Daily Devotion | New Rocky Creek Baptist Church

Stinking Thinking Or Thankful Thinking

Posted on Aug 1, 2025 in Devotions |

Introduction: Do you realize that we are not what we “eat”? Rather, we are what we “THINK”!

How are you THINKING these days? Are you looking down or up? Are you always THINKING negatively? So how can you CHANGE your THINKING?

While in prison awaiting martyrdom, Paul, inspired by God, writes a letter to the Church of Philippi—but really to us today as well. Contained within the letter are Holy Spirit-inspired instructions on numerous themes including suffering, joy, along with others.

More specifically, in the fourth chapter, after revealing the key to being free from the slavery of worry, he gives some extremely important insights as to how to live in victory with the CHRISTian’s thought life. Here it is; check it out:

1. How to overcome “Stinking Thinking” and turn it into “Thankful Thinking”! (Phil. 4:8) – “Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things.”

Do not miss that last phrase—“think on these things”!

Is it any wonder that Solomon wrote, {paraphrasing} As a man thinks in his heart, so is he (Prov. 4:24)?

So how can you get victory over negative THOUGHTS? Start reading and memorizing the Word of God! It works, if you work it!

This is how it works: “I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service. And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God.” (Rom. 12:1–2) Did you count the steps in these verses? Did you follow the trend? Can you see the principles? Will you study this out? Then will you allow the Holy Spirit to “quicken” it in your heart?

STEP #1 — PRESENTATION
“that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service.”

Have you dedicated your body, soul, and spirit to God? Do it right now.

STEP #2 — TRANSFORMATION
“And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind.”

The word “renewing” means a complete CHANGE for the better. It means to make fresh, or a new development—a renewal. By the way, it is achieved by God’s power! Do you need a renewal?

STEP #3 — REVELATION
“that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God.”

Following the process laid out by God for “THANKFUL THINKING” leads to a CHANGE of mind, which results in a change of life, which ends in knowing and doing God’s will. That is where fulfillment and happiness in life is found—which everyone wants and needs.

Conclusion: So instead of reading more self-help books or listening to psychiatrists and psychologists, try reading—and then heeding—the Word of God. After all, since Jesus made us (Col. 1:16), He knows how to fix us!

Bless His name!!

Love y’all,

Dr. Randy Reese