Think On The Things of God

 

Sometimes the worries of the day can get you down. It can change your attitude in the blink of an eye. And despite being a follower of Christ, sometimes the worries and doubt just gets to you. Then you beat yourself up because you know that’s not how it’s supposed to be.

 

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.

Philippians 4:8 NKJV

 

God has provided a way out. We are told to change our way of thinking by thinking about good things. Some of you can do this easily. You think about all the good things in your past and present. And you find your mindset and attitude changes for the better.

 

Years ago, I did this and could think of good things, past and present. But there came a time, when no matter what I thought, I just couldn’t do it. No past or present good thing came to mind, despite being able to do this in the past. But I came up with a solution and I’m going to share it with you.

 

While I could not think of good things in my life, I could think of the good things of God. This is what I came up with.

 

God created the heavens and the earth (Whatever things are true)

Jesus is the Son of God (Whatever things are noble)

God is just (Whatever things are just)

Jesus is pure (Whatever things are pure)

God is lovely (Whatever things are lovely)

Jesus died for my sins (Whatever things are of good report)

 

When my thoughts turn negative, I think on these things. They are a part of my foundation in my Christian faith, so they will suffice. I am sharing with you all, in case, you too, struggle with replacing bad thoughts with good. Please use them.

Stay Encouraged and Be Blessed!

 

Tip On Studying God's Word

 

 

 

Here is an approach I have loved using over the years because it makes Scripture leap off the page and Velcro itself to my mind. Sit down with a Bible and a notebook. Pick a New Testament book such as James or Colossians. Read it through unhurriedly, stopping each time you see a nonnegotiable command. For example: My dear brothers and sisters, take note of this: Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry because human anger does not produce the righteousness that God desires. Therefore, get rid of all moral filth and the evil that is so prevalent and humbly accept the word planted in you, which can save you. (James 1:19 – 21) Did you notice there are lots of commands in this passage? 

Here is what you might write down in your notebook: When dealing with others, I need to be: 

• Willing to listen right off the bat 

• Not in a hurry to speak (or especially to voice my opinion!) Patient, trying not to boil over with anger — flying off the handle doesn’t accomplish anything that God desires I must also: 

• Do away with anything immoral or wicked 

• Spend time [e]mbedding Scripture in my heart in a humble way. It will save me! 

After writing out the commands in your own words, jot down a few sentences of reflection based on what the verse says. Are there any action steps you might take in order to act on what the verse or verses command? Any behavioral changes or attitude adjustments required? When we read the Bible, we learn. 

However, when we write out biblical commands in a way that is personal to us, we allow the Word to take root deep within our hearts. This will help us the next time we are faced with a challenging situation and need to use words wisely. When we have trained our brain to recall and apply biblical nonnegotiables, we are equipped to speak, act, and react in ways that honor God.

 

~From "Keep It Shut: What to Say, How to Say It, and When to Say Nothing at All" by Karen Ehman

 

Stay Encouraged and Be Blessed!