Proverbs 23:7, "For as [a man] thinketh in his heart, so is he." That is very clear. What thoughts do you have in your heart? What are your dwelling on? What things are occupying your mind? Is it Christ in you, the hope of glory, or is it other things that are taking place?
One of the great challenges in life is for God to renew our mind and to think only on things that are true. The Bible encourages us to be careful what we spend a lot of time thinking about.
Philippians 4:8 (NIV)
Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things.
When you have a thought, you should ask the following: Is it true? Is it pure? Is it lovely? Does it give praise and honor to God?
If the thought does not pass the above test, it should not be allowed to captivate a Christian's mind. While this is hard to do, it can be done as we read the Word, pray and take our struggles to God. Of course, this does not mean that we ignore constructive criticism or correction. But we should always see it for what it is and not blow it up in our minds. You choose what you believe about yourself and others.
Even people who love us can say things that hurt and speak out of frustration. Sometimes it may be mixed with truth or lies. You have to always ask God to help you know how to take the good (the truth) and leave the bad (the lie).
