July 16, 2011


  • (Thank you Sam for this.)

    HOPE: There are two possibilities when one gets scared in the face of trials. First, he had seen enough and learning little or nothing from it, he dreads going through another. Second, he places security in what he has and not on the Owner of everything he has and does not have. Be neither of these. Develop a sturdy hope and trust in the Father who loves you.

    Readings: Psalm 42; Romans 15:13
    Word to the Wise Devotional

    Keeping a Clear Mind
    The human mind is an amazing creation of God. Nothing on earth can match its capabilities or creativity. It controls feelings, thoughts, words, attitudes, and behavior. Who we become and what we achieve are largely due to how and what we think. Wouldn’t it make sense to let the One who created us guide our thought processes?
     
    A clear mind is one that’s aligned with God’s Word and controlled by His Spirit. When the Lord has authority over our thoughts, discernment will guard our perspective. He empowers us to look beyond the surface and view situations as they really are. We can distinguish not just between right and wrong but also between good and best. The Lord has granted us the ability to think rightly no matter what challenges may face us.
     
    But such clear, focused thinking must be deliberately chosen and diligently maintained. If we don’t guard against the world’s influence, we will find ourselves squeezed into its mold. Soon we’ll have a fragmented mind that cannot focus on spiritual things because it is cluttered and clogged with worldly thoughts and concerns. We must carefully consider what we allow into our minds. So ask yourself, Is this helping me become the person God wants me to be, or is it hindering the process?
     
    A renewed mind begins with surrender to the Lord. Until you give Him full authority over your thoughts, you’ll have no power to clear out the clutter that hinders you from living in the fullness of His will. But as you yield to Him and fill your mind with His Word, He’ll transform your life.
     
    Romans 12:1-2
     
    1 I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that you present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable to God, which is your reasonable service. 2 And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what is that good and acceptable and perfect will of God.

    Prayer For Taking Control of Your Thoughts
    Father, though I live in in the world, I do not wage war as the world does.  The weapons I fight with are not the weapons of the world.  On the contrary, they have divine power to demolish strongholds.  I demolish arguments and every pretension that sets itself up against the knowledge of You, and I take captive every thought to make it obedient to Christ.
     
    In the name of Jesus, I ask You, Father, to bless those who have despitefully used me.  Whenever I feel afraid, I will trust in You.  When I feel miserable, I will express thanksgiving, and when I feel that life is unfair, I will remember that You are more than enough.
     
    When I feel ashamed, help me to remember that I no longer have to be afraid; I will not suffer shame.  I am delivered from the fear of disgrace; I will not be humiliated, I relinquish the shame of my youth.
     
    It is well with my soul for You have redeemed me.  You have called me by my name, I AM YOURS.
     
    Your will be done in my life at this time.  I am being transformed through the renewing of my mind.  I am able to test and approve (for myself) what Your will is - Your good and acceptable and perfect will.
     
    You have good things reserved for my future.  All my needs will be met according to Your riches in glory.  I will replace worry for my family by asking You to protect and care for them.
     
    You are love, and perfect love casts out fear.
     
    In Jesus' name, amen.


    (Thank you Robin for this.)

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