Episode 2277: The Power of Good Thoughts - Nightly Episode

“O my God, at the end of this day I thank You most heartily for all the graces I have received from You. I am sorry that I have not made better use of them. I am sorry for all the sins I have committed against You. Forgive me, O my God, and graciously protect me this night. Blessed Virgin Mary, my dear heavenly mother, take me under your protection. St. Joseph, my dear Guardian Angel, and all you saints in heaven, pray for me. Sweet Jesus, have pity on all poor sinners, and save them from hell. Have mercy on the suffering souls in purgatory. Amen”
The Power of Good Thoughts
In this episode, we will reflect on the importance of guarding our minds against negative thoughts, the value of enduring small sufferings to prepare for greater trials, and the awe-inspiring power of God as the creator of the universe. Through the insights of St. Thomas More, Thomas à Kempis, and the beautiful words of Psalm 147, we will uncover practical and spiritual guidance to strengthen our faith and hope.
St. Thomas More
"Occupy your mind with good thoughts, or the enemy will fill them with bad ones."
St. Thomas More’s advice highlights the importance of mental vigilance. Our thoughts shape our actions and our spiritual health. By filling our minds with good, wholesome, and godly thoughts, we guard against the enemy's attempts to lead us astray with negativity and sin. This reflection encourages us to cultivate a habit of positive thinking rooted in our faith, constantly directing our minds towards what is true, honorable, and pure (Philippians 4:8).
Thomas à Kempis:
"Learn, at present, to suffer in the little things, that then you may be delivered from more painful sufferings. Try first here what you can endure hereafter. If you can now endure so little, how will you be able to bear eternal torments? If a little suffering now makes you so touchy, what will hell-fire do hereafter? Surely you cannot have both joys - your pleasure in this world and afterward to reign with Christ."
Thomas à Kempis offers a sobering yet motivating perspective on suffering. By learning to endure small sufferings now, we prepare ourselves to face greater challenges with fortitude. This practice not only strengthens our character but also purifies our soul, detaching us from earthly pleasures and aligning us more closely with Christ's own sufferings. This reflection calls us to embrace our daily trials with patience and trust in God’s greater plan for our eternal joy.
Psalm 147:4:
"He determines the number of the stars, He gives to all of them their names."
Psalm 147:4 reminds us of God’s omnipotence and intimate care for His creation. The God who names the stars and knows their number is the same God who watches over us with infinite love and attention. This passage invites us to marvel at the vastness of God’s power and His personal care for each of us, fostering a deep sense of trust and wonder in our hearts. In the context of our struggles and mental battles, this verse reassures us that we are not alone; our Creator is always with us, guiding and supporting us.
Conclusion:
As we conclude today's episode, let us take to heart the wisdom of St. Thomas More and Thomas à Kempis. By occupying our minds with good thoughts, we protect ourselves from the enemy's deceptions and cultivate a mindset of virtue. By learning to endure small sufferings with patience, we prepare ourselves for greater trials and align our lives more closely with Christ’s sacrifice. Finally, let us find comfort and inspiration in Psalm 147, knowing that the same God who names the stars is intimately involved in our lives, guiding us towards eternal joy. Thank you for joining us on this journey of faith and reflection. Until next time, may you be blessed with a mind filled with goodness, a heart ready to endure, and a spirit that trusts in the infinite love of our Creator.