Consider

We live in a fast-paced world, beset by busyness and distraction. We are often weighed down with responsibilities, anxieties, and work. Sometimes we can go for long stretches without ever pausing to consider.

I love the word “consider.” I picture someone sitting with hand on chin and can hear a gentle exhale as she begins to consider. Considering requires us to pause, to unplug and to think with intention – an often difficult task when our minds are inclined to worry and stress (or consumed with things that need to be done).

What does God instruct us to consider? Here are a few verses:

Consider the lilies

And why are you anxious about clothing? Consider the lilies of the field, how they grow: they neither toil nor spin, yet I tell you, even Solomon in all his glory was not arrayed like one of these. ~ Matthew 6:28-29

When we consider the lilies (and the birds), we begin to realize how very much God cares for us.

Consider myself Dead to Sin

So you also must consider yourselves dead to sin and alive to God in Christ Jesus. ~ Romans 6:11

I no longer live for myself – I live for God in Christ Jesus!

Consider My Suffering in Light of Eternity

For I consider that the sufferings of this present time are not worth comparing with the glory that is to be revealed to us. ~ Romans 8:18

Christians can take heart because this world is not all there is!

Consider how to encourage others

And let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good works ~ Hebrews 10:24

Perhaps spiritually encouraging those around us happens when we are intentional about how to do so. Do I consider how I can spiritually build up those around me?

Consider Jesus

Therefore, holy brothers, you who share in a heavenly calling, consider Jesus, the apostle and high priest of our confession, who was faithful to him who appointed him, just as Moses also was faithful in all God’s house. ~ Hebrews 3:1-2

Consider him who endured from sinners such hostility against himself, so that you may not grow weary or fainthearted. ~ Hebrews 12:3

Jesus is always worth considering but especially when our hearts grow weary. He has already walked this path – and now he holds our hand and walks beside us.

So, today, beloved, whether you are rushed or slow, worried or secure, take a moment and unplug. Lift yourself from the muck and mire of everyday life, and consider some good, eternal matters. Your heart (and perhaps even the hearts of those around you!) will be richer for it.

Photo by Ümit Bulut on Unsplash