I have a morning routine that sets the tone for my day. Before I get out of bed, I do a few stretches, turn to my scripture of the day, and spend some time in prayer. Depending on the morning, this time can be quick, luxuriously long, or something in between. Once I get up, I tune into either 680 News on my bedside radio or CP24 on the television to catch up on what happened in the world while I was sleeping.

It doesn't take long to hear about the frightening and even outlandish events unfolding around us. There are days when I feel overwhelmed by the chaos, but what’s perhaps more unsettling are the mornings when I feel indifferent to it all. Either way, it can cast a shadow over my day.

I find comfort in Philippians 4:9, which reminds us that the God of peace will be with us:

“Whatever you have learned or received or heard from me, or seen in me—put it into practice. And the God of peace will be with you.”

This promise reassures me that amid all the turmoil, the God of peace is by my side. In the previous verse, Paul encourages us to focus our thoughts on eight important things:

“Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things.” (Philippians 4:8)

Today’s encouragement is to consider what we allow into our minds. When negative thoughts begin to overwhelm us and affect our hearts, we shouldn’t let them derail our day. Instead, remind yourself that God is a God of peace and He is with you.

So go ahead and listen to or read about what’s happening in the world. Then, take a moment to reflect on Paul’s advice: think about what is true, noble, right, pure, lovely, admirable, excellent, and praiseworthy. See if that doesn’t change the trajectory of your day!

Remember, the God of peace is with you.