I come from a background where good behavior was more than encouraged, it was demanded. This influence came both in the home where I was raised and in the churches that we were a part of. If I understand correctly what I was taught during those years it seems to me that the emphasis for achieving that good behavior was a matter of discipline. And I have to acknowledge that discipline is a significant part of the equation for good behavior, however our thoughts are at least an equal part of the equation.
The Bible speaks much about the content of our thoughts; I will share with you just a few samples from the book of Philippians:
Philippians 2:5 Let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus:
Philippians 3:15 Let us therefore, as many as be perfect, be thus minded: and if in any thing ye be otherwise minded, God shall reveal even this unto you.
Philippians 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.
As you “think” about it I believe you will come to the same conclusion, that behaviors begin in the mind. The Bible contrasts two particular mind-sets with the idea of walking in the flesh (a worldly mind-set) or walking in the Spirit (a godly mind-set). Notice with me this observation from the pen of the apostle Paul:
Galatians 5:16 This I say then, Walk in the Spirit, and ye shall not fulfil the lust of the flesh.
So!!!!! Where’s your head these days?
