Thought Life“We destroy arguments and every lofty opinion raised against the knowledge of God, and take every thought captive to obey Christ.” 2 Corinthian 10:5
How do we do that? How do we stop ourselves from having negative thoughts, especially when sometimes bad thoughts come unbidden?
The scripture isn’t saying just bad thoughts, but Every thought. Let me give you something to think about. God Almighty is omniscient. In other words God knows our thoughts. Not only does He know them, but also knows the intention of our hearts. If the tongue is a fiery dart, then our thoughts are the gasoline for the fire.
“And the tongue is a fire, a world of iniquity. The tongue is so set among our members that it defiles the whole body, and sets on fire the course of nature; and it is set on fire by hell.” James 3:6
Our Lord Jesus said it’s not only the action that causes us to sin, but the thought—the intention.
“But I say to you that whoever looks at a woman to lust for her has already committed adultery with her in his heart.” Matthew 5:28
So what can we do?
Wash our minds with the word of God. The more time we spend with Jesus—praying and reading the Bible—what we put in our minds is God honoring. We need to stay away from things that cause us to trip, whether it’s a movie, magazine, book or that friend who loves to ‘share’ about others.
When I read the Bible I keep a piece of paper and a pen nearby. When a distracting or unbidden thought comes, I write it down for later attention and refocus on the Word. Believe me, distractions happen... often. But, by taking every thought captive (exercise control), we become aware of how sin can creep in.
“Now flee from youthful lusts and pursue righteousness, faith, love and peace, with those who call on the Lord from a pure heart.” 2 Timothy 2:22
Let’s make spending time with Jesus, in His word and in prayer, a priority—taking our thoughts captive and thinking before we speak about another person. And above all, love the way God loves us—unconditionally and with grace.
“Above all love each other deeply, because love covers a multitude of sins.” 1 Peter 4:8
by Eve Montano