Mindset. | A Weekly Word 2022

Our actions begin, first, in our minds as thoughts. Those thoughts become words, those words become actions, and ultimately change things in our lives. By thinking of, meditating on, and believing in our Godly desires, we enable ourselves to see those desires come to pass by first believing in them. Shifting our mindset is an exercise in hopefulness.

Still, discourse around topics like mindset and manifestation among believers is often dismissive. The ideas are painted as being based solely on self-reliance, rather than an alignment with God’s will and divine power. Those who focus on shifting our mindsets to manifest good things in our lives are described as everything from unbelievers to idolaters.

However, the Bible teaches the critical importance of our thinking. Thinking thoughts that are filled with gratitude, goodness and graciousness will beget more of the same. In Paul’s letter to the new believers at Philippi, he leaves them with this instruction, “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.” He goes on to describe not just thinking of, but practicing, those virtues and how the peace of God would be with those who did.

Over and over in the passages, we are called to first shift our mindset in order to see our actions follow. “Set your minds on things that are above, not on things that are on earth.” (Colossians 3:2) and “Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind.” (Romans 12:2)

In the same way, having an outlook that is negative, pessimistic, or inferior can lead us to fall short of our potential to live the lives of peace that we all desire. Romans 8:5-6 says this, “For those who live according to the flesh set their minds on the things of the flesh, but those who live according to the Spirit set their minds on the things of the Spirit. For to set the mind on the flesh is death, but to set the mind on the Spirit is life and peace.”

We are what we think. And just as God designed us with free will, God created us – in Their image – with the power to create new things through our thoughts and God’s faithfulness. 

Passage

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

Prayer

God, thank you for our minds. Thank you for your will for our lives, for your divine power, and for your faithfulness. Thank you, Lord, for the opportunity to align our thoughts and desires with yours. Help me to think about virtuous things. Help me to meditate on desires that are Godly. Allow me to be hopeful and to expect the goodness that I think of. In Jesus' name. Amen.

Practice

This week, I will practice thinking good thoughts. I will commit to submitting those thoughts to God through prayer.