The Development of Thinking

If we are going to control our thoughts and release their potential for good, which is the goal of this series, first we need to understand where they originate and how they develop.

Jesus said that our heart is the problem. Our sinful thoughts originate in our sinful heart (Matthew 15:19), and our sinful words reveal its evil nature (Matthew 12:34-35).

A change of heart will result in a change of thinking, which is why we start with faith (Romans 10:9-10). However, we all know that our thinking still causes us problems. Our mind needs to be renewed (Romans 12:2).

As James explains, “…each one is tempted when, by his own evil desire, he is dragged away and enticed. Then, after desire has conceived, it gives birth to sin; and sin, when it is full-grown, gives birth to death…” (James 1:14-15).

He is describing the genealogy of a thought, the development of temptation. But this development is not inevitable. Our mental pathways can be changed. Although we are all tempted, there is always a way out (1 Corinthians 10:12-13).

But how do we find the way out?

How do we renew our mind?

How do we take our thoughts captive before they develop?

That’s what we need to consider next.

Robert