The human mind is powerful, and the human will is quite strong. And contrary to what a lot of people think, we can control our thoughts. We can even to a certain extent, if not control, at least steer our feelings. Even though it’s possible, it seems most of us don’t exert our wills very often to do this. Both Jesus and Paul must have thought we can and should control our thoughts because they left us advice and wisdom about how to do it. 

In John 14:27 (NASB 2020), Jesus said: “Peace I leave you, my peace I give you; not as the world gives, do I give you. Do not let not your hearts be troubled, nor fearful”. According to Jesus, we don’t have to let our hearts be troubled and we don’t have to be afraid – don’t let yourself go there. I have to admit I sometimes have a tendency to dwell on negative things that happen. If I’m not aware and not careful, it can go on way too long. 

Paul advised us in Philippians 4:8 (NRSVUE) to think about positive things – whatever is true, honorable, just, pure, pleasing, commendable, anything of excellence and anything worthy of praise. So, if you put these together, it seems both Jesus and Paul expected us to keep our thoughts on the right track, and by extension, maybe even our feelings. We don’t have to let ourselves go down rabbit holes of anxiety, fear or negativity, especially when we rely on the Holy Spirit to enable us to bring our thoughts into captivity (2 Corinthians 10:5).

First published on 28 January 2025, at http://www.gemsofgodsgrace.wordpress.com a personal blog which is not sponsored by Grace Communion International.

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