[HarleyD]

We exercise several choices here. What to do with that thought, any thought - whether to pursue or drop it. And we choose what habits we practice and develop. We choose where we focus our attention

We have these thoughts whether we want them or not. The only thing we may choose to do is dwell on the sinful thoughts that our nature brings to our attention or ask God that He forgive us and leads us from temptation.

[D-fendr]

I agree with your reply, and "We have these thoughts whether we want them or not." is true of course - to some degree.

But if you think about it, our mind and our thoughts are not completely out of our control. We can notice, for example, that the negative thoughts come more when we are around certain places or people or when we read some types of literature or listen to some kinds of music. Or we may notice they come less when we are focused on God, or they come less the more we pray.

This may be part of why Paul exhorted us to pray without ceasing.

thanks for your reply.