Posted by Most of us live our lives according to our five senses, and because of the fallen world we live in, it is easy to become discouraged by some of our experiences. The emotion of anxiety can easily become overwhelming when things seem to be going contrary to our wishes; worry and fear can easily take the place of peace and contentment.
The brain is the most complex organ of the human body. Without the functioning of the brain, we would lose our ability to experience the world around us. Interestingly, scientist agree that there is a difference between the brain and the mind. The brain is the physical part of the body, and the mind is the intangible energy that is expressed through the brain. Unfortunately, all of us to some degree have experienced some damage to the mind and the brain. The good news is, thanks to neuroplasticity, which one of my colleagues wrote about several months ago, the brain can heal and grow throughout our lifetime. There is also good news for the mind, or the energy that is expressed through the brain. This mind repair has been provided by the Creator Himself, through Jesus Christ.
Most of us know the story of Adam and Eve when they were in the Garden of Eden. Everything was perfect, and they were physically and mentally perfect, both their brain and mind. Adam was able to give a name to all the living creatures and he was entrusted to this task by the Eternal God Himself. But when Adam and Eve yielded to the temptation of the Serpent, their minds were damaged, and this resulted in a decline in their physical body, ultimately resulting in death. This decline remains with us to this day, and it has greatly affected our society and personal lives. Because of this, we find ourselves wrestling with anxious thoughts and emotions that can result in mental illness and even suicide.
Nevertheless, there is great hope for each of us. When Jesus gave His life on the cross, He made available a new mind for all who would receive. With this new mind, comes a new way of thinking which can improve the health of our brain and body. Many of us know that worry is not good for us, yet it is a frequent practice of many. Our minds tell us, “What if this or that goes wrong?” But we could think, “What if God has control over every area of my life?” What if God really does love me, and “What if He is Good, with all power and authority, and will always do what is best for me?” “What if He will provide for all of my needs according to His riches..?” “What if that person who hurt me change and become a much better person?” When we think of the possibilities according to God’s written word that was given by the Perfect God who does not have a single distorted thought, then we can feel better despite what our physical senses might be telling us.
Because of the brokenness each of us have experience to some degree in our lives due to the fall of Adam and Eve, fear and anxiety can become a paralyzing experience. But seeking and finding truth about a matter that is causing worry can be life changing. However, sometimes it may take too much time to research a matter. In such cases, it is best to focus on something other than the concern, something that is within our control, such as breathing or the immediate environment. When possible, a good friend or psychotherapist who offers godly insight is an excellent step towards getting the truth and healing that is needed.
Whether you have a sharp, well-developed brain or one that has been significantly damaged by the consequences of the fall, it is most important to have the mind that has been offered to us by God through Jesus Christ. If you have been reborn with this new spirit and mind, allow this to control your physical senses. This can be done through prayer, hearing a sermon of truth, or talking to a godly companion. If you are not a believer, I urge you to become one; but if you choose to wait on that decision, I urge you to at least talk to a counselor or good friend who can help you to research and come to a less disturbing conclusion about your situation. By doing so, you are allowing your mind to reconsider its communication to your brain. “What if it’s not as bad as I think?”
Heritage Counseling Center Blog 