Scripture :"Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirableâif anything is excellent or praiseworthyâthink about such things."â Philippians 4:8
Devotion: Did you know that our thoughts influence what mood we are in, how we respond to people or situations, and can even affect our health?
For example, if you think someone does not like you, youâll begin to feel a certain way toward them. You may even respond or interact with them negatively because of what you think. If you spend your day thinking about everything that upsets you and how things arenât going your way, youâll probably be in a bad mood and end up having a bad day.
If you think down on yourself; believing youâre not good enough or that youâre too far behind in life; it plants seeds of hopelessness, self-doubt, and depression. These thoughts can cause you to stop trying, give up on yourself, and miss out on what God has for you. Many of us have missed out on blessings, opportunities, and even good relationships because of the negative thoughts we chose to believe.
But God wants us to live with joy and peace. Thinking negatively every day will keep us from experiencing the abundant life He desires for us. Thatâs why Paul wrote our opening scripture; to help redirect our minds from worry and anxiety toward hope, peace, and joy.
Just as negative thoughts can pull us down low, positive thoughts can lift us high. If you donât believe me or brother Paul, try it for yourself: spend the entire day thinking only on what is true, noble, right, pure, lovely, admirable, excellent, or praiseworthy. Then notice the difference in your mood, your attitude, your choices, and even the blessings that start to flow back your way.
Youâll never know how powerful it is until you try it.
Prayer: Lord, I admit that I have been a very negative thinker. Every day my mind is filled with doubts, fears, and complaints. Iâve pushed people away, made bad choices, and even pushed You away at times because of my attitude. My negative thoughts have held me back from joy, love, and the blessings You wanted me to have.
Father, please forgive me. Heal my mind and renew my thoughts. Teach me to replace negativity with hope, peace, and faith in Your Word. Help me to see myself the way You see me; loved, chosen, and worthy. Remind me every day to think on things that are true, noble, right, pure, lovely, admirable, excellent, and praiseworthy. Fill me with positive thoughts that bring life, joy, and victory.
In Jesusâ name, Amen.