| What is the value of a calm soul? When we flee from meddling in the affairs of others, it is hard to own their anxiety. A patient person will outlive other people’s problems. Though it is impossible to live where nothing displeases or bothers you; however, we don’t have to feed it. When someone slanders, speaks harshly, or lashes out, no immediate response is needed. When we focus to calm our own souls, we are less likely to add fuel to the fire. Delay and pray normally is a good practice. God supports the meek. They are the ones that are not weak but have a controlled strength. They find solace in trusting God and relying on His care. Remember the words of the Psalmist (Psalm 37): “Do not fret because of those who are evil or be envious of those who do wrong; 2 for like the grass they will soon wither, like green plants they will soon die away. 3 Trust in the Lord and do good; dwell in the land and enjoy safe pasture. 4 Take delight in the Lord, and he will give you the desires of your heart. 5 Commit your way to the Lord; trust in him and he will do this: 6 He will make your righteous reward shine like the dawn, your vindication like the noonday sun. 7 Be still before the Lord and wait patiently for him; do not fret when people succeed in their ways, when they carry out their wicked schemes. 8 Refrain from anger and turn from wrath; do not fret—it leads only to evil. 9 For those who are evil will be destroyed, but those who hope in the Lord will inherit the land. 10 A little while, and the wicked will be no more; though you look for them, they will not be found. 11 But the meek will inherit the land and enjoy peace and prosperity.” These are words to live by and put into practice. So be it for you.  This Week’s Readings: *Monday – John 6 *Tuesday – John 7 *Wednesday – John 8 *Thursday – John 9 *Friday – John 10 Prayer Requests: *Teachers, students, and parents coping with anxiety. *Heal those who are sick and protect those who are not. *Comfort those who are grieving and in distress. *Wisdom for our leaders as they navigate through uncertain times. *Guidance for those seeking to find their way. *Continued Growth Inside and Outside the Walls of St. Paul UMC. |
| “Don’t worry about anything; instead, pray about everything. Tell God what you need and thank him for all he has done.” – Philippians 4:6 |