Maybe you’ve seen the sign: Don’t even think about parking here.
I’ve seen it in garages and alleys and car lots everywhere, even Rio de Janeiro. The person behind this sign was nothing short of a genius, demonstrating a profound understanding of how our thoughts and behaviors so often coincide.
That’s because if you think of parking in this no-parking zone, and you think about it long enough, there’s an increased chance you’ll talk yourself into it:
“Surely this is meant for others, not me. Who’s rule is this anyway, and who made them the boss? I really need to park here. Besides, I’m not hurting anyone. Let them try to stop me; I’ll park where I want.”
Of course, this line of reasoning never ends well. Your vehicle gets towed and you get to spend a small fortune and a big part of your afternoon getting it back.
As it turns out, you’re far better off not not even thinking about it.
A couple of weeks ago I posted about the to-don’t list — things you decide you’ll not do today.
Today I’m suggesting you develop a do-not-even-think-about-it list — those memories and speculations and whims and wishes that have no place in your thought life, and no business being further entertained.
Which items might make your list?
• Something hurtful someone said.
• A past event that’s better forgotten.
• A foolish notion you’re reluctant to abandon.
• The temptation to say or do anything outside the will of God.
• The desire to disapprove and condescend to others.
• Regrets, resentments, and all their reminders.
• Plus any of the many could-have-beens that frequently populate our lives.
We could easily spend our days nurturing thoughts and ideas that ultimately guide us nowhere good.
Or we can adapt the advice of one ever-so-brilliant sign-maker: Don’t even think about parking your thoughts in this location.
Let us therefore take every thought captive and make it obedient to Christ (1 Corinthians 10:5) … and let the Spirit of God renew our thoughts and attitudes (Ephesians 4:23) … that we may be transformed by the renewal of our minds. (Romans 12:2)
