The thoughts we dwell on have a great impact on how we speak and act toward others. It is easy to fall into negative thinking especially when we are in the midst of a trial or experiencing a challenging situation. However, scripture tells us to examine the thoughts we allow to come to mind, and to bring every thought to the obedience of Christ
“Casting down imaginations, and every high thing that exalteth itself against the knowledge of God, and bringing into captivity every thought to the obedience of Christ;” –2 Corinthians 10:5
Pray
Ask God for His help to apply Philippians 4:8 in order to take captive negative thoughts that come to mind. Is the thought True? Is it Noble? Right? Pure? Lovely? Admirable? Excellent? Praiseworthy? Pray to God that He will give you Godly thoughts. Thoughts of things that He wants you to dwell on. Thoughts that show we have trust and faith in Him.
“Fear thou not; for I am with thee: be not dismayed; for I am thy God: I will strengthen thee; yea, I will help thee; yea, I will uphold thee with the right hand of my righteousness” -Isaiah 41:10
Ask Yourself
“Are my thoughts….
…True
…In Alignment with what God says in scripture about me
…Kind
…Uplifting and encouraging to me?
…Building or tearing down my faith?
…Praising and thanking God?
…Giving me hope?
Put Off/Put on Principle
As Christians we seek to act and think in a Godly manner and to put off our old way of thinking and instead dwell on what is good, praiseworthy, true, and holy. We are only able to do this with the help of God to transform our mind, as it says in Romans:
“And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God“.“ –Romans 12:2
Philippians 4:8 encourages us to put on thoughts that are True, Honest, Just, Pure, Lovely, of Good Report, Virtuous, and Praiseworthy. All thoughts tat are contrary to that need to put off.
