Recently I went to a men’s Bible study gathering. The theme of the conversation was in taking charge of our thought life. “Thoughts are like birds flying overhead. We may not control those  thought flights, but we have power to choose the ones that want to build a nest on our heads,” said one of the men.

Some of the verses were extremely positive and encouraging like Ph 4:8, the prescription for good mental health. However, by the end of the meeting, I was already frustrated. I had turned inspiration into condemnation. 

There is a razor’s edge in perception between seeing what can be done and seeing what you haven’t done. What can be done is inspiring. What you haven’t done is easily condemning, followed by its best friend – shame. In an extremely short moment, the qualities of God are replaced by the realization of Satan. Humanity knows its own death and limitations.

I realized that I had gotten off track pretty quickly and began to pray. The condemnation had arrived because I was considering only what I could do, were I god or in total control – the viewpoint of pride. Scripture tells me that my best on my best day, with everything going my way, isn’t good enough. It is not about what I can do, but what the Lord has done and is doing. 

For me, it means surrender. Surrender in this instance is the realization that bringing my thoughts under control isn’t going to happen by my efforts alone. My success depends on my surrendering to the Lord and realizing that my best isn’t good enough. He is what I need. The work and ministry of the Holy Spirit is what I need. There is no area in my life in which I am capable of saving myself. I need a savior. I need Jesus. 

Jesus has been turning my condemnation back into inspiration where He intended it in the first place. My reliance on Him can give me peace during the process of my growth, before I get to the goal destination. Today is a day of inspiration, not because of the life todo or get better list, but because of the person of Jesus.who walks with me each minute, despite my inabilities. He is the more I need.