Reminder 6: Be careful where you dwell.

It always amazes me how tempting it is to endlessly watch the news, scroll social media, or read news articles whenever uncertainty hits. We spend hours and days listening to the same information over and over again.

It’s not a coincidence that Paul – immediately after encouraging them not to worry – shows them where they should focus.

Dwell on these things…whatever is true… honorable… just… pure… lovely… commendable… morally excellent… and praiseworthy.

I don’t know about you, but in the midst of uncertain times, my mind doesn’t naturally go toward the items on this list. My mind goes to the tragedy, the circumstances, and the unknown.

This reminder helps me self-evaluate and “take every thought captive.” (2 Corinthians 10:5) As I read this verse, I ask myself, “Are my thoughts true? Are they honorable? Are they pure?”

To “experience” something can just happen. To “dwell” on something takes intentionality. 

In the midst of uncertainty, you and I need to be intentional about what we put into our minds and where we focus.

Today's Prayer

Holy Spirit, renew my mind. Saturate my thoughts with your thoughts. True thoughts. Honrable thoughts. Just thoughts. Pure thoughts. Lovely thoughts. Commendable thoughts. Morally excellent thoughts. Praiseworthy thoughts. In the midst of my uncertainty, help me guard my thoughts and dwell on you. Amen.

The Reminders So Far...

1. Focus on the eternal. 
2. Build up instead of blame.
3. Remember God's "nearness."
4. Rejoice and be thankful.
5. Ask.
6. Be careful where you dwell.