Think About Such Things
Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable - if anything is excellent or praiseworthy-think about such things. Whatever you have learned or received or heard from me, or seen in me - put it into practice. And the God of peace will be with you. -PHILIPPIANS 4:8-9 NIV
What consumes your thoughts before you lie down to sleep? Maybe you run through a checklist for the next day. Maybe you replay conversations with friends or coworkers. Perhaps you mindlessly scroll through your phone and avoid your thoughts altogether. The Bible teaches that God wants us to always think about good things. He knows that good thoughts will lead to a more peace-filled life. And especially before we rest for the night, we can learn to reorient our thoughts to things that bring God glory.
Take a second to gather your thoughts and quiet your spirit. Position yourself into a comfortable place where you can spend some time with God. Take a couple of calming breaths. Now fix your attention on what God has for you this day.
Peaceful sleep is good sleep. The Bible says we are to be mindful of our thoughts. It tells us to think of righteous things, things that are pure and lovely and good and true. Shifting our thoughts toward God and His Word relaxes us, recenters us, and will even bring more restful sleep.
Remember, what you think about before bed affects the quality of sleep you have. If you want peaceful and rejuvenating rest, spend time with God before bed. Make time for Jesus: read your Bible or pray. Even a few minutes in prayer, giving your worries to God, can make a big difference. Spend time in God's presence and watch Him transform your thoughts and your life. Enjoy the sweet slumber awaiting you in the arms of Christ.
PRAYER:
Lord, I praise You, for You are a just and righteous God. I worship You, for in Your presence there is peace. I adore You, for You have created all that is lovely and good in this world. I will bless Your name and extol Your great and mighty deeds. So many things vie for my attention, Lord. I admit that I often spend more time thinking about the world in front of me rather than You. Please, draw my thoughts toward You all throughout the day and night. God, thank You for Your peace. Thank You that Your Word is true and dependable. You provide tranquility in times of restlessness and agitation. God, I thank You for relieving my troubled mind and reassuring my heavy heart. Thank You for providing harmony and peace, for caring for me, for soothing my troubled soul. I feel You here with me, God. I know You're listening. Give me confidence in Your Word. Please draw me into Your presence and fill me with peace. Help me stand on the promises of Your Word. Please help me to think about things that are pure, lovely, admirable, and good. Fill my heart with heavenly desires and direct my thoughts toward Your purposes. Permeate my thoughts day and night. Amen.
This is an excerpt from Pray: Daily Moments to Quiet Your Mind and Center Your Soul – a devotional now available on DaySpring.com. Shop all books, journals, and devotions from DaySpring here.
