A recent Psychology Today article describes happiness as “an electrifying and elusive state.” The writer offers research that suggests that happiness is not as much tied to our circumstances as it is to our state of mind.
Marcus Aurelius agreed: “The happiness of your life depends upon the quality of your thoughts.”
Scripture offers several thoughts on the subject of thoughts. Here is a small sampling.
- Renew your mind (Romans 12:2).
- Think only pure thoughts (Philippians 4:8).
- God perceives your thoughts (Psalm 139:2).
- Keep your mind alert and sober. (1 Peter 1:13).
- Take every thought captive (2 Corinthians 2;5).
Recovery Step: Happiness is as close as your next thought.
Author: Mark Denison
Mark and Beth Denison, married for 36 years, launched There’s Still Hope as a national movement to call men and women into lives of sexual integrity. Their ministry offers 90-day recovery plans for addicts and one-on-one and group coaching for addicts and their spouses. TSH also produces resources for pastors and churches to confront the porn epidemic that is destroying so many lives.
Dr. Denison was a senior pastor for over 30 years, NBA chaplain, and board chairman at Houston Baptist University three times. With a Master’s Degree in Addiction Recovery, Mark is a certified PSAP and active member of the American Association of Christian Counselors.
Mark has written four books on recovery: Porn in the Pew, 365 Days to Sexual Integrity, A 90-Day Recovery Guide, and 40 Days to Porn-Free Living. His latest book, Jesus on the 12 Steps, will be released later this year.
