Author’s Note: The title of this devotion has been used in a myriad of ways to introduce a multitude of writings. The following devotional is simply a compilation of my own thoughts on the topic.
Ctrl (control)
We cannot control our circumstances. We cannot control every situation we encounter. We cannot control the actions of others. But we can control both our own actions and our reactions. We can control our thoughts, from which our actions and reactions find their root.
Psalm 1:1-2 Blessed is the one who does not walk in step with the wicked or stand in the way that sinners take or sit in the company of mockers, but whose delight is in the law of the LORD, and who meditates on his law day and night.
Psalm 15:2-5 The one whose walk is blameless, who does what is righteous, who speaks the truth from their heart; whose tongue utters no slander, who does no wrong to a neighbor, and casts no slur on others; who despises a vile person but honors those who fear the LORD; who keeps an oath even when it hurts, and does not change their mind; who lends money to the poor without interest; who does not accept a bribe against the innocent. Whoever does these things will never be shaken.
Colossians 3:1-2 Since, then, you have been raised with Christ, set your hearts on things above, where Christ is, seated at the right hand of God. Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things.
Alt (alter / alternate)
Often the greatest need we have is attitude adjustment. We may say and do the right things; but sometimes grudgingly, out of self-interest, or out of some other misguided motive. There is no more appropriate time than now to stop and alter our attitude.
Psalm 51:10-12 Create in me a pure heart, O God, and renew a steadfast spirit within me. Do not cast me from your presence or take your Holy Spirit from me. Restore to me the joy of your salvation and grant me a willing spirit, to sustain me.
Psalm 139:23-24 Search me, God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts. See if there is any offensive way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting.
Del (delete)
Each one of us can think of numerous things we would like to delete from our lives: bad habits, over-eating, lack of exercise, those who use foul language – the list could go on ad nauseum. However, remember we are responsible for our own lives; and as Christians we are called upon to be an example of Christ-like behavior. One of the first steps in Christian living we could make immediately should be to delete negativity from our lives in all its various forms. Set your focus on things that are positive and lead to positive thoughts and positive actions.
Philippians 4:8-9 Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things. Whatever you have learned or received or heard from me, or seen in me—put it into practice. And the God of peace will be with you.
Colossians 3:12-15 Therefore, as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience. Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you. And over all these virtues put on love, which binds them all together in perfect unity. Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace. And be thankful.
Gracious Heavenly Father,
Here in our modern world we so often use Ctrl-Alt-Del as a means of rebooting our earthly computers and yet how sad that we seldom take time to Ctrl-Alt-Del (i.e., reboot) our own lives when we stray from the pathway of Christ’s example. Forgive our failings and guide us to walk in accordance with your will and plan for our lives. May we be the example of Christ the world so desperately needs to see.
In the name of Jesus Christ, our Lord and Savior, Amen.
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