Boundaries of Thought (part I)

Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable – if anything is excellent or praiseworthy – think about such things.” (Philippians 4:8, New International Version).

This is the key Bible verse for our “Come and See” devotional today.

The human mind is very powerful and gives a clear indication of our spiritual nature. It is used for thinking, reasoning, and applying knowledge and this usage defines our identity, uniqueness or individuality. “For as he thinketh in his heart, so is he: ‘Eat and drink,’ saith he to thee; but his heart is not with thee.” (Proverbs 23:7, 21st Century King James Version).

At the point of creation, the mind of Adam functioned in an extraordinary way for he was able to name all the animals correctly. In the beginning, the only person who was conscious of the power of thought at the Garden of Eden was the devil, who had fallen because of his own inappropriate thoughts; the bible states: “You said in your heart, ‘I will ascend to the heavens; I will raise my throne above the stars of God; I will sit enthroned on the mount of assembly, on the utmost heights of Mount Zaphon.’” (Isaiah 14:13 New International Version). Satan knew that the only way to alter the destiny of mankind was through people’s thoughts and so he went ahead and deceived Eve.

Also, as we read in the book of Genesis chapter 11 verse 1 to 9. There was a time when all the people on earth spoke with one language. However, under the leadership of Shem a decision was taken to build a city which included a tower with a top reaching the heavens. This project had its foundation in the faulty thinking of mankind, for the Lord said: “Behold, the people is one, and they have all one language; and this they begin to do: and now nothing will be restrained from them, which they have imagined to do.” (Genesis 11:6, King James Version). The Lord decided to confuse their language to prevent their proud and futile thoughts from becoming a reality.

The things that we perceive around us are often a direct reflection of what we think and imagine, for our thoughts are very powerful!  The mind is the battlefield where all life’s conflicts are won or lost. For example, suicide is a product of suicidal thoughts, just as sexual immorality, failure, hopelessness and poverty are all first created in our minds before they manifest themselves. Mark 7 verse 21 states: “For from within, out of the heart of men, proceed evil thoughts, adultery, fornications, murders, thefts, covetousness, wickedness, deceit, lewdness, and evil eye, blasphemy, pride, foolishness. All these evil things come from the mind and defile a man” (New King James Version)

Spiritual boundaries and walls should guard our thoughts carefully at all times and this precaution must be taken with all seriousness. The extent to which we master the art of controlling our thoughts will determine our success today, our hope for tomorrow and assurance for the future. “Keep and guard your heart with all vigilance and above all that you guard, for out of it flow the springs of life.”  (Proverbs 4:23, Amplified Bible).

Let us pray: “Father, I surrender my mind to the control of your Holy Spirit, Let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be acceptable in Your sight” in Jesus’ Mighty Name, Amen.

This message was brought to you by Evangelical Ministries International (EMI). We know this message has been a blessing to you. Please share your testimonies with us by visiting our website www.evangelicalministries.org or contact us on info@evangelicalministries.org. God bless you!