Prayer

We have been learning that God’s thoughts are so much higher than ours.

Human thinking often focuses on negative, wicked, unclean, or selfish things. For example, you may be jealous of a friend’s toy, or angry at your parents for telling you to do a chore. These thoughts are harmful to us and others and do not build up or encourage. This kind of thinking does not strengthen us spiritually. So what kind of thoughts will please God?

Read Philippians 4:8 (CEV):

Finally, my friends, keep your minds on whatever is true, pure, right, holy, friendly, and proper. Don’t ever stop thinking about what is truly worthwhile and worthy of praise.

This verse lists things we can fill our minds with that are pleasing to God. Thoughts like these are uplifting and encouraging. They give hope to us and those around us. These thoughts draw us closer to God.

Let’s close our eyes and ask the Holy Spirit to forgive us for thoughts that are negative, unclean, harmful, or selfish. Allow children time to pray.

Now, let’s focus on thoughts that please God. Pause for a few seconds after listing each pair of thoughts.

Things that are true and pure …

Right and holy …

Friendly and proper …

Things that are worthwhile and worthy of praising You, Lord!

Close in prayer: Dear God, Your thoughts are much higher than ours. Help us keep our minds and hearts fixed on things that please You. In Jesus’ name, we pray, Amen.