TUESDAY January 25, 2022
Bringing Thoughts into Captivity
Finally, brethren, whatever things are true, whatever things are noble, whatever things are just, whatever things are pure, whatever things are lovely, whatever things are of good report, if there is any virtue and if there is anything praiseworthy—meditate on these things. The things which you learned and received and heard and saw in me, these do, and the God of peace will be with you.
Philippians 4:8-9
Worry can greatly hinder your life and even make you sick. Why worry? Much of the time, our lives are controlled by our thinking. A continuous battle arises in our minds. Second Corinthians 10:4-5 aids us in this ongoing struggle. Our thoughts can be brought under control:
For the weapons of our warfare are not carnal but mighty in God for pulling down strongholds, casting down arguments and every high thing that exalts itself against the knowledge of God, bringing every thought into captivity to the obedience of Christ.
Paul advised us to think on things that are true. Truth is found in God’s Word: The entirety of Your word is truth... (Psalm 119:160). God is true: But the LORD is the true God... (Jeremiah 10:10). Jesus is truth: “I am the way, the truth, and the life...” John 14:6, and the Spirit is truth: “However, when He, the Spirit of truth, has come, He will guide you into all truth...” (John 16:13). In your dealings with God and man always be truthful.
The word noble in the Greek language means “worthy of respect,” and just means “righteous.” Things that are pure––are thoughts that are to be holy––given to all things moral and clean. The word lovely means “pleasing.” Are your thoughts respectful, righteous, clean and pleasing to God? Good report refers “to what is considered to be seeking kindness, courteousness and respect toward other people.” Think about doing good.
Paul completed his meditative list with virtue and praiseworthy. If you make a practice of thinking on any of these things, then God will honor your life. He will be with you and give you His peace.
Anyone who wishes to check on his true spiritual condition may do so by noting what his voluntary thoughts have been over the last hours or days ... The best way to control our thoughts is to offer the mind to God in complete surrender.
~A. W. Tozer~
For more from Raul Ries, please visit SomebodyLovesYou.com!
