Lovely Thoughts

"Finally, brothers, 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 4:9).

Negative thinking affects my health. Upon waking in the morning, I am amazed at
how many negative thoughts come to mind before I am even ready to meet the day!
I may dwell on a difficult encounter with someone or on past hurts. I may be
analyzing my pain and ability level for the day, remembering mornings when I
bounded out of bed to walk, jog or bike. This thinking pattern may stay with me
throughout the day and can be a constant struggle.

Positive thoughts can also affect me. I can awaken praising God for the
abilities I do have, rather than those which I do not have. I can recall his
constant faithfulness on other painful days, knowing his mercies are new every
morning. I may think of an individual's positive qualities rather than his
faults. I can be thankful for opportunities to grow through difficult
situations. These positive outlooks lift my spirits and cause me to dwell less
on my pain.

As a believer, I have many reasons to think positively. How easy it is for me
to brush lightly over my eternal future and the gift of salvation when I am
consumed with my current pain and struggles. God has given me many other
blessings which I sometimes take for granted. I need to dwell on what I have,
rather than on what I lack. Scripture says to "fix our eyes on Jesus, the
author and finisher of our faith" (Hebrews 12). If I focus on the circumstances
and abilities of others rather than Christ, I begin to sink.

My desire is to maintain a positive mental attitude throughout each day,
regardless of my circumstances or pain. As I dwell on lovely thoughts, God's
loveliness will shine through me, and perhaps radiate to others. Let it be so
today.

Prayer: Heavenly Father, may I take every thought captive, making it obedient
to you. Help me cast down anything that is not true to your Word and see your
loveliness in all things. Amen.

Bronlynn Spindler is a wife and mother of three grown daughters and lives in
Fredericksburg, VA. She struggles with chronic back pain, depression,
headaches, and fibromyalgia. You may contact her at spindler@....