Daily Reading: Hebrews 3:19

Therefore, holy brothers, who share in the heavenly calling, fix your thoughts on Jesus, the apostle and high priest whom we confess. (Heb. 3:1)

In the 1980’s, a drug prevention program, Project Charlie, was introduced into the Texas fifth grade curriculum. Based on self-esteem building, the theory was that if a child has a good self-image, he or she would be better equipped to resist drug and alcohol temptations. The idea: you are what you think. A lot of time was spent on positive affirmations and changing negative thought patterns, especially in those who came from unstable home environments.

This is not a new concept. The Bible has been teaching this principal for years. But instead of self-esteem affirmations, we as children of God are taught to fix our thoughts on Jesus. God knew what He was doing. By keeping our thoughts on the One who is salt and light, who submitted himself to the will of the Father, serving Him as a sacrifice for our sins, in time we can develop the character traits—called the fruit of the Spirit—love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control.

The Bible is clear. This is our calling, our task, our assignment. As we set aside our flesh and fix our thoughts on Jesus, we become more Christlike. In time, others are drawn to the body of believers and most importantly to Him as we confess Jesus with our mouths and actions.

Change your thoughts by spending more time in the Word and less in the world.

Marty Norman is an avid reader, loves to hike, and is passionate about mission work.