I remember way back when in school, how easy it was to sit and stare out the window, dreaming about the future, of owning a fast car, being a superhero and so on. The classroom and the teacher definitely not part of my dream.
How quickly do we begin to get distracted by the cares of the world? We think about the negative, the mundane, and the ugly side of life.
It is at moments like that, when thinking about the sad side of life, that the enemy steps in, to abuse our thoughts, for his purpose.
Phi 4:8 Finally, my brothers, whatever things are true, whatever things are honest, whatever things are right, whatever things are pure, whatever things are lovely, whatever things are of good report; if there is any virtue and if there is any praise, think on these things.
The Word of God encourages us, to think on what is good and edifying. God does not want us, to waste our thought energy, on the things that breaks down and not build up.
Often during counselling sessions, I have discovered that the problems the counselee struggles with, are perceptions and the result of `wrong thinking`.
We are so quick to think and focus on false realities, on issues that do not even exist, so much so, that we fall apart, without proper cause.
1. “Whatever things are true”: this thing that bothers you, the story you’ve heard. Is it actually true or is it just a rumor, designed to spoil your day.
2. “Whatever things are honest”: this venture you are planning, the action you want to embark on. Is it based in honesty and with integrity? Will people be hurt because of it? Will reputations be destroyed?
3. “Whatever things are right”: I have learnt that there is: the nice thing to do, the `good` thing to do and the “right” thing to do. What are you doing? Is it nice, good or right? A white lie may seem to be the best thing to do, but is it the right thing. A Lie remains a lie, no matter what.
4. “whatever things are pure, whatever things are lovely”: Am I thinking vengeful thoughts or what? The Lord reminds us that He will vindicate us and that vengeance belongs to Him. Therefore I should be thinking on what is pure and lovely. When we contemplate vengeance, it never goes with pure and lovely thoughts.
5. “, whatever things are of good report; if there is any virtue and if there is any praise”: The rumor I feel like starting up – is it based on truth or just plainly, a bad report. Should I be starting the rumor in the first place? When I discuss my friends, my colleagues, my pastor, whoever, do I speak words of praise or condemnation?
Mat 5:44 But I say to you, Love your enemies, bless those who curse you, do good to those who hate you, and pray for those who despitefully use you and persecute you,
Daydreaming is OK, when it builds up. Just don’t do it while operating heavy machinery.
No comments:
Post a Comment