What does it mean to wrestle with your thoughts? To wrestle with our thoughts is to be an observer and discerner of our thoughts. This is good. We are commanded to ‘think soberly’ (Romans 12:3). Let’s ‘think soberly’ about what we are thinking. When we observe that we have thoughts that are not in line with the Word of God, then we are to cast those thoughts down. God desires for us to live an abundant, peaceful life in Him. Too often we let our thoughts rule us. The peace of God should rule. What I see from the following verses is that we are responsible for our thought life:

• 2 Corinthians 10:5 Casting down imaginations, and every high thing that exalteth itself against the knowledge of God, and bringing into captivity every thought to the obedience of Christ;
• Colossians 3:15-17 And let the peace of God rule in your hearts, to the which also ye are called in one body; and be ye thankful. Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly in all wisdom; teaching and admonishing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing with grace in your hearts to the Lord. And whatsoever ye do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God and the Father by him.

The Apostle Paul thinks very logically. After saying to let the peace of God rule in our hearts, he then gives us some more reinforcements to help us as we wrestle with our thoughts:

·        We are called in one body. We have pastors, teachers, and friends in the church. We can bless others, and others can be a blessing to us.

·        We have much to be thankful for. We can initiate thoughts of thankfulness and gratitude to God and others.

·        We have the Word of Christ ministered to us through the preaching, teaching and godly music of the church. Too often when our members get discouraged or depressed, they isolate themselves. The best place for us to be enriched is under the ministry of the church.

·        We must do. Our actions affect our thoughts. Proverbs 16:3 Commit thy works unto the LORD, and thy thoughts shall be established. -- We are serving Jesus in all that we do, whether it is at work, church, home, or play. Right speech and activity aid in allowing the peace of God to rule in our hearts.

Ron Cox – Director of HOPE Ministry