My computer screensaver changes every couple of days. Usually it’s a picture of a nature scene. This morning’s is especially refreshing. Picture mountain peaks in the background, lush grass and a sparkling pond in the center and tiny flowers bobbing in the sunlight in the place where I might be standing.
In a world which bombards me with challenges, and a body that is tethered by hip pain which I soon will address with surgery, it seems, I am discouraged when I look at my beautiful yard (just as deserving of a photographer’s interest) speckled with plants that need my attention, and where weeds are thriving after the recent rains.
Then, I turn to Psalms for my quiet time, and come upon an encouraging verse, and it, together with the gorgeous scene that welcomed me, and things are in perspective once again. Lesson learned: look for encouragement, and find it so that we can survive the news reports, the aches of aging, the conflicts between people, the concerns about war, finances, the future in general, and breathe a sigh of release. We’ll get through it. We always have. We have a God who provides. We know our daily bread (or lacking wheat in the future, something else) will be sufficient, and we have the sure knowledge that God is in charge, so we don’t need to fret. (Now there’s an oldtimer’s word)
When I finally figured out the WORDLE word today, it sent me straight to thinking about God’s goodness. I won’t give the answer away for those who are struggling with three letters that just don’t seem to fit their assigned places. But here’s the verse I promised would bring you a sense of “it’s gonna be all right!”
“Let all who take refuge in You rejoice; let them sing joyful praise forever. Spread Your protection oer them, that all who love Your name may be filled with joy. For You bless the godly, O Lord; You surround them with Your shield of love.” Psalm 5:11-12.
So, whatever happens today, you know you’ve begun it well. Let peace bless you this day, and when you’re down, turn off the clamor of the TV, look at a picture of your grandchild or your loved ones, watch a bird in flight or a butterfly as it seeks out a blossom you may not have noticed, or find your own screensaver picture to lift your spirits.
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