Have you ever noticed, when you are shopping for a new car and you have nearly settled on a particular model, you seem to see many of them on the road? Or when you are thinking about moving, you seem to see every real estate sign?

Our minds are always working behind the scenes, seeing more than we consciously notice. It is no surprise, then, that if we spend our time dwelling on our earthly wants and desires, we see those things that our earthly self is attracted to, which are not always good. However, Galatians 5:22 says the fruit of the Spirit are, love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. If we spend our time focusing on these things, we will recognize and get more of them.

Romans 8:5-6 Paul writes, “Those who are 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.”

Dear Lord, the mind you gave us is such a powerful machine, but like any powerful machine, if not properly controlled it can go wrong. Help us keep our minds focused on those good things you have provided, so that we build on the gifts of the Spirit and find peace. In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen.