Some time ago, I received the following email:
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You say: “It’s impossible.”
God says: “All things are possible.” Luke 18:27
You say: “I’m too tired.”
God says: “I will give you rest.” Matt. 11:28-30
You say: “Nobody really loves me.”
God says: “I love you.” John 3:16&34
You say: “I can’t go on.”
God says: “My grace is sufficient for you.” 2 Cor. 12:9
You say: “I can’t figure things out.”
God says: “I will direct your steps.” Prov. 3:5-6
You say: “I can’t do it.”
God says: “You can do all things.” Phil. 4:13
You say: “I’m not able.”
God says: “I am able.” 2 cor. 9:8
You say: “It’s not worth it.”
God says: “It will be worth it.” Rom. 8:28
You say: “I can’t forgive myself.”
God says: “I forgive you.” 1 John 1:9, Rom. 8:1
You say: “I can’t manage.”
God says: “I will supply all your needs.” Phil. 4:19
You say: “I’m afraid.”
God says: “I have not given you a spirit of fear.” 2 Tim. 1:7
You say: “I’m always worried and frustrated.”
God says: “Cast all your cares on ME.” 1 Peter 5:7
You say: “I’m not smart enough.”
God says: “I give you wisdom.” 1 Cor. 1:30
You say: “I feel all alone.”
God says: “I will never leave you or forsake you.” Heb. 13:5
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Why is it so easy to listen to the voice of the deceiver? The band, Casting Crowns, sings:
But the voice of truth tells me a different story
And the voice of truth says “Do not be afraid!”
And the voice of truth says “This is for My glory”
Out of all the voices calling out to me
I will choose to listen and believe the voice of truth
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Won’t you listen to the voice of truth? When you hear those lies and accusations, won’t you choose to listen to the voice of truth? Philippians 4:8 says
“Finally, ‘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.”
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This is an instruction = “Think on these things” – not a suggestion or a wishful thinking = not “try to think…”
God would not instruct us to do something that is not possible to do. When you catch yourself drifting into false thoughts, lasso those thoughts – “take every thought captive.” Several years ago, my friend, Ashley, was facing a very difficult time. Pregnant with a very sick baby, her thoughts often drifted to worry. So she decided to make a list of what is true, noble, etc. She had so many listed under “true” that she went no further. When her thoughts drifted to worry, she pulled out her list to remove those thoughts and replace them with truths from the Word.
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The result of applying this Scripture to your thoughtlife? The verses before and after Phil. 4:8 tell us the peace of God will guard your heart and mind (v.7) and the God of peace will be with you (v.9). Your thoughts are surrounded by the bookends of peace!
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“Thou wilt keep her in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on Thee: because she trusteth in Thee.” Isaiah 26:3
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Susan
My name is Susan , also.
Your choice of Scripture references are completely encouraging as the times are very tough for Christians to remain truley and ongoingly consistent to ALWAYS obey GOD's choice for our lives…not ours.
Blessings To You, Susan!
I recieved that e-mail some time back as well, and have it tucked in my Bible. It’s a good one!