Family Day 8: Spirit-governed thoughts
Today's Scripture
"Those who aer dominated by the sinful nature think about sinful things, but those who are controlled by the Holy Spirit think about things that please the Spirit. So letting your sinful nature control your mind leads to death. But letting the Spirit control your mind leads to life and peace." -Romans 8:5-6 (NLT)
Reflect on the Word
Our days are filled with thoughts, some positive, some negative, many random. An incredible truth about following Jesus and being filled with the Holy Spirit is that God speaks to us even through our own thoughts! He can give us a mind set on Him and His truth.
Now, that doesn't mean the negative, angry, unkind thoughts totally go away. So, what do we do in those moments?
We can't outthink negative thoughts in our own strength, but we can certainly ask for God's help. One way to set your mind on the Spirit is to speak God's truth over your thoughts.
Pick a family Bible verse (for example, Ps. 136:1, Eph. 4:32, Phil. 4:8 or find your own). Write down the verse and memorize it by turning it into a song or pairing it with motions.
Reflect, pray + bless
- Reflect: "The thoughts of a person ruled by sin bring death. But the mind ruled by the Spirit brings life and peace." Rom. 8:6 (NIRV)
- Pray: In the center of a piece of paper, write "God" and circle it. From there, draw lines branching out and write down or doodle/dray things you pray for. If needed, add more branches off these as related needs arise (e.g.. God - School Safety - My Teachers). Ask God to direct your prayers and doodle what comes to mind.
- Bless: "[Child's name], 'whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable-if antyhing is excellent or praiseworthy-think on these things. And the God of peace will be with you.'" Phil. 4:8-9 (NIV)