Today we want to think and pray about our thinking. So many times we focus on our words and actions but they are often the direct result of what we think and feel. If we want to speak and act well, we first need to think and desire.
One of the great spiritual dangers we often speak about for people in recovery is “stinking thinking.” I’m afraid that recovery addicts are not the only for whom stinking thinking is an issue.
One of the most prevalent ways we get involved in “stinking thinking” is when we think we are on our own and that no one, not even God, cares about us.
God has said, “Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you.” So we say with confidence, “The Lord is my helper; I will not be afraid. What can mere mortals do to me?” Hebrews 13:5b-6
God invites us to the peace and security of living in the truth that He truly does care for us. Our part is to acknowledge God's truth and obediently follow His principles in all our affairs. As we do this, we will come to experience the peace and security that God promises.
The Lord watches over you—the Lord is your shade at your right hand; the sun will not harm you by day, nor the moon by night. The Lord will keep you from all harm—he will watch over your life. Psalm 121:5-7
A second great area of “stinking thinking” is the one where we allow ourselves to be dominated by fear – fear of guilt, fear of embarrassment, fear of loneliness, fear of being .
God promises to teach us to distinguish between damaging fear and sober precaution. Fear paralyses and drives us to dark and lonely places. Precaution helps us to avoid foolish mistakes and maintain safe steps. God knows that in life we will face troubles. In the scriptures God tells us to call on Him and He will be with us in our time of trouble.
Those who live in the shelter of the Most High will find rest in the shadow of the Almighty. The Lord says, “I will rescue those who love me. I will protect those who trust in my name. When they call on me, I will answer; I will be with them in trouble. I will rescue and honor them. I will reward them with a long life and give them my salvation.” Psalm 91:1, 14-16
When we are convinced that God’s power is greater than any evil that could come our way we can live with confidence, hope, and optimism. We can face disappointment, failure, and even disaster with soul-settling faith. As we open ourselves to God’s truth we are assured that, regardless of our circumstances, God is working everything together for our good. Our faith will grow stronger as we observe the positive results of God guiding the events of our life.
Heavenly Father, we confess our thoughts are sometimes negative and cause us to fear. Forgive us for the times that makes us complain or lash out at others. It’s so easy to live in self-pity. Please set us free from stinking thinking and help us to hold onto the truth of Your word no matter what is going on around us.
When trouble comes my way and seems to paralyze our ability to think clearly, help us to first seek You for comfort and help. We are so thankful that You are aware of everything that touches our lives. And with all of that in mind, we remind ourselves that fear is not from you. You promise that as You live in us we will be filled with power, love, and self-discipline.
For God has not given us a spirit of fear and timidity, but of power, love, and self-discipline. 2 Timothy 1:7
You truly are an amazing God in whom we can put our trust. Continue to help us today to put our trust in You, God, even when we don’t understand everything we are going through. You are our refuge and strength in times of trouble and we will not fear for You are always with us.
Trust in the Lord with all your heart; do not depend on your own understanding. Seek His will
in all you do, and He will show you which path to take. Proverbs 3:5-6
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