Focus on the Good Stuff

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 4:8

Our thoughts are powerful things that can take us in the wrong direction even when we really don’t want to go there. When I am riding my bike and see a bump or stone in the road I want to avoid, my strong focus on that obstacle can actually make me head right toward it. The only way I can steer clear is to change my focus to the safe path around the area I want to avoid. There is a saying along the lines of “Where you look is where you’ll go.” Where you place your focus determines your direction. Paul must have had this in mind when he encouraged young Christians to turn their thoughts away from worry, fear and sin and refocus on what is true and noble and worthy of praise. And the more we practice following  Paul’s advice to train our brains in positive directions, the better we get at it. When you begin to feel anxious and fear creeps in, turn your thoughts to what is lovely. When you’re tempted by sin, redirect your thoughts to what is right and pure. In other words, turn your thoughts to things of God. It can be hard to break negative thought patterns or automatic responses in times of stress, but the more you do it, the more you practice turning your thoughts, the easier it will become.  You will participate in the work of rewiring your brain and being “transformed by the renewing of your mind.” (Romans 12:2)

Breath Prayer

Inhale…Lord, turn my thoughts

Exhale…to what is true, lovely and worthy of praise

Francie Winslow