The wise conquer the city of the strong and
level the fortress in which they trust.
Proverbs 21:22
level the fortress in which they trust.
Proverbs 21:22
How quickly my mind does become crowded!
I am very much an internal processor, often a victim of too much thought. I analyze situations, take the temperature of circumstances and run possible scenarios to an undying end. And many times to what I consider a fault, I become crowded in thought and give life to conversations that have not really happened. I talk to myself and to others in these thoughts and scenarios. I receive feedback in these thought up conversations and anticipate responses...all in my mind. Trust me, I do not require a straight jacket. I am not crazy. Really. Isn’t it those that make it a point to say they are not crazy that really are? Hmm... It is just the way that I have allowed my mind to work. I create worlds that do not exist, but could and might. And that is where crowded thoughts become a formidable foe, a winning enemy.
These crowded thoughts pull me into the worlds I think up. And you know, these worlds are never favorable for me. The outcomes are usually dismal and destructive to every effort set at guiding me to reaching my dreams. They must be deconstructed. I have to disengage from these crowded thoughts and exit these crowded thought worlds. But they are sticky and constantly vie for my attention, even my affection. Typically, it is easier for me to believe the outcomes that play out in these worlds of crowded thoughts and so with a misplaced affection, I allow them presence enough to influence the life that is actually unfolding in each day. In this way, my mind is my biggest opponent, my deadliest neighbor that exists next to my heart.
I have learned a way to empty these thoughts and bury them. I let them go. I replace them. I intentionally engage in what is really happening as it is happening, not fully hanging my response on anticipated outcomes created in crowded thoughts. I base my activity on what is real and true.
Trust God from the bottom of your heart; don't try to figure out everything on your own. Listen for God's voice in everything you do, everywhere you go; he's the one who will keep you on track. Don't assume that you know it all. Run to God! Run from evil! Your body will glow with health, your very bones will vibrate with life! Honor God with everything you own; give him the first and the best. Your barns will burst, your wine vats will brim over.
Proverbs 3:5-8 (The Message)
Proverbs 3:5-8 (The Message)
It may sound simple and small, but basing my activity, both internal and external, on what is true and strong provides necessary space and proper perspective in my mind. I can engage wholly, create purely and live purposefully, not always in reaction to crowded thoughts.
dude...that spoke to me. definitely my world as well. Love the proverb in the message there.
Pure raw honesty. I'm feeling a little spooky here are you in my psychic thinking? :)If I'm really honest with myself and the rest of the human world we all feel a little "crowed" at times especailly when the distractions,egos, negativity,and as you've mentioned the "devil" comes around to claim and feed on our dreams, plans, hopes, and even our faith.
I'm sure you've heard of or read Rick Warren's "The Purpose Driven Life" if not one of the simpliest,straightforward message I've recieved so far and had to be reminded was is that it's not about us, them,you, or me its about HIM.
Chas: the wording in the Message brings that proverb to life!
eclaire: Thank you! Your feedback is always positive and encouraging!!