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.
Philippians 4:8
With only three paintings left in this year-long series, it was timely to paint one of Paul’s final exhortations. Philippians is one of my favourite books in the Bible. I love the practicality of it and all the instructions for daily living with God.
This past week my chronic migraines came back out of the blue with full force. It was a difficult week. I was tempted to go back to my old thinking patterns, the ones that put me in a dark place when I was battling them for over two years. But this verse came to my mind and I knew I didn’t have a choice if I wanted to keep moving forward. The chapter four of Philippians tells us that we should pray about everything to have peace and then, after praying, it shows what we should be thinking about – whatever is excellent or praiseworthy. My dark thoughts didn’t fit in there. I have an appointment with my neurologist at the end of this week and I must trust that God has me in his hands.
When I made peace with the fact that the migraines were back (temporarily, I hope!), I got the news that my daughter’s daycare will be closed this week – for the second time in a month – because someone in her home was identified as a close contact with a COVID case. I have no idea how we’ll manage work, chronic pain and a toddler at home, but again, I must choose my thoughts carefully. I might be exhausted by the end of this week but I know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him (Romans 8:28).
Once again, I wanted to thank you for following my journey week after week so far. As this series gets closer to being completed, I have some plans for next year but I’d love to hear from you. I will likely be painting once a month on a Bible theme and if you have suggestions, please reply to this email.
Thanks and have a wonderful week!