Philippians 4:8 (NET) Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is worthy of respect, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if something is excellent or praiseworthy, think about these things.
After Olamide was filled with the Holy Spirit with the evidence of speaking in tongues, she felt so much joy and liberty in her heart that she determined to do everything it took to stay filled with the Holy Spirit at all times. She had read teachings about being filled with the spirit several times but she wanted a practical guide to actually walk in a spirit-filled life. She realized that what she allowed to dwell in her mind was key to controlling the mood of her heart. Today's Bible verse became a guide for her.
I have come to notice that a heavy and depressed countenance does not engender a spirit-filled life. If you put on the television or read the newspaper, you will notice that most of the news there will attempt to take away your joy and send you to a mood of depression or sadness. It is good to be informed by the news, but guard your heart and don't let it control your countenance.
If you ponder on the behavior of many people you have to deal with(even certain Christians), you would realize that being joyful does not come naturally. But we are instructed to "rejoice in the Lord always"(see Phil 4:4). The spirit-filled life is a joy-filled life (read Ephesians 5: 19-21). This is not because there are no sorrows in the world or things that can keep us depressed and moody, but because the presence of God the Holy Spirit within us is bigger than anything that is happening outside us. What we focus on will determine the outcomes of our lives.
Today's Bible verse instructs us on the things we should ponder upon. Do not let your mind dwell long on thoughts that do not inspire thanksgiving and praise. Discipline your mind to always find the good in every situation and dwell on it. Find a reason to give thanks in all things because this is the will of God for us in Christ Jesus.
Go into today remembering that the Spirit-filled life is a joy and thanksgiving-filled life. You cannot control the Holy Spirit but you control what your mind ponders on which in turn controls your mood and determines whether you will be Spirit-filled or not.
—Abraham Damilola Arigi
Bible In One Year: Job 5-6 (In Devotional Audio)
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