| The Ministry The Author The Book The Audio [ HOME ] |
|
|
WEEKLY ENCOURAGEMENT
Updated: Tuesday, April 14, 2009
The Upper Window
How many windows did Noah's arch have and where were they? Do you remember? There was only one window and it was above. (Genesis 6:16) God gave Noah very specific and exact instructions for building the arch. This means the placement of that window was deliberate. The Bible does not gives us the reasons why there was only one window or why it was to be put above, but I have my own theory about it.
After Noah, his family and the animals were all safe inside, God shut the door and the rains began. As time progressed, the water increased and death and tragedy swept over the earth. Since the only window in the arch was above, Noah could not watch has neighbors and acquaintances struggling and dying in the flood. In fact, Noah could see nothing of what was going on in the world. God wanted Noah to have only one direction to look---up.
Some days I have a battle with negative thoughts and feelings. I find myself dwelling on disappointments or on situations that are just not going the way I had hoped. Then there are those "what ifs" of tomorrow that tend to steal my peace and contentment. The most devastating thoughts are when I turn the spotlight on myself. Looking at my weaknesses, inabilities and failures is not only discouraging, it is disastrous! Well, I will confess, I had been having one of those days today and did not know how I could possibly write a devotion for this website. Then the Lord reminded me of the window.
When ladies in our church get down and discouraged, I often ask them if their window is clean. They know I am making reference to the upper window in Noah's arch and am asking what they are focusing on: the Lord, or themselves and the world. Obviously my focus this morning was not on the Lord. I am happy to report to you that my "window" is now sparkling clean, the negative thoughts are gone and my focus is back where it belongs.
The next time the "gloomies" come your way, check your window and make sure you are clearly looking at your Lord. You will discover changing your "view" will put joy, and peace back into your heart. "Looking unto Jesus the author and finisher of our faith;" Hebrews 12:2 "Thou wilt keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on thee: because he trusteth in thee." Isaiah 26:3
POINT TO PONDER:How is your joy and peace level today? What do you find
yourself thinking about most of the time?
|
- Sandy Hastings |
|
