IN HIS NAME: What Are You Thinking?

Sunday, November 10, 2013

What Are You Thinking?

Thinking (Photo credit: Moyan_Brenn)

Even when we are unaware of them, many thoughts are competing with each other for our attention. For example, while we are driving, preparing a meal or typing a document at work, our thoughts may be on something completely different. Sometimes while we are praying, our thoughts may stray and we have to bring them back. It is believed that the average person has about 50,000 thoughts a day and 80 percent of them are negative.

There are some forms of New Age religion and occult practices that speak about mind control. They try to teach people how to control their minds. These practices are not only deceptive, but dangerous. They can take you places you don't want to go. STAY AWAY FROM THEM.

Because God knows how destructive our thoughts can be, He teaches us in His Word how to avoid unwanted thoughts. The Apostle Paul wrote in Philippians 4: 8,
"Finally, brethren, whatever things are true, whatever things are noble, whatever things are just, whatever things are pure, whatever things are lovely, whatever things are of good report, if there is any virtue and if there is anything praiseworthy--meditate on these things."

In 2 Corinthians 10: 5 he writes, "casting down arguments and every high thing that exalts itself against the knowledge of God, bringing every thought into captivity to the obedience of Christ."

It may be difficult to always keep your mind on things that are pure, lovely and of good report all of the time. What so-and-so said to you or about you, what the doctor told you yesterday, what your bank statement says may be nothing praiseworthy, but if you begin to focus on your thoughts and "bring them into captivity to the obedience of Christ" you will soon find that they conform to what Paul wrote above.

You don't have to attend some seminar or read books on positive thinking. God has given us everything we need to keep our minds on the right track. The answer lies in prayer and daily Bible reading. When you wake up each morning, pray this prayer: Heavenly Father, I thank you for bringing me to the beginning of another new day. Lord, I know that my thoughts can lead me to do and say things that are not pleasing to you, and as this day begins, I ask you to take control of my thoughts. Help me to focus only on those things that are true, noble, just, pure, lovely and good report so that my words and actions will honor and glorify You, in Jesus' Name. Amen.