Thinking About What You’re Thinking About (2)

Introduction:

This lesson is about how NOT to think. Let us not forget the importance of the mind. As a rule, we do what we want to do. If we REALLY want to do something, if we MAKE UP OUR MINDS, we will find a way to accomplish it.  Many live in mediocrity because they don’t have the fire deep down inside of them to move ahead. We need to be moving forward and we need to prepare our minds for that task. 

 I.    The Danger of Improper Thinking

  1. Far too many in this life are carrying around excessive baggage that hinders them from being able to think properly. 
  2. We must change our thinking!
    1. Mt. 13:14-15 - Jesus spoke of hardened hearts and closed ears
    2. 2 Corinthians 10:5 – bringing every thought into captivity
    3. 1 Peter 1:13; Romans 12:2; Philippians 4:8

II. The problem of pessimism

A.      If your life is what it ought to be – you have every reason to be optimistic.

B.      Pessimism – is expecting the worst in a situation. 

a)     It is being cynical and viewing everything expecting failure. 

b)     Pessimism is a fear of change. 

  1. Pessimism is NEVER viewed in a positive light.  Associated with a lack of faith. 
    1. Israel at the Red Sea – Exodus 14:10-12. 
    2. Exodus 16:2, Israel complains about being hungry. 
    3. Numbers 13:26-33; 14:1-9 - The impact of pessimistic leaders to influence a fickle people.
    4. 1 Samuel 17:10-11; 32-33; 36-37; Mt 25:14-30

III.    Let Go of Your Past

A.     This is the person who dwells on their own past failures and perhaps bad things that have happened to them before.

B.     Phil 3:13-14 - Paul learned to move on.

C.    You need to forgive yourself.  1 Timothy 1:12-15 – Paul a former murderer. 

D.    Let go of old hurts.  Some have suffered wrong at the hands of another in the past. 

1.      As Christians we HAVE TO let go of these things.  Ephesians 4:31

a)     You need to let go of these hurts – FOR YOU! 

IV. Get a grip on your worry

A.     We need to learn to not worry. Matthew 6:25-34.

B.     Proverbs 12:25 says, “Anxiety in the heart causes depression, But a good word makes it glad.”

C.    Philippians 4:6-7 – Be anxious for NOTHING.

 V. Face up to your problems

A.     Some refuse to face up to problems; sin because they know they need to change. 

B.     We need to examine ourselves regularly – 2 Corinthians 13:5.

Conclusion:

A.     Let’s “be transformed by the renewing of your minds”. 

B.     Have you obeyed the gospel of Christ?