In Mark 7:21 evil thoughts are the first deadly sin Jesus said defiles us on the inside. Any outward act of sin is preceded by an inward act of one’s will. When temptation enters the heart, the mind is faced with a choice: either succumb to desire or consider the outcome and reject it. Between each impulse and response lies our ability to choose what is good and right. Slowing down the thought process to develop awareness is key to success but difficult. A default negative response is anchored in habit. Recognize your ability to choose a right response. Do not unconsciously resign to patterns of negative thinking and subsequent behavior. An others-oriented disposition considers what is best and creates a positive outcome for everyone. Jesus showed us that our inward thought process can defile or liberate. By denying self and correctly processing our thoughts, we seek what’s best for others—and ourselves.

KEY QUESTIONS: Are my thoughts possessed by “evil” (self-centered orientation) or is my first consideration toward God and others? When should I slow down the thought process and widen the space between stimulus and response? How might I train myself to react quickly to temptation with the proper response?