The Mind Ignites the Mouth, Which Precedes Action

Let no corrupting talk come out of your mouths, but only such as is good for building up, as fits the occasion, that it may give grace to those who hear. Ephesians 4:29

Gossip, falling prey to doubt or negativism, or lack of hope are difficulties many of us feel compelled to improve upon. But it isn’t always a matter of simply trying harder. We so easily get programmed for negative thoughts and negative talk without even realizing it. Some of us were raised in a very negative environment, and the thought of transforming into a positive and hopeful spirit seems downright impossible. But nothing is impossible with God! So let’s do some thinking about how to REPROGRAM ourselves into positive and hopeful souls.

It all starts with the mind. The verses below offer some truth on our thoughts.

“For as he thinks in his heart, so is he.” Proverbs 23:7

And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Romans 12:2

“Commit your works to the Lord, and your thoughts will be established.” Proverbs 16:3

Okay, so how do we reprogram our thinking to be more positive and joyful? We get faith-infused, and here are a few ways to make that happen!

Cut out negative or destructive influences when possible:

People, TV, radio, electronics—be “busy” if a negative or miserable person calls. I know it sounds a bit harsh, but you can still pray for them or really limit your time. You need to protect your heart, and that means making a few hard choices about with whom and how you will spend your time. If it’s family or work relationships, then limit involvement as much as possible and combat yourself.

Combat yourself? Yep, this means get firmly planted in your mind whose you are and who you are before meeting with them. You are a child of the Almighty! You are unconditionally loved, and you are wonderful in God’s eyes—all worldly flaws included. 🙂

Get firmly planted: 

Get into the Word. Try reading each night before bed, and relate the reading to your day. Or try reading each morning to start your day off right. Or do both! When I say to relate your Bible reading to your day, I mean for you to consider three or four things that happened in the day.

Example: On this day you won an award, lost your temper, had 20 minutes to yourself, and felt overwhelmingly fatigued in the afternoon. On the “won an award,” your Bible search will likely take you to verses on recognition. There will be a ton of verses that relate to losing your temper. The Bible search on your 20 minutes to yourself will likely direct you to “making time for rest,” which God wants for you. Overwhelming-fatigue searches might lead you to verses on finding peace or energy. What this will do is provide a focus on your day’s events that is true, loving, and right. If there are any areas you recognize as falling short, you will need to finish your study with a great verse for casting your cares on the Lord.

Here is a resource page on my website for some great tools and resources for getting faith-infused! You’ll find smartphone apps, podcasts, Bible tools, music ideas, and more. Tips for Turning to the Word (Find this at the bottom of my Free Resources page on my website.)

You also need to fill up. So build relationships with positive friends and listen to inspirational podcasts, talk shows, or music rather than lyrics and television that is corrupt, disrespectful, or even hateful.

Do what YOU need. We all have a happy place. It may be with uplifting music playing loudly or soothingly low. It may be with all the lights down low in your house with your candles burning. It may be after a brisk walk. The point is that you are designed uniquely, and I suggest taking some time to write down who you are and what you love and enjoy. What fills you up? If you don’t know, then experiment. Try all the items listed above, and try others like rising 15-20 minutes earlier and doing coffee and devotionals or whatever—but figure out what is your way!

Whatever you do, remember that even one small positive thought can change the outlook of your whole day. Think of applying only a few of the items listed above and you will be off to a fabulous start!

Faith Infused Living… Reaching Goals Higher!

Niccie Kliegl, CLC, RN

Author of Awaking the Living Legacy