” . . . we have to purify the stream. While we can’t completely block every negative influence bombarding our minds, we need a continual flow of biblical truth and goodness flooding into our lives to counter the negative.”- Bob Merritt
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 (NLT)
Bob Merritt continues Chapter 6 of Done With That as he talks about two actions to help us leave the old life behind and enter the newer life of joy and peace. Today Pastor Merritt covers the first action.
1. Purify the stream. A constant stream of information flows into our minds from a variety of sources. However, we must realize that every piece we process comes with a value attached to it. Consequently, what goes in either pushes us toward (a) life and peace or (b) sin and death.
As a result, Pastor Merritt exhorts, we need to take Paul’s word in Philippians 4:8 seriously. Furthermore, as Kyle Idleman observes in Gods at War: “The best way to keep the bad things out is to fill ‘er up with the good things.”
Above all, setting our minds above requires opening our minds to God’s Word. Certainly, some days strain our resolve. Yet, we must intentionally set up time each day to open the Bible and plug into God’s Word. For example, the author, suggests, each day focus on one truth from God’s Word. Read that truth in the morning, then think about it throughout the day.
Finally, we need exposure to God’s truth, worship, and inspiration from other believers to counter the onslaught of endless entertainment and activities apart from God. Purify the stream to keep your spirits from sagging.
Today’s question: What Scriptures help you block negative influences from exerting control over your life? Please share.
Tomorrow’s blog: “Faithfully realigns your desires – delight in the Lord”
