“Mary treasured up all these things and pondered them in her heart.”
–Luke 2:19 NIV
” Pondered them in her heart.” Not something we hear very often, yet right now, as our society goes through a “stay at home” time, many of us can take time to ponder, contemplate, mull things over. Upon hearing the shepherds’ report of what the angels said, the mother of Jesus took a moment aside; the past nine months had been cause for many overwhelming feelings! Many times in the busyness of life, I’ve felt God nudge me to take a moment, to slow down. As I practice this I find:
– I can quiet myself and put the “noise” aside
– my thinking becomes clearer
– more options surface for consideration
– I am more conscious of receiving His peace
– direction becomes more evident
Personally, I still associate the term ponder with with a friend from years ago who used that word regularly in our discussions. His familiar usage of that word consequently caused me to pause and think more carefully. I am SO grateful for that lesson! It is now my practice whenever I begin to feel anxiety, fear or a sense of overwhelming coming at me to step away to ponder, usually by myself (even only for a few moments and even in a bathroom). And now, I encourage you to ponder – contemplate, consider – especially before making important decisions. Every decision, every step determines the direction you take and is worth taking an extra moment of conscious thought.
Oh, Father, as feelings and cares of life try to overwhelm me, help me to cast me cares on You because You care for me.
(I Peter 5:7)
Chuck Girard “Slow Down”
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XUtXIho15mE
For Those Who Care 