Weekly Devotional by David Brown

“ The Beauty of God’s Presence

Philippians 4:8 TPT

So keep your thoughts continually fixed on all that is authentic and real, honorable and admirable, beautiful and respectful, pure and holy, merciful and kind. And fasten your thoughts on every glorious work of God, praising him always.

As I looked forward to the year 2020 I never envisioned so many struggles – on a personal level, in our nation, and in our world. I was scheduled for kidney surgery in January and remember thinking it will be great to get the worst behind me right away. The outcome of my surgery was a miracle! The absolute best I could have hoped for. Praise God! The months that followed included health concerns for my children, the evacuation of my daughter and son-in-law from their assignment with the Peace Corps in Albania, caring for my aging parents, temporarily closing my practice due to the Covid Shut Down, a second surgery, an unexpected illness, the financial burden of my practice, and the constant responsibility of running a healthcare facility in the middle of a worldwide pandemic. Through all of this, I continue to experience God’s presence by observing His beautiful creation daily. I notice how magnificent the cloud formations are and enjoy looking at the intricate flowers in my garden. The stunning fall colors are a reminder to me that God’s presence is certain in a very uncertain world. He is here with me and always will be.

Dear God, in this uncertain world, thank you for revealing your presence through the beauty of your creation. Continue to help us focus on things of beauty, trust in you daily, and experience your peace that is eternal. In Jesus name, Amen.”

– David Brown