One of the greatest ways to make significant change in our lives is NOT by changing what we do, but by changing what we think! In week three of the “Un-Stuck” sermon series (and the book by the same name) we examined “Getting your head unstuck.”

We tend to underestimate the power of our thoughts. Yet the apostle Paul tells us that changing our thoughts is the key to transforming our lives: “And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind” (Romans 12:2).

Thoughts influence and generate our feelings. Together, our thoughts and feelings shape our attitudes. From these three, come our words. Jesus said, “But the things that proceed out of the mouth come from the heart…” (Matthew 15: 18). Our thoughts, feelings, attitudes, and words largely determine our behavior, and as we act repeatedly, we create habits.

Perhaps this explains why it’s so hard to change a habit by simply trying to STOP doing something. Habits are not primarily an outward behavioral problem to be stopped.  Habits grow from within. To “transform” your habits, actions, words, attitudes or feelings, start by identifying (by asking for God’s help) and changing your thoughts.

In the book “Unstuck,” there are several examples of healthy thoughts regarding different areas of life (see pages 29-34): Thoughts…about me…about other people…about life…about God…about my past…and about my future.

Take a few minutes and ask yourself what kinds of thoughts you have in each of these areas. Are most of your thoughts optimistic? Are they thoughts that encourage your potential? Do you think grace giving but not enabling thoughts toward yourself and others? Do you choose hope-filled, possibility-oriented thoughts about your past…and your future?

Get started thinking “renewed” thoughts today! You’ll be glad you did…tomorrow!

Read more about this topic in the “Un-Stuck” book. You can get a copy from the publisher (CreateSpace).