THOUGHTS

Definition:

Thoughts is the act or process of thinking; cogitation. It is a product of thinking, which utilizes the faculty of thinking or reasoning. Further, it is intellectual activity or production of a particular time or group; such as in ancient Greek thought.

Brief Explanation:

The process of changing ones thinking or renewing the mind is a major area of counseling. Thoughts precede behavior and feelings, so the changing or regulating of thoughts is important. Thus, if the client in their mind is constantly telling themselves that they will never make it or are no good, it is no wonder that depressed mood and poor attitudes and behavior will follow.

Listening into the thoughts of a person is an art form and much of our talk and listening to a client is designed to hear this secret dialog that goes on in the client’s head. We cannot read their mind, but we can assume certain thoughts based upon the behaviors and attitudes we see. Encouraging the client to “talk out loud” their honest thoughts will help us to determine what is needed for them, what themes they are acting on, and how to intervene with words of truth and life. When we replace the negative with healthy and truthful words, spoken as seed over time, they will take root and bring forth healthy fruit in terms of thoughts that reflect Christ and produce a change in attitude and behavior. Easier said than done, but this is our quest.

The Word of God:

Proverbs 23: 7

“For as he (a person) thinks within himself, so he is.”

Matthew 15:18,19

“But the things that proceed out of the mouth come from the heart, and those defile the man. For out of the heart come evil thoughts, murders, adulteries, fornications, thefts, false witness, slanders.”

Colossians 3:2

“Set your mind on the things above, not on the things that are on the earth.”

Romans 12:2

“And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, so that you may prove what the will of God is, that which is good and acceptable and perfect.”

Philippians 2:5

“Have this attitude in yourselves which was also in Christ Jesus.”