Think Again!

Chapter 13: The Practice of Forging: Getting the RawMaterial • 117

• I can’t lose weight. • I can’t control my passions.

Your emotions are like a thermometer; they register there is an underlying issue that needs attention. If you take your temperature and spike a fever, it shows that something is wrong in your body. Once you have done the work to take your temperature ( Gather Subjectively ), leave that list behind and shift your mind to Focus Objectively . Focus Objectively Focus Objectively is the opportunity to shift your brain into a different mode, to focus your mind toward what is objectively true. This is the part when you step back from your feelings and review the truths that apply to your situation. It is not time to interrogate or cross-examine your feelings (that will come later). This is when you list the truths about your situation, noting the facts like a dispassionate observer. Focus Objectively is where you draw from the fruit of past Bible study, memorization, and meditation. The Spirit will lead you into truth as you have invested in His Word. Affirming Biblical Truth Make a list of affirmations that declare the truth regardless of your feelings. While there are several hundred affirmations that could be drawn from godly wisdom (see Appendix 3, Who Am I ), the following are some of the particularly helpful truths in my battles: • His grace is sufficient in my weakness (2 Cor. 12.9). • If I seek the Kingdom first, everything I need will be provided (Matt. 6.33).