Dwell

The Bible has a lot to say about what we do with our mind and where our thoughts dwell. What we dwell on each and every day is of much importance. Dwell can mean “to remain for a time”, “to keep one’s attention directed”, or “to live at specific place”. Consider for a moment, where do your thoughts dwell? What keeps your attention? Where does your mind rest and remain for chunks of your day? Dwell on these verses for a moment.

Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect. -Romans 12:2, ESV

Set your minds on things that are above, not on things that are on earth. -Colossians 3:2, ESV

We destroy arguments and every lofty opinion raised against the knowledge of God, and take every thought captive to obey Christ, -2 Corinthians 10:5, ESV

Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things. -Philippians 4:8, ESV

We should be intentional about what we are thinking about on a daily basis. The thoughts we allow to dwell in our mind affect both our feelings and our actions. Take stock of yourself. If your mind was a house, what sort of street would it be dwelling on? Are you living anxiety avenue or worry way? Or are you living on confidence court or peaceful place? You can’t choose every thought that comes knocking on your door, but you do get to choose what street you live on and which thoughts you invite in to stay for a while.

What would happen if each day you made a concerted effort to dwell on the things of God? How might it affect your attitudes and your actions? Make sure God has space to dwell in your thought life. Now remember,

Your mind is a garden.
Your thoughts are seeds.
You can grow flowers.
Or you can grow weeds.