At salvation we receive Jesus’ irrevocable gift of joy. Nothing will ever uproot that gift. However, we can cover it over with the dirt of negative thoughts.
Our thoughts precede our words. When we listen to what we are saying, we can discern the thoughts of our hearts. When thoughts of despair or hopelessness creep in, what do we do to counteract them?
The enemy of our soul lobs fiery darts to destroy our faith. Ephesians 6:16 says, “In all circumstances take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming darts of the evil one.”
Our faith is always under attack. That means we need to be alert. When a thought comes into our minds that does not line up with God’s word, we are to make our very next thought one of truth.
The moment I have a thought against myself, my circumstances, or others, I know it is a fiery dart. I speak God’s truth to myself using words like, “You are my rock. I stand in you and I will not be shaken.” I picture myself sheltered inside an impenetrable rock.
When we have thoughts that bring fear, our bodies instantly respond as though we are in physical danger. Our sympathetic nervous system kicks into gear, preparing our bodies for intense activity like fighting or running away. We can circumvent those “hyper” symptoms by making our next thought one of gratitude.
Expressing gratitude throws off the dirt of fear, and our inner gift of joy surfaces. Our joy is in the Lord who is our defender. We turn to him through trust. We rehearse truths about him through his Word. Our joy in him lifts our hearts in praise.
O Lord, I am so grateful for your eternal, irrevocable gift of joy. My heart is full because you defend me. No weapon from the evil one can defeat me, because my life is hidden in you. I rejoice in you now, but one day my rejoicing will be in your presence forever.
Throughout this day: determine to bless, thank and praise God when negative thoughts arise. The song Bless God
by Brooke Ligterwood may help you focus on this practice.
Photo Credit: Tim McClure