The Teachable Woman Podcast
Think on These Things
Reverends Michele Owes and Diana P. Cherry
Introduction:
Welcome to the Teachable Woman Podcast with Rev. Michele Owes and Rev. Diana P. Cherry, where together they deliver impactful lessons designed to help listeners grow as better women and men of God. In this episode, they focus on the theme of "thinking," emphasizing the importance of aligning our thoughts with God's will and taking responsibility for how we think.
Key Highlights:
I. The Power of Thought: Rev. Michele Owes begins by reinforcing the idea that we have the right, responsibility, and reason to think correctly. Our thoughts serve as tools that either loosen or tighten aspects of our lives, and if we allow our thoughts to linger long enough, they manifest into actions.
II. The Will to Choose: Rev. Diana P. Cherry emphasizes that, unlike animals, humans have the unique ability to choose to conform to God’s purpose. With free will, we are responsible for ensuring that our thoughts glorify God, underscoring that our thinking guides our actions.
III. The Heart as the Source of Thought: Rev. Cherry explores the idea that our thoughts flow from the contents of our hearts. The heart, which houses our will, intellect, and emotions, can be a place of both defilement and renewal. Just like a rotten apple looks good on the outside, our inner thoughts can be corrupted, influencing our actions in profound ways.
IV. Guarding the Eye and Ear Gates: Rev. Owes reminds listeners that what we expose ourselves to—through sight and sound—affects our thinking. Whether it’s a movie, music, or other media, our perceptions shape our thoughts, often in ways we don’t realize. She shares personal anecdotes about how seemingly harmless activities can plant negative ideas.
V. The Impact of Lies: Rev. Cherry touches on how repeated exposure to lies can distort our perception of truth. She reflects on current societal and political issues, explaining that our brains can be rewired to accept falsehoods as truth if we hear them enough, warning listeners to be vigilant about what they accept as reality.
VI. Spiritual Battles Begin in the Mind: Thoughts often serve as the battleground for our moral and spiritual conflicts. Both Rev. Cherry and Rev. Owes stress that thinking correctly is essential in winning these battles. Monitoring and controlling our thoughts can lead to spiritual growth, as thoughts ultimately influence words and actions.
VII. Scriptural Guidance for Correct Thinking: To conclude the lesson, Rev. Cherry provides several scriptural references, such as Proverbs 12:5 and Isaiah 14:24, to help listeners align their thinking with God's Word. She urges everyone to commit their works to the Lord so their thoughts can be established, leading to peace and spiritual clarity.
Conclusion:
In closing, the episode reinforces the critical role our thoughts play in shaping who we are and how we interact with the world. Rev. Michele Owes and Rev. Diana P. Cherry encourages listeners to be mindful of their thoughts, guarding their hearts and minds by focusing on what is pure, true, and virtuous, as instructed in Philippians 4:8. Through intentional thought monitoring and aligning with God’s Word, we can lead lives of peace, purpose, and righteousness.
