The human mind is an interesting component within us. It affects practically every area of our lives. Also, it has a strong bearing on our success or failure as a person. What are some of the guidelines presented in the Bible concerning our minds?
A good beginning point is in Colossians 3. The apostle Paul begins this chapter by reminding Christians of their relationship to Christ and how this is to impact their lives, “If then you were raised with Christ, seek those things which are above, where Christ is, sitting at the right hand of God. Set your affection on things above, not on things on the earth” (verses 1 & 2). Here we learn what is to be the spiritual direction of our thoughts. Indeed, thoughts of Christ and His way are to be the driving force in our daily thought patterns. Vincent, in his classic book on word studies, suggests that “seek” in verse 1 marks the practical striving and that “set your mind” in verse 2, describes the inward impulse and disposition.
The Bible certainly teaches that we do control our thought patterns. If we choose to think negative thoughts, it will result in our being negative persons. But the opposite is always true, if we strive to think positive and optimistic thoughts, these attitudes will be clearly seen in our lives. In Philippians 4:8, the apostle Paul presents an inspired pattern for our daily thoughts, “Finally, brethren, whatever things are true, whatever things are noble, whatever things are just, whatever things are pure, whatever things are lovely, whatever things are of good report, if there is any virtue, and if there is anything praiseworthy – meditate on these things.” One person has wisely commented that you do not have to look very closely to find the Lord Jesus in Philippians 4:8. In a very practical way, it would be helpful if each of us would regularly examine our thinking and thought patterns by pondering each of these characteristics.
The principle set forth by Solomon remains just as true today, “For as he thinks in his heart, so is he” (Proverbs 23:7). These passages certainly should impress us with the importance of guarding our thoughts. If we will succeed here, our lives will be wonderfully impacted.
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