Introduction:

In this insightful episode of The Teachable Woman Podcast, Reverends Michele Owes and Diana P. Cherry delve into the power of our thoughts and how controlling them can shape our lives and relationships. Through personal anecdotes, biblical references, and practical advice, they emphasize the importance of guarding our hearts and minds against negative thinking patterns. This episode is a foundational discussion on the topic of thinking, setting the stage for a series of teachings on how to renew our minds and transform our lives through Christ-like thinking.

7 Key Highlights:

1. The Power of Thoughts: Reverend Cherry shares her personal journey of learning to control her thoughts, which had a profound impact on her ministry and personal life. She emphasizes that we have the power to shape our reality by managing our thoughts and attitudes.
2. Biblical Foundation: The episode draws from Proverbs 23:7, “As a man thinketh in his heart, so is he,” highlighting the biblical importance of controlling one's thoughts. Thoughts that flow from the heart can lead to either positive or destructive outcomes.
3. Guarding Your Heart and Mind: Reverend Cherry stresses the importance of guarding our hearts and minds with diligence, as thoughts can either guide us toward God or lead us astray. She shares practical tips on recognizing and correcting negative thinking patterns.
4. The Consequences of Unchecked Thoughts: Both Reverends discuss how unchecked thoughts can lead to unnecessary conflicts, misunderstandings, and emotional distress. Rev. Owes illustrate how internal dialogues can lead to imagined scenarios that never happen, causing turmoil in relationships.
5. Practical Tools for Renewing the Mind: Reverend Cherry introduces practical tools for controlling thoughts, such as writing down unproductive thoughts and challenging them. She emphasizes that every thought has an impact, and it's important to actively monitor what we think.
6. The Influence of External Inputs: Reverend Owes highlights the role of external influences, such as what we watch and listen to, in shaping our thoughts. She urges listeners to be mindful of the content they consume and to guard their "eye gates" and "ear gates" from harmful inputs.
7. The Role of Accountability: Reverend Cherry discusses the importance of having a support system, particularly in ministry, to stay vigilant against temptations and distractions. She shares her experience of supporting her husband in ministry by being mindful of external influences that could be detrimental to their calling.

Summary:

In this episode, Reverends Michele Owes and Diana P. Cherry teach us the importance of controlling our thoughts and how they impact every aspect of our lives. They emphasize the biblical truth that our thoughts shape who we are and how we interact with others. The episode encourages listeners to actively monitor their thoughts, guard their hearts, and renew their minds with Christ-like thinking. Through personal stories and practical advice, the Reverends offer tools and insights for living a life that glorifies God by cultivating positive, productive thinking patterns.