Embrace the beautiful promise, “The Lord has not given us the spirit of fear, but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind,” 2 Timothy 1:7. A sound mind is a balanced and healthy mind. The closer we walk with God, the more we will know His love and His mind. What steps can we take to develop the spirit of a sound mind?
Whatever we choose to think about has a great influence over our emotions and behaviors. Many mental illnesses are based on fear. Whether we suffered in the past, struggle in the present, or worry about the future, fear can dominate our hearts and minds. So, be comforted. If you give God your life, God has promised to guard you and direct your experiences! Psalm 91:11, “He shall give his angels (messengers) charge concerning thee, to guard thee in all thy ways.”
Yes, we will still have trials, but God will always help us. Philippians 4:6,7 (Living Bible), “Don’t worry about anything; instead pray about everything; tell God your needs and don’t forget to thank Him for His answers. If you do this you will experience God’s peace, which is far more wonderful than the human mind can understand. His peace will keep your thoughts and your hearts quiet and at rest as you trust in Christ Jesus.”
When we give God the control, our experiences can teach us wisdom, faith, compassion, forgiveness, patience, self-control, maturity, love and much more. The trial at the moment may be painful and challenging, but at its conclusion, you will be more developed in Christ’s character likeness. Our trials are to make us better and stronger than we were before.
Philippians 4:8 and 9 instructs us to “Fix your thoughts on what is true, and honorable, and right, and pure, and lovely, and admirable. Think about things that are excellent and worthy of praise…practice these things, and the God of peace will be with you.”
Therefore, pray: “Please God, take control of my life, help me to develop the spirit of a sound mind, and give me the wisdom to daily refocus my mind on excellent, praiseworthy things. Please, fill my heart with your peace.” God will certainly fulfill His promises and help you to develop good mental health.
Additional Resources:
Christian Questions Podcast
Episode #1068: “Do I Have a Sound Christian Mind?”
The powerful effects of power, love and a sound mind on our lives
Preview Video
CQ Rewind Show Notes
Episodes #1124, 1125 and 1126: 3-Part Depression and Anxiety Series
