Controlling Our Thoughts
For to set the mind on the flesh is death, but to set the mind on the Spirit is life and peace.
Romans 8:6
The above verse tells us to “set the mind” on the Spirit which implies that God will give us the power to change our thoughts. If we can control our thoughts, including our emotions, then we are absolutely in control and have overcome the world. But I say, walk by the Spirit, and you will not carry out the desire of the flesh. (Galatians 5:16) If we are controlled by the power of the Spirit, we and not controlled by the world. God will enable us to control our thinking which means we are in control of our selves.
It is for freedom that Christ has set us free. Stand firm, then, and do not let yourselves be burdened again by a yoke of slavery. (Galatians 5:1) How can we be free in Christ if we are controlled by the world? When we are controlled by the world our thoughts and emotions are dictated to us from the events in the world, making us a slave to the world. God knows the world around is not going to cater to our needs therefore through his love and power he sets us free to overcome the world. For everyone born of God overcomes the world. This is the victory that has overcome the world, even our faith. (1 John 5:4)
How can we overcome the world without being in control of our thoughts? .Do we want the world to control our thoughts or do we want the power to control our thoughts? We will briefly describe how the Lord helps us to change our thoughts from undesirable or sinful thoughts to pleasing Godly thoughts. Below are three steps that can help us to be in control of ourselves and of our thinking.
- Place your trust in the Lord and let him guide your words and actions. Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. (Philippians 4:6-7) When anxious moments come give them to the Lord with a thankful heart, and choose to walk in peace and joy from the Lord, trusting him to guide you through the day. And if you depend on him, he promises to carry you through, because his love for you is perfect.
- Think before you speak and respond with Godly wisdom. This can help you to have Godly thoughts over emotionally driven thoughts. My dear brothers and sisters, take note of this: Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry. (James 1:19)
- Commune with the Lord throughout the day, praising him, thanking him and asking him for guidance. With our mind and thoughts on the Lord with a thankful praising heart he will lift us up on the wings of eagles and we fly over it all. But those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint. (Isaiah 40:21)
Being in control of our thoughts and emotions doesn’t mean we don’t have sadness and hurting thoughts and emotions. Things happen in this world, like death, sickness, and tragedies that make us sad and hurting inside, but God is in control and the peace and comfort from the Spirit will help us through. He comforts us and carries us through when we seek his help and guidance.
Today make the effort to control your thoughts and don’t let your emotions control your thoughts and words. We demolish arguments and every pretension that sets itself up against the knowledge of God, and we take captive every thought to make it obedient to Christ. (2 Corinthians 2:5) Choose to be in control of your thoughts, words, and behavior and refuse to be controlled by the world.
Prayer: Lord, help me to control my thoughts and emotions and to be free in Christ. Fill my heart with your peace and joy no matter what happens in this world. Let the world see peace and joy in me because it shows your power over the world and helps me to reflect your love. In Jesus name, Amen