“What are you thinking about?” That is a question my wife, Gail, often asks me if I seem to “check out.” My answer is always the same, “Nothing.” She says, “What is it with you? How can you think about nothing?” That is a great question. Or maybe the question is, “Why aren’t you thinking at all?” There is a lot to think about these days, so much so, that sometimes you may feel overwhelmed and just want to check out and stop thinking all together. I get it. There are times when I just find my mind wandering on its own and just taking me along for the ride. It just checks out. You may find yourself under the weight and responsibility of parenting, of financial struggles or just not being able to be with those you love because of COVID. Depression and suicide are on the rise as are so many other relational struggles. But what I know is that God really does want this amazing creation called the brain to be used for good. It is a thinking machine that can move us to great action for good and unfortunately, for evil.
There is a verse is Paul’s letter to the church in Philippi. It is about overcoming anxiety and worry in our lives. Paul writes …
Rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say, rejoice. Let your reasonableness be known to everyone. The Lord is at hand; do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. Philippians 4:4–7
Rejoice or be glad in the Lord. God is with you. So pray and trust Him to provide and protect your heart and mind in this season. The mind can be definitely be a casualty when it is filled with worry, anxiety, negative thoughts, and even toxic emotions. Paul’s answer to first century Christians struggling under the weight of their circumstances …
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. Philippians 4:8
THIS WEEK: Take a moment to think about your thinking. What are you thinking about? Are you afraid, worried, anxious, angry? Make a list of all the things you can think about that are true about God’s love for you, things that are just, pure, lovely … praise worthy. Then spend some time rejoicing and thanking God.
-Dr. Jerry