Thoughts never stop flowing. Some are refreshing and uplifting, but others can make us feel bad, diminished, powerless. Although we don’t control the flow and nature of thoughts coming through our mind, we can decide what to do with them, especially those negative thoughts. Are we going to listen to them, agree with a defeating narrative and fall into a negative or depressed state of mind? or let them go and focus on more positive things?
Personally, during years, I used to let self-doubt and depressing thoughts take all the space in my head. It was as if someone else was constantly speaking loudly next to my ear, breaking me down piece by piece. “You should have done this.. How come that task is not complete.. I can’t believe he said that about me.. I am not good enough.. I will never succeed…” So many negative comments I was feeding myself, so many arrows bleeding the heart. Add to this the lack of sleep and social withdrawal: Although it seemed to go well on the outside, I was becoming mentally weaker and weaker.
Our mind is where the enemy attacks. He can instill negativity, sadness, or anger in us by weakening our minds with his lies. Therefore, it is important to seek the truth, renew our mind, change perspective and become mentally stronger. Thankfully, the Bible is full of resources that can help us do just that.
John 17:17 ESV – Sanctify them in the truth; your word is truth.
The truth can be found in the word of God. Instead of believing the enemy’s lies, I can dive into the Bible to see what my creator says about me, my life, and my purpose. I can discern the difference between the thoughts I need to let go and those that strengthen me.
John 8:32 ESV -And you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.
Why would I seek that truth? Because it sets me free. God wants us to find peace. Understanding that He has me in the palm of His hands helps me calm down. He wants what is best for me, and He is right there with me in this challenging moment. I am not alone in this temporary mess.
It is also crucial to understand it is an ongoing process. Negative thoughts may come back, and it requires courage and strength to tell yourself, “no, I am not going there.”
2 Corinthians 4:8-9 ESV –We are afflicted in every way, but not crushed; perplexed, but not driven to despair; persecuted, but not forsaken; struck down, but not destroyed;
The Bible tells us that trouble may come, but it won’t break us.
So, I remind myself that when I don’t feel strong, I can count on Jesus to fight my battle, and the incredible news is that He has already won the battle for me. So I take some time to breathe in, breathe out. Yes, I can do that. Pause and breathe. Slowly. I remind myself that I am loved. I remember my troubles are taken care of.
You are loved too. Trust that you are not alone.
sweet spirit motivation 