Philippians: 14 Days of Hope and EncouragementSample

The fleeting thought had disappeared by the time I realized what it was. When it returned and lingered, I began to rationalize why The Thought was not so bad. The result? Sin I had neither spoken nor acted upon invaded my thought life once again.

The Bible tells us to be transformed by the renewing of our minds (Romans 12:2). But God doesn’t just give us this command. He also tells us how to control our thought life. The five-step battle plan is found in Philippians 4:4-9.

Step 1: Rejoice (v. 4-5)

Rejoice, even in the middle of the spiritual battle for your thoughts. Why? Because “the Lord is near.” He promised to never leave us, and He always keeps His promises.

Step 2: Release (v. 6)

Next, with thanksgiving, release our anxieties and our requests. When we’re ungrateful, we’re really saying we know better and should be in charge.

Step 3: Receive (v. 7)

Our heavenly Father promises His peace in return for our anxiety. It’s a peace applied to our hearts and minds and backed by the power of God through His Son.

Step 4: Replace (v. 8)

It’s not enough to keep a clean spiritual house. The next step is to replace what we released with things that are true, noble, right, pure, lovely, admirable, excellent, or praiseworthy.

Memorize God’s true Word preserved in Scripture. Invest time in learning our Father’s character and ways. Praise His names and attributes. Spend time with Him in prayer.

Step 5: Repeat (v. 9)

Finally, the apostle Paul reminds us to follow his example. The challenge is to do it regardless of how we feel, even when it’s difficult.

Of course, God is the one who strengthens us (Philippians 4:13). Each day we’re being transformed into the image of the glory of the Lord by His Spirit (2 Corinthians 3:18). We are works-in-progress as the Holy Spirit accomplishes His results.

In the battleground of the mind, thoughts can either conquer or be conquered.

Are you ready to engage in the battle for control of your thought life?

~ Ava Pennington

Author, Speaker, Bible study teacher, and Faith Over Fear podcast host