Thinking Well in a Negative World

Thinking Well in a Negative World

Have you ever stopped to ask yourself the question: What do I spend my time thinking about? Recently I’ve done some honest self-examination and realize improvement is needed.  As I embrace this new year, my goal is simple yet challenging – Thinking Well in a Negative World. 

We live in an information-saturated culture where conflict and confusion seem to be the norm.  Disturbing headlines and competing voices surround us daily.  In this environment, how do I guard my mind and learn to think well?  

The Lord has gently directed me to Philippians 4:8, which is my verse for 2026. 

Finally, my brothers and sisters, always think about what is true. Think about what is noble, right and pure. Think about what is lovely and worthy of respect.  If anything is excellent or worthy of praise, think about those kinds of things.  Philippians 4:8

Coming Alongside the Hurting

For many years, I have worked and volunteered with trauma victims.  My background in social work has allowed me to support survivors of sexual assault, crime, and domestic abuse.  I am deeply grateful for what I have learned from these brave and broken individuals. My heart aches for those who have endured such profound suffering. 

Yet, as this new year begins, I realize that I can no longer serve in this capacity – at least not in the same way.  I’m not sure whether I’m tired, burned out, or simply feeling the effects of age.  But what I do know is this: I desperately need to dwell on what is good and lean into practices that are truly life-giving for my own soul.

Darkness Surrounds Us

Let’s be honest – the world can feel very dark.  We are constantly exposed to  information that is unsettling and heavy.  I know many people who avoid the news altogether because it leads them down a path of despair and confusion. 

Volumes of information is coming at us all at once.  There are countless voices, all vying for our attention, each speaking with passion and authority.  They are persuasive, loud, and often relentless.

Thinking Well in a Negative World

So, what thoughts fill your mind on a regular basis? 

Personally, I need to evaluate the flow of information I consume. I need to ask myself some poignant questions. Is this beneficial? Is it trustworthy? Is it edifying? If not, why do I continue to listen?  Why do I so easily embrace negativity and falsehood?  

If I don’t intentionally remember the good, beautiful, pure, and right things of God, I will quickly be pulled into a vacuum of despair and anger. 

The Solution

Thankfully, there is a solution, and it is found in Philippians 4:8.  God invites us to actively choose what we dwell upon.  Renewing our minds doesn’t happen by accident. It is a daily, intentional practice rooted in His truth.  

May 2026 be a year when to commit ourselves to renewing our minds and learning how to think well.

Prayer

O Lord, Thinking Well in a Negative World is a constant battle.  Give me wisdom to discern who and what I should listen to.  May Your Word –  and especially Philippians 4:8 –  guide and direct my thoughts.  Amen.

Questions to Consider

1. Can you identify with the desire to think well?  Why or why not?
2. What safeguards do you use to manage the flow of information into your life?
3. Which phrase in Philippians 4:8 resonates most with you right now?