A key is "a means of gaining entrance, possession, or control." We all have keys to our homes and cars. But the most important keys aren't always metal--they're mental. The key to living in Truth is to be constantly aware of how the thoughts we are thinking are affecting us. Are those thoughts taking us closer to God or further away? Are they positive and full of hope or negative and discouraging? Do they express a reliance on Jesus Christ, or reflect the idea that we’ve got to do it all ourselves? Actions flow from our thoughts. Therefore if we control our thoughts, our actions will always be appropriate. But if we let any thought that happens to land there wander around in our head and then try controlling the actions that come from those thoughts, we will constantly be making mistakes and having problems.
But the worst part of not controlling our thoughts is that bad thoughts cause us pain—usually unnecessary pain. “Fret not thyself” (Psalm 37:1) is good advice. Keeping our thoughts full of hope and trust in Jesus Christ allows us to avoid the pit of Illusion and live in Truth.
What a blessing this key can be in our lives, if we just remember to use it.
This is such an important life lesson to learn. I'm still learning to control my thoughts. Sometimes they have a tendency to spiral before I even realize it! Thank you so much for these great posts that remind me of what is important and give such great encouragement and advice. I'm glad you had a good anniversary. :)
ReplyDeleteWendi, YES, they certainly can spiral! We've all experienced that. It is important just to realize we can learn to control them. Too many people think it is impossible. But it isn't!
ReplyDeleteThis is a great key. Thank you for sharing with me. Right now I have a son losing his job, a daughter who just had a miscarriage, and a deaf and hard of hearing grand son who now has a cholesteatoma tumor in his ear. I am keeping my thoughts full of hope and trust in Jesus Christ. It is the way!
ReplyDeleteJulie, I am so sorry to hear of all the adversity you are facing right now. Necessary pain is tough, but you have found the way to endure it. My prayers are with you and so is my love. God bless you.
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