SWHW Two Year Bible Reading Plan: March, Year 2Sample

Top Takeaway from Jess Hatton:

Though this world may bring you troubles, turning your focus to the eternal eliminates the world’s ability to define your present and future. 

Studies have shown that most of us tend to focus on the few negative events that happen rather than the many positive things that fill our days. This phenomenon is so common that in the world of psychology it’s called the “negativity bias”. 

What this basically means is that we feel and harbor the power of negative events and words more than positive ones. If we are not careful, we allow the negative to begin defining who we are and the world around us. 

Why is this mindset so dangerous to believers? Because we are called to live not as the world, but to live with a renewed mind, focused on the will of God (See Romans 12:1-2). If we live defined by the negativity of this world, we limit the Spirit’s work in our own life and misrepresent Christ to the world in need of Jesus.  

John 14 begins immediately after Jesus announced the upcoming betrayal of Judas and the future denial of Peter. It would be very easy for the disciples to be discouraged and fearful as Jesus spoke these words, still confused as to what was going to be coming. 

The disciples had every right to be afraid. Jesus, knowing this, decided to use the moments before His arrest and crucifixion to teach them a lesson; that belief in Him, the Son of God, is the only way to eternal life.  And despite the world’s hatred of believers, He calls us to not live in fear, but to keep our eyes on the Kingdom of God.

“Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. Not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your hearts be troubled neither let them be afraid.” John 14:27

The word “peace” found in this passage originates from the Hebrew word “Shalom.” This expression in the Hebrew language not only refers to the absence of conflict, but goes even greater to express a genuine appreciation of the blessings in one's life which come from the Lord, despite whatever troubling situations we may be experiencing in this world.

Here's a challenge: Create two columns on a sheet of paper. In the left column write down current trials or struggles. In the right column write down all the many blessings of the Lord. Your goal is to focus so much on the blessings that you at the very least double those of the left column. Begin to shift/ focus your perspective to that of Christ. 

Jesus, I pray that You would open our eyes to the many blessings You have graciously provided. Let us not be distracted by the trials and problems of this world but remain focused on You and Your love. I pray that we would not be consumed by fear, despair, or anxiousness, but live in the security of being a child of God, trusting in Your will and authority. Thank You for Your provision and the people around us who encourage us and push us to be the women that You desire us to be. Let us remain in prayer for the people around us and be on mission to advance Your Kingdom to the world through whatever avenue You have given us. Amen.