Recently, I’ve been feeling frustrated. Frustrated with certain circumstances in my life and just in an all-around negative mood. Have you felt this way recently? Maybe you can relate. Maybe there’s something that you wish was different in your life, and you find that it’s all you can focus on – even when so many other things are going right.
Our minds are prone to be drawn to negative thoughts and to think in terms of the worst outcomes. It’s how our instincts work to keep us safe. So it actually takes a bit of hard work to think positively. But it can be done. The Bible tells us, “Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will.” (Romans 12:2 NIV) Then Colossians 3:2 goes on to say, “Set your minds on things that are above, not on things that are on earth.” (ESV) And Ephesians 4:23 encourages us to, “…be renewed in the spirit of your minds.” (ESV)
All these verses call for action on our part – we must continually renew our minds to think on the good things that God has for us. Let’s not get stuck weighed down in the mire of frustration. Let’s be transformed in our thinking and our behavior will follow. Feel the negativity slip away as you focus on the positive aspects in your life, reflect on the love the Lord has for you, and be grateful for all He has done for you. I pray that God would, “create in me a clean heart… and renew a right spirit within me.” (Psalm 51:10 ESV) That He would uplift my mood and help me to steer clear of the negativity. Will you pray that for yourself today too?
Create in me a clean heart, O God, and renew a right spirit within me.
Psalm 51:10
Today, I was thinking about things that are so beyond my control. I can relate the “hard” work it takes to go the opposite way of thinking. Thanks for sharing, I needed this today.