Ever have one of those days, when you just keep thinking about a problem over and over? Not only are you thinking about it continuously, but you begin to talk about it, too!  By this point, you have a vicious cycle taking place. It's the whole concept of "what goes in is what comes out".

You are now being consumed. What? Consumed? Yes, you are being consumed by negative thoughts, problems, worries, and fears. This is no good!

consume = to absorb or use up all of the attention or energy of someone

Don't feel bad about it, It can happen to anyone at anytime.  All those negative thoughts and words begin to consume a person.  They absorb your time and energy, can really stress you out, damage your relationships, make you sick, and make your life miserable... if you let them.

I would think if you want to be consumed by something, you would at least want to be consumed by something pleasant, right?

Yikes! How can I fix this?

It's as easy as this 4-Step Plan:

1- Read God's Word
Whatever you are dealing with, read about it in God's Word (the Bible).  Find at least one verse in the Bible that is talking about what you are dealing with so you can know or be reminded about what God has to say about it.

2- Write it down
Write the Bible verse down on paper. Another good idea is to post this verse around your house, your car, your workplace, etc.  Place it anywhere you will see it, and be reminded of what God says about your situation. (I also like to add verses to my notes on my phone).

3- Speak God's Word
Say it out loud. Remember what I said earlier? What goes in is what goes out.  When you pray, pray God's Word.  In Hebrews 4:12 in the Bible, God says this: "For the Word of God is alive and powerful. It is sharper than the sharpest two-edged sword, cutting between soul and spirit, between joint and marrow. It exposes our innermost thoughts and desires."  WOW - God's Word is powerful!

4- Repeat!
Repeat steps 1-4 daily. The results will be awesome!

In this life, there will always be times of problems, worries, and fears. The good news is that God is with you, and He will get you through those times.  When you fill your mind with God's Word, you are changing the way you think. Fill your mind with what He has to say... His thoughts for you. Remember, God is for you, and wants you to live a blessed life. Be consumed with His love and thoughts for you. Let Him fill you with His peace. Ask God for help, and trust Him to help you! I know He will do it!

"Don’t copy the behavior and customs of this world, but let God transform you into a new person by changing the way you think. Then you will learn to know God’s will for you, which is good and pleasing and perfect" Romans 12:2