Thoughts that Sting
Choose…
which thoughts to
dwell on,
entertain,
agree with,
feed.
Choose life.
God has been reclaiming the garden of my heart from an infestation of negative thoughts. I had no idea how many of the enemy’s lies I’d bought, nor how deeply they’d rooted. I’m so grateful that He loves me enough to confront me with the problem, and to forgive me when I acknowledged my part in letting them take hold.
Listen to the father of lies?
Believe what he says?
Why in the world would a person do that?
But he makes them sound so reasonable, and they attach to our fears and masquerade as truth. Maybe that’s how to discern the difference: does the thought seem to confirm my fears, stir my anxiety? Or does it resonate with my spirit? I really need to check each thought at the mental garden gate and ask for ID. Friend, or foe? Prove it.
Not long ago, I was outside in a quiet spot, pondering what I’m learning. A wasp flew into my space, September-stupid and slow. Instead of retreating like I’d do in with an aggressive summer wasp, I shooed it away with my hand.
It came back; I shooed it again. After a few times, it went away.
In the stillness, it seemed like God was asking, “Did you get that?”
I think I did.
Related Posts“And now, dear brothers and sisters, one final thing. Fix your thoughts on what is true, and honorable, and right, and pure, and lovely, and admirable. Think about things that are excellent and worthy of praise” (Philippians 4:8 NIV).
How Can Satan Get a Hold of a Believer underthecoverofprayer.wordpress.com
Janet Sketchley
Janet is an east coast Canadian writer working to break into print in novel-length fiction. In the mean time, she writes weekly book reviews, devotionals and features on her blog, “Tenacity“.
We are told we have “the mind of Christ” and are instructed – commanded, even – to take our thoughts “captive to Christ.” I love the idea of demanding ID of each thought that seeks entertaining. Thank you for this reminder, dear friend. (So glad there’s you!)
Stephanie, have you ever heard of Christian singer Don Francisco? He has a song, I believe called “The Package,” about the devil showing up (figuratively) on the doorstep with a package of guilt and shame, claiming it’s from God, and how we need to send him away. Have a great day!