As a child I heard the words and as a parent I spoke them: “What were you thinking?” Thinking hard and long before acting can be of great benefit in many situations. Launching into something without thought can lead to unwanted and even disastrous results. This is a wise consideration regarding the direction of our life and what characterizes the things we ultimately put into practice. We would do well to think deeply on those things which would compel godly action as we ponder the broad benefit our life choices may bring to our own life and the life of those around us.
In his letter to the church at Philippi, Paul urged. . .
“(8) Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things. (9) What you have learned and received and heard and seen in me — practice these things, and the God of peace will be with you.” (Philippians 4:8-9 ESV)
If what our mind dwells on does not fall into one of those eight categories, those may be thoughts we would do well to dispel. What we most meditate on is going to impact our actions in either negative or positive ways because it is from the focus within that our actions and words arise. (i.e. Matthew 15:19; Matthew 12:34; Luke 6:45) Therefore, it is very important to govern our thoughts so that we have a good frame of mind from which proper actions will arise. As Paul urged for the mind to dwell on what is true, honorable, just, pure, lovely, commendable, excellent, and praiseworthy, even considering what he had taught and exemplified in his own life, he encouraged such to be put into practice.
Thinking deeply — having our mind set on things above rather than earthly things (Colossians 3:2) — those thoughts will begin to permeate our life actions in godly ways. Therefore, let us think deeply so that those thoughts will duly impact the breadth of all our life activity!
Have a great day MOVED ONWARD BY THINKING DEEPLY ABOUT THESE THINGS!
Carl
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(“teEn-MAIL” is sent out daily by Carl Hanson, preacher for the Church of Christ in Port Townsend, Washington, USA, located at 230 A Street, Port Townsend, WA 98368. Come visit us if in the area.)
