David longed for words and meditations that were acceptable to God — words both inward and outward that reflected a heart conformed to the character of God.
Solomon notes that the inward thoughts of a man reveal the very character of a man — it is not what he does but what he thinks that reveals what he is.
Paul instructs that the transformation of one’s life begins with the transformation of one’s mind.
And these of course all echo the words of Christ, that every individual speaks only from what fills the thoughts and desires of his heart.
What we think about is essential because it both reveals the condition of our souls and also provides the impetus for our words and actions.
And that is why the words of Jeremy Taylor are significant. What shall we think on?
Fix my thoughts, my hopes, and my desires, upon heaven and heavenly things; teach me to despise the world, to repent me deeply for my sins; give me holy purposes of amendment, and [spiritual] strength and assistances to perform faithfully whatsoever I shall intend piously. Enrich my understanding with an eternal treasure of Divine Truths, that I may know thy will: and thou, who workest in us to will and to do of Thy good pleasure, teach me to obey all Thy commandments, to believe all Thy revelations, and make me partaker of all Thy gracious promises. [HT: CQOD]
Words of Grace 