“The Power of Our Thoughts”
Monday, September 16, 2024Key Verse
“Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things.” Philippians 4:8
Text — Philippians 4:7-9
Message
Most actions begin with a thought. Failure and defeat, like success and victory begin with a thought. The story of Dinah’s careless sightseeing in the city of Shechem shows that actions, whether good or bad, begin with a thought. The evil that happened to her may well have started with a thought and desire to be like the daughters of Shechem, to see how they dress and so on. She then acted on the thought and decided to go on that careless visitation that led to her defilement (being made unclean) by Shechem.
Attempt to avenge the evil done to Dinah led to the killing of Shechem and his brothers by Simeon and Judah, Dinah’s brothers. This action caused Jacob, their father great pain and agony. When dirty thoughts are allowed, they lead to evil and sorrow. God wants you to think only about things that are honest, pure and things that bring Him glory (Philippians 4:8). Make up your mind to reject dirty and sinful thoughts and think only on what pleases God.
Further Reading
Genesis 34:1-7
Prayer for today
Dear Father, help me to think only on things that pleases You.