By Pam Matney

Romans 12:21 “Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.”

This morning I decided to listen to a Joyce Meyer sermon and the title of it was “Focus on the Good Things.” Joyce referenced this scripture. I have the tendency to focus on what is wrong in my life instead of what is good. I am daily reminded of who I was or who I think I am instead of who God says I am or what is going on that is good around me.

In Philippians 4:8, Paul tells us as Christians to think on whatever is true, noble, right, pure, lovely or admirable, to think on whatever is praiseworthy or excellent. Are your problems praiseworthy? Are the things we focus on any of the things Paul told us to think on? Think about it, why would this scripture be in the Bible if God knew we weren’t going to have problems shifting our thoughts?

The scripture in Romans tells us to not allow evil to overcome us but to overcome all the negativity, all the bad things, all of the problems in our lives with good. How can we do that?

We can focus on the possibilities or focus on the problem.

Your greatest problems may be someone’s possibility in life. Think of the solution that your problems may be creating. God doesn’t allow things just to happen. Romans 8:28 says, “All things work together for the good to those who love Christ and who are called according to His purpose.”

Bless someone.

The moment your mind starts thinking on what is wrong or what could be changed in your life, do something nice for someone. My counselor told me this as a way to not allow my mind to obsess on things that aren’t real or are out of my control. This gets the focus off of me. Bless someone by sending an encouraging text, taking someone to lunch, writing an uplifting card, or simply smiling at someone you pass. Watch the joy of the Lord rise up in you.

Spend time in worship and prayer.

Satan will try and rob you of the joy and life changing experience God has given you. The moment he does that, start praising God for what He has done and how He has changed you. When a negative thought comes in, immediately do the opposite and thank God for what He is doing. I have started doing this when I am reminded of my past or things I have done in my past, I start praising God for the life He has given me today. I start thanking Him for redeeming me. Choose to praise Him instead of complaining or thinking negative thoughts.