As he thinks in his heart, so is he. –Proverbs 23:7 (NKJV)
Have you ever heard of the term “self-fulfilling prophecy?” A self-fulfilling prophecy is simply the truth of today’s Scripture. You become what you think yourself to be. If you think you will fail, you probably will. If you think you will succeed, then most likely you will succeed.
Your mind is powerful. That’s why Paul gives some excellent advice to the Philippian church that is still important for today.
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. Whatever you have learned or received or heard from me, or seen in me – put it into practice. And the God of peace will be with you. –Philippians 4:8-9
I’m afraid too many people’s lives are a negative, self-fulfilling prophecy, when in Christ we can become so much more. This little poem has helped me focus my thoughts on Christ and on the positive side of self-fulfilling prophecy.
If you think you are beaten, you are.
If you think you dare not, you don’t.
If you like to win, but think you can’t,
It’s almost a cinch you won’t.
If you think you will lose, you are lost.
For out in the world we find
Success begins with a fellow’s will;
It’s all in the state of mind.
For many a race is lost
Before even a step is run,
And many a coward fails
Before even his work is begun.
Think big and your deed will grow,
Think small and you will fall behind.
Think that you can and you will-
It’s all in the state of mind.
If you think you are outclassed, you are.
You have got to think high to rise.
You have got to be sure of yourself
Before you win a prize.
Life’s battles don’t always go
To the stronger or faster man.
But sooner or later the man who wins
Is the man who thinks he can.
–Walter D. Wintle
GOING DEEPER:
1. List all of the things we are to think about as found in Philippians 4:8-9.
2. Examine your thought life. How does it compare to the list you found in Philippians?
FURTHER READING:
Philippians 3:17