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Security in Right Thinking, June 6
Casting down imaginations, and every high thing that exalteth itself
against the knowledge of God, and bringing into captivity every
thought to the obedience of Christ.
2 Corinthians 10:5
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Even the thoughts must be brought into subjection to the will of God,
and the feelings under the control of reason and religion. Our imagination
was not given us to be allowed to run riot and have its own way, without
any effort at restraint and discipline. If the thoughts are wrong, the feelings
will be wrong; and the thoughts and feelings combined make up the moral
character.
The power of right thought is more precious than the golden wedge
of Ophir.... We need to place a high value upon the right control of our
thoughts, for such control prepares the mind and soul to labor harmo-
niously for the Master. It is necessary for our peace and happiness in this
life that our thoughts center in Christ. As a man thinketh, so is he. Our
improvement in moral purity depends on right thinking and right acting....
Evil thoughts destroy the soul. The converting power of God changes the
heart, refining and purifying the thoughts. Unless a determined effort is
made to keep the thoughts centered on Christ, grace cannot reveal itself
in the life. The mind must engage in the spiritual warfare. Every thought
must be brought into captivity to the obedience of Christ. All the habits
must be brought under God’s control.
We need a constant sense of the ennobling power of pure thoughts and
the damaging influence of evil thoughts. Let us place our thoughts upon
holy things. Let them be pure and true, for the only security for any soul
is right thinking. We are to use every means that God has placed within
our reach for the government and cultivation of our thoughts. We are to
bring our minds into harmony with His mind. His truth will sanctify us,
body and soul and spirit, and we shall be enabled to rise above temptation.
The control of the thoughts, in cooperation with the Holy Spirit, will
give control of the words. This is true wisdom, and will ensure quietness
of mind, contentment, and peace. There will be joy in the contemplation
of the riches of the grace of God.
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