Control Your Thoughts Find Peace

Control Your Thoughts Find Peace..

Here is a powerful analogy about taking control of our thoughts, comparing it to leading a dog on a leash. It’s true that our minds often wander, and our emotions can pull us in many directions. Just as you had the responsibility to guide your dog, we too are called to reign in our thoughts and feelings, bringing them into alignment with Christ’s teachings.

It’s a common struggle, even for believers, to be led astray by every passing thought or emotion. But as you wisely put it, we’re on the other end of the leash! We have the power to choose not to follow every whim, desire, or temptation that arises.

As Psalm 94:19 reminds us, “When anxiety was great within me, your consolation brought me joy.” We can find peace and joy by actively choosing to submit our minds to Jesus.

Just as a handler guides their dog, we are called to actively lead our thoughts. This means intentionally choosing not to dwell on anxieties, fears, or unhelpful desires. Instead, we can redirect our minds towards what is true, noble, right, pure, lovely, admirable, excellent, or praiseworthy, as Philippians 4:8 encourages. This isn’t about suppressing emotions, but about refusing to let them dictate our actions and inner peace.

When a challenging thought or feeling emerges, remember your position: you are on the other side of the leash. You don’t have to be pulled along. Instead, you can consciously choose to bring that thought into obedience to Jesus, aligning it with His will and promises. This is an act of faith and a powerful step towards victory over the struggles within our minds.

Heavenly Father, we thank You for the truth that we are not slaves to our thoughts and feelings. We confess that often our minds wander, and we are easily swayed by anxieties, worries, and unhelpful desires. Forgive us for allowing our thoughts to lead us instead of us leading them. Today, we ask for Your strength and wisdom to take every thought captive to the obedience of Jesus. Help us to identify thoughts that do not align with Your truth, and empower us to rein them in. May Your Holy Spirit guide us in redirecting our minds towards what is pure, holy, and honoring to You. Fill us with Your peace that surpasses all understanding, and may Your consolation bring us joy, especially when anxiety tries to overwhelm us. We pray all this in the mighty name of Jesus. Amen.

The mind is a battlefield. It’s the place where the greatest victories and defeats are won.

Walk daily with God at your side!

Love always,

Ed 🙏🏼