Steep Your Thoughts

The Apostle Paul says in his letter to the Philippians that we need to think excellent thoughts. 

So, how is that going these days? Do you find yourself meditating on the words of scripture or are the words ringing in your ears coming from the media, your timeline, the latest news story?

As we continue to face the unknown of COVID-19, how do we think excellent thoughts and what does this have to do with worry?  Lots. People who are consistently overwhelmed with worry are usually consumed by thoughts that are not altogether true or accurate or fair. And let’s admit that these days, it’s harder to know what is true or accurate. There is still so much unknown.

But what we do know is that our God, the Alpha and Omega, the one who has kept a watchful eye over us from the start, has given us his Word. So, even as we struggle with the unknown and having more questions than answers, we can trust in the promises of scripture.

My challenge to you is to keep the words of God at the forefront of your mind. Take some time to soak up these scriptures. Print them out, memorize them, let them inform your excellent thoughts this week.

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

Psalm 121:1-2

I have told you all this so that you may have peace in me. Here on earth you will have many trials and sorrows. But take heart, because I have overcome the world.

John 16:33

 The Lord your God is in your midst,
    a mighty one who will save;
he will rejoice over you with gladness;
    he will quiet you by his love;
he will exult over you with loud singing.

Zephaniah 3:17

You have taken note of my journey through life,
    caught each of my tears in Your bottle.

Psalm 56:8

The Lord is good,
    a stronghold in the day of trouble;
he knows those who take refuge in him.

Nahum 1:7

But those who hope in the Lord
    will renew their strength.
They will soar on wings like eagles;
    they will run and not grow weary,
    they will walk and not be faint.

Isaiah 40:31

The Eternal is my rock, my fortress, and my salvation;
    He is my True God, the stronghold in which I hide,
    my strong shield, the horn that calls forth help, and my tall-walled tower.

Psalm 18:2

Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.

Philippians 4:6-7

He will cover you with his feathers.
    He will shelter you with his wings.
    His faithful promises are your armor and protection.

Psalm 91:4