Every thought captive

Every thought captive

Some days my thread of sanity nearly snaps. What keeps it strong is belief that my God reigns. He reigns in my life, in the world, in my heart, and in my mind.

For years I gave Him reign in life, world and heart – but held back my mind choosing to dwell in the darkness of worry. This manifested in a disturbing pattern. When plagued by worry I called friend after friend to discuss my options, what might happen, or worse, what might NOT happen. We would talk the issue to death.

After talking the issue to death I felt little need to bring the matter before God. Or if I did bring it to God it was in obligation or as an afterthought. My prayers told God what should happen.

As if I knew better than Him.

Once God shed light onto this sin, (Yes, I used the “S” word), He gave me the strength and desire to change. I pledged to no longer discuss worrisome issues with friends until AFTER I discussed them with Him and I made a choice – a choice to take God at His Word.

“Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things. (Philippians 4:6-8).”

In a final attempt to round-up wayward fears I made changes – changes that have sometimes been mocked. I have been accused of living with my head in the sand because I rarely watch the news or read the newspaper.

I believe both venues sensationalize the problems of our sinful world and feed fear. Most news stories are far from noble, right, pure, lovely, admirable, excellent or praiseworthy. I’m not saying it is wrong to watch the news or read the paper, but doing so puts me on a path toward worry and sin so I abstain. I refuse to dwell on images or words that push my imagination into overdrive.

I think the ability to feel deeply and wildly imagine contributes positively to my writing. A vivid imagination is a gift. But knowing I have the tendency to take things to the extreme makes me very cautious about what I allow into my mind.

2 Corinthians 10:5  “…take captive every thought to make it obedient to Christ.”