Bony Shark

Philippians 4: 8 “Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things.”

Think

Isn't it fascinating how sharks can fossilize over time despite not having bones? As these mighty creatures age, they deposit calcium salts in their skeletal cartilage, making their dried jaws seem heavy and solid, like bone. It's a reminder that seemingly harmless things, like soft shark cartilage, can solidify and cause lasting damage.

If left unaddressed, our thoughts can undergo a similar transformation. The lies we allow to take root in our minds, the thoughts we don't capture and confront, can act like those slowly fossilizing shark bones. Initially harmless and soft, these thoughts can solidify, gaining strength and causing damage to our spiritual well-being. Just as a wise fisherman knows the importance of capturing and releasing, we, too, must be diligent in capturing harmful thoughts and releasing them into the sea of God's grace.

In this ocean of the mind, let's replace the damaging "shark" of lust with the purity that God desires for us. Just as sharks can transform and fossilize, our thoughts can undergo a positive metamorphosis when we replace harmful patterns with God's truth. Embrace purity as your anchor, ensuring that the waters of your mind remain clear. Let the love of Christ guide you, capturing damaging thoughts and replacing them with purity that brings life and freedom.

As you navigate the seas of your thoughts, remember that shark cartilage strengthens over time, just like uncaptured thoughts. Capture negative thoughts, release them in the vast ocean of God's grace, and replace them with the purity that transforms your mind into a sanctuary of holiness.

Apply

Capture your thoughts and direct them toward God's truth. Say this three times a day: I have the mind of Christ. I have the righteousness of Christ. I'm accepted in Christ. I'm forgiven in Christ. I'm gifted in Christ. I'm strengthened in Christ.

Pray

God, we invite you to work in us, transforming our minds into reflections of your character. We need your help as we capture negative and harmful thoughts that can defeat and hold us captive. Give us strength and wisdom as we pursue you. In Jesus’ name. Amen.