A Penny for Your Thoughts

This old phrase dates to the 1500’s and is used to get someone to rejoin a conversation where they have disengaged or zoned out. It is suggested that a penny was worth more back then but with the value of a penny today, I would like to inform you that your thoughts are far more valuable than that. In fact, they are more precious than diamonds or rubies.

In a recent bible study plan, Craig Groeschel of Life Church, had this statement to say on the subject. “Your lives move in the direction of your strongest thoughts.”

What we think about ourselves matters more than we might realize. Our negative thoughts can block us from receiving all the Spirit has to offer. We know our negative words can make a great impact and hurt others but the same goes for our thoughts.

Ephesians 4:22-23 says, “throw off your old sinful nature and your former way of life, which is corrupted by lust and deception. Instead, let the Spirit renew your thoughts and attitudes.”

Once we become a believer, we aren’t to have the same kind of thoughts we once had. This may not be easy at first, but we can ask God to help us renew our minds. Likewise, in Romans 12:2 it instructs us to not copy the behavior of and customs of the world, but let God transform us into a new person by changing the way we think. Then we will know God’s will for us- which is good and pleasing and perfect.

Therefore, it is so important to spend time with God. We can read His truths in scripture and ask Him what He wants for us. We can ask the Spirit to control our thoughts to be pleasing to God. We do have a free will to think whatever we want to- but if it doesn’t align with what God tells us, says about us and wants for us then we need to change our thinking so we can experience a closer relationship with Him for ultimate peace and joy no matter what our circumstances are.

Have you ever heard of thought blocking? This is intentionally thinking about something else, pushing a negative thought out by a positive thought. We must make a choice to think positive.

All of this can start with a heart of gratitude. Being grateful for what we have and for the day as the gift that it is each morning can change our perspective and attitude. Take small steps at first, but the more you practice it the more it will become a lifestyle and daily routine.

And now, dear brothers and sisters, one final thing. Fix your thoughts on what is true, and honorable, and right, and pure, and lovely, and admirable. Think about things that are excellent and worthy of praise. Philippians 4:8