I have a question for you. What are you thinking? God has given us what and how we should be thinking. He puts it like this in Philippians 4:8, KJV: “Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things.” Isn’t it amazing how much He cares for us? He cares so much for you that He has given you specific and detailed ways of thinking.

Believe it or not your thoughts form the life you live. It’s critical to know the in scripture we find additional details that explain, “For as a man ‘thinks’ in his heart so is he”. (Prov., 23:7). Notice that your thinking is connected to your heart. This is the place where God judges things from. Remember, man looks at the outward appearance but God looks at your heart.

Clinically, as a Therapist, I must add that I know what you’re thinking by your behavior. I know what you’re thinking by what you are saying. Still, I know what you’re thinking by what’s happening in your life. I have this modality or model that I use with clients called Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT). It allows one to see how faulty thinking, which leads to emotional and behavioral disturbances are impacting the clients’ life.

Be intentional and do your spiritual exercises in your mind. How can I do that? I am glad you asked. Find some things that are honest. This means things that are free of deceit and untruthfulness; sincere (i.e. people, places, things). Just thinking means looking for things that are based on what is morally right and fair. Pure thinking is described as something that’s made of only one substance and is not mixed with anything else. Lovely thinking requires finding exquisitely beautiful aspects. Then there is thinking on things that are of a good report. There is so much negativity everywhere but don’t focus on that. Find something good to think on.

Finally, God is simply saying, I have a standard. This is the standard. It’s one of virtue. I want you to give me praise even in your thought life. It’s the place in your being where only He sees. I have one last question. What are your thinking?

Blessings,
Dr. Donita Lester, MA, Ed, D, LPC
(A Life Poured Out)