I strive very hard to not engage in gossip, backbiting, or negative talk. It's not easy. And when you don't participate, others who feed off negativity (hate this word, but it fits here) may reject you, turn on you, or (we hope) avoid certain conversations with you.
Recently, I completed a personal branding quiz that required feedback from friends, coworkers, and associates. One of my top attributes was "positive."
On two separate occasions, I received compliments like, "positive energy" and "refreshing."
What's my point? I'm not bragging on me. I'm sharing the the results of biblical meditation (aka faith confessions, speaking the Word, affirmations).
Several years ago, I developed a Christian mantra based on Philippians 4: 8 & 9. I wanted to transform myself. To set myself apart from complainers, whiners, and messy folks. What better way to make the shift than by meditating on God's Word.
Check out The Message version of one of my favorite scriptures:
Summing it all up, friends, I'd say you'll do best by filling your minds and meditating on things true, noble, reputable, authentic, compelling, gracious—the best, not the worst; the beautiful, not the ugly; things to praise, not things to curse. Put into practice what you learned from me, what you heard and saw and realized. Do that, and God, who makes everything work together, will work you into his most excellent harmonies.
What's your Christian mantra?
