'...think about these things.'

Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things.

Philippians 4:8

Do you have a time of day when negative thoughts creeps in? I find that the time when I get ready in the mornings is when I am likely to  dwell on thoughts and feelings which aren't very Godly. So for example I will worry about situations I am facing or will dwell on things that have happened in the week which have upset me. A specific example would be worrying about Livia's allergies and how I am going to wean her ready for my return to work. This is the time when I am by myself and my mind is free to wander.

I should explain that I'm by myself because I usually get ready once Livia has gone for an early morning sleep (about 8.30). Chloe is then allowed some tv time so I can get us prepared to go out (and I can shower!). 

Because this is a vulnerable time, I have found that if I choose to fill my mind with good things the day will start off much better. My usual tactic is to listen to sermons which I enjoy doing anyway and find really useful. I love reading but it's something I really value as a leisure activity so I find reading Christian books tough going. Listening to preaches by respected church leaders is much easier for me. The verse from Philippains at the top of the page is one my Mum used to remind me of when I was feeling upset or worried. Replace lies with God's truth!

I really recommend identifying times when you are likely to slip into negative thinking and come up with a plan of defence.