Think Right

James observes that evil deeds result from allowing the desires of the flesh to govern instead of the commandments and precepts divinely given.

The desires of the flesh have their beginning in the mind, as influenced by the abilities of the body. Thoughts, whether good or bad, are therefore the first thing to be considered. It has been truly observed, “As a man thinks, so is he.”

Paul, therefore, in writing to the very faithful brethren at Phillipi, indicates that the best way to overcome the tendencies to evil that exist within all of us is to think right. Speaking of the “peace of God,” he tells us that it will keep our hearts and minds. By “keep,” he means “preserve” or make worthy of permanence, i.e., of eternal life through Jesus Christ.

So he goes on to indicate how we think right. He says it is the final thing, by which we can see he means most important in our conduct.

Think on things that are true ,
things that are honest ,
things that are just ,
things that are pure ,
things that are lovely ,
things that are of good report .     Phil. iv. 8.

Then the result will be virtue, and the life of the believer true praise to God.

Let us then govern the body by thinking of good things and leaving no room for evil ones. Good reading and meditation thereon is one of the best ways to develop right thinking. As we think, so we act.

Bro G H Denny (United Kingdom)