Your Amazing Brain
Neuroplasticity is the amazing ability God gave our brain to rewire itself. It is this rewiring that plays a key role in mental and emotional wellness. The good news is that this rewiring is possible even into our nineties. The interesting thing is that even though the word neuroplasticity wasn’t used until 1948, the Bible talks about it in 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. (NLT; emphasis added)
Looks like God was ahead of science and scripture offers hope that we can change the way we think.
Two-Step Tango
Change starts with awareness, so take a moment to consider the automatic beliefs that you might have. What false assumptions or thoughts of judgement towards yourself or others pop into your mind? When these thoughts occur, simply use these two steps to transform your mind. First, capture the negative thoughts, and second, shift or reframe to a positive thought.
This two-step approach is supported by scripture. Second Corinthians 10:5 states:
We destroy arguments and every lofty opinion raised against the knowledge of God, and take every thought captive to obey Christ. (ESV)
Philippians 4:8 instructs on what to replace these thoughts with:
Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things. (ESV)
Try It
So the next time you find your mind entertaining negative thoughts, try the two-step approach outlined in the Bible and notice the transformation that occurs. We are promised peace, joy, and contentment. I’d say that is a great alternative to what the world offers!
Next month I’ll share about physical wellness, but this builds upon the practices of spiritual wellness and emotional wellness so be sure to develop both of these as part of your self-care.
Featured photo by Remi Turcotte on Unsplash; In-text photo by Andrea Piacquadio on Pexels
Follower of One has a Marketplace Mission Trip Workbook
Follower of One’s founder and lead instigator, Mike Henry, Sr., has penned a book! The Marketplace Mission Trip book is a six-week workbook intended to show others how to be a missionary on their job.
Like any mission trip, you shouldn’t take the marketplace mission trip on your own. This workbook is designed for group presentation. Share with your coworkers, small group, or church and feel ready to make a difference in the lives of others with the key ideas discussed in the Marketplace Mission Trip workbook. You can find the book here.
