Power UP | First Thoughts
First Thoughts
Our first thoughts can drive our attitude for the day, often these thoughts are dictated by the last experiences we had before bed the night before. What were you doing? Do you have a normal nightly routine? Maybe its watching some Netflix late at night, or once the kids go to bed you and your spouse have some much needed alone time. Do you go to sleep angry, happy, frightened, sad? We need to be careful that we don’t create a cycle of negativity in our lives. If we go to be with a negative mindset, it’s likely that we will wake with that same mindset. This is a dangerous cycle, and one that can seriously impact those around us in a negative way too. Make sure your heart and mind are focused on the hope, truth, and mercy that comes from Christ.
Further reading | Ephesians 4:17-32
Living as Children of Light
17 With the Lord’s authority I say this: Live no longer as the Gentiles do, for they are hopelessly confused. 18 Their minds are full of darkness; they wander far from the life God gives because they have closed their minds and hardened their hearts against him. 19 They have no sense of shame. They live for lustful pleasure and eagerly practice every kind of impurity.
20 But that isn’t what you learned about Christ. 21 Since you have heard about Jesus and have learned the truth that comes from him, 22 throw off your old sinful nature and your former way of life, which is corrupted by lust and deception.23 Instead, let the Spirit renew your thoughts and attitudes. 24 Put on your new nature, created to be like God—truly righteous and holy.
25 So stop telling lies. Let us tell our neighbors the truth, for we are all parts of the same body. 26 And “don’t sin by letting anger control you.”[a] Don’t let the sun go down while you are still angry, 27 for anger gives a foothold to the devil.
28 If you are a thief, quit stealing. Instead, use your hands for good hard work, and then give generously to others in need. 29 Don’t use foul or abusive language. Let everything you say be good and helpful, so that your words will be an encouragement to those who hear them.
30 And do not bring sorrow to God’s Holy Spirit by the way you live. Remember, he has identified you as his own,[b] guaranteeing that you will be saved on the day of redemption.
31 Get rid of all bitterness, rage, anger, harsh words, and slander, as well as all types of evil behavior. 32 Instead, be kind to each other, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, just as God through Christ has forgiven you.