… whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely … think about these things.

Philippians 4:8

Most people think about the medicine they take and the food they eat, but how many think about thinking? Philippians 4 gives us a diet for our brains. It tells us to consume the true, honorable, pure things. What did you put into your brain yesterday? Did you watch the news for hours, filling your mind with emotional topics of which you have little control? Did you listen to gossip and scandals, comparing people’s lives? At best, these thoughts are junk food for our brains. They can even do damage. Instead, admire God’s creation, be inspired by the arts, study and use your intellect. Read God’s Word and pray for those in need. Guard your heart and mind. Use the gifts God has given you. God has created and redeemed you as a whole being, body, mind, and soul. Use them well.

Stephenie Hovland
Portage, WI 

Holy Spirit, guide my mind away from poisonous thoughts to the sweet words of Scripture. Amen.

Reflect: What do you hear, read, and see that is a healthy diet for your thoughts?

Read: Psalm 119:54-64 and Matthew 22:34-40