What were you thinking? It can be a pretty straightforward question, and sometimes not a very popular one, especially if the ‘tone’ from the one asking the question reminds us that we were not thinking at all.
The question popped in my head recently, as I was eating a big serving of ice cream, chocolate syrup, and whipped cream. No problem, except I realized that I had done that every night for two weeks. Yes, it tasted really good, but what was I thinking?
The “What were you thinking?” question often pops up in conversation with someone we care about – maybe a family member or friend who made a big mistake or did something not smart. Or it may be a child who dumps out all the Legos on the floor, and then walks away without playing with them.
Quite often, the question can make us feel like a failure. But, realizing that we failed can remind us that we can move forward from whatever ‘we were thinking’ that needs to change.
Controlling our thoughts is one of the greatest things we can do. Changing our thoughts can change our circumstance. Changing our thoughts can bring us victory. Hey, changing our thoughts can even change our world.
I love this: Watch your thoughts. They become words. Watch your words. They become actions.
Do we become what we think?
Proverbs 23:7 has an answer: As he thinks in his heart, so is he.
That’s pretty clear.
Maybe we should begin to think on things that are true. Or think on things that are honest. Or think on things that are just. Or think on things that are pure. Or think on things that are lovely. Or think on things that are of good report.
Those words, from Philippians 4:8, are followed by: If there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things.
It is amazing that Paul wrote those words while in prison. Right before that verse, Philippians 4:4 says to rejoice in the Lord always, and Philippians 4:6 says not to worry about anything, but pray about everything.
So, join me in thinking on good things in the weeks to come, and next time someone asks, “What were you thinking?” just tell them you were thinking about things that were true, honest, just, pure, lovely, and of good report.
Romans 12:2 says that we will be transformed by the renewing of our minds. Transformed means changed. That’s a good promise. I mean – that’s a God promise. Claim it!
Looking for a good recipe as you go through this holiday season? You just got one – straight from God’s Word. Feast on it!

Ann is a speaker and teacher. Contact her at annfarabee@gmail.com or annfarabee.com