By: April O’Neil
Do you often long to turn off your brain and stop thinking? Thought after thought runs through your mind and it can be difficult to decipher what to pay attention to, and what to ignore. Proverbs 4:23 teaches us: Be careful what you think, for your thoughts run your life. Once again, God’s word provides us with the wisdom we need to manage our thought life.
You may be surprised to learn that the average person has up to 60,000 thoughts every day. Now that’s rush-hour traffic! Here’s the good news: you don’t have to believe every thought you have. In fact, we encourage you not to believe every thought you have. Question your thoughts. Ask yourself: “Is this true?” Don’t be misled by thoughts that are not grounded in God’s word.
This week, set a goal to memorize Philippians 4:8. Having this scripture readily available will help you to re-focus your thoughts on God’s goodness.
Philippians 4:8
New International Version (NIV)
8 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.
A practical way to combat unhealthy thinking is to enter into your day expressing gratitude. Say good morning to God, and write down 3 things you are grateful for each day. Try this for the next 21 days, and soon this will become part of your daily routine. This healthy habit sets the tone for your daily thought life and launches your day with a joyful intention.
Speaking scripture will also guard your heart and mind. I love to begin each day speaking Psalm 143:8. As I put my feet on the ground, and stretch my arms in the air, I speak this gorgeous prayer out loud: Let this day bring word of your unfailing love, for I put my trust in you. Show me the way I should go, for to you, I lift up my soul. Repeat as needed.
For more scriptural encouragement read:
Proverbs 17:22
Romans 12:2
