The variety of thoughts that swirl around in our head on a daily basis is quite amazing. If we were honest with each other those thoughts would include things like resentment, hate, jealousy, pessimism, lust and a laundry list of other unsavory items. So just how can we take steps to put mind over matter and create thoughts of love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, gentleness, faithfulness and self-control? The answer is easier than most would think that struggle with negative thoughts. We have to fill our mind with something else that will inspire and motivate us to push out the negativity. I have recently been reading a book called the Tough-Minded Optimist by Norman Vincent Peale and it suggests an activity to take practical steps toward a mind full of optimism. “Start tomorrow to read the first four books of the New Testament – Matthew, Mark, Luke, John. Underscore every sentence that impresses you as a healthy thought.” Go beyond just reading and start memorizing those verses. “Say them over and over, savoring their melody and meaning, and at the same time visualizing these thoughts as sinking deeply into your mind to cancel out those old rotten, bad thoughts.” I’ll start us off with a healthy thought from Matthew 10:31 that says, “So don’t be afraid; you are worth more than many sparrows.”
“For I know the plans I have for you," declares the LORD, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” (Jeremiah 29:11)
“Today I know that memories are the key not to the past, but to the future. I know that the experiences of our lives, when we let God use them, become the mysterious and perfect preparation for the work He will give us to do.”
(Carole C. Carlson: In My Father’s House - The years before “Hiding Place”)
This songs reminds us to bring God our “tired”, “shame”, “guilt” and “pain” because that’s not our name. Through Him we are redeemed forevermore and children of God!
“I'm learning to run freely Understanding just how He sees me And it makes me love him more and more He's Greater Than he who is living in the world”
Have a great evening!
-Miguel