| "Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is admirable, whatever is lovely--if anything is excellent or praiseworthy--think about such things." (Philippians 4:8, NIV)  I've been thinking a lot lately... my mind is rarely at rest. This makes for some interesting ideas, as well as some oddly pleasant dreams. This is the problem, however. My mind is never is always processing. Often, it processes things that it shouldn't. I cannot focus. I cannot concentrate to save my life. Consequently, my studying has suffered, as has my reading (in general). I am not motivated to do my homework. To make matters worse, of my own accord, I only took five and a half hours of sleep last night. I am realizing that there is only one solution (in multiple parts however): THOUGHTS. I must change the pattern of mine. First, I must sleep a decent amount (eight hours, preferably). Second, I must do devotions once a day, if not more. And third, I must begin to insert ideas and thoughts that conform to the above scripture and must meditate on their truth. These include: beautiful words ("tranquility"), picturesque scenery, lofty lines of poetry (the Canticle of the Sun), profound quotes ("With every moment of misery there's a moment of magic..."), insightful scripture verses (see above) and patient prayers. Why focus on something grotesque? Why think about something sinful or shameful? Why not think about things that would give us life, were our thoughts to dwell upon them? Why do we, so often, fill our heads with filth, and then wonder why life isn't fulfilling, satisfying, or fruitful? How long will we hold on to "everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles" (Hebrews 12:1)? As is so often the case, I don't have the answer. But, for those of you who had the courtesy to read this, I leave you with this thought: "So I say, live by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of your sinful nature." (Galatians 5:16) |
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