When Your Thoughts and Emotions Become Harmful, Renew Your Mind.

Almost 2000 years ago, scripture revealed how we can become a new person by altering our way of thinking. Romans 12:2 Don’t copy the behavior and customs of this world, but let God transform you into a new person by changing the way you think. Then you will learn to know God’s will for you, which is good and pleasing and perfect.

During Paul's time in Corinth, as he prepared for his journey to Jerusalem, Paul wrote this letter to the Roman Church around AD 57. Having completed his mission in the east, he intended to travel to Rome on his route to Spain, after fist bringing a collection for the poor Christians in Jerusalem. The Roman Church comprised primarily Jewish but also included many Gentiles. This epistle stands out from Paul's other letters, as it serves more as a declaration of his faith. Romans 12:2, Paul cautioned Christians against adopting the selfish and corrupt practices of the world, as many of these practices are not permissible for Christians. Yet, our rejection of worldly ways should be more profound. We must be deeply grounded in values that are embedded in our minds, since it is possible to shun worldly customs while still harboring pride, selfishness, and stubbornness in our thoughts. Only the Holy Spirit can genuinely transform your mind.

During my studies on grief coaching and joy restoration, we had to read "Who Switched Off My Brain?" by Dr. Caroline Leaf. Dr. Leaf, a neuroscientist with numerous other impressive degrees, incorporates biblical scripture into her research. I won't cover everything the book teaches because it's important for you to read it on your own. Essentially, it guides you on how to cleanse your mind of harmful thoughts and emotions. Such toxic thoughts can adversely affect our mental well-being and behavior. Negative thinking leads to stress, which can place a significant burden on your body's systems, resulting in not just mental and emotional problems, but physical ones too.

Take the time and reflect on an event that was profoundly distressing for you. For me, it was the passing of my husband. My heart was not only broken, it was shattered. I developed fears of things I had never feared before. I became anxious, paranoid, and completely overwhelmed with stress. My mind was constantly replaying negative thoughts. I would lie in bed with a racing heart; for some reason, I couldn't swallow, which would trigger a panic attack. My insomnia was intensified. The following day, I would feel extremely fatigued, lethargic, and drained. I had a constant headache with ringing in my ears —like a phone that only receives spam calls. I began to worry about worrying.  I genuinely felt like I was on the verge of losing my mind. My negative emotions were going to kill me. I should have charged them rent for occupying so much space in my head! I mean, if they were going to be the end of me, they could at least help cover my funeral expenses.

If any of this resonates with you, I recommend starting with "Who Switched Off My Brain." The good news is that we can control our thoughts. The Bible often encourages us not to worry, fear, or feel anxious, providing excellent guidance for our mental health. Alongside Dr. Leaf's expert techniques, I believe you'll be on the path to a healthy mind, body, and spirit.

Prayer:

Dear Heavenly Father, You remind us not worry about tomorrow, as it will bring its own worries, and life is far greater than our worries. You encourage us to release our anxieties to You and not to be afraid, for You are ever-present with us. Help us to trust in these truths and assist us in transforming our minds with Your guidance. We pray this in Jesus' name. Amen!