Last time, we looked at an amazing skill that God has equipped our brains with. It is called metacognition, and it essentially allows us to control our thoughts instead of being controlled by them. When this natural ability is paired with the supernatural gift of the Holy Ghost, it works like a superpower—to turn our unhealthy thoughts into healthy ones … and, ultimately, offerings to God.
The Apostle Paul alluded to this when he said, “take captive every thought to make it obedient to Christ.” (2 Corinthians 10:5 BSB)
This is particularly helpful when we feel bombarded and overwhelmed by thoughts of fear, doubt, anxiety, insecurity, and OLD LIES. Thoughts that seem to crowd our vision and even make it difficult to recognize and accept what is TRUTH. Metacognition allows us to think about our thoughts, recognize when a particular thought is helpful or harmful; choose whether to engage with or dismiss a thought; and then redirect our mental focus intentionally to align with truth.
“God has designed your brain with neuroplasticity—the ability to rewire itself based on what you focus on. Every time we stop and redirect an unhelpful loop thought, we weaken the old neural pathways that reinforce negativity and strengthen new ones rooted in truth.” — Jo Hargreaves, The Faith Filled Therapist
Fact is: not every thought that enters our mind is fact, nor does it reflect truth, nor does it deserve the airtime we give it. We are not our thoughts—we are the thinker of them. We have the ability in our brains—and through the power of the Holy Ghost—to challenge every lie and toxic thought that presents itself to our minds and to take immediate action. “Casting down imaginations, and every high thing that exalteth itself against the knowledge of God, and bringing into captivity every thought to the obedience of Christ.” (2 Corinthians 10:5 KJV)
This is how we are able to join forces with the Holy Ghost—the natural working with the supernatural—to confront the enemy and respond with wisdom rather than react with negativity. Over time, positive God-thoughts become our default, as this process actually “rewires the brain, making it easier to align our thinking with God’s truth.” Suddenly, we find ourselves voicing our trust in God and corking our whine 😉 … turning our complaint into a gift.
Whining and complaining comes naturally, but the TRUTH is:
- God is not obligated to fulfill all our expectations, and neither is our family nor our friends.
- God remains faithful, and He is always present. He hears, He knows, He cares, and He is able. “God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble.” (Psalm 46:1 KJV)
- Beyond that, it’s up to us to look for (new) reasons to be grateful and to use the power God gave us to find new ways to thrive. This doesn’t start in our situation—it starts in our minds. It doesn’t require a change in our circumstances as much as a rewire of our THOUGHTS.
“Finally, brethren,
whatsoever things are true,
whatsoever things are honest,
whatsoever things are just,
whatsoever things are pure,
whatsoever things are lovely,
whatsoever things are of good report;
if there be any virtue,
and if there be any praise,
think[about thinking] on these things.
And the peace of God [that peace which reassures the heart, that peace] which transcends all understanding, [that peace which] stands guard over your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus [is yours].”
(Philippians 4:8-7 KJV + AMP)
Cutting ourselves off from communication is not the answer. Isolation will not make us feel better—but neither will continual venting. We must create NEW furrows to bloom in. That may mean breaking out of our bubble of loneliness, wrestling our thoughts, renewing our minds, and allowing ourselves to flow in new directions. Outward. Becoming a SOURCE of faith and light instead of projecting darkness and doubt.
“This isn’t just a spiritual concept—it’s a biological reality. We have been designed by God to renew our minds.” It’s up to us.
“Be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God.” (Romans 12:2 KJV)
We CAN do this! We CAN, and we MUST, if we want to be “a fruitful bough” … bearing PEACE and JOY to a world that desperately needs it. We will explore ways to renew our minds in a future post. Stay tuned!
But in the meantime …
Let THIS MIND be in YOU: “Behold, God is my salvation; I WILL trust, and not be afraid: FOR (in FACT!) the LORD JEHOVAH IS my strength and my song …” (Isaiah 12:2 KJV)
