THINK AND DO

THINK AND DO

Solomon, the son of King David, penned powerful words regarding the connection between one’s thoughts, actions and destiny: “As he thinks in his heart, so is he.” (Proverbs 23:7) It is the foundational truth for one of his signature admonitions: “Keep your heart with all diligence, for out of it spring the issues of life.” (Proverbs 4:23) As we carefully reflect upon our lives, we recognize that every single thing (good or bad) emerges from how we think.  How so?  Every decision springs from internal thought processes, and the actions that follow are merely reflections and realizations of what we think.

It naturally follows that our thinking must be judiciously regulated and aligned with Heaven.  Nevertheless, how are we to accomplish this when our senses are overwhelmed hourly by a tidal wave of worldly inputs via the mass media and interactions with others who are lacking in balance or devoid of faith?

First and foremost, we must adopt SPIRITUAL COMPASSes by which to govern and navigate our lives.  King David’s prayer is key.  He petitioned God to “ORDER MY STEPS IN YOUR WORD, and let no iniquity have dominion over me.” (Psalm 119:133) This is the only logical and practical avenue to fully embrace Solomon’s sage advice (referenced above), i.e. to “guard your heart.”  For only the “WISE GOD” is “able to keep you from falling” and surrendering to cycles of sin and shame. (I Timothy 1:17 and Jude 1:24)

Why not ask GOD for help in filtering out the background noise, the worldly distractions, the confusing voices and the media assault on our senses, so we can THINK – supernaturally and wisely?  Indeed, this is absolutely necessary since the Word declares that “the carnal mind [the natural or unredeemed mind] is enmity [enemy] against God: for it is not subject to the law of God, neither indeed can be.” (Romans 8:7)

The scriptural solution?  “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.” (Romans 12:2) This may only be accomplished in the life of one who seeks to fully submit to the lordship of Christ. Thus, David’s prayer becomes our path forward to purpose and destiny: “Teach me, O Lord, the way of Your statutes, and I shall keep it to the end.  Give me understanding, and I shall keep Your law.  Indeed, I shall observe it with my whole heart.” (Psalm 119:33-34)

Paying attention to what we are THINKING involves paying attention to what we are HEARING, that is, what we are reading, watching and internalizing.  Back in ‘The Stone Age’ – when I was in elementary school – we had English grammar workbooks entitled “THINK AND DO.”  It was an effective way to learn fundamentals of the English language.  Those practical workbooks taught us how to read and write with understanding, insight and accuracy.  In truth, all of us are far better positioned for life when we adopt a similar model to govern our attitudes and actions.  MY FRIEND…THINK AND DO!  Allow yourself to reflect on the right things, then purposefully follow the right path.  Life will be infinitely better and blessed!

Sisters and brothers, be continually blessed and please (above all else) MAKE SURE YOU ARE READY TO MEET YOUR SOON COMING KING.  Maranatha!