Thinking ......

Thinking....

I will be the very first to admit that my thinking is not always pure and wise...I get angry, jealous, down, inconsiderate, judgmental, etc., etc., etc....

After reading through Jonah several times this past week for an assignment, I really admit my shortfalls in my thinking...disobedience, obedience and then anger and pouting...the processes I go through as well...but God's great compassion rules...

Then, reading through James again, I am reminded of pure thoughts, peace, consideration, mercy, nonjudgmental to reap righteousness...
And further, a similar list from Philippians, "think about such things"....to reap that peace that only God gives...plus God is with us...

But the wisdom that comes from heaven is first of all pure; then peace-loving, considerate, submissive, full of mercy and good fruit, impartial and sincere. Peacemakers who sow in peace reap a harvest of righteousness.
James 3:17-18

Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things. Whatever you have learned or received or heard from me, or seen in me—put it into practice. And the God of peace will be with you.
Philippians 4:8-9

In Jonah, God was thinking redemption of the wicked people, mankind....Jonah was thinking "no way", these people don't deserve God's compassion...anger because God showed compassion...
How many times have I thought the same as Jonah...my thinking not in agreement with the way God's is? Too many to count ....but, I don't want to come off with my story showing an angry, judgmental, pouting person...a resounding NO!!!NO! NO!!!!

That peace that only God gives is what I want to pour out to those around me...wisdom, consideration, sincerity, fruitful, peace....thank YOU that we can make a choice and that You help us in that choice...we can't do in our own strength...