Boundaries of Thought (part II)

 “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 [UK]).

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

Our thoughts have no physical presence but they have spiritual substance. For example, we often think that physical contact is needed to commit adultery but Jesus Christ held differently and said: “but I tell you that anyone who looks at a woman lustfully has already committed adultery with her in his heart.” (Matthew 5:28, New International Version). This suggests that all evil acts such as stealing, corruption, laziness, adultery, murder etc. are seeds planted in the garden of our hearts.

The seven qualities mentioned in the key Bible verse for this message were prescribed by Apostle Paul for believers and they are key for successful living in this corrupt world. We think with our minds but only the output of our thoughts are visible. Hence, only something deeper can renew our minds and this is the Word of God. The Bible relates: “For the word of God is alive, active. Sharper than any double-edged sword it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart. Nothing in all creation is hidden from God’s sight. Everything is uncovered and laid bare before the eyes of Him to whom we must give account.” (Hebrews 4:12-13, New International Version). It is the Pure Word of God that can purify the heart.

Only God’s word can penetrate our minds and help our thoughts to conform to the acceptable standards of God. Psalms 12 verse 6 states:” The words of the Lord are pure words: as silver tried in a furnace of earth, purified seven times”. The Word of  God is pure with the power to cleanse and upgrade our minds to the same level as that of Christ. Ephesians 5 verse 26 states “.. to make her holy, cleansing her by the washing with water through the word ”( New International Version). Disobedience and all forms of sins starts from our thoughts. Every temptation is aimed at performing acts that contradict God’s Word, leading to the painful consequences of sin such as constant distress and ultimately death.

Our thoughts need to comply with what is acceptable to God and on this subject the Bible advises: “do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—His good, pleasing and perfect will.” (Romans 12:2, New International Version).  In this regard , we should always evaluate our thoughts against the written Word of God and then ask ourselves: is it noble?; is it right?; is it pure? Is it admirable? and lastly, will God be glorified? 1 Corinthians 2 verse 16 states : “For “who has known the mind of the Lord that he may instruct Him? “But we have the mind of Christ” (New King James Version)

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!