Every war begins with a single battle. One of the most brutal battles for most people is in their minds. Most individuals struggle in their thought life because they don’t catch their thoughts soon enough. If wrong thoughts continue, it will lead to doing the wrong things.
There are three steps one must take to finally take control of one’s thought life.
Step #1: Confess any sins to God.
One must admit that they have been struggling with controlling their thoughts and sinned against the Lord and others through their actions. As one identifies these sins, one must confess and repent (decide to stop doing it). Leviticus 5:5 says, “When you become aware of your guilt in any of these ways, you must confess your sin.” Take time to seek the help of the Holy Spirit by asking for the strength and power necessary to make these changes.
Step #2: Make a list of lies and excuses.
Admit any lies and excuses. And more importantly, stop using them. Here are several examples:
- “I don’t deserve to be loved.”
- “I’ll never amount to anything.”
- “I’m damaged goods.”
- “I love them, so sex is OK.”
- “I can stop this whenever I want to.”
- “Everyone’s doing it.”
Step #3: Evaluate self-talk.
One must be aware of what one says to themselves because their self-talk significantly influences how they think, feel, and act. If they’re constantly putting themselves down—either in their head or out loud to others—they are more likely to end up in unhealthy relationships because they don’t believe they deserve any better. However, if one says truthful, biblical statements about themselves in their head, they are more likely to confront, stand up against toxic people, and form healthier relationships.
When one confesses their sins to God, makes a list of any lies and excuses they’ve believed, and evaluates their self-talk, they will begin to change their thoughts.
Change your thoughts, and you’ll change your world.
By Steve Arterburn
