“Summing it all up, friends, I’d say you’ll do best by filling your minds and meditating on things true, noble, reputable, authentic, compelling, gracious—the best, not the worst; the beautiful, not the ugly; things to praise, not things to curse. Put into practice what you learned from Me, what you heard and saw and realized. Do that, and God, who makes everything work together, will work you into His most excellent harmonies.” Philippians 4:8-9 (The Message)

(Don’t) Think on These Things

I don’t know about you, but some of my “best” thinking happens at night when I should be sleeping. When I lie down I think it’s good to reflect on the day and pray. But my brain goes into overdrive:

Me: Ahhhhh, it feels so good to lie down!

Brain: So soon? Let’s think about stuff! Cringe-worthy stuff!

Me: I’m really tired, and I need to get up early. You should have brought it up earlier.

Brain: But I’m wide wake. You weren’t very nice at work today. Are you gonna apologize? Let’s overthink it!

Me: Yes, I feel terrible about that, and I’m going to—

Brain: Wait, don’t you want to relive every single stupid thing you did in 1985?

Ugh! On and on my thoughts swirl, until I want to go find a cave to live in, never to encounter another human to inflict myself on. I try to pray my way out of it, but sometimes I just can’t turn it off. And then my next thought will be, “You’re such an idiot!”

I started to do this the other day. I was alone, so I actually started to speak the words: “You are so stu-” Suddenly, it was as if God put His hand over my mouth as He told me that while reflecting and repenting is good, it is not good to dwell and self-condemn. I changed my sentence, again speaking aloud to myself: “You are one who has made a lot of mistakes. God doesn’t condemn you, and neither should you.” I then took time to thank Him and praise Him. 

Remember, reflection and condemnation are two very different things. Self-condemnation is humiliation, not humility. Let’s purpose to honor God with not just our words, but with our thoughts! You are one who has made a lot of mistakes. God has seen everything. He doesn’t condemn you, and neither should you.

Jesus, thank You for shedding Your precious blood for us. May we always be mindful and grateful that we are forgiven and free of condemnation. In Your name, amen.