Vanity or Virtuous

I hate vain thoughts: but thy law do I love. (Psalm 119:113)

What are the vain thoughts that the Psalmist described? Vain describes any thought that is empty, futile, or worthless. Vain thoughts include doubts, fears, temptations, and thoughts that lead us away from God’s truth. Not only are vain thoughts entirely unproductive, but they also have the potential to be incredibly harmful. We must also develop a hatred toward vain thoughts. When the enemy brings you thoughts contrary to God's Word, you must attack them immediately.

On the other hand, the Psalmist said that he loved the law of God. God’s law represents His Word. Loving God’s Word means that you are valuing, following, and delighting in His instructions. Love cannot be shown unless you are spending time with it. When we love the Word, we meditate on the Scriptures and allow God’s instructions to guide our lives. 

While the Psalmist discussed hating and loving, he also discussed training our minds in how and what to think. A mind submitted to the Holy Spirit actively chooses to focus on God’s Word rather than being swayed by negative or empty thoughts.

If you desire to grow in God, you must be vigilant about what thoughts you allow to occupy your mind. Identify and reject any thoughts that are empty, negative, or harmful. Then, immediately counter them when they show up by speaking the Word and praying. Declare God’s truth over your mind and reject lies from the enemy.

Practical Application

Make it a priority to read and meditate on Scripture daily. Let God’s Word fill your mind and heart, guiding your thoughts and actions. When negative thoughts or temptations arise, speak against them in Jesus' name. Declare God’s truth over your mind and reject lies from the enemy. 

James 1:8; James 4:8

The Majority of your Thoughts

In the multitude of my thoughts within me thy comforts delight my soul. (Psalm 94:19)

When you analyze about what you “think about,” what thoughts do you have throughout the day? Are they positive or negative? Are they complaining or full of gratitude? Our minds are often bombarded with worries, doubts, and concerns. Life’s challenges, uncertainties, and daily responsibilities can lead to a whirlwind of mental activity. If we allow them, they can become overwhelming, causing anxiety, stress, and other mental issues.

It’s not enough to dwell on doubt and negativity for an hour and then throw one Scripture at the end to fix it. You must make a concerted effort to have most of your thoughts based on the Word of God. Meditating on Scripture and remembering God’s faithfulness will give you peace and reassurance that cannot be found in anything in the world.

The comfort that comes from God does more than alleviate stress; it also brings joy to our souls. This joy goes beyond our circumstances and situations and is rooted in the assurance that God is with us, that He loves us, and that He is in control. 

Don’t allow your thoughts to run away from you; choose always to have God and His Word on your mind. When you tip the scales to ensure that God’s Word becomes the majority of your thinking and you give His way the most weight in your life, you will notice that His peace comes quicker, His joy is more accessible to tap into, and you find yourself assured that God will do what He said He will do. Reflect on His past faithfulness and the ways He has provided for you. Let these memories of God’s goodness bring joy and strengthen your faith in the most challenging struggles.

Practical Application

Recognize that you can control your thoughts. When negative or overwhelming thoughts arise, counter them with God’s promises and truths. Speak the Word over your life and declare God’s faithfulness. When you speak God’s Word, you shift your focus from your worries to God’s power and love.

Psalm 42:11; Isaiah 43:2

New Creations Full of Compassion

Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new. (2 Corinthians 5:17)

What does it mean to be “new”? When the Word tells us that we are a new creation, many believers mistakenly believe that we are an “upgraded” version of who we used to be. That’s not it at all. God says when you accept Christ, you are an entirely new creation who is born-again.

Once you are a Christian, you are no longer the sum of the past things that have been done to you or the past things you have done. You are an entirely new creation made in God’s image. His transformation in our lives encapsulates our spiritual nature and how we connect to the world around us, affecting our identity, values, and behavior. The old sinful nature, with its habits and desires, is replaced by a new nature that seeks to please God. 

Your previous life is gone; Paul wrote that it has passed away. This includes every sinful action and the guilt and condemnation associated with those choices. In Christ, we are not only forgiven but also set free from the power of sin and death.

Christians must start seeing the world through the lens of God’s love and truth. This new perspective changes how we relate to those around us and handle our personal challenges. It even influences the mindset with which we pursue our dreams and goals. Recognize and accept that you are a new creation in Christ. Let go of the past and the guilt associated with it.

Practical Application

As new creations in Christ, we are responsible for sharing the Gospel with others. Our hearts should burn to share God's love and His transformative power with others. Witnessing to others about Jesus is an act of love and obedience. Even if they do not receive the message, allowing them to hear it and make their own choice is vital.

Ephesians 2:15; Ephesians 2:10