Thoughts Matter
I’m a thinker by nature. This is mostly a “good thing.” Yet there are days I wish I could simply shut my thoughts off or at least put them on hold. Perhaps this describes you as well. I did a little research and discovered this describes many people. In fact, studies suggest the average person has anywhere from 6,000 to 60,000 thoughts a day. That’s a whole lot of mental processing! And while we “thinkers” may not be able to control the amount of our thoughts, we can and must, however, choose what we think about. Why? Because thoughts matter.
Choosing our thoughts is not just a positive practice—it’s a God-given responsibility, an intentional decision, and a spiritual discipline. Scripture teaches that our thoughts shape how we see ourselves, interpret our circumstances, and engage with the world around us. They influence our reactions, guide our responses, and ultimately determine the direction of our lives. In short, everything we do—whether good or not so good—flows from our thought life. And this is why choosing our thoughts isn’t optional. It’s essential.
A Thought- Life Challenge
In his letter to the Philippians, the apostle Paul challenges believers to fix their thoughts on what is true, honorable, just, pure, lovely, commendable, excellent, and praiseworthy (Philippians 4:8). But Paul wasn’t merely advocating for “right thinking”—he was calling us to “right living.”
What’s especially noteworthy is where Paul places this challenge. It’s nestled between a plea for relational harmony, a warning against anxiety, and a lesson on contentment. That placement isn’t just brilliant; it’s intentional.
Paul understood that our thoughts don’t exist in isolation. “Right” thoughts shape more than our mindset—they influence our relationships, our emotional health, and our spiritual posture. And in verse 9, Paul concludes with a powerful reminder: when we practice this kind of thinking, we receive something equally significant, God’s peace with us.
Additional “Thoughtful” Scriptures
In addition to Philippians 4:8, the Scripture includes other “thoughtful” scriptures emphasizing the importance of centering, rehearsing, renewing and capturing our thoughts.
For instance…
The prophet Isaiah speaks of perfect peace promised to those who trust in and center their thoughts on God (Isaiah 26:3).
Psalm 1 reminds us that consistent mental and verbal rehearsal of God’s Word leads to a life of stability and fruitfulness.
Romans 12:1–2 calls believers to transform their minds by aligning their thoughts with God’s Word.
2 Corinthians 10:5 warns us to capture destructive, unproductive thoughts and make them obey Christ.
Final Thoughts
There’s no doubt about it—thoughts matter. They shape our perspective, influence our choices, and determine our peace. That’s why Scripture consistently calls us to guard, renew, and align our minds with the truth of God’s Word. When we choose God-directed thoughts, we’re equipped not only to think differently but to live differently in ways that honor God, encourage others, and cultivate personal peace.
So today, take a moment to consider the content of your thoughts. Are they reflective of Paul’s praiseworthy list in Philippians 4:8? If not, ask God to help you center your mind on Him, His Word, and His Truth. He is faithful. He will do this.
Yet, it won't happen overnight as change takes time and requires patience. Still, with consistent practice, over time you’ll notice that the unproductive thoughts that once consumed you have been replaced by true peace, authentic joy, and renewed trust in God.
Pray
Father God, thank You for reminding me that my thoughts matter. Empower me by Your Spirit to reject unproductive thoughts and replace them with praiseworthy ones. When lies consume my mind, remind me of Your Truth. And may my thoughts consistently reflect Your heart, resulting in right action and living.
In Jesus’ Name I pray, Amen.
Reflect
Is there an unproductive thought you’ve been holding onto? If so, what intentional step can you take today to replace it with God’s truth?
Friends, I’d love to hear your experience! Feel free to share your responses in the comment section below, or with me and others HERE!