Above Only Daily Devotional http://cgmglobal.org/aboveonly Friday, APRIL 20 Guard Your Heart With All Diligence Proverbs 9:10, Romans 14:17 (LB), Philippians 4:8 (LB)

Above Only Daily Devotional
http://cgmglobal.org/aboveonly

Friday, APRIL 20

Guard Your Heart With All Diligence

Proverbs 9:10, Romans 14:17 (LB), Philippians 4:8 (LB)
The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom: and the knowledge of the holy is understanding. *For, after all, the important thing for us as Christians is not what we eat or drink but stirring up goodness and peace and joy from the Holy Spirit. *...Fix your thoughts on what is true and good and right. Think about things that are pure and lovely, and dwell on the fine, good things in others. Think about all you can praise God for and be glad about.

-------------------------------------------------------------
Proverbs 4:23 (GNB) implores us to “be careful how you think; your life is shaped by your thoughts.” The beginning point of guarding your heart with all diligence is maintaining the consciousness that your mind needs to be guarded. You have to be deliberate and focused with your thoughts. Many people have allowed negative strongholds to develop in their minds because they refuse to control what they dwell on and believe in. It is easier to stop a negative thought than to change bad character. Be wise.

The word of God provides a general prescription for how we can guard our minds. Part of the prescription requires the fear of the Lord. This is not the fear that banishes us from the presence of a holy God. It is deep awe and reverence for God. Having this fear will serve to guide what you think on and allow to enter your mind; it will keep you safe from future dangers and sorrows. Your life will be pleasing to God and you will enjoy more of His peace, grace and blessings in your life. Maintain consciousness of the Holy Spirit who dwells in you and allow thoughts of righteousness, peace and joy to prevail in your mind. You have to deliberately cut yourself off from negative friends and other influences that program you to think negatively. Let your vision also guide what you
allow to enter your mind. Based on where you see God taking you, ask yourself, “what things should I be dwelling upon?”

PRAYER: Heavenly Father, I thank You for the resurrection of Jesus and all the wonderful blessings and power it represents for me. I rejoice that Jesus is alive and that His resurrection power is at work in my life.

BIBLE IN A YEAR READING PLAN: 2 SAM 9-11; LUKE 15:11-32

Empowered to Succeed...