Do you struggle with a plan for your life? Do you have any guidelines?
Recently, I came across a meme. The title was Six Important Guidelines for Life. It had an image of old man with a white beard pointing his finger to heaven. (He could have easily looked like Moses.) Under the photo the creator of the meme listed the six guidelines.
It might have been a Christian thing since the list mentions God, but it was just something I probably snipped from one of my social media accounts because I thought the list was particularly insightful.
As I began to read the list and think about it, it occurred to me that each of those six guidelines could have come straight from the Bible! The list can serve as a practical guide to emotional, spiritual and relational health, aligning closely with biblical principles and the pursuit of Christlike character.
Let’s take a deeper look at the list, align it with biblical principles and examine the practical applications.
When you are alone, mind your thoughts.
Cultivating mental discipline and guarding against destructive thought patterns can be challenging but are totally doable. Practicing mindfulness and eliminating negative self-talk (don’t even think words that are negative, much less give voice to them).
When a person focuses more on that which is true, noble and praiseworthy, it can help transform the mind, but it won’t be easy. Nothing worth doing or being comes easy.
Scripture verses that speak to this guideline: Philippians 4:8; Romans 12:2; Psalm 1:2.
When you are with friends, mind your thoughts
This guideline emphasizes personal relationships, specifically friendships. It’s important communicate to your friends in a way that honors God. Sarcasm, gossip or criticism of any kind could damage a good friendship. Practice active listening and speak with intention to foster deeper… and healthier connections. Be mindful of how thoughts shape character and actions. Speak with kindness, truth, and wisdom, making certain they are edifying rather than harmful. Gossip, harsh words, or careless remarks can cause division or pain, even unintentionally.
Scripture verses that speak to this guideline: James 1:19, Ephesians 4:29, Proverbs 18:21
When you are angry, mind your temper
Anger is a natural emotion, but can lead to sin. Breathing deep and taking the time to respond with self-control is crucial.
Managing those moments anger is like exercising a muscle that has never been exercised. It might hurt or may cause relational conflict until the process is ingrained. Anger, through rash words or actions flowing out without thought can be sinful.
Identify anger triggers and address the underlying issues. It could be unmet needs or unresolved hurt or something else. Whatever the case, techniques like deep breathing or journaling may help, but it’s pausing to pray and seek God’s perspective that will prevent destructive and perhaps catastrophic outcomes.
Scripture verses that speak to this guideline: Ephesians 4:26-27, Galatians 5:22-23, Proverbs 14:29
When you are with a group, mind your behavior
Actions in a group setting are a testimony of faith.
Walk in humility, respect, and love, and put the needs of others first. It speaks to accountability and the impact of social influence of those around us.
Examine how group dynamics affect your actions so that you can maintain integrity and authenticity. Set boundaries for yourself while during a group event and practice humility which will enhance a positive group environment.
Scripture verses that speak to this guideline: Philippians 2:3-4, Galatians 5:13, Matthew 5:16
When you are in trouble, mind your emotions
Oftentimes, trouble often brings emotional upheaval which then leads to fear, worry, or despair. It can immobilize us. Acknowledge the emotion, but don’t let the emotion control you.
It is necessary develop emotional resilience by trusting in God. Bring your burdens to Him in prayer and you can rest in His promises.
It seems so simple, because it is simple. A peace comes from leaving your worries and burdens with Him.
Scripture verses that speak to this guideline: Philippians 4:6, Isaiah 26:3, Matthew 11:28-30
When God starts blessing you, mind your ego.
Pride and self-sufficiency can pop up when blessings increase. It can sometimes lead to pride if we lose sight of who we are in the grander scheme of things.
Acknowledging God as the source of all blessings is something that must be done to keep a person humble. Focusing the stewardship of the blessings one has and how to use God-given gifts to serve others will reinforce humility and ultimately more dependence on Him. Staying humble ensures that we glorify Him.
Giving thanks for the blessings is crucial to continue to foster a state of humility.
There are apps for your phone or your computer that are helpful in ensuring you foster gratitude. Here they are:
Glorify (It offers daily devotionals, guided prayers, and a gratitude journal to help strengthen your relationship with God.)
Abide (A Christian meditation app that includes guided gratitude meditations, prayers, and scripture-based content.)
Pray.com (Offers prayer plans, Bible stories, and gratitude journaling features to help you focus on the blessings God provides).
Scripture verses that speak to this guideline: Peter 5:6, James 1:17, Proverbs 3:34, Luke 12:48
I’d say the list totally aligns with Biblical principles as it encourages balance across thoughts emotions, behaviors and relationships. The practical applications encourages us to foster spiritual maturity by applying biblical wisdom in our daily life. If there are struggles, we can develop actionable steps to improve ourselves. based on the list that will get us closer to the goal of realizing the guidelines in our lives. Ultimately, having a framework such as these guidelines will help us live out our faith with boldness.
Do you struggle with any of the guidelines listed? Comment below.