Avizandam. In Scots law, this term describes the careful consideration given by the judge before an important decision. Join me each week as we explore various topics from a spiritual perspective and take matters Avisandum. Our society is riddled with anxiety and insecurity. The causes of it may be disputed.
although it seems to be agreed that social media is at least part of the cause.
However, In this podcast, I'm not so concerned with the causes of anxiety and depression as the cure. In a recent message when I was preaching, I refer to a BBC article where researchers discovered that looking at sunrises and sunsets, quote, can have a meaningful impact on her brain and mental health. diminishing anxiety and depression while boosting memory, creativity, sleep, and even altruism. End quote. When we look at a sunrise or sunset, there's a sense of awe.
which leads us to feel that our problems and worries are rather insignificant in the grand scheme of things. Looking at sunsets and sunrises has a powerful and positive impact on us. The article states quote Keeping an inward focus can lead to overthinking. and anxiety. End quote.
I find this study intriguing. as the B B C is certainly not promoting the Christian faith. but it is well known that those who are depressed should take action. Sitting in bed with a sheet over us, considering all of her fears and worries, only heightens the problem. Getting out of bed, taking a shower, and going for a walk are positive steps.
Looking at God's creation elevates our spirits. This is not so surprising. as were made in the image of God.
Now, we do not worship the creation. But we acknowledge that its power, its creativity, its beauty and glory. Look to our great God and Saviour, Jesus. Jesus Christ. In sum eight, David wrote three thousand years ago.
When I look at your heavens, the work of your fingers, the moon and the stars, which you have set in place. What is man? that you are mindful of him. and the Son of Man that you care for him. Twenty first century researchers agree with King David.
The creation is what we call God's general revelation, and points to someone much greater than the creation. I love looking at the stars, the planets, the moon. and reminding myself of their age. Their Creator. who is also my Creator.
We cannot but be moved as we walk along the seashore, and hear and see the pounding waves, one after another, after another, after another. What power, what beauty? Standing on a mountain and surveying the horizon is a great antidote to self pity and anxiety. I find that going out of town on vacation and getting away from the routine of my life puts things in my life in perspective. Are they really that important?
Why am I a bit anxious when I consider the beauty? and size of God's creation. Of course. We who follow Jesus Christ. look up not only to the mountains and the stars, but to our Lord Jesus Christ.
Without him was not made anything made that was made. He is the Creator, the Sustainer, and the Goal of all creation. We worship Him, the living God, who entered into our world as the Lamb of God to take away our sin.
So Paul exhorts the Colossians, Set your minds on the things which are above. Richard Baxter, who lived in the seventeenth century, writes, There's nothing else that is worth setting our eyes on. The things of earth grow strangely dim, when we look on his glory and grace.
So, however you are feeling, look up. Go for a walk on the hills, walk by the sea shore, climb a mountain, look at the stars. Reflect on the beauty of a flower. And above all, Look to Jesus, the author and perfector of our faith. What an antidote to our anxiety and depression.
Avezando. You're listening to the weekly Avizandam podcast from The Verdict, featuring Pastor John Monroe. John is Senior Pastor at Calvary Church in Charlotte, North Carolina. Listen to John's daily program, The Verdict, on broadcast radio or major podcast platforms. For more information about the Verdict Ministry, visit us online at calvarychurch.com/slash the verdict.
