Finally…always think about what is true. Think about what is noble, right and pure.
Think about what is lovely and worthy of respect. If anything is excellent or worthy of praise,
think about those kinds of things. Philippians 4:8 NirV
We all have bumpy days when nothing, absolutely nothing, seems to be going right. Only a couple hours into the day and we wish we could have a do-ever. And along with the bumps come the thoughts that swirl around in our head–angry, complaining, frustrated, fearful, or critical–about whatever situation we happen to be. That’s when it’s time for some Philippians 4:8 action.
The best way I’ve come up with to illustrate the verse above is to compare it to making a snowman (see the link below for some fun snowmen idea). What better time of year to do that than now. Here’s what you can say…
Every snowman starts with a little snowball.
Scoop up wet snow with both hands.
Cup your hands together and pack the snow tight.
Then drop that small ball into the snow and start to roll.
When you’re making a snowman, with every roll the ball picks up more and more snow and grows bigger and bigger until TA-DA! You’ve got the head or body of your soon-to-be snowman.
Thoughts are like a snowball that start small and get bigger. Say you didn’t do great on your math test. (Okay, you did awful.) You’re totally bummed out. That was dumb! I know that word. Or you’re upset because you really wanted to have a sleepover but you can’t. But why can’t I? you wonder. It’s just not fair! And the more you think about it the worse you feel.
Once a negative thought gets rolling, it’s hard to stop it—whether you’re thinking about …
- something you did and wish you hadn’t
- something someone did to you
- something that happened to you.
Thinking things that are unkind or untrue or unlovely is a great way to become worried, angry, and down.
But once you get a good, true, happy thought started it can make you feel great!
So…
Think about things that are GOOD not bad
Think about the BEST not the worst
Think about the BEAUTIFUL not the ugly.
You’ll be amazed at how much better it makes your feel!
Thoughts influence feelings and feelings influence actions.
What you think can change how you feel and how you feel can make a difference in what you do
Next time you’re sledding with the kids, romping around in the snow, making a snowman, packing a snowball, or just talking about snowmen and snowballs, pair it with Philippians 4:8 and see what your kids say.
Here are some fun snow people you can make!
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