Are you obsessed by something? You will probably say, “No, by nothing,” but all of us are obsessed by something— usually by ourselves, or, if we are Christians, by our own experience of the Christian life. But the psalmist says that we are to be obsessed by God. The abiding awareness of the Christian life is to be God Himself, not just thoughts about Him. The total being of our life inside and out is to be absolutely obsessed by the presence of God. A child’s awareness is so absorbed in his mother that although he is not consciously thinking of her, when a problem arises, the abiding relationship is that with the mother. In that same way, we are to “live and move and have our being” in God (Acts 17:28), looking at everything in relation to Him, because our abiding awareness of Him continually pushes itself to the forefront of our lives.

If we are obsessed by God, nothing else can get into our lives— not concerns, nor tribulation, nor worries. And now we understand why our Lord so emphasized the sin of worrying. How can we dare to be so absolutely unbelieving when God totally surrounds us? To be obsessed by God is to have an effective barricade against all the assaults of the enemy.

“He himself shall dwell in prosperity . . .” (Psalm 25:13). God will cause us to “dwell in prosperity,” keeping us at ease, even in the midst of tribulation, misunderstanding, and slander, if our “life is hidden with Christ in God” (Colossians 3:3). We rob ourselves of the miraculous, revealed truth of this abiding companionship with God. “God is our refuge . . .” (Psalm 46:1). Nothing can break through His shelter of protection.

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June 2, 2011

Journal Entry for Today-JDV

Obsessed is a word that brings some negative connotations to my mind. One primary definition of obsessed is: preoccupied with concern.  And when You are the first and last thing on my mind and in my heart, I really do not feel any concern at all, Lord. Chambers was right about forgetting worry and fears.  I have learned that when you occupy my heart, mind and thoughts, even though my circumstances may be challenging, I can face life in eager anticipation. It is not a question of bringing you my prayers and petitions, or my worries and concerns. When I simply bring myself and seek You…every worry, concern and challenge pales in comparison and I am at peace. Thank you Lord.

And God says…”You will face challenges and trials in this life, I have told you this over and over. But these challenges and trials can work to your advantage when you let Me navigate your life. Remember, nothing can touch you that has not first touched my hands, and I love you more than you can imagine or even understand. …Philippians 4 (Message) ^6-7Don’t fret or worry. Instead of worrying, pray. Let petitions and praises shape your worries into prayers, letting God know your concerns. Before you know it, a sense of God’s wholeness, everything coming together for good, will come and settle you down. It’s wonderful what happens when Christ displaces worry at the center of your life.”