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What does the Bible say about thoughts?

Bible Topic · WEB

The Bible teaches that our thoughts matter deeply, revealing the direction of the heart and needing continual renewal by God’s grace. Romans 8:5-6 contrasts the mind set on the flesh with the mind set on the Spirit, which brings life and peace. Believers are called to take thoughts captive to obey Christ (2 Corinthians 10:5), to be transformed by the renewing of their minds (Romans 12:2), and to dwell on what is true, honorable, pure, and worthy of praise (Philippians 4:8). God’s Word searches and judges the thoughts and intentions of the heart (Hebrews 4:12), while Isaiah 26:3 promises peace to those whose minds are steadfastly fixed on him.

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Rankings: OpenBible.info Topical Bible (CC BY) · Scripture: World English Bible

  • Romans 8:5-6

    [5] For those who live according to the flesh set their minds on the things of the flesh, but those who live according to the Spirit, the things of the Spirit. [6] For the mind of the flesh is death, but the mind of the Spirit is life and peace;

  • Philippians 4:8

    Finally, brothers, whatever things are true, whatever things are honorable, whatever things are just, whatever things are pure, whatever things are lovely, whatever things are of good report; if there is any virtue, and if there is any praise, think about these things.

  • 2 Corinthians 10:5

    throwing down imaginations and every high thing that is exalted against the knowledge of God, and bringing every thought into captivity to the obedience of Christ;

  • Romans 12:2

    Don't be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, so that you may prove what is the good, well-pleasing, and perfect will of God.

  • Hebrews 4:12

    For the word of God is living, and active, and sharper than any two-edged sword, and piercing even to the dividing of soul and spirit, of both joints and marrow, and is able to discern the thoughts and intentions of the heart.

  • Isaiah 26:3

    You will keep [him] in perfect peace, [whose] mind [is] stayed [on you]; because he trusts in you.

  • Proverbs 4:23

    Keep your heart with all diligence, For out of it is the wellspring of life.

  • Psalms 19:14

    Let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart Be acceptable in your sight, Yahweh, my rock, and my redeemer.

  • Psalms 139:17

    How precious to me are your thoughts, God! How vast is the sum of them!

  • Romans 12:1-2

    [1] Therefore I urge you, brothers, by the mercies of God, to present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable to God, which is your spiritual service. [2] Don't be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, so that you may prove what is the good, well-pleasing, and perfect will of God.

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