“Look to the LORD and his strength; seek his face always. Remember the wonders he has done, his miracles, and the judgments he pronounced.” Psalm 105:4,5

Life is often a succession of emotional ups and downs, which hopefully lessen somewhat as we mature. But of late I’ve been reminded of how much of our emotional stability really lies in our own grasp, determined by our point of focus in life.

As we focus on the exciting or depressing events swirling around us, our emotions tend to follow the course of these happenings: up or down.  But the question to ask in this is: “Am I focusing only on the events or the author of the event?” Does my telling of exciting events point others to Christ, or am I just sharing my excitement?

In my own life I tend to let the event fill my vision, not my Lord who has done it. And the Lord Jesus has recently reminded me of the importance of looking to Him by praising Him in both plenty and poverty. One of the wonderful aspects of praise is that it keeps us focused on the Creator, not on the creation, ushering us into the peace of His presence no matter where we may be emotionally.

He has also reminded me of the need to praise with my whole heart, something I can do if I want: “I will praise you, O Lord, with my whole heart…for your love and your faithfulness, for you have exalted above all things your name and your word” (Ps. 138:2).

Lord, help us to make you our focus, not the ups and downs in our lives. Then, Lord, as we remember the wondrous works that you have done, your miracles, and the judgments you uttered, may you, O Triune God, be the One we seek, not just your acts.

So, we do commit to seek your face, O Lord,

for there is no one like you,

the Almighty God,

perfect in power and purity,

greater than all in the universe,

uninfluenced by anything,

unswayable by anyone,

the same yesterday, today and forever!

.Let the hearts of those who seek the LORD rejoice!