By Michael Smith.
I am not one to spend a lot of time researching or listening to neuroscientist, but I recently watched a video by Caroline Leaf that was fascinating. Dr. Leaf has spent 30 years researching the brain and gives a great explanation about the way our brains are wired. The part that really caught my attention was this, depression and anxiety rewire the way one thinks. However, one can rewire a negative thinking mind.
One of my favorite verses is Romans 12:2 “Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will (NIV).” We can frustrate ourselves trying to determine God’s will for our lives, but let me assure you that it is not God’s will for your mind to be a constant replay of self-doubt, negativity, or past mistakes. Here is what you should be thinking: “Finally, brothers and sisters, 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 NIV).”
Science is telling us that negative thinking rewires the brain to think negative thoughts that are not true, but the good news is that science also tells us that the brain can be rewired. That truth is right out of the Bible! You can rewire your brain (renew your mind) to believe the truth about God’s word. Challenge the lies that are in your mind and remind them of who you are in Christ. This takes practice, committment, and a work of the Holy Spirit, but the result is a new way of thinking.
Michael is a church planter and lead pastor of Journey Church Siloam Springs. He is married to Jennifer and they have three boys, Jacob, Marcus, and Lucas.