Tuesday, 23rd January 2024

Andrews Ampomah

TOPIC: THE CRITERIA FOR OUR THOUGHTS

THEME SCRIPTURE: Philippians 4:8

PREPARATORY QUESTION:

1. What are some of the things you feed your mind on majorly?

 It is a commonly accepted saying that as a man thinks, so is he. It means that whatever the mind feeds on defines who you are. The mind is designed to think about something conscious or unconscious at any time. It is also important to note that issues one finds himself or herself thinking frequently about, set (or programs) the mind to focus on those things automatically.  It is why we must ensure that one’s thought life is consistently monitored, ensuring that the right things are fed to the mind.

John Calvin noted that, “the human mind is a factory of idols”. This is why the human mind leaps to an understanding of evil.

But we, who are born of God, have a superior mind which is the mind of Christ (1 Cor 2:16). In this light, Apostle Paul made a couple of recommendations to the Christians at Philippi regarding the things that underpin superior thinking. Such things must also underpin the thoughts of a true Christian today. He pointed to them to set their minds on things that are true, things that are honorable, things that are just, things that are pure, things that are lovely,  things that are commendable, things that are excellent and praiseworthy. This is how God also thinks and it is beautiful.

The Spirit, through Paul, wants us to be very deliberate with what we feed our minds on.

Whatever we engage the mind on, in thoughts should be things that are true such as those in alignment with the unadulterated word of God. The more we meditate on the word of God, which is true, Paul says we become like Him. The Christian should deliberately think about things that are right and pure. Our judgement is twisted when thoughts are focused on things that are not right. Impure thoughts will lead the Christian away from holiness without which no man can see God. The list is endless, the emphasis is on the fact that what you manifest is a result of what you occupy your mind with.

Beloved in Christ Jesus, the things you feed your mind with will gradually change your heart. Your heart will then become a product of what you have fed your mind with.

There are so many things in our world and around us that seek to occupy our minds. Wherever you turn, nudity seems to be the order of the day. Deliberately meditating on praiseworthy things in the holy Scriptures will lead you to be deeply rooted in Christ Jesus. As a man thinks in his heart, so is he. As he continues, so he remains. Resolve to think about pure and lovely things. Glory to God!

 

FURTHER READING – Psalm 119:9-16

 Call to Salvation: Today is your day if you have not received salvation by turning over your life to Jesus Christ. Click here to do so

 

QUESTIONS TO HELP YOU MEDITATE ON THE WORD:

1. Did you know that how you behave is a function of what you feed your mind with?
2. In what practical ways can you deliberately ensure your thoughts are always on things of God?

 

CONFESSION

Heavenly Father, I receive grace to think about things that foster growth and maturity in Christ Jesus. I affirm that my mind is elevated and empowered by your word to think of those things which are pure, true and lovely in Jesus’ name. Amen.

 

1-Year Bible Reading Plan

Genesis 38; Psalm 41; Psalm 42; Psalm 43; Matthew 25