From The Crucible (by Pastor Linda Pugsley)

Last week we talked about our “noisy world”…the “white noise” all around us in a busy, industrial, workaholic culture. There’s also another noise—in your head—worry, concern, unanswered questions, unresolved issues, relational problems, financial and/or health problems, etc.

It’s all swimming around in there. So much so, it raises up dust, so to speak, and clouds our thinking. Clouded thinking is dangerous and Satan takes advantage of us during those vulnerable times of doubt and confusion. You are apt to mistake the voice of reason and desire for the voice of God. Other times, in the fog of thought, you make a rash decision or have a knee-jerk reaction to circumstances. We all struggle with this, sometimes more than not.

Don’t be discouraged. There is a way out, but you have to practice it. You have to grab those thoughts and stop worrying long enough, the “noise” in your head will stop and you can hear God’s still small voice. Don’t mix them now, because if you keep that sticky web of worrisome thought rattling around while still trying to hear God’s voice, it won’t work!

You can’t do it alone, though. Ask the Spirit of God to quiet down the noise in your mind so it’s only His thoughts in there…even if only momentarily.

Remember Romans 12:2 that tells us, “Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind…” Then and only then, can you know the will of God and what is pleasing to Him.

Don’t bring your dumb brain to the fight for your soul because you’ll lose every time. Get into the habit of starting your day with a few quiet moments in the presence of Jesus and let Him bring His rest to your soul. Endure the fire…it’s producing pure gold!

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