If we pay too much attention to the news, it’s all too easy to become a cynic or a worrier. It is so important that we find the balance between being informed, while not being consumed. The world loves to burden our minds with things that hurt our hearts, stress us out, or make us filled with worry. This possibly creating doubt in God having control, while stealing our joy. I know this friend, because it is all too familiar in my own world. I too, have allowed myself to be consumed with the hard news of the world. As we stay informed, may we also know when to step back, pray, and give it to God. For we are not Him and all the worlds’ burdens are not meant to be carried on our shoulders. Though we still must live wisely in knowing the things in the world, we must lean into God who has it all worked out. I stopped for awhile listening, reading, watching the news or things like it. I took a step back. I started to fill my mind with things that bring it joy. Friend, may we leave it all in God’s capable hands, may we go to Him in prayer, may we stay informed, while not being consumed by it all. May we learn to be educated, empathetic and caring in this world, while also knowing when to step back and leave it to God.

Erin Fitts-Brower

Stay informed, not consumed

Psalm 112:7 NIV

They will have no fear of bad news; their hearts are steadfast, trusting in the Lord.

John 17:15 NIV

My prayer is not that you take them out of the world but that you protect them from the evil one.

1 Corinthians 7:31 NIV

those who use the things of the world, as if not engrossed in them. For this world in its present form is passing away.

Philippians 4:8 NIV

Finally, brothers and sisters, 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.

Proverbs 4:23 NIV

Above all else, guard your heart, for everything you do flows from it.