Good and Perfect
“Every good and perfect gift comes from above, from the Father of the heavenly lights, who does not change like shifting shadows” ( James 1:17 ). Hold that thought for a minute … Got it ? Good. Now … “ whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, pure, lovely and admirable…things that are excellent and praiseworthy…think about such things ” ( Philippians 4:8 ). Like yall, all my memories aren’t “good”… even though I’d like em to be. I believe, this is another trick / trap of the deceiver ( Satan ). I believe, he loves it when we hold onto bad memories, hard feelings, and hurt. Sure, we can suppress these memories, bottle em up and even store em for awhile … but a bad memory isn’t going to do us any more good six months later than it will six minutes after “it” happens ! That’s why God tells us to think on the “good things” that He’s provided us … things that are “excellent” and “praiseworthy”. And hasn’t He supplied us plenty of em !?! I’ve got fond memories of my many years with my wife, Pennye Jacobs Lewis … I’ve got alotta great memories of my kids and grandkids … of my years in the propane business… of deer hunts, turkey hunts, mission trips with brothers and sisters in Christ, of my mamaws and Pennye’s mamaws, of good Thanksgivings and Christmas gatherings with family and friends … i couldn’t begin to list all the excellent and praiseworthy memories I’ve stored up ! And you know who’s given me all these opportunities to experience these minutes, moments and memories ? God did ! He’s the Giver of all good things…and good memories are my favorites. Next time a negative memory comes creeping in, don’t just suppress it; tell him, “Not today, Satan !” … and replace it with an “excellent” and “praiseworthy”memory ! You won’t haveta think too hard if your relationship with God is secured through, and in, Christ Jesus !