I'm not suggesting spending all day praying or reading scriptures, I'm suggesting putting to use what we read.  Otherwise the time spent in devotion has little or no value.  If we want our time spent to be fruitful, we must have corresponding actions.    

This process begins with our thoughts.  They normally precede our actions so if we control our thoughts, we will have control over our actions. 

This is achieved by speaking or muttering what we want to become or have throughout the day and then acting upon it, personalizing whenever possible.   

For the most productive daily devotions we need look no farther than Philippians 4:8 from the Christian Bible.  This powerful verse holds the secrets to our success in every aspect of life.  

The most productive part of this verse tells us to think only upon those things which have a good report (kJ version).  So all our minds have to do is think upon productive thoughts while eliminating the destructive ones.  How hard can this really be?  It's not that difficult, but it does take daily effort and commitment.  

The first action to take is to get rid of self-pity and complaining.  These two weaknesses are killers to success.  Replace them immediately with thankfulness and praise to God for getting you through the difficult times you are facing.  It might feel unnatural at first, but a little practice will change your thinking. 

The next task is to attack anger.  This enemy to clear thinking will destroy your well-being and your progress in life. It can even endanger your safety or that of others.  It has to go!  So when it appears, practice calming down.  Let it go with deep breaths and thoughts that will overcome the bitterness or frustration that has lead you over the years to having a temper.

As you modify your behavior to attain your goals you will experience less and less anger and frustration.  However, you won't completely change until you forgive everyone you've been angry with including yourself.  Forgiveness is not for the person you forgive, it's for your well-being to get past the bitterness it causes.    

Now, maybe you have a calm temper but you feel nervous and anxious much of the time.  You have control over these emotions and when you exert it, you will also eliminate the FEAR that causes them.  

By overcoming these obstacles to your success in life you will become free to enjoy your life and accomplish things you never believed possible. 

Fear won't disappear from your life, but you don't have to embrace it.  Instead of claiming it as your own, rebuke it with higher thoughts, words and actions.  This is where all the thoughts from Philippians 4:8 will work together in you for strength, power, and great ability.  Look it up and see for yourself.

Margaret Lukasik