In last week’s blog post, we introduced the topic of negative thoughts that control your mind, your life, and even your marriage and discussed one method of defeating them: Quoting Scripture.
Decades ago I learned and practiced the ACTS method of praying: Give God your Adoration and praise. Confess your sins. Thank Him. And make your Supplications or requests. Done! Somehow it escaped me that I was doing all the talking and none of the listening. I now believe that God has some things to say to me in prayer. Sometimes He reminds me of a verse of Scripture. Sometimes He gives me a mental image or reminds me of the words to a Christian song. Or sometimes it is a gentle peace. BUT I have to be quiet enough and still enough to listen. Listening for God’s voice will be critical to the success of the second solution for eliminating negative thoughts: Talking to God about them and listening for His answer.
Negative thoughts are the result of Satan’s lies that we have believed and allow to play in our heads like a recording on an eternal loop. Why do we entertain such thoughts? Why do we believe the lies? Often they are tied to deep-seated pain. That lingering pain and the barrage of negative thoughts can have a devastating effect on our marriage.
What would an expectant conversation with God sound like?
Tell Him about your negative thought and ask Him if it’s true:
“God, I feel unlovable. Is that true?”
“Father, I feel so alone. Is it true that I am alone?”
“Lord, how do You see me?”
“Jesus, what would you do if I gave you the pain I’m feeling?”
Wait for His answer. Sometimes God answers quickly. Sometimes you have to continue asking over a period of time. Don’t give up.
God will answer the prayers of your heart in the way you can hear His answer best. When He answers, you will know His truth at a deep heart level and no one will be able to snatch that truth from you. God’s answer will always be consistent with Scripture.
John 8:32 tells us, Then you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.” When you deeply know God’s truth—not just in your head, but in your heart—you will be free of the negative thoughts that keep you in bondage and hinder your relationship with God and everyone around you—especially your spouse.
This post was first published on The Marriage Dance blog on April 7, 2016.
