Responses (4)
We control our actions by changing our way of thinking. Most of us today are plagued with negative feelings about ourselves. Such factors as family upbringing, exposure to the pressures of life, or being victims of racial or ethnic hatred may have contributed to our actions. Our thinking ability enables us to do more than simply follow a set of detailed rules. Many persons have not used their minds for much more than the essentials of daily living, it is necessary that they learn to train, develop and guard this thinking ability. Negative thinking is easy but we need to train our mind to think positive. I had to train my mind to think positive and it was a struggle, because of painful life experiences. I read a book called "Positive Thinking" I tried the exercise set out in the book but i could not do it on my own. I needed help because it was more than trying to think positive. I needed to make my mind over and it was only when i agreed to a bible study and learned the practical wisdom in God's word it became easier. I now have the practical directions to control my actions. You can too. The scripture at Proverb 3:21,22 “Safeguard practical wisdom and thinking ability, and they will prove to be life to your soul.”—Prov. 3:21, 22
For more information on this subject and others, please go to jw.org "Online Library." Also for free downloads, publications or read online.
We human beings have a lot of freedom to act. We have free will, we have an intellect and we are able to act. However, there can be limitations due to circumstances. Suppose, you are in prison, then your freedom to act is limited to the action in the prison. What got you into prison is your past actions. The law of Karma decides the present circumstances. Nothing happens by chance or luck. Therefore, our past actions have led to where we are today and our present actions will decide our future destiny. We have complete free will over our present actions but we do not have control on our past actions and our present circumstances.