SHARE THIS POSTDo you have an inner dialogue called a self-war that might be from a past family member, teacher, or coach? We tend to replay those messages over and over in our head. It might even get to the point where we turn on the TV in the middle of the night just to drown out those voices. What I just described is our self-war. We have an internal battle that is only won through renewing and reprogramming with the truth in the Bible.
Acknowledge
The Bible reads, “acknowledge every good thing which is in you” (Philemon 1:6). It does not read, “don’t forget to acknowledge the bad things too because there has to be a balance.” God is not in denial; he knows the enemy has a tactic to use self-condemnation to hold us back from the good things God has for us.
Take Captive
While we acknowledge the good things, we need to take the negative thoughts captive. The Bible reads, “Cast 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. (2 Corinthians 10:5).
Renew
As we take action to focus on the good and to take our thoughts captive, we need to renew our minds. Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind (Romans 12:2). Whatever is true, whatever is noble…whatever is admirable–if anything is excellent or praiseworthy–think about such things (Philippians 4:8).
Be Encouraged
Negative thoughts cause us to internalize internal lies. Anything against the word of God is a lie. God wants to sustain us, but when our thinking is wrong, our words do not agree with him. For out of the heart the mouth speaks (Luke 6:45). Join me today in acknowledging the good things (in ourselves and others). Let us renew our mind in God’s word, taking our thoughts captive and focusing our thoughts on what is true, admirable, or praiseworthy. Amen!
