In Gen. 6 the scriptures say "his heart was only evil continually." The wickedness of man continued and increased until God saw that "every imagination of the thoughts of his heart was only evil continually." Any person, however righteous, can and will make some mistakes, but when a person's heart becomes corrupt there is no hope of him doing better. We say and do things about which we have thought. Unless we make a real effort to keep our minds pure, we will reach the same state as those whom God decided to destroy. Being a Christian is not simply a matter of attending services sometimes; it is a way of life. This means our thoughts must be centered on the right things, not just during worship but all the time.

You must remember that there are three things which we must guard if we are to keep our minds pure.

(1). What we hear. The things which go into our minds help determine what we are. We need to do our very best not to listen to corrupt speech. Dirty jokes, filthy language, and unkind words can only make it more likely that we will not be faithful to God. The people who know you will respect your wishes and not use such language in your presence if you are always true to your convictions.

(2). What we see. Do not spend your time looking at pictures, movies, television programs, or anything else which appeals to the sensual and degrading. One of the sure steps to sin is to let your mind take in images of things which are unworthy of God's people.

(3). What we read. Printed words make a powerful impression on us. Often we store up and use almost unconsciously things we have read earlier. Books that glorify immorality or any form of ungodliness are not fit reading for God's child. A bestseller may be popular because of its emphasis on sex, but it will not help you go to heaven!

We try to excuse the wrong kind of thinking by saying, "But I can't help what I think." This is simply not true. If we followed the rules listed above, we would find few times when improper thoughts would come into our minds. But if they do enter, you can drive them away. Make a conscious effort to replace them by thinking of something that is good.

Jim Allen