The problem with the mind is when you try to not think of something you inevitably think of it. Try this:

Do not think of the colour red.

So what entered your mind? The very thing that you were told not to. Instead, of thinking about not doing something bad, you just need to do good. Put your mind on that which pleases God and you will sin less. Because you cannot sin and not sin at the same time, you will do one or the other. Scripture says that ‘whatever is not of faith is sin’. So just do the works of faith. That is all that is asked of you.

Sometimes the reason why people can’t stop sinning is because they are thinking about not sinning and restraining themselves. God knows full well that this is not the way. Instead, 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 (Philippians 4:8).