Mastering one’s thoughts is intrinsically tied to monitoring the input of the senses that influence the direction of thought process. I humbly suggest that in some form all of the senses play a role in our thought process, which is not a difficult concept to consider. Although the senses of sight and hearing require our attention the most, the other senses have a propensity to create memories. However, sight and hearing tend to be on autopilot, the reason for the need to be watchful of what we see and hear. Consider if your eyes are open, the sense of sight is active. Moreover, even if your body is asleep, the sense of hearing is still engaged. The guarding of the senses requires being mindful of those we allow in our space. Our space known also as our personal space is not just physical. Moreover, our personal space entails a psychological aspect to be heavily guarded, a vulnerable state not easily access unless we open the door. The rational behind this suggestion is acquaints and associations in close proximity are among the primary contributors of sight and hearing. What we spend a great deal viewing or hearing, eventually lingers in our minds and becomes visible. If they are good, according to the Word of God, we will bear the good fruit. In the same fashion, if it is evil, our behaviors will reflect the evil of our thoughts. In a similar fashion, that’s why it is important not to allow our minds to linger on the unjust experiences inflicted by people upon us. The more we rehearsal the injustice, the greater our indifference grows toward the source of the injustice which limits the flow of forgiveness. However, if we take the road to find the good in the person or circumstance, we find ourselves forgiving the person as well as setting ourselves free from the toxic of ill feelings. The cloak of resentment should be avoided fiercely. Left unchecked, it sours even the sweetest moments in life. Be assured the thoughts that dominate are minds on today will write our tomorrows. Each moment, we must choose to flood our minds with thoughts describe in Philippians 4:8, which is no easy task.
"Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things.”
The verse provides the guidelines for the type of thoughts we are to welcome into our minds. It also serves as a standard, which we can weigh each of our thoughts against. When we realize our thoughts are not aligned with the Word of God, we must immediately change the channel of our thoughts. In order to be aware that our thoughts have gone astray, it essential that we become cautious of the things we allow to pause even for a moment in the seats of our mind.
Chronicles of ASA 