Dr. Phil, the TV Psychologist/Talk Show Host, is well known for a phrase that is parodied quite often. That phrase is a question he asks his guests that goes something like this--"What were you thinking?" It really isn't a question, but rather an indictment of poor judgment on their part. If you are like me, I'm sure you have asked yourself that same question at times. To be honest, we would have to say we weren't thinking.

When it comes to relationships, whether in our marriage, raising children, or at work, what we think about the other person can have a tremendous impact on the health of those relationships. Poor relationships with other people, I believe, are a direct result of wrong thinking. People who enjoy healthy, lasting, successful relationships have one thing in common--their thinking is healthy.

In Philippians 4:8 Paul says, "Finally, brothers, 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." When it comes to relationships, we get into trouble when we stop viewing the other person in light of this scripture. Our human nature tends to believe the worst about others and assume the wrong things. We also tend to form opinions and judgments about others before we have all the facts. This damages relationships and destroys trust. If we want to enjoy healthy relationships, we have to train our thinking. What Paul is challenging us to do is to always believe the best about others. Don't assume the worst. Give people the benefit of the doubt. That is not easy at times. It takes determination and practice, but is well worth the effort it takes because it builds true relationship that lasts and stands the test of time

Chances are today that your relationship with someone will be tested and you will face a choice. You can believe the best about someone, or you can assume the worst. Make the choice beforehand to believe the best. More often than not you won't be disappointed. I would rather believe the best and be wrong than believe the worst and be wrong. Isn't that what we hope others would do for us? Think about it.