Whatever is praiseworthy

These last few weeks have been very stretching for me. A couple of those weeks where you realize, "Wow, I still have a long way to go!"

The emotions of leaving Dallas are really starting to set it, yet I can't imagine what it is going to be like to not live in Texas. I am anxious about not having a place to live yet and it feels like there is a lot to do as we close up shop in Dallas and head out to PA.

I am starting to have thoughts like, "this is the last time that I will . . ." you fill in the blank. This has really caused me a lot of sadness.

With this mixture of stuff, I have had a hard time living one day at a time. My anxiety level has been pretty high.

I am currently reading a series of books by Beverly Lewis called Annie's People. It's about a modern-day Amish Girl who has an English friend. They are great and it's been a ton of fun to learn about the Amish through the books (we will be living close to Amish).

Anyways, when I was reading the book last night, the author used a portion of one of my favorite passages. Here I'll share the whole thing with you:

Philippians 4:4-9
"Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice! Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near. Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.
Finally, brothers, 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. 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."

Definitely a scripture that I needed to be reminded of as I am facing so much anxiousness. Remembering that it is when we think on the things of God we gain so much peace and are no longer burdened with anxiety. For instance, I am working today to remember the ways that my heavenly father has given me so much. My sweet husband reminded me of this last night too. Remembering to be thankful for a hot meal, a talk with a friend, a safe drive home, a house to live in now, and on and on. I am working today to meditate on what is praiseworthy instead of what I don't have yet and what is troubling me trusting that God is in control and that He is going to provide for us.