The Power in Your Thoughts
We all do it. We talk to ourselves. Maybe not out loud but we have a continuous conversation with ourselves through our thoughts.
I’m not talking about what to have for dinner or what movie to see. I’m talking about the thoughts that color how we see the world and ourselves–our beliefs about God, our own value, and our thoughts about other people. And particularly, our thoughts about our divorce.
We send ourselves powerful messages. Our thoughts can fill us with self-doubt and fear or lift us with confidence and faith. What we think determines whether we walk in the light of God’s love and grace or distance ourselves from God.
For as he thinks in his heart, so is he,” says (Proverbs 23:7 NKJV).
Thought patterns are ways of thinking that have developed into habits. They can be so ingrained that we hardly even notice them. And yet, our thought patterns can lift our spirits and move us closer to God or can prove to be barriers to all God offers us.
Darkness thoughts are those self-defeating thoughts that take way our personal power and leave us feeling less-than or like a victim. These thoughts distance us from God. The good news is that darkness thoughts are powerless when replaced with thoughts brightened by the light of Christ.
I have come as a light, so that no one who believes in me should stay in darkness.” (John 12:46)
Thinking about your thoughts allows you to identify and replace those darkness thoughts that hold you back. Just because a thought pops into your head doesn’t mean you have to accept it. Changing any kind of habit is hard, so how do you change thoughts that you know aren’t really healthy for you?
- Become intentional about getting rid of self-defeating and other negative thoughts.
- Ask yourself if a given thought is in keeping with the Word and heart of God.
- Talk to God about your thoughts and ask for his help.
Paul tells us “… 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” (Philippians 4:8). He goes on to say, “And the God of peace will be with you.”
Can a person always think nothing but positive thoughts? I doubt it. We’re human. Our challenge is to recognize when our thoughts distance us from the heart of God and then to pause and redirect our thoughts.
- “I can’t” thoughts shift to “…with God all things are possible” thoughts. (Matthew 19:26)
- “Things are hopeless” thoughts become God can do “immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us….” (Ephesians 3:20)
- I’m hurt and grieving thoughts are softened by knowing, “The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.” (Psalm 34:18)
Life is full of challenges and self-doubts. Yet, as you bring your thoughts more in line with the word and heart of God, you draw closer to his love and light. “Then the God of peace will be with you.”
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