May 20, 2006

Thoughts of a Feather Grow Together

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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.

Have you ever thought about a situation that upset you? It seems that every time you think about the situation you get madder and madder. Within a few minutes, your stress is high, your anger is surging, and you’re ready to ‘throw down.’ By the time you see the ‘object’ of your anger again, you’re ready to strike. You then do everything in your power to treat them badly and make them pay for what they did. You find yourself acting in a manner that is far from godly and places you in an even worse position. Then you repeat the cycle of thinking and acting again and again – hurting yourself, others, and your witness for Christ.

All actions are based on thoughts. Your thoughts control what you do. If you think about bad things, then why would you expect good things to happen?! When nothing but negative things are around you, it can be tough not to think about them…this is when Philippians 4:8 is so important.

By moving your thoughts from the pain and anger of past events to positive thoughts (as Philippians 4:8 illustrates), your thoughts will slowly brighten your attitude, countenance, and outlook on the current situation. This requires some discipline because the thought of the past (and negativity) can be addictive for some.

Your outlook may not change the condition of your circumstances, but you will be able to change your response to them.

^{Photo courtesy of freeimages.com/Angela Seiffert}