Just a Minute Devotional #30
Private thoughts
Before a word is on my tongue you, Lord, know it completely. (Psalm 139:4, NIV)
In prayer, I was thanking the Lord for knowing my mind. I was grateful for His ability to hear my prayers, even when they were not orally spoken.
Does this mean that He also knows my evil thoughts?
The Lord helps to control my tongue; however, when someone is rude or irritating, I digress. God hears the internal judgment of my brain. Did I think this person an idiot, moron, or worse? My mouth was shut, but God heard me, loud and clear.
In Christ, we are a new creation. He places within us a new heart, new tongue, and new mind. We sin against God when we think evil thoughts of others.
The Lord knows me thoroughly. He understands my intentions, judgments, contemplations, speculations, and dispositions.
Here is the good part — He still loves me!
One recipe that helps me control my thoughts can be found in Philippians 4:8.
Prayer:
I confess my evil thoughts. Change my heart. Thank you for your love. Amen.
