With Independence Day just around the corner, I believe it is an appropriate time to ponder what true, Biblical freedom looks like and to strive toward it.
God intricately created our bodies and gave us a wonderful and powerful organ, the brain, that is responsible for many bodily functions. Interestingly enough, the mind (both the physical brain and the thoughts generated) determines a person's direction: the brain sends signals to the body that control movement, and repeated thoughts can influence choices.
Life and death are in the power of the tongue ( Proverbs 18:21), but it is in the mind where thoughts form and become the words we speak, which direct our behaviors and create patterns that can either nurture or hinder our growth.
"For as a man thinks in his heart, so is he" - Proverbs 23:7
" Limited thinking " can take several forms including self-criticism, "All or nothing" thinking, or catastrophizing, which is assuming the worst-case scenario constantly. This manner of thinking contributes to emotional and mental deterioration and manifests as anxiety, depression, and self-doubt.
It is crucial that we combat the lies of fear with the truth of God's word!
" We demolish arguments and every pretension that sets itself up against the knowledge of God, and we take captive every thought to make it obedient to Christ."- 2 Corinthians10:5
In addition to applying Biblical truth to your thought life, consider looking at yourself and your circumstances with sober judgment: celebrate your progress regardless of how small and know we are all works in progress, remember that God will be there with you in any storm you face, and know that God can and will empower your to do all He has called you to do. Do not underestimate what you can do, for all things are possible with Him (Matthew 19:26).
God promises to keep you in perfect peace ( Isaiah 26:3 ), but the prerequisite is to maintain focus on Him and His Word.
" 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
Written by Ashley R. (Flourishing Faith Ministries - Editor)