And be renewed in the spirit of your mind. Eph 4:23
If we are serious in our resolve to care for our physical body, then we are careful in our diet, in the way we digest our food, and in the efficient way our body discards the non-nutritious elements. In a similar way the thoughts we receive, the way we digest or meditate upon them, and the discernment we use in building with or discarding them are critical. It helps us to understand how we can learn and grow in a healthy spiritual, thoughtful, emotional, and choice-making way as well.
Renewing our minds God’s way requires us to think like He does. Amazingly, rather than a hopeless fantasy, God has also provided a divine process for that to transpire. In Romans 12:2, it says we are not to be conformed to this world, but transformed by the renewing of our mind. Simply, our challenge is in fixing our determination to regard His Word as ultimate authority and the guiding standard for our thoughts, imaginations, and mind sets or mental strongholds. (2 Cor 10:5)
The battle for renewal may be fought in our minds, but we must be aware that the ultimate objective is for the control of our precious free will or ultimate vote. Our mind is the incredible tool of influence that God gave us to use to agree or disagree with His way or will in doing things. Like God, we are spirit beings and God communicates to our spirit. In true relationship, our mind must be renewed to discern His voice and respond by our willingness to obey.
Jesus located this prize for our will for us when He told His Father, at the climax of His challenging mind-twisting walk toward the Cross, “Not my will, but Thy will be done.” (Matt 26:39) Scripture also states that it’s God who works in us both to will and to do His good pleasure. (Phil 2:13) In teaching his disciples how to pray, He included, “Your will be done on Earth as it is in heaven.”
The spiritual renewing of our minds and behavioral transformation is a lifetime process. A simple formula can never serve as a full discovery. That said, rather than dwell on anxious, hopeless, or fearful things, let’s begin to diet and meditate on what Almighty God says. Let’s dump the junk!
On a personal note, I’m excited that our weekly men’s group is about to embark on a lengthy study of renewing our mind. A fresh diet of God’s power food lies ahead. Here’s just a sample of divine hors d’oeuvres that we’ll be feasting upon toward that end:
• I can do whatever I need to do in life through Christ. – Phil 4:13
• God loves me unconditionally! Eph 1:4
• God meets all my needs abundantly. 3 John 2
• I pursue peace with God, myself, and others. Ps 34:14
• I am disciplined and self-controlled. Heb 12:11
• I put God first in my life. Ex 20:3
Family and friends, may the Lord bless us as we freely choose to do His will through our desire, teachability, truth-seeking, acting and persevering in the Spiritual renewing of our minds!
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The Following are links to Faith Christian Center’s Pastor John Pfeffer’s audio sermons (starts 2/13/13) and study notes on his series — Renewing the Mind
https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/catch-the-truth/id204005992
http://fccchurch.publishpath.com/pastors-study-notes
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*** The following are taken from Joyce Meyer’s “Developing Power Thoughts”
Power Thought 1
I can do whatever I need to do in life through Christ. (Phil 4:13)
Read Rom 8:16-17; 1 Cor 2:16 What does God’s word tell us about our identity in Christ?
I am ______________________________________________________________________________________
I have _____________________________________________________________________________________
I can ______________________________________________________________________________________
Read Jer 29:11; Jn 3:16; 10:10; Rom 8:1-2; Ti 3:4-7 What do these verses reveal about God’s intention toward us? ___________________________________________________________________________________________
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Read Is 40:31; Prov 23:18; Ps 18:23 According to these verses, what is possible if we plug into God’s power? How can we apply these truths to specific goals and aspirations?
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Read Rom 8:28; 5:2-5; 2 Cor 12:10 What do these verses reveal about difficulties and how we can shift our perspective on them? ___________________________________________________________________________________________
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In Luke 19:1-7, Zacchaeus, a small man in stature, was determined to see Jesus, who was making His way through Jericho. Not to be dissuaded by the crowds of people who towered over him, Zacchaeus climbed a tree to catch a glimpse of Jesus. Impressed by his determination, Jesus told Zacchaeus He would be staying at his house that night. What does Zacchaeus’ example tell us about having an “I can” attitude? ___________________________________________________________________________________________
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Zacchaeus knew he was short, but he didn’t let that stop him; he found a way to circumvent the problem. God wants us to do the same. Don’t make a big deal out of our personal flaws. Use what we’ve got and go for it.
Write down three self-defeating thoughts that keep you trapped in a negative thought cycle:
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What are three alternative thoughts/attitudes that energize and build you up in your faith? (Example: Instead of “I should have been promoted” try “I trust God’s timing with my career and future.”)
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Our thoughts inevitably lead to our words and actions. What language, habits, and behaviors have kept you stuck in personal and mental quicksand? What first steps can you take to develop a “Jesus” perspective?
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With God’s help we can adopt new attitudes and free our mind to be conformed to God’s will for our life. Romans 12:2 says, Be not conformed to this world but be transformed by the renewing of your mind.
Let’s Say It Out Loud…..
“I can do whatever I need to do in life through Christ.”
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Power Thought 2
God loves me unconditionally. (Rom 8:1-2)
Maybe you have experienced pain and rejection in your life. Rejection from parents, siblings, and other significant people can affect the way you view God and yourself. But God’s Word says He will never leave you or forsake you (Heb 13:5). Ps 34:18 says, The Lord is close to the brokenhearted, He rescues those whose spirits are crushed (NLT). His Word can heal your broken heart.
What things have happened in your life that makes you ask, “What’s wrong with me? __________________________________________________________________________________
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Read Ps 147:3; Is 38:16; 57:15; Acts 9:34; 1 Pet 5:10 What is the consistent message God is sending in these verses?
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The world tries to make you feel that you are all wrong, but when you accepted Christ as your Lord and Savior, He gave you His righteousness (1 Cor 5:21). He wants you to know you are right with Him. Who are you? God’s Word says you are…
- a child of God (Jn 1:12)
- a branch of the true vine, carrying Christ within you (Jn 15:1-5)
- a friend of Jesus (Jn 15:15)
- a fellow heir with Christ (Rom 8:17)
- chosen, holy and blameless before God (Eph 1:4)
- a new creature in Christ (2 Cor 5:17)
For someone who has experienced pain and rejection in their life, what hope is contained in the verses above? In your particular situation, what are some of the ways God “holds you close”? How can you cooperate with Him to experience emotional healing in your life?
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Perhaps you think God can’t love you unconditionally because you’ve chosen to disobey Him at some point in your life. Even though He will bring correction when you make mistakes, it doesn’t make Him love you any less. The Bible says that anyone in Christ is a new creation. Your behavior may not change overnight, but when you are “in Christ” a gradual and patient work of transformation begins. God sees your heart and loves you, no matter where you are on your journey.
Read through the Book of Jonah (It’s Short!)
Jonah clearly disobeyed God, and yet God was gracious to forgive him and still use him to reach the people, of Nineveh. Is there anything you’ve done that needs forgiveness? List those things below and begin to seek God’s forgiveness. ___________________________________________________________________________________
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Read Jonah 4:2 again
Jonah proclaims God is full of love and compassion and is slow to anger. What does that mean to you in regard to the things you listed above? ____________________________________________________________________________________
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Satan loves to place thoughts of self-doubt and condemnation in your mind. But Colossians 1:22 says that you have been reconciled to God. Your faults have been cancelled out by Jesus’ death on the cross. Don’t make the mistake of believing the lies of the enemy over the truth of God’s Word. Set your mind that God loves you unconditionally. When you know that, you will have victory and be blessed.
For you created my inmost being, you knit me together in my mother’s womb. I praise You because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful. I know that full well. (Ps 139:13-14 NIV)
Say It Out Loud (and keep saying it until you believe it)…..
“God loves me unconditionally.”
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Power Thought 3
I will not live in fear. (Isaiah 35:4)
Proverbs 23:7 says as a man thinks in his heart, so is he. What kind of reality have you created for yourself through the thoughts you’ve chosen to think? Is it a reality based on trust in God’s promises or satan’s lies and manipulation? God’s Word says perfect love casts out fear. Yet, too many of us let fear rule our lives.
Common fears people have include:
- Fear of others (fear of man)
- Fear of past mistakes or past pain
- Fear of the unknown
- Fear that God is not pleased with you
- Fear that what we do is never enough
- Fear of being lonely
- Fear of lack
- Fear that something bad will happen to people we love
What fears do you struggle with? How have your fears crippled you?
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Read Psalm 12:7; 118:6; Isaiah 51:7; 54:4; 41:10; Hebrews 13:6 What do these verses reveal about facing fear? Why should you not have fear?
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2 Corinthians 10:5 says, Take captive every thought to make it obedient to Christ. When you live in fear, you are thinking all the wrong thoughts. You think you are alone and helpless, that your circumstances will get the better of you. Yet, 2 Timothy 1:7 says, …The Spirit God gave us does not make us timid (fearful), but gives us power, love, and self-discipline (NIV). How can you strengthen your mind against fearful thoughts?
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Fearful language will further feed your fears. Do you speak fearful words (“I dread…”, “I’m afraid…” or words that indicate confidence in God (“I trust You, God. You are faithful.”)? Think about a situation that’s created fear and anxiety in your life. What “fear” statements have you allowed to sink your moods? ____________________________________________________________________________________________________________
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How can you change your speech to reinforce your trust in God? Think of a problem you’ve been avoiding. List some “power” statements that will help you move forward with confidence.
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Read Psalm 34; 147
An attitude of gratitude goes a long way to plant an awareness of God’s presence and power in your life. Pay attention to the ways He has expressed His love for you—kindness people have shown, a song that stirred your heart, the wonders of nature unfolding before your eyes. Too often we chalk up God’s blessing to chance or coincidence. Thank Him for all He has done!
Name five ways God has blessed you today.
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For in the day of trouble He will keep me safe in His dwelling; He will hide me in the shelter of His sacred tent and set me high upon a rock. (Psalm 25:7 NIV)
When you know God loves you, fear becomes manageable. You may still experience fear, but you no longer have to be tormented or paralyzed by it.
It was by faith that Moses left the land of Egypt, not fearing the king’s anger. He kept right on going because he kept his eyes on the one who is invisible (Hebrews 11:27 NLT)
Based on this verse, what is a surefire strategy to help you walk confidently through tough or uncertain situations? ___________________________________________________________________________________________________________
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Trust God to get you to your Promised Land.
Surely the righteous will never be shaken; they will be remembered forever. They will have no fear of bad news; their hearts are steadfast, trusting in the Lord. Their hearts are secure, they will have no fear; in the end they will look in triumph on their foes (Psalm 112:6-8 NIV).
Say It Out Loud, And Repeat It Until You Overcome Your Fear …..
“GOD LOVES ME. I DON’T HAVE TO LIVE IN FEAR.”
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Power Thought 4
I am difficult to offend and quick to forgive. (James 1:19-20 NLT)
Matthew 24:10 says that in the last days, many will betray and hate each other. Stress and worry can make people short tempered and quick to find fault. But Jesus spoke clearly about a fault-finding attitude: And why worry about a speck in your friend’s eye when you have a log in your own? How can you think of saying to your friend, ‘Let me help you get rid of that speck in your eye,’ when you can’t see past the log in your own eye? (Matt 7:3-4 NLT)
Proverbs 19:11 says, A person’s wisdom yields patience; it is tone’s glory to overlook an offense (NIV). “Glory” is a strong word. How might it be to your glory to overlook it when someone is mean or petty to you?
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Read Proverbs 15:1; 22:24; 30:33 What do these verses in Proverbs tell you about the power of kindness?
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Losing your temper with people rarely gets you the results you want. Proverbs 25:15 says, Through patience a ruler can be persuaded, and a gentle tongue can break a bone (NIV). What does this mean to you?
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A heart at peace gives life to the body, but envy rots the bones. (Prov 14:30 NIV) Pride, envy, anger, resentment, jealousy – all these attitudes have a way of “rotting the bones” and stealing your joy in Christ. More importantly, such attitudes threaten your relationship with God. If you forgive those who sin against you, your heavenly Father will forgive you. But if you refuse to forgive others, your Father will not forgive your sins (Matthew 6:14-15 NLT).
Describe a recent incident in which you became offended with someone. How did they respond to your anger? How did you feel before and after? _____________________________________________________________________________________
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Read Matthew 5:39-40; 43-44
Christ commands us to treat each other with love and respect—especially the people who get on our nerves. We are commanded not to judge because we don’t have the authority or enough information (see Matt 7:1) What shift in attitude can help you overcome a tendency to react to people who make you angry?
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Read Jonah 3,4
Sometimes we have resentments buried in our hearts that we aren’t consciously aware of. What do you think was Jonah’s real issue with God changing His mind about destroying the people of Nineveh? What lesson was God trying to teach Jonah when He gave him a leafy plant to shade him from the sun—then just as abruptly took it away?
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What buried resentments may be fueling your reactions to the things that happen to you?
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Read 2 Corinthians 2:10; Mark 11:25; Luke 6:37; Colossians 3:13
The Bible tells you to forgive those who have sinned against you so the Lord can do the same for you. Set your mind that you will not be bitter, angry, or resentful. You may not be able to help how you feel, but if you change what you think, your feelings will catch up. I restore the crushed spirit of the humble and revive the courage of those with repentant hearts (Isaiah 57:15 NLT).
Say It Out Loud, …..
“I AM DIFFICULT TO OFFEND AND QUICK TO FORGIVE.”
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Power Thought 5
I love people and I enjoy helping them. (Gal 5:13 NIV)
Too many of us go through life with an “it’s all about me” attitude. Yet Jesus said, If any of you wants to be my follower, you must turn from your selfish ways, take up your cross, and follow me (Matt 16:24 NLT). Sometimes when we are lonely and in pain, our natural tendency is to isolate ourselves and turn inward, waiting for someone to come to the rescue. But God’s Word teaches that the pathway out of our own suffering is through reaching out to help others in need.
What kind of friend are you? Check the statements that apply to you?
• I notice people around me and routinely offer words of encouragement.
• I am an engaged, active listener.
• I try to be available to help, even when it’s inconvenient.
• I look for thoughtful ways to express my appreciation for others.
Read 1 Pet 4:10; Rom 13:9; Acts 20:35; Jn 13:35; Phil 2:1-4; Eph 4:2
The command to love and serve others is repeated throughout the New Testament. Think about your daily (routines and interactions. What specific actions can you take to be more loving in your responses to people? Ex: patience with customer service people, rude drivers, etc.)
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Read Luke 10:25-37
Answer the following questions—and be honest!
• How do you talk to your own family? Are you respectful to them as you are to your friends and people you want to impress?
• Do you do nice things for people even when nobody is around to see it?
• When you’re having a bad day, do you still try to notice what kind of day others are having?
• Do you pay attention to the “invisible” people in our society? The poor, the homeless, the outsiders?
• Are you kind to people you don’t know or who don’t have something you need?
For jealousy and selfishness are not God’s kind of wisdom. Such things are earthly, unspiritual, and demonic. For wherever there is jealousy and selfish ambition, there you will find disorder and evil of every kind (Jam 3:15-16 NLT).
We’re all selfish unless we make up our minds to do something about it. We’re born with a sinful nature—but the Bible tells us to put on our new nature. Through God’s grace, you can make up your mind to love people.
Kind words are like honey—sweet to the soul and healthy for the body. (Prov 16:24 NLT). What are three positive things you can say today to build up your spouse/parents/children/friends? (Be specific!)
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Many people practice “pay it forward” kindness, like feeding other people’s parking meters and buying coffee for the person behind them in line. What are some other thoughtful acts you could perform for strangers today?
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Banish the “me attitudes” from your life. Notice people’s wants and needs, and try to meet them. The more you put your focus on others, the more natural it will become. Think and speak encouragement into the lives of those God has placed in your path—then stand back in amazement as your own joy multiplies.
Say It Out Loud, …..
“I LOVE PEOPLE AND I ENJOY HELPING THEM.”
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Power Thought 6
I trust God completely; there is no need to worry. (Matt 6:3133 NLT)
Are you a worrywart? Maybe you think if you meditate long enough on all your problems, you will somehow get a handle on them. But worry is like rocking in a rocking chair—it keeps you busy, but it gets you nowhere. What do you worry about?
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The Lord’s prayer says, “Give us this day our daily bread” (Matt 6:11). Notice it doesn’t say, give us this day and tomorrow’s daily bread. “Psalm 119:105 describes God’s wisdom as a lamp lighting our path—not stadium lights revealing everything. God wants us to be fully dependent on Him to meet our needs, even as we move forward in faith and plan.
Read Prov 15:15; Matthew 6:24; Phil 4:6; Rom 12:12; Ps 37:1-3
Proverbs 3:5 says, Trust in the Lord with all your heart; do not depend on your own understanding. Too often we try to do things entirely through our own strength. How does that kind of thinking get us into trouble? What sin are you committing when you try to handle your problems alone?
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One of Satan’s favorite tactics is to stir up worry and anxiety in your life. He wants you to think that God is too small to handle your problems. He wants Many people practice “pay it forward” kindness, like feeding other people’s parking meters and buying coffee for the person behind them in line at Starbucks. What are some other thoughtful acts you could perform for strangers today?
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Read 1 Sam 25:29; Jn 14:1; Prov 15:15; Ps 37:1-3; 86:7; Matt 10:19
Choosing to trust God is an act of obedience that perhaps you choose reluctantly. Being a martyr to worry can be a comfortable kind of misery. But if you want to be in God’s will—and experience freedom in your life—you must be willing to relinquish control. What are the rewards of letting God take over?
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Read 2 Chron 20:1-29
Jehosaphat had many enemies coming at him all at once. He was fearful, but then he set his mind to seek the Lord in the situation—trading worry for worship. He declared his need and his trust in God to do what He promised. Notice how God exceeded the expectations of Jehosaphat and the people of Israel when they decided to let Him design a battle plan. God honored their obedience. What inspiration can you take from the story of Jehoshaphat in facing your own challenges?
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“For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future” (Jer 29:11 NIV). Do you trust God with the future? One way we torment ourselves is when we need to know what’s going to happen. But God’s Word instructs us not to worry about tomorrow. He’s always quietly working things out behind the scenes. He gives us as much grace as we need for this moment, this day. He wants us to exercise faith by trusting Him. It’s a privilege, not a penalty. Thank Him for what He’s going to do before you see the evidence..
I am leaving you with a gift—peace of mind and heart. And the peace I give is a gift the world cannot give. So don’t be troubled or afraid ( Jn 14:27 NLT).
Say It Out Loud, …..
“I TRUST GOD.”
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Power Thought 7
I am content and emotionally stable. (Phil 4:12)
Paul said whether I am abased or abounding, I’ve learned to be content. How about you? Are you satisfied with what you have? Or are you on a never-ending quest for things people use to fill their spiritual voids: TV, status seeking, food, sex, shopping, Web surfing, computer games…and the list goes on. What obsessions/compulsions keep you from being content?
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Read Ecc 1:8; 1 Tim 6:9
Satan’s bag of tricks is full of worldly distractions designed to keep you from knowing the peace of an obedient life in Christ. He loves to see you out of control with your spending or face-down in chocolate. What behaviors have driven you away from a settled life in Christ?
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Read Ps 46:10; Deut 11:13-15; Mal 3:6; Jam 1:17
Paul talks about being content amid changing circumstance. Change is a constant in all our lives. What changes are you facing? How have you handled your changes?
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Read Prov 19:23; Rom 8:6; Phil 4:6-7; Col 3:1-2; 1 Tim 6:7-8
According to these verses, how can you remain content when everything is changing around you? What can you do today to change the thoughts and preoccupations that distract you from what brings true peace of mind?
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You were taught, with regard to your former way of life, to put off your old self, which is being corrupted by its deceitful desires; to be made new in the attitude of your minds; and to put on the new self, created to be like God in true righteousness and holiness (Eph 4:22-24 NIV).
Are you a slave to your moods? What attitudes may be contributing to your moodiness and negativity?
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Read Prov 29:11; Ecc 7:9; Eph 4:26-27, 31
Has there been a recent situation in which you got upset or lost your temper? What thought triggered your anger? What can you choose to think next time to head off an angry reaction?
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Read Col 3:13; Ps 103:2-4
If you want to be content, think about what you have to be thankful for, not what you wish you had. Focus on the positives in people, not on the ways they let you down. When you feel anger welling up inside, stop it at the root. Have the courage to ask God to show you how your anger may be hurting people around you. Ask Him to help you discipline your thoughts and emotions.
You may have things in your past that have affected the way you respond to stress and conflict. But our God is compassionate. He hears the cries of your heart. Give your wounded emotions to Him and let Him work a miracle of healing in your life. You can do anything through God who strengthens you.
But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. Against such things there is no law. Those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires. Since we live by the Spirit, let us keep in step with the Spirit. (Gal 5:22-25 NIV)
Say This Out Loud Until You Believe it, …..
“I AM CONTENT AND EMOTIONALLY STABLE.”
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Power Thought 8
God meets all my needs abundantly. (Ps 23:1)
God’s Word promises abundant life for those who love Him—abundant joy, abundant resources, abundant blessings of every kind. Do you live with joyful expectations or do you find yourself always waiting for things to go wrong? Describe your basic outlook on life.
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If your outlook tends to be negative, how do your expectations color your thinking about God, and vice versa? Do you see Him as a source of abundance? If not, why not?
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Read James 1:3-5
Paul talks about the importance of perseverance and trusting God to help you mature and grow. In the end, he says, you will lack nothing. What do you think is the connection between your awareness of God’s blessings and your attitude toward tough times in your life?
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Read Rom 5:20; Jn 1:16
Why should you be celebrating right now?
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Remember: Just because you are going through a tough time, it doesn’t mean you will be stuck there forever. Persevere with an attitude of joy, trusting God to bring you through the tough times and out the other side.
Read 2 Cor 8:1-3
Paul writes about the people of Macedonia, who were poor and had to endure many troubles, yet were filled with abundant joy. What do you think was their secret?
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As a result of your ministry, they will give glory to God. For your generosity to them and to all believers will prove that you are obedient to the Good News of Christ. And they will pray for you with deep affection because of the overflowing grace God has given to you. Thank God for this gift too wonderful for words! (2 Cor 9:13-15 NLT). This verse holds several clues about what constitutes an attitude of thankfulness. What are they? What makes Paul such a great encourager?
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Read Matt 13:11-13; 25:28-30
God wants to bless you. But a negative attitude can block your blessings. What specific attitudes or negative expectations might be blocking God’s blessings from your life?
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Read Deut 28:10-12; Ps 65:9-12; Jn 16:24
What attitudes toward God are expressed in these verses? What can you start doing today to unlock God’s blessings in your life? _________________________________________________________________________________________
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Read Isaiah 29:17-18; 35:1-3; Rom 8:28
Perhaps you’ve lowered your expectations because you’ve been disappointed too many times. Maybe you are afraid to have hope because your dreams were crushed somewhere along the way. God can restore your hope—and give you new dreams. He loves you. That doesn’t mean you won’t have hard times, but He promises to walk through them with you. He will give you the strength to endure, and joy in the midst of difficulty. He can give you a new perspective on the pains of the past and turn your bruises into blessings in the lives of others.
You prepare a feast for me in the presence of my enemies. You honor me by anointing my head with oil. My cup overflows with blessings. (Ps 23:5 NLT).
Say It Out Loud, …..
“GOD MEETS ALL MY NEEDS ABUNDANTLY!”
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Power Thought 9
I pursue peace with God, myself, and others. (Rom 12:18)
Sounds simple enough, but old habits can be hard to break. Sometimes you have to come to the end of yourself before you’re finally ready to give up the negative attitudes that have only made you and the people around you miserable. Pursuing peace in all aspects of your life must be a deliberate discipline.
Read Ps 18:37-38; 34:14; 1 Tim 6:11-15
What attitude does King David take about vanquishing enemies? Why is it necessary to pursue peace aggressively? What action words does Paul use in his charge to Timothy? Why do you think he speaks with such urgency? ___________________________________________________________________________________________
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Read Joshua 10:1-15
What was Joshua’s attitude about his mission? Why was he such a strong leader? How did Joshua’s willingness to cooperate with God ensure victory?
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The Lord wanted Joshua to succeed. Joshua gave more than 100 percent, and the Lord matched his efforts—even in making the sun stand still in the sky to give Joshua more daylight to finish off the enemy.
Read 2 Cor 10:4-5; Eph 6:13
It may seem ironic that we must pursue peace aggressively. But Satan is a formidable foe. His number one priority is to steal your peace. He’ll use every weapon in his arsenal to keep you from it: temptation, distraction, deception. It’s no accident that Paul uses the language of warfare to describe what we must do to overcome the devil’s schemes.
Read Deut 4:31; 2 Chr 30:9; Dan 9:9; Neh 9:31; Ps 103:8; Is 30:18; Acts 20:32
If you want peace with others, you must first be at peace with yourself and with God. Do you believe God loves you? If not, what thoughts are stealing your peace? Are those thoughts based on God’s Word or your own experience? What is the danger in trusting your own perceptions?
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Read Matt 7:1-2; Luke 6:37; Jam 4:11
The Bible says don’t judge. Accept people for who they are. Be merciful to others and God will be merciful to you. What is the connection between learning to love yourself and being unconditional in your acceptance of others?
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Read 1 Cor 12:12-21
Have you fallen into a trap of always comparing yourself to other people? The only person you need to compare yourself to is Jesus. God made you, then broke the mold. You have a unique part to play in His master plan. Your job is to discover your purpose and carry it out. You can’t do that when you are preoccupied with being accepted, being liked, and fitting into someone else’s definition of perfect.
How does comparing yourself with others create discontentment in your life? What can you do today to change your focus? ___________________________________________________________________________________________
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Read 2 Pet 3:17-18; Prov 4:14; Matt 5:7; Rom 15:4-6; Eph 4:22-24
If you want to have peace, you can’t go on living a sinful lifestyle. It doesn’t matter what everyone else gets away with (besides, they too will have to answer to God someday). Concentrate on living a life that is pleasing to God—and peace will be a by-product. If you mess up, don’t beat yourself up. Confess, repent, and ask Him to forgive you. He will do it. Just keep on marching!
I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world (Jn 16:33 NIV).
Say It Out Loud, …..
“I PURSUE PEACE WITH GOD, MYSELF, AND OTHERS!”
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Power Thought 10
I live in the present and enjoy each moment. (Ps 118:24)
The greatest gift we have is in this present moment. But too many of us view the present as just a stepping-stone for tomorrow. Consider what Paul says about future plans: Come now, you who say, “Today or tomorrow we will go to such and such a city, and spend a year there and engage in business and make a profit.” Yet you do not know what your life will be like tomorrow. You are just a vapor that appears for a little while and then vanishes away. Instead, you ought to say, “If the Lord wills, we will live and also do this or that” (Jam 4:13-15 NASB).
It’s fine to make plans, but we must hold them loosely and not lose sight of the blessings God has in store for us today. Are you fully engaged in the present moment or are you always running ten steps ahead of yourself, focused on what needs to happen an hour, a day, or a week from now? What does that attitude say about your faith? About your priorities?
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Read Gal 5:21-23; Col 3:12
Jesus told us first and foremost to love one another (see 1Jn 3:23). 1Cor 13:4 says love is patient and kind. But love takes time. Love isn’t always convenient or respectful of your busy schedule. How does your impatience to hurry up and get things done block your ability to love others?
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Slowing down enough to notice today’s blessings and be emotionally available for people requires a conscious shift in attitude. The phrase, Yes, but….” may have already popped into your mind. What “yes, buts” make you resist the idea of slowing down the pace of your life?
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Some of us labor under the notion that our joy is only for tomorrow—contingent on things coming together sometime in the future. Happiness is for when our projects finally turn around, when we eventually meet that special someone, or finally have enough money. But the Bible says you already have everything you need; that the kingdom of God is already within you (see Luke 17:21)—in this present moment. Have you taken your eyes off tomorrow long enough to see it?
Take this short quiz as an informal indicator of how much you are “present for your present.”
• Can you stay focused on important conversations or do your thoughts wander to mental to-do lists?
• Do you view the present moment as something to endure until you get to tomorrow?
• Do you tend to see the past (or the future) as somehow better than today?
• Do you worry obsessively about what will happen in the future?
• Does your happiness tend to revolve around future purchases, events and hoped-for outcomes?
Read Matt 6:25-34
What specific challenges do you face in making Jesus’ teaching real in your life? What values, assumptions and attitudes must change to bring your worldview into alignment with God’s will?
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Renew your mind with an attitude of thankfulness for what you have; cease striving anxiously for the things you don’t have—and which are an illusion anyway. Find contentment in special relationships and the simple, everyday routines of life.
In shifting your mind from endless wanting to thankful appreciation, the present will take on color, richness and a depth of meaning you couldn’t register before because you were too busy running away! Take pleasure in God’s gift of the present and you will finally experience the true, transcendent peace of God.
This is what I have observed to be good: that it is appropriate for a person to eat, to drink, and to find satisfaction in their toilsome labor under the sun during the few days of life God has given them—for this is their lot. Moreover, when God gives someone wealth and possessions, and the ability to enjoy them, to accept their lot and be happy in their toil—this is a gift of God. They seldom reflect on the days of their life, because God keeps them occupied with gladness of heart. Ecc 5:18-20 NIV)
Say It Out Loud, …..
“I WILL LIVE IN AND ENJOY THE MOMENT. I’LL TRUST GOD FOR TOMORROW.”
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Power Thought 11
I am disciplined and self-controlled. (2 Tim 1:7)
It is human nature to want whatever you want whenever you want it. But God wants us to practice moderation and self-control. Whether it’s taming your tongue, curbing your spending or accomplishing an important goal, He has given you all the tools you need to get the victory. But you can’t get there without practicing self-discipline. The key word here is practice.
We have to learn to “do the right things on purpose.” What do you think this statement means? Why is being purposeful about self-discipline a good life strategy?
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Read Ex 15:26; Deut 4:9; Prov 8:17; Prov 10:4; 13:14; Heb 11:6
What has your attitude toward being disciplined and self-controlled? Do you welcome the challenge of finally getting your act together or do you resist the idea? What do you think is the root of your negative attitude? _______________________________________________________________________________________________
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Read Prov 1:7; 6:23; 12:1; 15:32
Maybe you have become discouraged about bringing your life and habits under control because of past failed attempts. Maybe you’ve tried and failed at diets so many times, you’ve simply given up. Or perhaps you grew up under the iron fist of a domineering parent—or with no conscientious parenting at all. The result is a resentful attitude toward discipline. And yet, God’s Word describes discipline as the path to wisdom, understanding and life.
Read Prov 25:23; 25:28; Rom 8:7-8
What happens to you on an emotional and spiritual level when you don’t get a grip on excesses in your life? How does your relationship with God suffer?
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Think about areas of your life (finances, relationships, health, etc.) that have suffered because of your lack of discipline and self-control. What negative thoughts and words have sabotaged your efforts? What can you think and say instead to release God’s power in your situation?
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How might incorporating healthy discipline into your lifestyle make you a happier person?
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God gives us “liberty with limits.” How does having boundaries with our behaviors free us in other ways?
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Whether you are trying to overcome an addiction or working toward an important goal, you can’t do it in your own strength. What does God promise to do if we diligently seek Him?
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You can do all things through God (Christ) who strengthens you. The learning process can be slow, frustrating and painful. But that’s just the resistance of the flesh. Rather than feel discouraged, be thankful.
So think clearly and exercise self-control. Look forward to the gracious salvation that will come to you when Jesus Christ is revealed to the world (1 Pet 1:13 NLT).
Say to yourself with hopeful expectation:
“THANK YOU, JESUS, I’M GROWING!”
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Power Thought 12
I put God first in my life. (Matt 6:33)
Most of us have one major preoccupation: getting what we want, whether it’s the next promotion, the next status symbol, or even something as reasonable as a desire for friends and satisfying relationships. But when we make having what we want our first priority, God weeps. He created us for His pleasure. He wants us to desire fellowship with Him above all things. Everything else in life, no matter how important it seems at the time, withers and fades away (see Is 40:6). Only God’s Word endures forever.
When you put God in first place, everything lines up in your life. But too often, we get preoccupied with things that push God to the back of our minds. What fears, worries, desires and obsessions may have pushed God to second place in your thoughts? What excuses do you use for not building spiritual disciplines into your daily routine?
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Then you will seek Me, inquire for, and require Me (as a vital necessity) and find Me when you search for Me with all your heart (Jer 29:13 AMP)
Maybe you only think about God when you’re in a crisis or when you want something. But the Bible states: You must love the Lord your God with all your heart, all your soul, and all your mind (Matt 22:37 NLT). That kind of all-consuming love should be evident in every aspect of your daily life, and in every thought, attitude and decision you make.
How can you ensure that God takes first place in…
…your thoughts? (Rom 8:5-7; 12:2; 14:13; 2 Cor 10:4-5; Eph 4:23)
…your words? (Ecc 5:2,6; Ps 19:14; 37:30; 39:1; 109:30; Prov 4:24; 16:23; Rom 10:9-10; Eph 4:29)
…your finances? (Deut 14:24; Prov 3:27; 22:1; Matt 6:24; Mark 12:41)
…your personal relationships? (Ex 20:17; Prov 3:31; 10:12; 1 Pet 2:1; 1 Cor 1:10; Phil 2:5
…your work? (Ecc 4:4; Prov 10:18; Col 3:23; Phil 2:3)
…your recreation and entertainment? (Rom 13:12-14; Ps 37:3-4)
But seek (aim at and strive after) first of all His kingdom and His righteousness (His way of doing and being right), and all these things taken together will be given to you besides (Matt 6:33 AMP).
According to this verse, what can you expect as a benefit of putting God first in your life?
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God blesses those who put Him up-front in their thoughts, attitudes and priorities. Think about the challenges you face today. You don’t have the strength, the wisdom or the stamina to handle everything on your own. But when you put god back in the driver’s seat where he belongs, He will give you clarity of mind and purpose. He will give you victory over your enemies. He will throw open doors of opportunity. You will have supernatural power through Him. Are you ready to put God back in first place? If so, it’s time to put away excuses. Get serious about loving people. Go back to church. Pray about everything. Remember the good things He has done for you and praise Him morning, noon and night.
Thankfully and boldly say out loud:
“I PUT GOD FIRST IN MY LIFE!”
For from Him and through Him and for Him are all things. To Him be the glory forever! Amen (Rom 11:36 NIV).
