There is Power In the Way You Think (Part II)

Hello my friends. I apologize for not communicating with you for a while. Last time we began talking to you about the fact that there is power in the way you think. Today I would like to continue with that thought. We looked at the words of the apostle Paul recorded for us in Philippians 4:8 (KJV). There we read, "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." The apostle understood the tremendous impact our thoughts have on us. I am reminded of the words attributed to Mahatma Gandhi. He said, “Your beliefs become your thoughts, Your thoughts become your words, Your words become your actions, Your actions become your habits, Your habits become your values, Your values become your destiny.” I believe there is much truth in that statement.

Last time we considered the first two qualities that we should think about that were mentioned in our text. They were what is true and what is honest. Let's consider now the next quality and that is what is just. We are admonished to think about what is right and righteous. We are to think about what is right in regard to the relationship between God and man. What we owe him, what is due him, we will offer to him with joy and gladness. And we are to think about what is right in our relationship others. What I owe others, what is right and proper that I should do for them, and how I should think of them, and what I should desire for them, this is what I am to think about.

The fourth quality that we should think about is what is pure. The original word used here means holy, clean, and innocent. We are to think about the holiness of God and how he is perfect in every way. We are to think about how we can also be holy and pure. We are to strive to abstain from having any impure thoughts. We are to refrain from any speech or behavior that can be viewed as less than innocent or less that blameless. A life that is lived above reproach begins with thoughts that are pure and holy. How do we implement these things? We begin by making it our goal, by making it what we are striving toward. And whenever we deviate from that goal in any way we repent and ask God to get us back on track. I'm sure that the Lord will help you to be victorious in this area.