My Pastor just completed a 7-week sermon on thinking smarter. "Be careful how you think; your life is shaped by your thoughts" Proverbs 4:23 TEV was the main Scripture referenced throughout the series. We've all heard comments such as "You are what you think", "Our thoughts shape our beliefs", and "We need to exercise our mind", to name a few.
We've also heard and listened to the many guru's in the world that tell us what we should do to think smarter, how to transform our thoughts, etc., however, did you know that you can trace positive thinking back to the Bible? That is so awesome! Before the guru's ever came up with the idea on how to change your thoughts, the Scriptures offered guidance. Romans 12:2 NLT states "Don't copy the behavior and customs of this world, but let God transform you into a new person by changing the way you think. Then you will learn to know God's will for you, which is good and pleasing and perfect."
This series has had a great impact on me as I support the belief that we are as we think. As a child, if you were constantly praised for your efforts, then it's safe to say that you have good thoughts about your abilities. If, however, you were always belittled, mocked or criticized then, chances are that you carry some doubt as to your abilities. You may not believe that you deserve happiness, financial success, a promotion, etc. It makes a big difference when people know that they have a support system and that others believe in them.
Having a negative mindset can cause hurt. Our words can become sarcastic. We can lash out with hurtful comments that can't be taken back and can continue to have an impact on us years later. When you exercise your mind into thinking smarter, "thinking before you speak" becomes a no brainer.
Once you decide that you want to make changes you will want to sculpt your mind into a healthier brain. One of the first things to consider would be to cleanse your mind. Ask yourself the right questions that will allow you to identify, get rid of and replace any toxic thoughts. If there are negative thoughts or beliefs that you are unable to break or understand, you will have to determine the origin of this thought or belief. Is it something that was ingrained in your mind as a child? Once you can get to the root of the pain or negativity you will be able to change the pattern of how you think. This enables you to gain clarity.
Completing a mind cleanse will provide you with a positive foundation that you can build on. As you begin the process of transforming your thoughts, let me leave you with the following Bible Scriptures: "You will have to live with the consequences of everything you say" Proverbs 18:20 GNT and "Words kill, words give life; they're either poison or fruit - you choose." Proverbs 18: 21 MSG.
Stop limiting yourself with negative thinking. Being positive is healthier for you. Thinking smarter, having a healthier brain, will help shape you in to a better person.
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