement to you in whatever you might be facing right now.
Here’s a bit from a variety of different days:
I don’t know what is going to happen. But I know I can give You thanks in all things.
I don’t know what tomorrow will look like. But I know You hold tomorrow and go before us.
I don’t know what will become of the situation. But I know You will work it all for our good.
I know we can trust You in all things.
I didn’t want to wake up to this news of uncertainty. But I know none of it surprises You … and that gives me peace.
—
I just feel thankful to You, Father, for being near me through this.
Thank you for sending encouragement through my friends and family.
My dad has been calling a lot.
Sam texted ‘I love you.’
Joy made me breakfast.
Everyone who knows is praying. I’m not afraid at all. I’m just tempted to grow weary of waiting in these still moments.
I choose to lift my head and my gaze to my true Help, Hope, and Love. I thank You, Father, for Your strength and sustaining love. My soul glorifies You.
—
… I just need to keep everything in perspective. I have food! Good health! Precious family and friends! Love! Hope! Everything I need is in YOU, Father!”
No matter what you’re facing or what you’re going through, remember that God is in control. He is near. Come close to Him. Remember:
Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice! Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near. Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things. Whatever you have learned or received or heard from me, or seen in me—put it into practice. And the God of peace will be with you. Philippians 4:4-9 NIV
