Mind Your Mind
Think of all that we intentionally and systematically do for the body and think how little we do for the mind.
When it comes to our bodies, we do so much: we take supplements, we monitor calories, we hire trainers and we go to the gym multiple times a week (well at least we did pre-COVID). Those are good things, and things I fully endorse. I have more than a wish for my physical health. I have a plan for my body, but what about for my mind?
We have a plan for how we will renew our bodies but nothing more than a hope for how we will renew our minds. Houston, we have a problem!
Switch on Your Brain is a book on Brain Science by the Christian Scientist, Dr. Caroline Leaf.
She writes: “The body is not in control of the mind. The mind is in control of the body.”
This is one of the main reasons that there is so much connection between sickness and stress. A recent study found that stress is a factor in 75% of all illnesses and diseases that people suffer from today. 75%!!
The body is not in control of the mind. The mind is in control of the body which means plans for our bodies are good but a plan for the mind IS EVEN BETTER.
Let me suggest a place to start. Here are 3 ways you can intentionally and systematically MIND YOUR MIND:
1. Re-wallpaper Your Mind.
A mentor of mine, Mike Breaux, has said on many occasions that we need to “re-wallpaper our minds daily to the truth of God’s Word.” A great way to do that is through engaging in a daily devotional. There are many great ones out there. I’d recommend reading Proverbs or Psalms every day, New Morning Mercies, Jesus Calling or the One Year Bible. As you read, make sure to take the next step in reflection. It doesn’t have to be long but jot down a few reflections on what you read. That causes the content to become sticky. As you write, truth sticks and stays with you the rest of the day. Application starts with reflection.
2. Rest Your Mind.
Many times, our minds run a million miles an hour, all day, every day. A couple practices that are helpful for me are my daily walks of solitude as well as meditation. Let me explain. I walk with my dog Jack out in nature and as I walk, my mind slows down. I feel rested, mentally. Something I am working on getting better at this summer is meditation. Like King David, I want to “meditate on God’s law”, taking verses into my bloodstream. A great practice that helps to still my mind is something called Lectio Divina. A mentor of mine introduced me to this years ago. Here’s a quick explanation:“Lectio Divina is a monastic practice used for Scripture reading and prayer that is gaining popularity among many Christians today. The term roughly translates to "divine reading." Lectio Divina is not meant as an intellectual study of the Bible, but as a means of communion with God.” -Compelling Truth
3. Refresh Your Mind.
Working out is so important and healthy for your body, but it is also important for your mind. When I sweat, it’s incredible what that does for the stress I feel. I push my body...hard...about 4-6 days a week. This has not only helped my physical health but my mental health as well. Start wherever you are, but MOVE! You were not created to be a stagnant person but a living, moving being.
“Jesus replied: Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.”
#MindsetMonday
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