Monday we talked briefly about the importance of choosing our narrative during this time. Our narrative is what we say to ourselves, mainly, but also what we say to others. What we choose to believe–and repeat–about this season sets a tone; for our minds and emotions, our expectations, for our family and friends and everyone we interact with. And yes, we can choose what we will believe in this time! 

I was talking to my dad the other day. He’s 88 and lives in an independent living apartment. He was struggling the first few weeks, especially as my sister could no longer visit. He really can’t do anything but watch TV and take walks in the hallways. It’s a pretty dreary existence at the moment. I was talking to him about other things he could think about or listen to on his Google Echo. I suggested getting the Bible app or one that shares daily sports or historic moments–anything to not be focused on the news most of the day! 

I told him that I rarely watch the news anymore. I watch headlines on a news app and check out the occasional briefing, but overall I’ve stopped tuning in. I’m sure this sounds naiive, but I’m not getting anything from listening to the world try to make sense of this pandemic. I told my dad, “What is happening in the world will go on whether or not I worry about it.” 

I think God offers an alternative narrative for us to consider. Look at Proverbs 23:15-18: My beloved child, when your heart is full of wisdom, my heart is full of gladness. And when you speak anointed words, we are speaking mouth to mouth! Don’t allow the actions of evil men to cause you to burn with anger. Instead, burn with unrelenting passion as you worship God in holy awe.Your future is bright and filled with a living hope that will never fade away. (Proverbs 23:15-18 TPT)

I love the phrase: when you speak anointed words, we are speaking mouth-to-mouth. This phrase “mouth to mouth” has two meanings. One is the picture of us being face to face with God. His face turned toward us, he is listening to the words we speak. Numbers 12:8 says God and Moses talked “mouth to mouth.” This is an intimate, personal conversation with God, speaking his word and his promises over our lives. 

Mouth to mouth also means that God breathes his life and his word into us. The picture I got immediately was actual CPR–God resecitating us with his word and his hope. Simply put, God wants to breathe his promises and his peace into our situations. Our part is to simply open our mouths and agree with him. 

Then he makes a beautiful promise: Your future is bright and filled with a living hope that will never fade away. Sit with that for a while. Repeat it. Believe it. This is the narrative God wants us to absorb. I believe it is the narrative people need to hear right now. 

Thanks for listening today! I feel like this was a bit heavy, but I’m hopeful it is encouraging to you as you walk through another week…