“If you look at the world, you'll be distressed. If you look within, you'll be depressed. If you look at God you'll be at rest.” ― Corrie Ten Boom
If you focus on people they will sometimes let you down. Might not even want to let you down. I’ve done that before. Focus on this world-system or the circumstance of life, you won’t be impressed. Focus on Christ and enter His rest. Nicest spot to be.
Never wanna forget her wise words, “Look without and grow distressed. Look within and be depressed. Look at Jesus and BE AT REST.” #emp-mine
Looking without, Corrie really had good reason to feel distressed inside. She actually lived in the Ravensbrück KZ (Concentration camp) during World War Two.
Corrie saw her sister and father—and many others—suffer unspeakable pain and then die at the hands of the Nazis in there.
Looking within, she felt depressed as she saw the darkness of her own heart. Any of us can do that if we choose, but why opt for living inverted?
But seeing the primary example of her dear godly sister Betsy, (Christ) who tended to live seein’ the bright side of everything (upbeat and pretty positive of mind) and was always so full of joy trusting God. Corrie remembered Betsy’s pattern of (a thankful, praising) lifestyle.
Not sure, but I think it was the Apostle Paul who wrote (..cuz he spoke of our gaze and race) this here, “Since we have such a huge crowd of men of faith watching us from the grandstands, let us strip off anything that slows us down or holds us back, and especially those sins that wrap themselves so tightly around our feet and trip us up; and let us run with patience the particular race that God has set before us. Keep your eyes on Jesus, our leader and instructor. He was willing to die a shameful death on the cross because of the joy he knew would be his afterwards; and now he sits in the place of honor by the throne of God.” Hebrews 12:1-2
The Bible also speaks of Abraham and how he, "did not waver at the promise of God through unbelief, but was strengthened in faith, giving glory to God, and being fully convinced that what He had promised He was also able to perform" Romans 4:20-21
That word “waver” here used in this verse could also be translated "stagger." It would imply that this unwavering walk of Abraham took place with his eyes fixed on the Word -- on God’s promise. We too can do that!
I never want to let my friends or others down. Wanna live above reproach as a good example....yes, even when the trails of life or my old fleshly nature tells me to do otherwise.
"You will keep in perfect and constant peace the one whose mind is steadfast that is, committed and focused on You—in both inclination and character, Because he trusts and takes refuge in You with hope and confident expectation." Isaiah 26:3 amp fish4souls.org
Maximize your time, your every moment in the will of God. Make the most of every opportunity for His glory. He’s been so faithful.
My Rock and my fortress is there for you as well. Hey Sport, keep your eyes dead-bolted on. Lock on -- have your eyes fixed on Christ, the Prince of Peace daily. Yes, that will keep you moving forward spiritually, because the only way we will make it as Christians is by keeping our eyes on Jesus Christ.
You are either saved or lost, walking in the light, or in the dark.. freely forgiven or not yet. Jesus taught that you are either for him or against him, you are either gathering with him or scattering away. Who do you influence.. for good or for bad? Read some more (Blog)?
