Unpacking Proverbs 23:7: Insights and Guidance From Brother Chuck

As a Man Thinks Himself to Be, So He Becomes

Having retired and being closer to life's conclusion than its commencement, I have learned that a person's beliefs about themselves is instrumental in determining the person one ultimately becomes. My former pastor, who serves as my mentor, encouraged me to adopt Proverbs 23:7a as a catalyst to begin seeing myself as a pastor even before I entered the ministry. Proverbs 23:7a says: "For as he thinks in his heart, so is he." The wisdom found in this Proverb helped me to understand the power of my thoughts and how it shapes one's character and destiny. This passage inspired me to begin seeing myself as a missionary even before I became one.

Your Mindset Determines Your Life's Direction

Our thoughts influence our words, actions, and ultimately our character. If we fill our minds with positive, uplifting, and God-honoring thoughts, our words and actions will reflect that. On the other hand, if our thoughts are negative, selfish, or ungodly, our words and actions will also reflect that. Proverbs 23:7 means that our thoughts have a direct impact on our character and ultimately our destiny. When we fill our minds with wisdom and understanding, it not only benefits us intellectually but also spiritually and emotionally. When we focus on positive, uplifting, and Godly thoughts, it shapes our character in a positive way. It helps us to make better decisions, treat others with kindness and love, and ultimately live a life that is pleasing to God.

Your Inner Thoughts Create Your Outer World

The Little Engine That Could

Do you remember the children's story, "The Little Engine That Could"? The story is about a small blue engine who helps a stranded train full of toys and food make it over a mountain. This brave little engine faces challenges and discovers the strength of believing in itself. The story teaches kids the value of thinking right, determination, perseverance, a positive attitude and hard work. In the story, the little engine is willing to try and, while repeating the mantra "I think I can, I think I can", overcomes a seemingly impossible task. As it went on the little engine kept bravely puffing faster and faster, "I think I can, I think I can, I think I can". As it neared the top of the grade, which had so discouraged the larger engines, it went more slowly. However, it still kept saying, "I—think—I—can, I—think—I—can". It reached the top by drawing on bravery and then went on down the grade, congratulating itself by saying, "I thought I could, I thought I could".

Just like the little blue engine, I never realized I could be a missionary until I went on my first mission trip. The work of world missions captured my heart. From that moment forward, I embraced the directive of Christ found in Matthew 28:19-20, with 'GO THEREFORE' serving as my primary motivation and guiding principle by reminding me of the urgency and importance of sharing the Good News with others around the world. This command from Jesus compels me to actively seek out opportunities to share the gospel with those around me, whether it's through personal conversations, acts of service, or missions and evangelism efforts. I am constantly reminded that my life should be dedicated to fulfilling this mission. This motivates me to live with intentionality and to prioritize the eternal impact of sharing the gospel in all aspects of my life. This sparked a desire within me to pursue pastoral and cross-cultural training and education, laying the groundwork for my future ministry as a missionary to Belize. It is remarkable to consider that my transformation in thought was initiated by the inspiration of my mentor who encouraged me to reflect on Proverbs 23:7 and begin thinking of myself as a pastor and I became a pastor in Belize.

Cultivate Thoughts That Inspire You!

This little kitty gazes into the mirror and sees a lion staring back. Does he really believe he's a lion? Is he delusional? Nope! He envisions himself as a lion because he admires their strength and bravery. He wants to be just as strong and fearless. He knows that lions don't back down when things get tough; they rise to the occasion, ready to face any challenge in the wild. In his heart, he feels like a mighty lion. "For as he thinks in his heart, so is he" (Proverbs 23:7). When you look in the mirror, who do you see in your heart? Someone strong and brave, or someone timid and afraid? If your goal is to be the king of your own jungle, you've got to first believe you're the king. Your self-perception shapes your life's journey. Take a moment to reflect on your thoughts and make sure they're pushing you toward the person you want to become.

As a Man Thinks Himself to Be, So He Becomes

There's so much more I'd like to write about the profound wisdom and teachings found in Proverbs 23:7. However, I will leave you with this. A person's actions are a reflection of their thoughts. It's your mindset that dictates your journey. So my counsel is this, if you want to be a pastor someday, think of yourself as a pastor today. If you want to be a missionary someday, embrace that identity in the present. In essence, whatever you wish to achieve in the future, perceive yourself in that capacity now. That is what Proverbs 23:7 speaks to me.

Wishing God's best for you,

– Brother Chuck