The other day we look at the story in 2 Chronicles 20, about Jehoshaphat’s desperate need. His nation was in trouble, surrounded by enemies. All he could do was to turn to God in prayer. Our first point the other day was Concentrate in Prayer.
Today, let us consider to Control our Minds. 1 Tim. 1:7 says “For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind.” Sometimes our imagination can go ‘wild’ if we do not control it. Then you go to bed without peace. Uncontrolled minds can destroy peace. During this challenging time, you will often hear alarming statistics and very bad news, sometimes they are blown out of proportion. What do you do as believers? It is good to be aware of the things around us or internationally, but sometimes in our isolation, it may create some sort of fear, discomfort, loneliness for people. I’m glad the government has a new budget for the mental health and well-being of our people who may need counselling etc. But for the believers we have added blessings, because we can turn to God and to His Word for help.
Memorise these verses:
Isaiah 26:3 You will keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on You, because we trust in You.
Phil. 4:8,9 Finally, brethren, whatever things are true, whatever things are noble, whatever things are just, whatever things are pure, whatever things are lovely, whatever things are of good report, if there is any virtue and if there is anything praiseworthy—meditate on these things. The things which you learned and received and heard and saw in me, these do, and the God of peace will be with you.
Look at the MSG translation: -9 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 realised. Do that, and God, who makes everything work together, will work you into his most excellent harmonies. Col.3:1-2 If then you were raised with Christ, seek those things which are above, where Christ is, sitting at the right hand of God. 2 Set your mind on things above, not on things on the earth.
There are more promises and comforting verses in Scriptures that can fill our minds with good things. Above all remember the Sufficiency of Christ during these times of difficulties.
God is sovereign and by His Spirit’s power can control our minds and give us peace as we trust and submit to His Lordship. Every believer can avail this power, but if you are not a Christian it is never too late for you to claim these promises. Why not repent of your sins, open you heart and say to Christ ‘I repent of my sins and accept You as my Lord and Saviour, come into my heart. Help me to start a new life. Give me peace. Thank you for saving me. Amen.” Eternal life is a gift of His grace. All by grace alone. God bless. (to be continued).