No Stinking Thinking

One of my favorite scriptures is Philippians 4:8 “Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable–if anything is excellent or praiseworthy–think about such things.”  There’s an old saying, “An idle mind is the devil’s workshop.”  While idleness can prove unproductive and give way to what Zig Ziglar calls “Stinking Thinking”, I think we can also become snared by worrying too much.  Without a doubt, COVID-19 presents an opportunity to take worry to an entirely new level. It is important to remember that  “Worry” and “Concern” are not synonymous… Be “concerned” but do not “worry”.

The Apostle Paul provides an antidote for the worry.  Whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable– if anything is excellent or praiseworthy–think about such things….  The next time worry creeps in, make a list of what you consider true, noble, right, pure, lovely, admirable, excellent or praiseworthy in your life. Take that list and recite it to the Lord as your prayer of thanksgiving in the midst of this season. What are you thinking about?