22 But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, 23 gentleness, self-control; against such things there is no law. Galatians 5:22-23 ESV
Over the past several years, I have made a small, but significant change in how I address students when a behavior issue pops up. In the past, I have told/reminded the child what not to do: "Don't hit Tommy." "Don't run in the hall." "Don't interrupt the teacher." Each time I addressed a child in this manner the focus was on the negative behavior.
I don't remember where I read it years ago, but a simple change brings the focus to the positive. "Remember to keep your hands to yourself." "Please walk in the hall." "You need to raise your hand when your teacher is talking." Now the correct behavior is called to the child's mind.
This morning, as I was discussing the upcoming workday with God, He impressed on me that my prayer life should mirror this approach. "Please help me to not (insert sin here)" can become "Please help me (insert Fruit of the Spirit here)".
Help me control my temper- negative focus. Help me be gentle today- positive focus. Protect my mind from lust today- negative focus. Allow only pure thought today- positive focus. Keep me from worrying today- negative. Guard my mind with Your peace- positive focus.
In addition to placing the focus on prayer, this type of positive-focused prayer also forces a Believer to recall scripture. Galatians 5:22-23 and Philippians 4:8 are two scripture that, when prayed, cover a multitude of attitudes and thought we should put into play each day.
Pray the positive.
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