A mind filled with good

 26 Nov 25

Today's devotional: taken from YouVersion, Life Application Study Bible Devotion


A mind filled with good

Some people see good all around them, while others see nothing but evil. What is the difference? Our souls become filters through which we perceive goodness or evil. The pure (those who have Christ in control of their lives) learn to see goodness and purity even in this evil world. But corrupt and unbelieving people find evil in everything because their evil minds and hearts color even the good they see and hear. Whatever you choose to fill your mind with will affect the way you think and act. Turn your thoughts to God and his Word, and you will discover more and more goodness, even in this evil world. A mind filled with good has little room for what is evil.


“The reason I left you in Crete was that you might put in order what was left unfinished and appoint elders in every town, as I directed you.”

‭‭Titus‬ ‭1‬:‭5‬ ‭NIV‬‬

———————

Reflections

The famous verses in Philippians 4:8-9 says “Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things. Whatever you have learned or received or heard from me, or seen in me—put it into practice. And the God of peace will be with you.”Philippians‬ ‭4‬:‭8‬-‭9‬ ‭NIV‬‬


I think the above verse is rather frequently mentioned but do we really practice it, especially verse 9? Knowing it is one thing but practicing it is another. Why would I say that? Because I can definitely remember the last time I complained about something, the times I entertained unwelcome thoughts, especially about others, the times I felt angry about others and wanted to confront people, etc.. all these are not good because my focus had shifted away from God.


I felt that during this medical trip, God has also taught me to look beyond the surface of words spoken. Like the intentions, the heart and more importantly, to look at the good. 


I guess every time when we focus on the negative stuffs, we give the enemy a foothold. Not only that, we give the fella a chance to plant a dead tree in our hearts and allow it room to grow. So it is really important to take hold of our thoughts and commit them to the Lord. Even though sometimes people’s word may hurt because we are all work-in-progress, seeking the deeper understanding and intention of what was being said is important. Otherwise we will totally miss the message or hidden cues for improvement. 


We are all growing Christians and it is important to remain humble and teachable. Definitely not someone who thinks he/she knows everything but to be someone who is truly Christ-like. And I do agree that when I try to focus more on God rather than on people, my perspective also changes about people. I am less negative and tend to look at things more objectively as I discover more and more goodness. So truly, thank You Lord for Your teachings and Your grace. Indeed without Your guidance and leading, I do not know where I will be. All praise and thanks be to You Lord 🙏🏻 Amen

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